Purity, Holiness, and the Joy of the Lord
I grew up in church in the 90s, which meant I grew up in the midst of the purity culture movement. There were good elements of that movement. The desire to be pure is a noble and good desire to have. But because we are fallen human beings, that good desire seemed to turn into […]
The Plumb Line, Not The Pendulum
Live according to the plumb line, not the pendulum. There is much truth embedded in that sentence. For those unfamiliar, a plumb line in a toolbelt is a weight suspended from a string, used to ensure a structure is centered. The plumb line keeps the work straight and, since the weight is non-magnetic, is unaffected […]
Fighting Sin by Trusting in the Superior Satisfaction
I enjoy a good tale. I cannot get enough of heroic deeds, bravery, and camaraderie, especially when they teach something true about the Christian walk. Growing up, Turner Classic Movies were always playing in my home. Humphrey Bogart, also known as Bogie, was either talking about the beginnings of a beautiful friendship or telling young […]
Dying Thoughts of a Godly Man
“Words and actions are transient things, and being once past, are nothing; but the effect of them on an immortal soul may be endless,” (Baxter, Dying Thoughts). I came across this little book by Richard Baxter when my wife and I, along with some friends, decided to go through the Tim Challies reading challenge in 2019. Though […]
Is God For Us?
“Is God for me?” It’s a question I’ve asked myself countless times in moments of sickness, suffering, and hardship. I easily answer “yes” when all is well. Of course, God is for me. I am healthy. I have a good job, a nice car, a roof over my head, and a wife – […]
Gentleness in Truth
“But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, that is Christ ” (Eph. 4:15). Grandma Hamrick was one of the most gentle, loving women I have ever known. She was kind-hearted, tender, and always willing to help. Even today I hear from older people […]
The Way of Nature and Grace
There are two ways to live under the sun. They are the way of nature and the way of grace.
In The Lord Take Refuge
In times of calamity, we may be tempted to live in fear. But David reminds himself – and us – where to take refuge. God is on his throne even in the worst of times. We should fear God more than disaster, and even the threats of wicked people. He promises relief and salvation to the righteous.
How the Church Laments
The church does not grieve as others do. In Lamentations, the Lord shows how the church moves from grief to lament, which rightly orders our emotions before a just and holy God.
The Heavens Tell: God’s Word Warns
God’s world declares God’s glory. His Word declares His mercy and grace and judgment. And we would do well to listen to the heavens that declare His glory, and His Word that warns and guides us along the way.