Give Thanks to the Lord!
It is easy to be overwhelmed in the midst of misery. Whether you’re facing your own sin, that of another’s against you, or suffering of one sort or another, we are tempted to remain downcast. If that describes you today,…
Tag Joy
Minister from Your Wounds
Alan T. Baker describes one pastor’s ministry transformation: “Whereas [he] once served out of his words and deeds, he now ministers from his wounds.”[1] Words and deeds matter, but this source of service offers a whole different “deep calleth unto…
From Sorrow to Singing
When was the last time you cried out, “How long?” Was it another hurtful word or action in an important relationship? Did unexpected bills deplete your savings? Were the medical treatments barely tolerable? Were more hurtful words spoken by someone…
The Spirit’s Fruit: Joy
When the Apostle Paul is outlining the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, he lists joy as the second fruit, directly after love. There seems to be a rather compelling reason for this. In Matthew 22:34-40, when Jesus is…
What the Bible Teaches About Sadness and Joy
Have you heard that ancient Chinese curse which parents would proclaim on only the most disobedient of their children? The parent, looking at their bad kid, would proclaim: “O, may you live in interesting times!” Turn on the news…
Equipping the Saints
Church was never intended to be the spiritual equivalent of a spectator sport. Yet, somehow, this is how it has come to be treated, not only by many Christians; but by their pastors as well. Those who serve as ministers…
John Bertram Phillips – A Bruised Reed Firmly Planted
John Bertram Phillips – A Bruised Reed Firmly Planted Some know him as the author of Your God Is Too Small, an influential book that challenged a complacent generation to rediscover and cherish the God of Scriptures. Others remember…
One Another Texts: Care for One Another
The Psalmist certainly professes a great truth when he remarks “how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.” But if we’re honest, this passage can often sound like an unattainable rhetorical ideal; not a commonly celebrated experience.…
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
“But the fruit of the Spirit is… joy.” Joy, that ultimate of teleological pursuits. It is the reason we exist. What is the chief end of man? It is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.[1] More than mere…
Psalm 121: The Unbelievable Promise
How can the believer reconcile the suffering, trials, and persecution they are guaranteed with the astounding assurance in Psalm 121 that the Lord will keep them from all evil? Some might misinterpret this passage and claim a false gospel of…