You've prayed. You've waited. You've prayed again and waited some more. You've had other people pray -- and you're still waiting. Which begs the question: How do we do life in the tension of the already/not yet? Three parallel phrases in Scripture speak to the "in between" places of our lives. Psalm 84 describes pilgrims on their way to Zion going "from strength to strength." Romans 1:17 says the righteousness of God is revealed, a righteousness that is "from faith to faith." 2 Corinthians 3:18 describes believers as being transformed "from glory to glory." We're on a Continue Reading
The Surprising Privilege You Have as a Christian Grandparent
If you have grandchildren, I don't have to tell you what a delight they can be. It's the best of both worlds -- we get to enjoy them, but then hand them off to their parents when it comes to discipline. What a sweet deal! While it's true that we are not primarily responsible for our grandchildren, just last night, I ran across a verse in my Bible reading which caused me to sit up and pay attention. In Deuteronomy, Moses is leaving final instructions with the Israelites as they prepare to go in and take possession of the land God has promised them. As he reiterates the history of Continue Reading
Why You Still Need to Apologize (It’s Not Just Water Under the Bridge)
Ever had a conversation with yourself about whether it's worth it to try to right a wrong that happened a long time ago? It starts like this: You recall something you said or did, or failed to say or do, and you know your actions hurt another person. But time has gone by. The relationship seems to be functioning comfortably enough. After all, time heals all wounds, right? So you say to yourself, It would just be awkward to bring it up now. It's been years. Why pick open the scab? The relationship is doing okay. However, the Holy Spirit is relentless. You keep thinking Continue Reading
How to Teach Your Kids to Read the Bible
You love the Word of God. You've developed a habit of reading it daily, because you know you'll grow in understanding God and his ways. How do you communicate this love for the Word to your children, who may not even be able to read yet? First, provide a children's Bible story book appropriate to the age of your child. Read from their "Bible" to them on a regular basis, and refer to what you've read as you do life together. One caveat about children's Bible story books -- they are not the whole Bible, nor can they take the place of an accurate translation. Christians often make Continue Reading