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How life’s fiery trials can initiate the deepest growth in our faith
The seed of a giant redwood tree will lie dormant until it’s been burned by flames. These pinecones need to feel the fires of adversity if they are to grow!
A personal story of loss, pain, and renewed faith from special guest, Carol Kent
As a popular speaker, author, and Bible teacher, Carol’s faith was on fire. But then a trial came that threatened to extinguish her flame.
A personal firestorm that ignited trust in the goodness of God
Firestorms often come unexpectedly. And they leave ash, rubble, and devastation in their wake. But within the ruins, we find surprising signs of hope.
Let’s look at the probing questions God asked Job, in order to reveal the truth of who God is!
The ancient philosopher Socrates was known for using insightful questions to arrive at truth. But God was using this method long before Socrates showed up! Our study of the life of Job continues.
Perception Or Reality?
We often hear it said, “Perception is reality.” That idea for Americans may have dawned on September 26, 1960—the date of the first televised debate between two presidential candidates. In front of the cameras, John Kennedy appeared composed; Richard Nixon appeared nervous. The perception was that Kennedy would be a stronger leader. The debate not only turned that election, but it also changed the way politics is done in the US. Politics by perception became the rule of the day.
Discover why suffering is not always the result of sin
We often equate pain with punishment. When something goes wrong in our life, we often assume it’s because we did something wrong. Let’s study the example of Job, which challenges our thoughts about both justice and mercy.
Does God Care?
Minnie and George Lacy were faced with some questions: “Is Jesus enough? Is our relationship with Christ sufficient to sustain us? Will He be enough to help us want to go on living? Does He care?”
What Do You Expect?
In C. S. Lewis’ book God in the Dock, he wrote: “Imagine a set of people all living in the same building. Half of them think it is a hotel, the other half think it is a prison. Those who think it a hotel might regard it as quite intolerable, and those who thought it was a prison might decide that it was really surprisingly comfortable.” Lewis cleverly used this contrast between a hotel and a prison to illustrate how we view life based on our expectations. He says, “If you think of this world as a place intended simply…
Five Reasons to Rejoice in Suffering
With the trials and sufferings that life throws at us, facing these hurdles often makes dealing with life itself wearisome. Whether they are bearable or devastating, each of the struggles has its lessons that are intended by God. So, instead of simply going through the motion or even seeking quick escape, […]
Let’s discover the purpose behind trials of faith, and conclude our series in James chapter 1
God doesn’t allow us to go through trials and temptations just to see us squirm. There’s a reason and goal behind every challenge we face. It’s an inspiring message to help us hang on and stay the course.
A thoughtful conversation about faith and how it influences what we think and how we respond to life’s challenges
What is faith? Is it something we believe, or something we live? Let’s answer those questions in a study of James, chapter 1. Join in this thoughtful conversation about faith.
Discover your place of refuge
Ever wished you had a secret place you could run to, in order to escape the chaos of life? Or to simply catch your breath? Well, discover that such a place exists, and is waiting for you!
It was like death had played a cruel prank
For a week, I was glued to news updates on the status and stories of three ill-fated passenger airlines. My heart went out to the passengers who were killed and their grieving family members. It could very well have been someone I knew.
Discover why we grow closer to God in our difficulties
It’s easy to be thankful during the good seasons in life. But when life takes a drastic turn, gratitude doesn’t come so naturally. Let’s look at the story of Lazarus, and discover why we grow closer to God in our difficulties.
Asking Different Questions
When tragedy strikes, questions follow. Our loss of a loved one may lead us to ask God any number of pointed questions: “Why did You let this happen?” “Whose fault was this?” “Don’t You care about my pain?” Believe me, as the grieving father of a teenager who died tragically I have asked these very questions.
