Have you ever heard someone refer to a minor inconvenience by saying “That’s just my cross to carry” or “We all have our own crosses to bear”? When one uses this phrase, it is typically expressed that they must endure a temptation, burden, trait, or inconvenience. However, Jesus’s command for...
Throughout history, people have wrestled with how much emphasis to place on the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT). Second-century gnostic Marcion believed that we should completely reject the OT as it represents a different god and different people. This belief crept its way into the minds of...
As a child, I was constantly told to wash my hands. Every time I would use the bathroom my parents would later ask, “Did you wash your hands?” Though annoying, I knew my parents were trying to instill good hygiene habits so I would not get myself or others sick....
The reality of suffering affects us all. During seasons of suffering, one’s focus can easily shift from praising God to one’s pain. In these times, though God is still praiseworthy, genuinely praising him becomes difficult.
I have a confession to make: I love listening to other people’s conversations. Sitting in a coffee shop and listening to the conversations around me is fun. Any time I need a break from reading or writing, I’ll sit there and allow my focus to gravitate toward the loudest conversation...
When is the last time you prayed specifically for boldness? The quality of boldness is not one that is always admirable. Boldness means to be fearless before danger (Merriam-Webster). While that sounds like something we all would want to be, there are plenty of people whose mindless fearlessness has resulted...
Over the past few years, fashion has seemed to change dramatically. Those who have lived in the ’70s and ’80s have probably seen some of their childhood and young adults’ clothing styles come back around. Teenagers are raiding their parents’ and grandparents’ old clothes to find “vintage clothing.” This has...
Too often we want to be "somebody" instead of "nobody" focused on the "Somebody."
Have you ever thought about who it is that pushed you to where you are today? There may be people that come to mind who were great influences on you, pushing you to be the best version of yourself and challenging you to improve each day. You may think of...
I’ve recently learned the effect that walking with confidence can have on groups of people. An up-tempo stride with shoulders rolled back and chin held high gives off an aura of confidence and leadership. Sometimes, you don’t even have to be confident or a leader for this effect to take...