Paul celebrates what he experiences as Christ’s remarkable patience. It isn’t surprising that Paul’s list of the fruit of the Spirit includes patience. (See Galatians 5:22.) As we attempt to embody...

Paul joins a long list of biblical characters who engage in kingdom purposes despite their inadequacies. In this letter to Timothy, we read a portion of Paul’s personal story. He tells...

The final words of Jeremiah’s diatribe hold out a sliver of hope for the wayward Israelites. Verses 27 and 28 offer a surprising shift in tone as they speak of restoration...

This psalm presents a gloomy view of humankind—a picture of “fools” who fail to acknowledge God’s reality and presence. It describes the foolishness of a life out of step with God’s...

An armed invasion from the north constitutes a “hot wind” that will breathe down the Israelites’ necks. The people of Jerusalem and Judah exist in an atmosphere of constant threat, violence,...

It is glorious to witness people putting into action what they believe. I find it convincing beyond measure to see someone back up words with action. This short letter provides just...

When something is made well it shows. The craftsmanship and the quality are evident. We notice the attention to detail from the earliest moments of the design right up to the...

Being in relationship and conversation with someone who knows you well is a life-giving scenario. You do not have to hide or pretend. An air of confidence and understanding surrounds your...

Most of us were taught not to start something that we could not finish. Being able to invest the time, resources, and energy necessary to bring a project to completion is...

Jesus speaks to a large crowd whose overly enthusiastic zeal may prevent them from seeing the serious nature of what following him requires. This journey toward Jerusalem does not parade to...