Have you ever been angry at God? In the midst of life’s stresses and strains, do you find your heart’s frustration, confusion and disappointment directed toward the sovereign Lord? What are you to do with such feelings? Anger is a perfectly natural response to suffering and the complexities of a fallen world. An omniscient (all-knowing) and omnipotent (all-powerful) God seems to be an ...
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On Sep. 26 Jews all over the world will observe Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. It is the holiest and most solemn day of the year for the practicing Jew, revered with contrition, confession and repentance. But what does this Jewish observance have to do with Christianity? Every year, Yom Kippur pictures man’s need for redemption through a substitutionary sacrifice that would one day be ...
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The other night my 2 1/2-year-old daughter, Olivia, woke up screaming around midnight. I was immediately thrilled at the prospect of being awake because I, like you, really enjoy having my sleep violently and suddenly interrupted with opportunities to love and lead my children. The ensuing 30 minutes was a blend of frustration, pride and failed discipline as I tried to get her to calm down and ...
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This week, in our City on a Hill series, we are discussing the righteousness required by God for relationship with Him and how Christ has provided this to us in spades. The righteousness of Christ supersedes that of the Pharisees and is the ground of our acceptance before God. Seeing and savoring this gift from God is one of the key paths toward transformation within our hearts, an idea that ...
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The week before my grandmother’s death, I had the privilege to be at her bedside. Her body was fragile and weak. She was heavily sedated and in and out of consciousness. She was unable to clearly communicate with anyone. At times, her mouth would move, and sounds would come out – but no words. I sat there holding her hand with tears streaming down my cheeks, telling her that I loved her. I ...
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In the last 10 years, it has not been uncommon for me to see people look at a church’s org chart and strategies and deem it corporate and unhealthy, flesh and not Spirit led. Which has led me to the pivotal question: Is it biblical for a church to employ organizational strategy and values? Yes, it is concerning that many pastors believe bigger is better and determine success by the size of ...
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Every believer needs to be a member of a local church. This is a biblical reality for God’s glory, the edification of the community and the encouragement of your own soul. But what if there are no healthy churches near you? Here are a few encouragements:
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The middle of August is as predictable a time as any in Dallas. It’s scalding hot. School’s starting. The football helmets are beginning to crack. This is one of my favorite times of the year, not just because the Metroplex’s kingpin sport will be played from peewee to professional, but also because of the gospel opportunities at hand.
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