As you prepare for the new year, consider spiritual warfare. Maybe it makes you uncomfortable, feels distant, or you believe it’s something for pastors and counselors to deal with. Or, you could be unsure how much or how little you should be thinking about the devil and his work. And others of you may feel…

In an age and world focused on self-care, rights, and status, you don’t hear much about becoming humble. But from the view of the eternal Kingdom, humility is a most important and urgent concern for those who believe in Jesus. Not only does Scripture emphasize the importance of cultivating humility (click here for my article…

I’d like to share with my readers the story of a widow named Jackie, who I met on one of my recent travels. In the few hours I was privileged to visit with Jackie, she shared how she’d just spent the previous six months caring for her dying husband, Thom. Quickly, I discovered that this…

Children and students are often taught “character traits” when they’re in preschool, away at camp, through various children’s books, on sports teams, etc. But once they move on to other activities, the idea of having good character (having virtues, moral excellence, or good conduct) can begin to fade until they get in trouble for something…

From media to youth pastors to government leaders, swear words flow out of mouths without reservation. Christian teens and young adults are growing up in a culture that has normalized bad words, and sometimes it’s hard to know who’s influencing who when it comes to appropriate language. As a result, younger Christians who are being…

When you spend time reading the words Jesus spoke when He lived on earth, you soon learn He wants your complete loyalty to Him, His ways, and the truth. But, at the same time, the whole of Scripture and the present-day church remind you to invest your time caring for others, and engage your relationships…

Before you make any 2021 resolutions or choose a new diet and exercise plan, it’s important to consider the details of 2020 that contributed to any weight gain and to envision what’s ahead in 2021 that might continue to be a threat to how you eat. In other words, weight, diet, and exercise comprise only…

Since 2020 blindsided nearly everyone, how can you be more insulated and prepared for year two of Covid, and any other future surprises down the road? You’ve probably already thought of lessons you learned this year and how you want to strengthen values for next year, but it’s also good to assess what you’ll do…

Many Christian adults drink alcohol. You may be asking: “Is that a problem?” After all, Scripture does not forbid alcohol even if it names drunken behaviors as sinful. And Christians don’t want to become addicts; but are entitled to legally, freely, and responsibly enjoy the comforts, pleasures, and activities that come with alcoholic beverages. There’s…

How hopeful are you feeling lately? Can you say with confidence you are tending to hope in your life? Do you know hope as the confident expectation that comes from Christ (1 Pet. 3:15)? His hope strengthens the heart, brings gladness and peace, does not disappoint, and is an anchor to the soul (Ps. 31:24,…