Last week we began a discussion on how easy it is for sheep to nibble themselves toward lostness because of their penchant to be distracted by their wondering eyes. Unfortunately, our sheep-like characteristics place us in danger of the same distractions if we are not laser focused upon the mission of Disciple-making (Matthew 28:19 & 20).  It is easy to [...]

Did you know that sheep have peripheral vision up to 320 degrees? This means they can graze on a patch of green grass, glimpse another patch and wander off. Their distracted vision can move them from tuft to tuft until they're grazing in the far country unable to find their way back. As a shepherd once [...]

It takes courage to obey when you don't know the outcome, but that is exactly what God wants to build in our lives as His children. Our responsibility is to step out in faith and obedience, knowing that the Lord holds us and the future in His omnipotent hand. Last week we began to unpack some [...]

I just finished reading an article by Charles Stanley on this idea: It's not only possible, but vital, to guide our lives by Scripture. Knowing and living by Biblical Principles is mission critical for a follower of Christ. Stanley writes to inform on what's at stake. "If your mind isn't grounded in Biblical Truth Principles you'll be more [...]

What do we do when we lack the wisdom to address a confounding issue? To this question, (Psalm 20:7a) provides some insight: "But we trust in the name of the Lord our God." This comment comes from David, a very INTENTIONAL man of God. David was the Warrior King of ancient Israel for 40 years (1 Kings 2:11), and as [...]

"But the natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Corinthians 2:14). This is because "the God of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the [...]

As the news constantly reminds us, any of us could die at any time. And yet, studies show that Americans are more afraid of how they might die than death itself. One has to ask: Why are we mortals not more afraid of our mortality? The answer is tragically not that we are prepared to [...]

Blaise Pascal was a genius. If you have not done so quite yet, do some research as it will help you understand his enduring influence. His understanding of human experience was as brilliant as his scientific expertise. In a collection of writing called Pensees, Pascal observed: "All men seek happiness. There are no exceptions. However different the means they [...]

Harvard University just concluded an 80 year study revealing the "secret" to long-term happiness. It was called the Study of Adult Development. According to the director of the research project, "The clearest message that we get from this eighty-year study is this: GOOD RELATIONSHIPS keep us happier and healthier Period." Then he clarifies, "It's the quality of your close relationships that matters. Not the [...]

Yesterday, Pastor Phil began a brand new series on the book of Habakkuk. Before I begin the process of unpacking a book of or passage of Scripture I find it effectual to read the passage several times seeking the big picture. Those of you who know me understand that I "ain't too bright" so I [...]