Archive for July, 2007

God’s unexpected messengers

Friday, July 6th, 2007

Does God still speak to us today? Does it seem to you that God is silent in your life? Maybe what you need is a change in perspective! In a new column at the Online Pulpit, Gerry Koning shares a story about an unexpected encounter with God’s voice. It was an experience that reminded him that God’s voice doesn’t always take the form of a dramatic boom of thunder or a miraculous event–God can use even the seemingly likely people to communicate a message of hope and grace.

Annoyed by paranoia?

Thursday, July 5th, 2007

It’s normal to wonder what others think of you–that’s just part of living in society. But have you ever found yourself so obsessed and worried with what other people think or say about you that you can hardly muster the willpower to act? In an article at Nehemiah Ministries, Blaine Smith explains how we can overcome paralyzing social fears and even turn those worries into something more positive. Don’t go through life crippled by social paranoia–take a look at Blaine’s practical suggestions for overcoming it!

Spiritual support for soldiers and their families

Wednesday, July 4th, 2007

This Fourth of July, as millions of Americans take time off to celebrate the birth of their nation, take some time to pray for the thousands of men and women who serve in the US military. If you’re a member of the Armed Forces or know somebody who is, the Officers’ Christian Fellowship is a ministry well worth visiting–they’re dedicated to helping military personnel and their families grow in their faith while serving in the military.

Wherever you or your loved one is deployed, chances are they can connect with an OCF chapter nearby. The OCF site also has dozens of articles, Bible studies, and othe resources to help soldiers and their families grow in Christ while dealing with the unique challenges posed by the military life.

Is there a pattern for the perfect church?

Tuesday, July 3rd, 2007

Does the Bible tell us how to worship in church? Does the Bible lay out guidelines for doing church the “right way”?

The new issue of Uplook Magazine is out (and available for download in PDF format), and is focused on answering this question. Gary McBride, Wesley Ferguson, James Martin, and others look at the ancient Christian church in Thessalonica to see if we can discern a Biblical church pattern from its example. Also in this issue is an insightful essay by Colin Anderson about the grace that God gives to us. There’s lots of thought-provoking reading–download your copy and dive in!