“Anyone who meets a testing challenge head-on and manages to stick it out is mighty fortunate. For such persons, loyally in love with God, the reward is life and more life. James 1:12  I love rewards! I actually reward myself sometimes… like when I have finished a project, or have hit a goal that I […]

“Do everything readily and cheerfully—no bickering, no second-guessing allowed!    Go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in this squalid and polluted society.     Provide people with a glimpse of good living and of the living God.      Carry the light-giving Message into the night so I’ll have good cause to […]

“We don’t want you in the dark, friends, about how hard it was when all this came down on us in Asia province. It was so bad we didn’t think we were going to make it. We felt like we’d been sent to death row, that it was all over for us.    As it turned out, […]

“Just think—you don’t need a thing, you’ve got it all! All God’s gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale.       And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on-track until things […]

“Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: ‘God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have […]

“At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of Him, giving Him trouble every chance you got.    But now, by giving Himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God’s side and put your lives together, whole and holy in His presence.    You […]

“Earlier there were a lot of priests, for they died and had to be replaced.   But Jesus’ priesthood is permanent. He’s there from now to eternity to save everyone who comes to God through him, always on the job to speak up for them.”Hebrews 7:23-25 MSG An advocate is someone who is on your side. […]

“But now, God’s Message, the God who made you in the first place, the One who got you started: “Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine.    When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down. When you’re between […]

“Show me how you work, GOD; School me in your ways. Take me by the hand; Lead me down the path of truth. You are my Savior, aren’t you?    Mark the milestones of your mercy and love, GOD; Rebuild the ancient landmarks!    Forget that I sowed wild oats; Mark me with your sign of love. Plan […]

“Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet.         Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. […]