A Place for Pondering and Praise
It's at the cross of Jesus Christ that life begins. The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ make up the most critical event in history—one worthy of our pause, our pondering, and our praise.
It's at the cross of Jesus Christ that life begins. The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ make up the most critical event in history—one worthy of our pause, our pondering, and our praise.
In that single word rests a whole new world beckoning our participation. Death has been defeated. Newfound meaning and joy replace the minute-after-minute-after-minute monotony of ceaseless sweating and striving...all because God is now at hand!
We live in a society of isolation and indifference. But the truth is, we need each other. When you’re separate, you’re weak. And if you think you can make it through life on your own, you’re headed for a fall.
Being involved in church, volunteering your skills, and helping others however you can aren’t actions specially set aside for the chosen few or the super religious.
Pastor Chuck Swindoll points out that the church is really the body of Christ. From Matthew 16:13–18 and 1 Corinthians 12:12–27, Pastor Chuck illustrates how each Christian member contributes.
Contentment comes through choices we make. The Apostle Paul said he had learned how to be content (Philippians 4:11–13). Following Paul’s teaching and example can help us learn how to be content.
Spiritual gifts tests can help point you to areas you may be gifted in, but another way to discover your gifts is to spend time in prayer and reflect on what you’re already passionate about.
Centuries ago, as God led the ancient Hebrews into the Promised Land, He specifically instructed them to clear the territory of the foreign tribes and to rid themselves of the influence of Canaanite civilization. From this example, we can draw an analogy for today. If we truly desire to grow deeper, pull together, and go further than skin-deep superficiality in our relationships, we must remove those things that hinder true community.
All believers have spiritual gifts, whether you are gifted in serving, encouraging, or teaching others. God has given you talents and abilities to use your spiritual gift, which is different from another’s, making up the Body of Christ.
If we truly desire to grow deeper, pull together, and go further than skin-deep superficiality in our relationships, we must remove those things that hinder true community.