When it comes to reading the Bible (Scripture), we like to think of the acronym R.E.A.P.  As we spend time in Scripture, we will "REAP" a harvest. Read, Examine, Apply, Pray.Go back and see the “Read” post here, and the “Examine” post here.So, now we look at the third step in this process… A is for Apply.In his book Living by the Book, Howard Hendricks writes, “That’s exactly the situation confron...  Read More

The other night, I was sitting on my porch enjoying the evening and reading. I had some music playing. It was a gorgeous fall night. I had the company of a good book and had even seen some deer meandering through my yard, seemingly oblivious to my presence. But I couldn't help but feel a soft undercurrent of sadness. This often happens during the fall as nature is slowly shedding the vibrancy of s...  Read More

Let's think about prayer. We have a direct connection to heaven, an avenue to the very throne room of God. Prayer is an awesome thing.... We can talk with our Father in heaven!A few observations about prayer. First, it doesn't change God, or make him change his mind. He is, after all, God... Meaning that he is omnipotent and all knowing. He orders our steps and his plans cannot be thwarted. Second...  Read More

I would like to tell you a story. In the distant past, there was a man who was raised to be a leader. He was groomed to take on a powerful role in the most powerful nation on earth. However, he never fulfilled those plans because he murdered a man he saw beating a slave. Once he did this, he knew he must flee to avoid certain death himself, so he fled into the wilderness. Some years passed and in ...  Read More

The fall is upon us and in talking with a lot of people this past month I’ve clearly seen the trend that very few people are excited about the prospects of moving into the fall season. There is a general malaise about school starting, the normal hype for fall sports is nearly nonexistent, we are tired of wearing masks, we literally do not know who to believe, or who’s “science" is accurate, and th...  Read More

Last week, Pastor Josh wrote about our society that has been overrun by fear.  Take some time to read that.  It was good.  Very good.Personal Confession: I've struggled with fear and worry my whole life. I am an expert (tongue in cheek) and can certify that...Fear/worry consumes.Fear/worry steals.Fear/worry blinds.Fear/worry kills.Fear/worry distracts.Fear/worry deceives.Fear/worry devours.Fear/wo...  Read More