“But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge – to the great amazement of the governor.” Matthew 27:14 (NIV) The time had come. Awaiting His sentence, He stood silently before the Governor, Pilate. The memories of betrayal, of the rough guards “guiding” Him through the garden, still fresh in His mind. Jesus…
Category: Truth
God Gave Trust
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.” Proverbs 16:20 NIV Jesus’ final day as a free man. His last chance to instruct His disciples on what they needed to know, to do, and how to make life work. Jesus knew His time with His disciples was…
God Gave Sight
“The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” John 12:23 NIV It was the heaviest of burdens. It was literally the world against Him. Just four days after praises from Palm Sunday still ringing in His ears, He now felt none of the accolades or the glory. Instead of a reception…
God Gave His Word
“You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.” Matthew 22:29 (NIV) Five days until death would be conquered. Five days to teach, to love, and to encourage. In Mark 11:12-14, Jesus left Bethany. After starting on this journey, He felt hungry. Seeing a fig tree, He walked…
He Meets Every Need
Seven days and counting. Seven days before His much anticipated reunion with His Father. Walking the hot, dusty road, Jesus led the disciples to Bethany . Each step brought Him closer to His destiny, a calling His disciples could not comprehend. Did His feet drag with each step? Did His heart anguish the mind’s image…
Running With Perseverance
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him…
Fighting to Flourish
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV A few winters ago, I was blessed to travel out of the frigid temperatures, snow and ice to a much more temperate, wonderful…
Unconditionally Beloved
Outside my door, a cacophony of voices arose from the first floor of the hotel atrium. Seven hundred women excitedly conversed, practiced speeches, pitched proposals, and met one another. Encouragement rang out amidst the conversations. This was a godly Writer’s conference. Upstairs, clad in heels and a suit, I sank onto my hotel bed. In…
Like A Boss
Influence. Power. Persuasion. She possessed all three. She also possessed a rare beauty, at least in the eyes of the man who adored her. Without her, he knew he’d lead a lonely existence. He didn’t want to displease, disappoint, or discourage her. He’d do anything to keep her attention, her admiration, and her respect. She…
Joy Is A Choice
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2-3 Glancing out the frosty window, I inwardly groaned. Gray skies, bare trees, and, what-on-earth? Snowflakes! Not already! Not after a cooler than usual summer. Not so close to last…