The early Christians aimed to not only be correct in doctrinal beliefs but also to be intense about living a Christ-like, holy life. Our goal, like theirs, is to balance belief with upright and holy behavior.
Simeon and Anna, two old saints of God, were among the first to recognize the baby Jesus for who He was. To them the Messiah's birth was truly glad tidings of great joy.
When Jesus appeared to John in a vision He left him messages for seven of the churches of Asia. From these letters we see that God does not close His eyes to good or evil and that while the messages were to specific churches, they still apply to us today.
The Bible says that in the last times perilous times will come. What will be the signs of these times and how can we avoid being part of those who fall into hypocrisy and apostasy?
Mary and Martha: both women were kind and faithful disciples of Jesus, but their characters and temperaments differed. They are wonderful examples of how different true Christians can be.
The Holy Spirit is probably the most misunderstood person of the Godhead yet He is an important part of our salvation. It is a serious thing to offend Him. It robs us of peace and of usefulness. And if one continues to grieve and insult and quench Him, it may rob that person of his eternal reward.
In Pharaoh's house there were frogs in the bedrooms, on the seats, in the food. Yet when God let him decide when the curse of frogs should be removed, he said, "Tomorrow". It seems foolish that he asked for one more night with the frogs but in reality many of us are doing the same thing.
Sometimes Christians get the idea that they should be able to enjoy God’s blessings without being subjected to His testings. However, God has told us that trials and suffering can be expected. Jesus' presence and the grace to endure hardships are promised, not comfort and pleasure here on earth.
God can transform the worst of histories. Although Paul was a persecutor of the church God chose him to be the apostle to the Gentiles. He testified faithfully before the poor and rich alike.
One of the biggest sources of stress in life is our relationships with other people. Is avoiding those we clash with the answer or is there a better solution?
Although Simon Peter denied Jesus three times on the night before His crucifixion he later became one of the pillars of the church. His example should be an encouragement to all who have fallen in their Christian lives.
Many people look at death as a dark hole into which people stumble when they breathe their last mortal breath. But for the Christian death can be the moment of final victory.
