The Bible is a source of transformation, not just information, and approaching it with an open heart, a closed mouth, and a teachable spirit is essential for spiritual maturity. James 1 emphasizes the importance of being quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, and to deal with sin and wickedness in humility, receiving the word implanted in us to save our souls. [... more]

Christianity is not a list of rules, but a life of relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ, guided by the principle of grace, which brings transformation and fellowship, rather than fear and guilt. [... more]

Developing holy craving for God's word is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Christians must put aside sinful attitudes like malice, deceit, envy, and slander to cultivate a deep longing for the pure milk of God's word, which brings about growth in faith and salvation. [... more]

When you forget the appetizer of God's graciousness, you become someone who eats junk food, such as malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking, which will choke out nourishment and take away your appetite for vertical truth. To grow spiritually, you need to crave and desire the pure milk of God's Word, which is essential for life and growth. [... more]

Navigating grief and lament in marriage and blended families requires a nuanced understanding of the pain and sorrow involved. Western culture's emphasis on mastering grief can be detrimental, and the church often adopts this approach without realizing it. A healthy approach to grief involves lament, which is a process of turning to God in pain, complaining, asking, and trusting. This process is reflected in the scriptures and is essential for growth and deepening of faith. [... more]

People struggle with loneliness and identity issues, but finding authenticity in Christ can bring freedom and a deeper understanding of oneself. The gospel is the answer to these struggles, but it requires a deeper understanding and application of its principles in daily life. [... more]

The struggle with lust is a pervasive issue in society, but Christians have the power to overcome it through repentance, a deeper relationship with God, and the Holy Spirit's guidance. By focusing on God's beauty, holiness, and power, and cultivating holy habits, individuals can develop a stronger affection for God and a greater desire to live a godly life, making lust seem absurd and repulsive. [... more]

Parents can struggle with shame, comparison, and judgment, but the gospel offers freedom from these burdens. By recognizing the voice of the accuser and the voice of the Father, parents can learn to trust God with their children and find joy in their parenting journey. A book, 'Good News for Parents,' offers practical advice and spiritual guidance for parents to navigate the challenges of parenting with faithfulness and discipleship. [... more]

Choosing contentment is a daily path that comes from a surrendered heart, cultivated through walking with Christ. It's not found in having everything, but in knowing the one who is everything. A biblical approach to financial decisions and stewardship can help individuals navigate their finances and make wise investment choices, especially in retirement. Additionally, seeking help with debt and credit counseling can provide freedom and peace of mind. [... more]

Discovering the importance of staying in one's own lane in relationships, marriage, and family dynamics, and learning to accept God's sovereignty and trust in His plan, even when life doesn't go as expected. [... more]

The hamburger is a uniquely American food invention, born from German immigrants' culinary traditions. Its evolution is marked by the introduction of cheese, ketchup, and other toppings, transforming it into the iconic meal we know today. [... more]

Scripture offers a far better and far more freeing vision for how believers relate to money and possessions. Rejecting materialism does not mean rejecting material things, but rather recognizing the difference between enjoyment and dependence. Gratitude and generosity are powerful tools in breaking the grip of materialism, and Christians are called to steward God's resources wisely and grow in generosity. [... more]

The human heart tends to forget God when feeling sufficiently supplied, leading to complacent cravings and a self-focused life, whereas grateful contentment leads to an outward focus and worshiping the infinite sovereign creator. [... more]

Joseph, a young man sold into slavery, faces temptation in the form of his master's wife, who repeatedly tries to seduce him. Despite being in a position of power and anonymity, Joseph refuses to give in to his desires, citing his commitment to his master's trust, his own character, and his relationship with God. His refusal leads to his imprisonment, but God is with him even in the prison cell, giving him favor and responsibility. The story of Joseph teaches us that resisting temptation may not bring immediate rewards, but it is essential for living a life of personal purity and integrity. [... more]

Investing and gambling may seem similar, but they have distinct differences in their nature and purpose. Investing involves taking calculated risks to support growth, contribute to the economy, and provide for the future, whereas gambling is a zero-sum game that exploits rather than builds. Christians must approach investing with a biblical mindset, considering the impact on the world around us and seeking to steward God's provision wisely. [... more]

Christian worship centered around word and sacrament provides a sustainable model of discipleship, nourishing believers with spiritual food and forming them into a communal body of worshipers. This approach, rooted in Jesus' model in Luke 24, contrasts with the innovation cycle-driven evangelical church, which often prioritizes excitement and experience over the patient acquisition of virtue and the quiet feeding of the soul. [... more]

Financial freedom and independence are possible through biblical wisdom and proper money management. Avoiding debt and following God's principles for managing money can lead to true financial freedom. Understanding investment strategies and retirement planning is crucial for securing one's financial future. [... more]

Ever find yourself craving a little space from your partner It's real--but making your spouse disappear isn't exactly an option Author and magician Danny Ray and his wife Kimberly Thompson have experienced the intense fights and know the need for breathing room They have learned how to resolve the repetitive conflicts--and provide tricks to help you do the same Show Notes and Resources Connect with Danny Ray and catch more of his thoughts at dannyraymagic com and hear marriage advice on his podcast Grab Danny's book No I Can't Make Your Wife Disappear A Magician's Guide for a Magical Marriage [... more]

Learning to accept reality and trust God with our circumstances is key to finding contentment and hope as caregivers. We must recognize our limitations and adopt an attitude of stewardship, rather than feeling obligated to fix everything. By trusting God and focusing on our own thoughts, words, and deeds, we can find peace and stability in the midst of chaos. [... more]

Learning to accept reality and find contentment in the midst of caregiving challenges, recognizing the importance of stewardship and faith in navigating difficult situations. [... more]