Solomon's writings in Ecclesiastes illustrate the importance of common sense and the dangers of folly, emphasizing that a person's heart perspective and direction in life are crucial in determining their path, and that God's wisdom is the key to making wise decisions and avoiding the pitfalls of foolishness. [... more]

As Christians, we are both fragrant and foul-smelling, drawing seekers to Christ with the sweet perfume of life, but repelling those who harden their hearts to the gospel. We must respond by speaking the truth in love, excusing sin, but loving sinners, and being true soul winners with a spiritual backbone, standing firm in our witness for Christ. [... more]

Rachel McDonough shares three key scriptures and prayers to guide us in faithful stewardship, highlighting the importance of living lives of radical sold-out worship and pursuing joyful, loving relationship with God as our King and with our brothers and sisters for all eternity. [... more]

When praying for things like patience, courage, or a closer family, God often gives us opportunities to achieve those things rather than granting them directly. This concept is explored through personal stories and experiences, highlighting the importance of being intentional about what we pray for and trusting in God's plan and timing. [... more]

The death of Jesus is intricately connected to the Passover, a powerful symbol of God's salvation. Jesus' words and actions foreshadow his own crucifixion, and the reactions of those around him reveal their true intentions and beliefs. The story of Judas' betrayal and the anointing of Jesus by Mary highlight the contrast between faith and doubt, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus as the Lamb of God. [... more]

Chuck Swindoll recounts the story of Mary anointing Jesus with expensive perfume, highlighting the significance of extravagance in devotion and worship. He draws parallels between Mary's act and the importance of living life to the fullest, demonstrating love and forgiveness to those around us. [... more]

Mary of Bethany's profound moment of devotion is captured in Mark 14, where she pours expensive perfume made from the essence of nard on Jesus' head, a rare ritual reserved for dying royalty, and is met with criticism from those who misunderstand the significance of her act of worship. [... more]

A woman's extravagant act of anointing Jesus with precious perfume is met with criticism from the disciples, but Jesus sees it as a good work done for him. This story teaches valuable lessons about faithfulness, the value of honoring Christ, and the importance of recognizing the savior in our midst. [... more]

Solomon's love story in the Song of Solomon is a metaphor for Jesus's love for humanity, taking people out of slavery, bondage, and covering them with his blood. This love story is a reminder that Jesus wants to unite us with him, making us fruitful and serving him hand in hand. [... more]

A woman's extravagant anointing of Jesus with expensive perfume is seen as a waste by the disciples, but Jesus defends her actions, highlighting the importance of honoring and glorifying him above all else. [... more]

As Jesus' final week unfolds, Mary's extravagant act of worship with expensive perfume foreshadows the magnitude of his suffering. Meanwhile, the high priest Caiaphas plots Jesus' betrayal, and the disciples are oblivious to the significance of Mary's actions, criticizing her for wasting the perfume. [... more]

The celebration of the Passover coincides with Jesus' passion and suffering, and a woman's extravagant gift of precious perfume to anoint Jesus' body for burial is seen as a waste by some, but Jesus praises her devotion and sacrifice, highlighting the importance of honoring Him in the midst of crisis. [... more]

Reflecting on the past year and looking forward to the new one, Greg Laurie shares a powerful story from the Bible about Mary of Bethany, who anointed Jesus with expensive perfume, showing her love and devotion to him. This act of sacrifice is a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God and to live for Him, rather than for ourselves or for the opinions of others. [... more]