All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. (Proverbs 16:2) We pursue what we think is best in our lives. If something is not right, we will only do it when we convince ourselves that the short-term gains are worth it. Overall, we order our …
Hearing the Stunning Invitation of Jesus
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) Here we …
The Double-Guarding of Our Mouths
Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deedsalong with those who are evildoers; do not let me eat their delicacies. (Psalm 141:3-4) The psalmist asks God to place a guard over his mouth. …
Knowing Who We Are and Who We’re Not: a lesson from John the Baptist
One of the most gripping commendations Jesus ever offered was about John the Baptist when He said, "I tell you, among those born of women there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28). There was really no one quite like John, and Jesus recognized that. Of course, the other part of that statement was …
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Cruciform Priorities: Living Like Apostles Today
"Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword." (Matthew 10:32-34) Jesus …
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Matthew Erickson 