repentance

Grace, Regret, and the Idol of Self-Expression

As I mentioned on Sunday, I’ve got a few things about the idol of self-expression that I’d like to address.  But before I get there, let me share a moment of regret from Sunday and provide clarification. Not serving the church with my words: I want to ask your forgiveness for not serving you with my…

Idols & Connecting

Through the years, Jill and I have sought to help our kids deal with the idols of their hearts.  One of the ways that we’ve helped them identify these dastardly enemies of our souls is by helping them see that when idols are close to being exposed, sinful responses usually follow.  Anger, dismissal, covering up, hiding, or other things have helped our kids see where their idols lurk.  I have often said that when I’m counseling people when they get mad, we’re “about to hit paydirt.”  My point is that we will do anything to keep our idols.

Trust Over Time

The fact that there are two types of forgiveness listed in the Bible was new information for some of us. But when there is no confession of sin, there should not be spoken forgiveness to the sinner. Reasons for this are many, but we see this in the Bible. We are not granted forgiveness of our sins until we confess we’re sinners and believe in Jesus.

A Contrite Heart – Morning Musings

This past Sunday was a unique one for me.  I was able to take the Sunday off, be a church member, and sit with my family.  It was amazing.  I really enjoyed being part of the crowd and not having any responsibilities, except to fellowship, sing, pray, listen and heed God’s word being preached, and pray for all involved.  It really was a joy.  Sitting with my…

Lessons in the Pandemic – Morning Musings

A full day of services, preaching 3 services, and hearing other voices in the church building…let the musings begin. Sunday’s services: I cannot tell you how excited I was (and am) about Sunday’s services.  It’s the first time since March 15th that we had an in-person church service.  I didn’t sleep well (more on that in a moment) but I was full of faith…

Dealing with a Christian’s Sin

There’s quite a bit that I want to say about Sunday’s sermon, so let’s just get right to it.   Sunday’s sermon: Let’s start with things that need some clarification: In one point of my sermon, I mentioned that some believe this COVID-19 thing is a hoax.  That needs to be cleaned up a bit.  Here’s my concern and here’s what I meant to say…regardless…