The Bible is filled with hope and encouragement. Jesus Christ was born into this world, lived a sinless and perfect life, died on the cross, and rose again on the third day to pay our debt of sin and give us hope for a better day. Yet life for the faithful Christian can be a difficult and discouraging journey. It can leave us feeling discouraged, defeated, and alone in our daily struggles.
Continue reading “10 Verses of Renewal and Hope.”I cannot count the number of times I have heard these two phrases used in Christianity. It’s confusing. In some situations, we’re told to have faith, keep holding on but in others we’re told to let go and put in the hands of the Lord. Which one is it? How can I know which one I’m supposed to do?
Continue reading “Letting Go and Giving Up.”The phrase “abiding in Christ” often emerges as a profound yet enigmatic concept, calling us to a deeper understanding of its essence and implications in the life of a believer. The scriptural foundation for this discussion is found in John 15, where Jesus Christ describes Himself as the true vine, with His followers as the branches—a metaphor that encapsulates the life-sustaining relationship between Christ and believers.
Continue reading “Abiding in Christ.”Easter is one of the most important and celebrated events in the Christian calendar. This holiday is focused on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is the foundation of the Christian faith. It is a powerful symbol of hope, new beginnings, and victory over death.
Continue reading “Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ”There is a common belief in Christianity today that says you can feel joy without feeling emotions like happiness. Often it is presented as if Christianity is not meant to emotional and that being a faithful Christian often results in a life that something less than the abundant life Jesus promised.
Continue reading “Is Joy Possible Without Happiness?”In our journey through faith and life, the concept of Christlikeness stands as a beacon, guiding us toward the epitome of spiritual maturity. This pursuit, though noble and essential, unveils the vast gulf between our imperfections and the pristine character of Jesus. It beckons a question that resonates deeply within the heart of every believer: How can we truly embody the likeness of Christ in a world brimming with trials and tribulations?
Continue reading “Emulating Christ: The Path to Genuine Transformation”Throughout Scripture, we are challenged to grow in our faith and in our understanding of God’s word. Sounds easy enough except when you’ve read and studied it for years and it becomes almost mundane or boring. Not that God’s word is boring but after a while its easy for us to lose sight of just how amazing and exciting it truly is. God has spoken from heaven and given it to us for our good. Yet, we often lose sight of that and drift into complacency.
Continue reading “The challenge to continue learning God’s word.”As most of you know, the state of Alabama recently ruled that embryos were children and thus, granted full protection under the law about the wrongful death of a minor. On one hand, I applaud the stand the state took that protects these embryos as unborn children and worthy of being protected. Just for clarification you should know that embryos are fertilized eggs that have already begun to develop. It is not simple sperm or an egg but a life that has already begun to develop into a life.
Continue reading “IVF and the Christian: what are we to think?”In John 2:1-11, we find the story of Jesus at a wedding in Cana, turning water into wine. This miracle isn’t just a display of power; it’s a symbol of transformation. Jesus takes something ordinary, water, and turns it into something extraordinary, wine, and not just any wine, but the finest. This act speaks volumes about the nature of Christ’s ministry: taking our ordinary lives and infusing them with extraordinary purpose and joy.
Continue reading “From Water To Wine: Embracing The Fullness of Faith.”In the shadow of towering achievements and groundbreaking innovations, it’s easy to be dazzled by human capabilities. We live in an era marked by rapid advancements in technology, medicine, and science. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of progress, there lies an essential truth often overlooked: the limitations of human ability and the enduring need for divine guidance.
Continue reading “Beyond human limitations: Embracing Divine wisdom in our achievements.”As we welcome the new year, it’s a time of fresh beginnings and renewed commitments. For us this is a unique opportunity to reflect on our spiritual journey and how we can enhance our contribution to the life and health of our church.
Here are some reflective questions to guide us in this process:
Continue reading “A New Year, A Renewed Commitment: Reflective Questions for Church Members”As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we find ourselves entering the season of Christmas, a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the greatest celebration of our faith: the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, I want to reflect on the wondrous event of the incarnation, where the eternal Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14).
Continue reading “Christmas: A Spark of Joy in the Darkness”As the crisp air of December descends and the world gears up for the Christmas season, Christians all over the world observe Advent. This period, spanning four Sundays before Christmas, offers a pause in the midst of the holiday frenzy, to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ.
Each of the four Sundays of Advent carries a unique theme, guiding us on a journey of spiritual preparation. Let’s embark on this exploration together, delving into the deeper significance of each Sunday:
Continue reading “The Four Sundays of Advent: Reflecting on the Journey to Christmas.”Thanksgiving Day has drawn to a close, the echoes of gratitude linger in our hearts, yet the essence of this celebration shouldn’t fade with the holiday. It’s a catalyst, propelling us forward into a life enriched by continual thankfulness and purposeful action. Beyond the feast and festivities lies a crucial phase—a transition from a day of gratitude to a lifestyle ingrained with thanksgiving. The lessons learned on Thanksgiving Day should serve as stepping stones toward a future brimming with purpose, compassion, and a heart tuned to gratitude.
“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV)
Continue reading “Beyond Thanksgiving Day”As the calendar approaches November 23rd, many homes prepare for Thanksgiving Day—a time to gather, reflect, and express gratitude. In the Biblical context, Thanksgiving holds a profound significance, intertwining faith, gratitude, and a future hope that transcends earthly celebrations.
Thanksgiving, from a Biblical standpoint, is deeply rooted in the act of gratitude and acknowledgment of God’s provision. The Scriptures abound with verses emphasizing the importance of giving thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18) and rejoicing in God’s goodness (Psalm 107:1). It’s a day to pause and recognize the blessings bestowed upon us, both spiritually and materially.
Continue reading “Thanksgiving Day: A Biblical Perspective and Future Anticipation”
Central Haywood Church of Christ 