(The following is the September 26 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Timothy 2 and pay close attention to verses 1-4.) Few topics divide people as much as politics. People often discuss political matters passionately with little openness to changing their minds. Christians should engage in …
Justice, Mercy, or Grace?
(The following is the September 21 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 2 Thessalonians 1 and pay close attention to verses 5-12.) Jesus’ first coming was about salvation; his second coming will be one of judgment. Our attitude toward judgment may depend upon who is being judged. …
Does Your Face Reflect Your Joy in Christ
(The following is the May 13 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Acts 6 and pay close attention to verses 11-15.) While looking out over our congregation, a former pastor once said, “Some of you look like you were weaned on sour pickles.” I suppose we didn’t look very joyful until …
The Bible: Still God’s Authoritative Word
(The following is the September 15 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Thessalonians 2 and pay close attention to verses 13-16.) What do people think about the Bible? Some passionately oppose it and readily speak against it. Perhaps their opposition stems from adherence to another religion …
Do Everything in Service to King Jesus
(The following is the September 12 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Colossians 3 and pay close attention to verses 17-25.) Each believer makes up one small thread in the larger tapestry of the church God weaves together. Do we appreciate where he has placed us and …