Fillers

Every Home an Altar

[44 words] If every home were an altarWhere hearts weighted down with care,Could find sustaining strength and graceIn sweet uplift of prayer; Then solved would be earth’s problems,Banished sin’s curse and blight,For God’s own love would radiateFrom every altar light. Author Unknown…

A Covenant with the Eyes

[78 words] Job said, “I have made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I look upon a young woman?” (Job 31:1). Long before the internet and smartphones, Job understood that purity begins with what we choose to look at. Sin often enters through the eyes before it settles in the heart. Guarding our…

Self-Control for an Eternal Prize

[75 words] “Everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things…we for an imperishable crown” (1 Corinthians 9:25). Athletes willingly discipline themselves for trophies that eventually fade. Christians pursue something far greater—an eternal reward. Spiritual growth requires self-control, perseverance, and daily commitment. Every temptation resisted and every act of obedience strengthens our walk…

The Source of Truth

[74 words] Jesus declared, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His who sent Me” (John 7:16). Jesus did not preach human opinions or popular ideas. He faithfully delivered the Father’s message. His followers should do the same today. Rather than asking what people prefer, we should ask, “What does God say?” The authority of Scripture…

Greater Is He

[83 words] “You are of God, little children… because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4, NKJV). Christians face temptation, false teaching, and discouragement, but we are not left defenseless. God strengthens those who faithfully walk with Him through His revealed truth. The devil is…

Seeing the Father

[83 words] Philip asked Jesus, “Lord, show us the Father.” Jesus replied, “He who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:8-9, NKJV). Christ perfectly revealed the Father’s character, compassion, holiness, and truth. If we want to know what God is like, we need only look at Jesus. His words, miracles, sacrifice, and love…

Lessons from the Garden

[81 words] Summer gardens remind us that growth takes time. A seed buried in the soil does not become a harvest overnight. Likewise, God patiently develops our faith through His Word and our daily obedience. Don’t become discouraged if spiritual growth seems slow. Keep trusting the Master Gardener. “And let us not grow weary while…

Finding Rest in the Shade

[77 words] On a hot summer afternoon, the shade of a large tree brings welcome relief. God offers an even greater refuge for weary hearts. Life’s burdens can leave us exhausted, but His presence refreshes our souls. Instead of running from God during difficult times, run to Him. “He who dwells in the secret place…

Making the Most of Summer

[72 words] The long days of summer remind us that every day is a gift from God. Each sunrise brings new opportunities to serve Him, encourage others, and share His love. Time passes quickly, so use it wisely. Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the…

A Thirst Only Christ Can Satisfy

[81 words] Few things are more refreshing on a hot summer day than a cold drink of water. Yet physical thirst always returns. Jesus offers something far greater—the living water that satisfies forever. “But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him…

Did You Know This About Habakkuk?

[162 words] The prophet Habakkuk presents a question to God: Why is there so much pain and injustice in the world? Why do the wicked seem to always have the upper hand over the righteous? God’s answer is not that pain and injustice will be taken away in this world, but rather that the wicked…

Did You Know This About Zephaniah?

[105 words] Zephaniah was a prophet during the time of King Josiah of Judah. He prophesied about the same time as Jeremiah and Habakkuk. But did you know that Zephaniah was the only prophet of royal descent? He was, in fact, the great-great-grandson of the godly king Hezekiah. Zephaniah was sent to announce God’s coming…

Did You Know This About Haggai?

[83 words] Haggai was a prophet who lived and worked during the time of the return from exile under Zerubbabel. After 16 years since the start of the restoration of the temple, Haggai received four prophetic messages from God, telling the people to stop being lax in their work, and get the temple done! We…

Did You Know This About Zechariah?

[73 words] Zechariah was a prophet who ministered after the exile. He is called the son of Berechiah, and grandson of Iddo. This is probably the same Iddo who is listed among the priests who returned with Zerubbabel in 536 BC. If that is so, then Zechariah was both a prophet and a priest, like…

Still, Still With Thee

[94 words] Still, still with thee, when purple morning breaketh,When the bird waketh, and the shadows flee;Fairer than morning, lovelier than daylight,Dawns the sweet consciousness, I am with thee. Alone with thee, amid the mystic shadows,The solemn hush of nature newly born;Alone with thee in breathless adoration,In the calm dew and freshness of the morn.…

The Voice of God

[97 words] You’ve never heard the voice of God?Look at the stars above,Their luminous orbs of many rays,Speak of infinite love. The universe to you doth speakYou need not know her lawsThe grass the flowers all growing things,In them there are no flaws. The seasons as they come and goThe wind, the sun, the rain;The…

Proof That God Governs

[61 words] More than 200 years ago, Benjamin Franklin stood before the Constitutional Convention and said, “I have lived, Sir, a long time and the longer I live the more convincing proof I see of this truth: that God governs the affairs of men. If a sparrow cannot fall without His notice, is it possible…

Heavy Hands of a Leader

[97 words] As Moses found out, the hands of a leader can get heavy (Exodus 17:8-13). Amalek had declared war on Israel, and Israel was assured victory as long as Moses could hold up the staff of God, but the battle outlasted Moses’ arms. Enter Aaron and Hur. They helped Moses keep his hands lifted…

A Divine Name

[94 words] Isaiah the prophet wrote that a “new name” would be given to the Lord’s people. It was to be given only after the Gentiles were invited to become partakers of salvation through Christ (Isa. 62:2; 65:15). It could not have appeared before Acts 10 when the Gentiles were recognized as being heirs of…

Did You Know This About Daniel?

[114 words] Daniel is one of the only major figures in the Bible that left behind a completely positive record. Nothing negative is said about him.  This could be because Daniel’s life was characterized by great faith, prayer, courage, and a refusal to compromise with a culture that was against God’s people.  Carried way in…

Did You Know This About Hosea?

[89 words] The prophetic ministry of Hosea stretched about 45 years, from 755 to 710 BC. He preached to the northern kingdom of Israel, which is sometimes referred to as Ephraim.  He prophesied through the reigns of six kings of Israel, from Zechariah to Hoshea. Hosea gives 150 statements about the sins of Israel, and…

Did You Know This About Joel?

[136 words] Joel was one of the early prophets of Judah, and was likely prophesying during the days when Elisha was in Israel. Joel’s preaching carried the theme of great disasters, with locusts, plagues, famine, fire, war, and strange celestial events. Probably the most amazing fact about Joel is the book’s connection to the New…

Did You Know This About Amos?

[100 words] The name Amos means “burden” or “one who bears a burden.” This is a fitting name for a prophet who brought a message of warning to Israel during a time of optimism and prosperity, around the year 755 BC. At this time Assyria and Babylon were relatively weak, but just three decades later…

Encourage Others

[89 words] Encourage our elders as they lead us by example. Encourage our deacons to labor as faithful servants. Encourage our preachers to only preach the truth. Encourage our ill members as they fight health issues. Encourage our weak members to hold on to our hope. Encourage our strong members that there is work yet…

Your Child Deserves…

[81 words] …to hear you pray earnestly and often. …to go to worship and Bible classes with you faithfully. …to see you sacrifice for the Lord. …to hear you talk to others about becoming a Christian. …to go with you to visit the sick and bereaved. …to hear you praise the church and her leaders.…

About Purity

[83 words] How is a young person to stay pure? This is a question that David asks in Psalms 119:9. We find the answer there as well; by taking heed according to the Word of God, or through living by the Word. We must, as the Psalmist says, “write them on our hearts” in order…

An End to God’s Patience

[98 words] Our God is a God of infinite virtue. His love is boundless. His mercy is absolute. His grace unhindered. But even our God in time will say, “enough.” With the world of Sodom, with the world of Noah, with the nation of Israel the time came when God said, “I will go no…

Did You Know This About Proverbs?

[100 words] The book of Proverbs contains instructions for how to relate to God, neighbors, parents, children, and even the government. The principle author is Solomon, although Agur and Lemuel both wrote a chapter. First Kings 4:32 says that Solomon wrote 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs. But only 800 of the proverbs are recorded in…

Did You Know This About Ecclesiastes?

[124 words] Jewish tradition says that Solomon wrote Song of Solomon during his youthful years, Proverbs during his middle years, and Ecclesiastes in his later years.  In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon identifies himself seven times as the “preacher,” a translation of the Hebrew word qoheleth (co-HELL-et). It has the meaning of “leader of the…

A Wise Father

[113 words] During the frontier days in the United States, the driver of a covered wagon stopped his horses on the street of a young town and called to a passing man, “Hey, any saloons in this place?” “Sure, we have four!” the man replied boastfully. “Giddap,” the driver shouted, urging his horses on. “Stop,”…

God is With You

[129 words] Joshua was taking over the leadership of the people of God, and knew that Moses left some big shoes to fill. But God gave him the assurance he needed to lead the people into the promised land. He told him to “be strong … do not be afraid…for the Lord your God is…

The Right Road

[85 words] 1. The right road is a way of purity and holiness (Isaiah 35:8).2. The right road is protected. “The redeemed shall walk there” (Isaiah 35:8–9).3. The right road carries you forward. It is a guide for your life (Isaiah 35:8).4. The right road is a way of praise (Isaiah 35:10). Which road are…

How Much Does It Cost?

[81 words] The cost of consecrated living for Christ can be high. • Abraham had to yield up his son (Genesis 22:1–19).• Daniel was cast in the lions’ den (Daniel 6).• Stephen was killed by stoning (Acts 7).• Paul spent years in prison (Act 7).• Jesus died on the cross (Hebrews 12:2). How much does…

A Closer Look at Jude 24

[53 words] Now (that’s the present) to Him (that’s the Person) that is able (that’s His power)to keep you (that’s His protection)from stumbling (that’s to make you perfect),and to present you faultless (that’s to make you pure) before the presence of His glory (that’s His prestige)with exceeding joy (that’s our pleasure).…

The Ironies of Calvary

[66 words] Man of sorrows, Prince of Peace, Son of Joy, Man of griefs, Wounded healer, Rejected King, Earth’s disdain, Salvation’s wing. Friend of sinners, Friendless One, Men charge sin to the Holy Son, Innocent, yet judged with guilt, Had no home, but mansions built. The irony Christ was and gave, Buried, yet o’ercame the…

Did You know This About 1 Kings?

[126 words] First Kings chapter 3 records the time God came to King Solomon in a dream and said, “Ask! What shall I give you?” Solomon’s first thought was that God had been kind to his father David, and had also give David an heir to sit on the throne. In his humility, Solomon admitted…

Did You Know This About 2 Kings?

[138 words] The history of Israel is filled with kings who followed God, and kings who did evil in his sight. Between good King Hezekiah and good King Josiah, there was evil king Manasseh. During his time of evil leadership idolatry was rampant, and apparently the book of the law was lost. While Josiah was…

Did You Know This About 1 Chronicles?

[136 words] Among many other events in this book of history, 1 Chronicles 10 records the death of Saul, the first king of Israel.  Saul had so much potential! He was tall and handsome (1 Sam. 9:2), had some humility about him (1 Sam 9:21), and more importantly he was the one the Lord had…

The Joyful Life

[44 words] May the grace of Christ our Savior, And the Father’s boundless love With the Holy Spirit’s favorRest upon us from above.Thus may we abide in union With each other and the Lord; And possess in sweet communion Joys which earth cannot afford.…

Thank You God for Your Gift

[61 words] Thank You God…For the One who is WonderfulProviding wonders to my lifeFor His help as CounselorEasing my worry and strifeHe is the Mighty GodDoing great things for meHe is Everlasting Father?Granting a blessed eternityAs the Prince of PeaceHe calms my inner beingPraise the given Son!Given free and ever freeing! Edd SterchiBroadway church …

The Best of All

[45 words] Blessed Bible, sacred treasure,Precious book, of all the best,There is comfort never failing,And a calm abiding rest.Read with reverence, and commit it,Verse by verse, and day by day;“Tis the word that God has spoken,And it cannot pass away. Fanny Crosby…

The Spirit’s Light

[41 words] The Spirit breathes upon the Word,And brings the truth to sight;Precepts and promises affordA sanctifying light. A glory gilds the sacred pageMajestic like the sun;It gives a light to every ageIt gives, but borrows none. William Cowper…

‘Tain’t

[33 words] ‘Tain’t what we have, But what we give,‘Tain’t what we are, But how we live;‘Tain’t what we do, But how we do it—That makes this life worth going through it!…

Do What You Can

[38 words] Do what you can, being what you are,Shine like a glow worm, if you can’t be a star.Work like a pulley, if you can’t be a crane,Be a wheel-greaser, if you can’t drive the train. Benjamin R. DeJong…

The Truth

[33 words] Know It (John 8:32)Love It (2 Thess. 2:10) Believe It (2 Thess. 2:12) Obey It (1 Pet. 1:22) Tell It (Eph. 4:15)Help It (3 John 8)…

Live For Today

[91 words] I’ll never see this day again, The seconds or the hours,Now’s the time to take the time To stop and smell the flowers. Today’s the day to give that smileAnd happiness awayThat you were saving for a friend Some rainy, gloomy day. This day is golden, priceless, God made this day for you, …

Heed the Creed

[48 words] The only creed we need, the only one indeed,is the one Christ decreed. So let us never impede,precede, or exceed where it does lead. And let us feed on the seedfor which Christ did bleed.Let us read, heed, and proceed knowing we will succeed. Edd SterchiBroadway church of ChristCampbellsville, KY…

Did You Know This About Genesis?

[99 words] The Bible records 4,100 years of history. Over half of it—2,286 years—is found in Genesis alone! More than the other 65 books combined! Genesis is the first book of the Bible, and it contains 50 chapters, 1,533 verses, and 38,267 words. The word “genesis” is from the Greek word for “beginning.” The original…

Did You Know This About Exodus?

[140 words] One of the most amazing parts of Exodus is when the Israelites were commanded by God to paint their door frames with the blood of the lambs that were sacrificially killed at the institution of the Passover (Ex. 12:21-23). God’s people were in slavery to Egypt at the time, and God was about…

Did You Know This About Leviticus?

[128 words] Leviticus contains 27 chapters, 859 verses, and 24,546 words, and a whole bunch of laws! It is a guidebook for the Israelites, showing them how to worship, serve, and obey God. The concept of holiness before God is mentioned at least 87 times in this book. Honestly, Leviticus is not high on the…

Did You Know This About Numbers?

[119 words] Numbers is the record of Israel’s journey through the wilderness after God led them out Egyptian slavery. Due to their unbelief, what should have been an 11-day trip to the promised land turned into 40 years of wandering.  While in the wilderness, God told Moses to make a brass serpent and put it…

Did You Know This About Deuteronomy?

[172 words] Moses was about to die. The book of Deuteronomy recounts a one-month period of time when the Israelites were camped in the plains of Moab, and is considered to be a series of farewell addresses from Moses shortly before his passing.  The Israelites were about to go into the promised land, and as…

Consider These Things About Jesus

[81 words] • He who was the bread of life began His ministry hungry. • He who was the water of life ended His ministry thirsty. • He who was often weary is our rest. • He who paid taxes is the king of the universe. • He who was called a devil cast out…

The Whole Duty of Man

[97 words] Consider what Solomon revealed about man’s life on earth. All that mankind might accomplish in this world is truly vain (useless) unless he becomes spiritually reconciled to God and lives in fellowship with Him. Solomon said, “And I applied my mind to seek and to search out by wisdom all that is done…

Interpreting the Bible

[62 words] When someone says, “I may be taking this passage a little out of context,” he should repent and stop. No one has the right to twist scripture—not even a little (2 Timothy 2:15). When someone says, “I could be wrong,” appreciate his humility and know that he could be correct (Proverbs 16:2, 21:2).…

Bad News, Good News, and a Promise

[145 words] THE BAD NEWS: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 6:9–10). THE GOOD NEWS:…

Why Doubt God’s Word?

  [46 words] It is strange we trust each other,    And only doubt our Lord; We take the word of mortals,    And yet distrust His word; But oh, what light and glory    Would shine o’er all our days, If we always would remember     God means just what He says. A.B. Simpson…

All One In Christ

[94 words] In Christ there is no east nor west,    In him no south nor north, But one great fellowship of love    Throughout the whole wide earth. In him shall true hearts everywhere    Their high communion find His service is the golden cord    Close-binding all mankind. Join hands, then, brothers of…

My Prayer

[32 words] Lord Jesus, make Thyself to meA living, bright reality;More present to faith’s vision keenThan any outward object seen;More dear, more intimately nighThen ‘en the sweetest earthly tie.” Anonymous…

God’s Promises

[51 words] As the deep blue of heaven brightens into stars,So God’s great love shines forth in promises.Which, falling softly through our prison bars,Daze not our eyes, but with their sweet light bless.Ladders of light, God sets against the skies,Upon whose golden rungs we step by step arise. Anonymous…

How Closely Am I Following Jesus?

[70 words] Jesus shines to keep me from being lost. Jesus shines to keep me from falling. Jesus shines so I’ll see where to walk. “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of…

Ways to Ensure Your Chances for a Long Life

[99 words] 1. Do not ride in an automobile or get in the way of one: they cause 20% of all fatal accidents. 2. Do not stay at home: 17% of all accidents happen in the home. 3. Do not walk around the street: 14% of all accidents happen to pedestrians. 4. Do not travel…

The God Man

[120 words] Jesus was God in human flesh—not half God and half man, not all God and no man, not all man and no God; but the God-man, the man-God. The One who created every seed, every shrub, every tree, and every limb was hanged on a tree, on a cross (Acts 5:30). The One…

What Is So Special about Heaven?

[79 words] Heaven is where God is (John 14:2–3). Heaven is where we will have perfect understanding (1 Corinthians 13:12). Heaven is where our life’s records are kept (Revelation 20:12). Heaven is a place of perfect rest (Revelation 14:13). Heaven is where we will receive our new bodies (1 Corinthians 15:44).  Heaven is where we…

A Father’s Prayer

[69 words] Last night my little boy confessed to me some childish wrong,And kneeling at my knee he prayed with tears“Dear God, make me a man,like Daddy—wise and strong—I know you can.” Then while he slept, I knelt beside his bed.Confessed my sins and prayed with low-bowed head.“O God, make me a child, like my…

Concerning Trees…And Us

[36 words] Have deep roots,branch out,be flexible,keep growing on the inside,bloom often,show your colors,point your trunk upward,raise your limbs to heaven,and bring forth good fruit, as long as you live.…

Don’t Let Sin In

[49 words] Don’t get used to sin. Just because we are bombarded with worldliness and sin day and night does not give us the excuse to become apathetic toward such things. God still expects His children to talk, dress, act and think differently than the world. Read 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.…

Don’t Tie Me Down!

[64 words] A preacher was trying to persuade a capable man to teach a Bible class. The man responded, “I just don’t want to be tied down at this time!” With kind firmness the preacher looked him right straight in the eyes and said, “You know, we serve a Master who was willing to be…

Moment by Moment

[91 words] Never a trial that He is not there:Never a burden that He doth not bear;Never a sorrow that He doth not share,Moment by moment I’m under His care. Never a heartache, and never a groan,Never a tear-drop, and never a moan,Never a danger but there, on the throne,Moment by moment, He thinks of…

How Wealthy Are We?

[90 words] No matter how much wealth the rich young ruler had, he could not ride in a car or fly in a plane, get a shot of penicillin, get a flu shot or take any of a multitude of patent medicines, have surgery, turn on an electric light, wash dishes in heated running water,…

Even When He is Silent

[74 words] A young girl whose name may never be known died in a Nazi concentration camp during World War Two. But her faith will never be forgotten. On the wall of the cell she occupied until her death, an Allied soldier found these words she had written: “I believe in the sun even when …

Special Dog

[98 words] A minister delivered a sermon in ten minutes one Sunday, about a third of the usual length. He explained, “I regret to inform you that my dog, who is very fond of eating paper, ate portions of my sermon which I was unable to deliver this morning.” After the service, a visitor from…

Christian: Label or Life?

[91 words] The New Testament teaches that the early disciples of the Lord bore the name of their Savior and Master (Acts 11:26). But, they did much more. They sought to bear His likeness, His image (Rom. 8:29). They walked in His footsteps, and developed His mind (1 Pet. 2:21). They “learned Christ” when they…

What Am I?

[63 words] The normal lifespan we far exceededBecause we were so badly needed.Though made by mortal manWe were used in God’s plan.Some of us were stepped uponBut we never complained or groaned.We were all essential every dayWe served right well the whole way.We literally covered God’s nationAs they went from station to station.What am I?…

Do It Yourself

[100 words] “How-to” books are the thing today.They fill up many a shelf.The Bible is the original oneOn how to help yourself.“How to Live Happily Ever After”“How to Leave Worry Far Behind”“How to Grow in Grace and Wisdom”Are these subjects on your mind?“How to Have A Blessed Marriage”“How to be A Saint”“How to Behave as…

Help me Lord

[48 words] Oh, Lord, don’t let me falter,Don’t let me lose my way;Don’t let me cease to carryMy burden, day by day.Oh, Lord, don’t let me stumble,Don’t let me fall and quit,Oh Lord, please help me find my “job”And help me shoulder it.…

Have You Not Read?

[54 words] Jesus was constantly asking people about their Bible reading: “Have you not read…?” (Matthew 12:3) “Have you not read in the law…?” (Matthew 12:5) “Have you not read…?” (Matthew 19:4) “Have you never read…?” (Matthew 21:16) “Have you not read…?” (Matthew 22:31) What about you? Have you not read?…

Six Stewardship Principles

[68 words] 1. You reap what you sow (Galatians 6:7). 2. The attitude of the giver is more important than the gift itself (2 Corinthians 9:7). 3. The time to give/commit is now (2 Corinthians 9:5). 4. We must give ourselves to God first (2 Corinthians 8:5). 5. “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew…

Life is a Gift

[63 words] Today before you say an unkind word, think of someone who can’t speak. Before you complain about the taste of your food, think of someone who has nothing to eat. When depressing thoughts seem to get you down, put a smile on your face and remember that you’re alive and still around. Always…

Why Do You Believe That?

[67 words] Most people’s religious beliefs are really not their own, but what they’ve gleaned from others (family, friends, media, co-workers, neighbors, classmates, etc.). The majority will admit they have not taken the time to see what the Bible actually teaches. Frighteningly, all people will one day stand before Almighty God in Judgment based on…

I Forgot to Live

[71 words] First, I was dying to finish high school and start college.And then, I was dying to finish college and start working.And then, I was dying to marry and have children.And then, I was dying for my children to growold enough for school so I could return to work.And then, I was dying to…

The Greatest Thing You Can Do

[69 words] The greatest thinganyone can do forGod and man is pray.It is not the only thing, but is thechief thing. The great people ofearth are the people who pray. I do notmean those who talk about prayer;nor those who say they believe inprayer; nor yet thosewho can explainabout prayer; but Imean those peoplewho take…

Divine Abundance

[45 words] The grasses are clothedAnd the ravens are fedFrom His store;But you, who are lovedAnd guarded and led,How much moreWill He clothe and feed you and give you His care?Then leave it with Him; He has everywhereAmple store. Anonymous…

Eternal Goodness

[67 words] I know not what the future hathOf marvel or surprise,Assured alone that life and death,His mercy underlies: And so beside the Silent SeaI wait the muffled oar;No harm from Him can come to meOn ocean or on shore. I know not where His islands liftTheir fronded palms in air;I only know I cannot…

Broken Toys

[75 words] As children bring their broken toysWith tears for us to mend,I brought my broken dreams to God,Because He was my friend.But then instead of leaving HimIn peace to work alone,I hung around and tried to help,With ways that were my own.At last I snatched them back and cried,“How can you be so slow?”“My…

Showing Compassion

[104 words] In Luke 10:30, Jesus teaches the parable of the Good Samaritan. It is interesting to note that the man half dead made no call for help. In verse 33, it says, “But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion.” Maybe…

Dumb Animals?

[81 words] Birds build their nests and rear their young, and so far as is known no bird ever tried to build more nests than its neighbor; no fox ever fretted because he had only one den; no squirrel ever died of anxiety because he had not laid up enough nuts for two or three…

Thankfulness to God

[51 words] I often wonder how God feels at His creation’s ingratitude. How many have felt God’s sunshine, breathed God’s air, been blessed with God’s rain, and yet never stopped to think of—or thank—the Creator of all such? We should be always thankful, always grateful, always appreciative, to our great God. John M. Brown…

Encouragement

[53 words] It’s easy to complain. Anyone can do it! It takes a special person to encourage. Complaining focuses on self. Encouragement focuses on others. The world needs encouragement from people who know how to overcome discouragement. God expects you to do that! If you’re a child of God, actively seek to encourage others…

A Little Place

[91 words] “Father, where shall I work today?”And my love flowed warm and free.Then He pointed me out a tiny spotAnd said, “Tend that for Me.”I answered quickly, “Oh no, not there,Why, no one would ever seeNo matter how well my work was done.Not a little place for me!”And the word He spoke, it was…

The Word of God

[44 words] For feelings come and go,And feelings are deceiving;My warrant is the Word of GodNaught else is worth believing.I’ll trust in God’s unchanging WordTill soul and body sever;For, though all things shall pass away,His Word shall stand forever.…

What is the Church?

[93 words] A practice field for patience and compassion.A fellowship against loneliness.A resting place.A garden where God comes looking for us.A bathing for washing guilt away.A reflecting pool.An internship for minister-members.A kneeling bench.A rescue mission where God finds us.A laboratory of life.A school instructing those who would fear God.A hospital for healing souls.A cafeteria where…

A Question

[42 words] If I really, really trust Him,Shall I ever fret?If I really do expect Him,Can I e’er forget?If by faith I really see Him,Shall I doubt His aid?If I really, really love Him,Can I be afraid?…

Six Stewardship Principles

[68 words] 1. You reap what you sow (Galatians 6:7). 2. The attitude of the giver is more important than the gift itself (2 Corinthians 9:7). 3. The time to give/commit is now (2 Corinthians 9:5). 4. We must give ourselves to God first (2 Corinthians 8:5). 5. “Freely you have received, freely give” (Matthew…

If Our Children…

[58 words] …never see us go to Bible study, why should they? …never hear us pray, they will never learn how themselves. …hear bickering or cursing at home, they will do the same when they are grown. …never see us read the Bible, they won’t appreciate its contents either. …hear us complain about the preacher,…

The Source of My Joy

[47 words] In the midst of everything that may be wrong with the world: I am a Christian, my sins are forgiven, and I am on my way home to heaven (Heb. 11:13-16)! It’s the source of my joy (Phil. 3:1; 4:4; 1 Thess. 5:16)!…

Like is Like a Clock

[69 words] Life is like a clock. The hands of time go only forward, never backward. Life is not like a movie. It can never be rerun for a second showing. Life is not like an automobile. It has no reverse gear. Life is not like a pencil. You cannot erase your mistakes. Today is…

Tragic Nature of Bible Ignorance

[97 words] Former Tonight Show host Jay Leno frequently did man-on-the street interviews. Once he stopped some young people to ask them questions about the Bible. “Name one of the Ten Commandments” he asked two college-age women. One replied, “Freedom of speech?” He said to the other, “Complete this sentence: Let he who is without…

New Testament Writers

[200 words] • The Gospel of Matthew was written by the Apostle Matthew about (circa) A.D. 55–62. • The Gospel of Mark was written by John Mark c. A.D. 55–62. • The Gospel of Luke was written by the physician Luke c. A.D. 55–62. • The Gospel of John was written by the Apostle John…
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