Everyday Insights and Real Life Stories

Oftentimes, I find that as Christians we confuse what it means to have a relationship with God versus having a personal relationship with God. There are many types of relationships in this world, but none of them are the same. The mistake is often made when Christians talk of a "relationship with Jesus Christ". That could mean anything to someone who has no experience with that which we are referring to. In fact, there are a lot of relationships that people may first think of, depending on what they've gone through in their lives. For example, like it or not, children have a relationship with their abusive parents. It's not a healthy relationship, it's not a loving relationship, but nonetheless it's a relationship. People also have relationships with their cheating spouses. Again, it's not desirable, it's heartbreaking, but it's still a relationship. Children have relationships with the schoolyard bully that pounds them for everything they've ...

"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the sinners doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the pagans do that?" Matthew 5:43-47 I love people.  People are so unique and amazing. I love hearing them tell their stories and discuss their passions. I love getting to know them and finding out what makes them tick. I think this is a gift that God has given me, because it really helps me in my mission field when I can relate to people and earn their trust. Because of this, it's important to realize that God desires for us to show His love to the people around us who do not ...

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1 Therefore I urge you, brothers, do not be conformed any longer to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing your mind through Christ Jesus that you may be able test and approve what God's will is - God's good, perfect, pleasing will. Romans 12:2 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 I love the night sky. Whether the moon is full and the stars are shining or everything is cloudy and obscured, I love looking at the different ways God displays His power every night. It encourages and amazes me to know that my God created all of that and yet is able and (more astoundingly) willing to take care of me as well. God created the moon to reflect the light and comfort of the sun. This rem...