Discover Hope

“Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God…” (Romans 1:1 ESV). “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them” (1 Corinthians 9:19 ESV). Much is said today regarding “freedom”—the power or…

“… Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! [T]hanks be to God, [you] who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of…

“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1 ESV). Most people today revolt against the thought of slavery—and rightfully so.  Any condition where one human is owned by another or considered by law as property or chattel is appalling. When free…

“For you were called to freedom, brothers [and sisters]. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13 ESV). ‍ We love freedom. But freedom is not a license to lust!  The modern usage of the word “lust” is often confined to sexual desire.…

It happens more frequently as we age. It wasn’t as noticeable when I was in my 20’s, 30’s, or 40’s. But lately, I’m more aware of how time appears to be passing, more quickly. Logic reminds me that time is established. There are only 24 hours each day. Each hour has 60 minutes, and each…

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah” (Psalm 46:1-3 ESV). Even a casual look at the…

For me, the ministry is more than a profession. Perhaps it’s that understanding that keeps me in the game. I admit: there have been times in my ministry when I’ve been enticed to believe that a position in a corporate setting would be more attractive. And, when times are unusually testing (like when the sheep…

“As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God” (Psalm 42:1-2). Do you remember a time when your thirst was so intense, it was the only thing on your mind? Every time I read the Psalmist’s words, they transport me…

“Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord! O Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my pleas for mercy!” (Psalm 130:1-2 ESV). Read those words slowly. What do you notice? Perhaps my struggle caused me to stop and re-read these words. Or possibly it’s my desperation…

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8 ESV). “It is a sign forever between me and the people of Israel that in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed” (Exodus 31:17 (ESV). It was apparent my friend was searching for the…