The Up Devotional
Matthew Ruttan
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In about a minute, start your day with a shot of soul espresso—biblical and down-to-earth. It's written and read by disciple-in-progress, pastor and author, Matthew Ruttan. www.TheUpDevo.com
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1 day ago
Perspective corrective
[Note: After today, The Up Devotional will go on pause for a week, returning on June 12, 2023.] If you want to read something that tells you that everything is always wonderful and that life should be a non-stop parade of flowers and lollipops, don’t read the Bible. The Bible is too honest for that. … Continue reading Perspective corrective
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2 days ago
Even if you have to wait
“LORD, you are the God who saves me; day and night I cry out to you.” So prayed Heman in Psalm 88:1. He then went on to chronicle his lack of strength, feelings of death, despair, isolation, grief, sense of betrayal, rejection and terror! One of the things that strikes me about Heman’s prayer is … Continue reading Even if you have to wait
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3 days ago
Experiences of hardship
It’s an unpopular thought: Experiences of hardship can make us wiser and better positioned to help others. Here’s why it’s unpopular. When you’re in the middle of hard times, you just want them to end. You want things to be good again. When enduring incredible stress and strain you probably don’t want to hear about … Continue reading Experiences of hardship
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4 days ago
Where God puts a comma
Have you ever felt like God has let you down? Perhaps illness has come into your life. Perhaps you wanted a baby and it never happened. Perhaps you experienced a personal and brutal attack. Perhaps you have been so stressed or anxious that you wondered if it wouldn’t just be better if you weren’t on … Continue reading Where God puts a comma
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5 days ago
With all your mind
On May 19, 2023 Tim Keller died. He was a best-selling author, pastor and apologist. He spoke to millions, met with Presidents, but was ever down-to-earth. My first introduction to his writing was through his best-seller, The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism. His writing gave evidence of a genuine, biblical faith … Continue reading With all your mind
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May 26, 2023
What is in us, not what ought to be in us
One of the reasons people have loved the psalms through the ages is because they are so personal and honest. David was certainly honest with God in Psalm 51. Another example is found in Psalm 88. It’s a look-into-my-aching-heart-and-help-me-urgently type of psalm. A man named Heman had been afflicted since his youth. In verse 15 … Continue reading What is in us, not what ought to be in us
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May 25, 2023
Create in me a clean heart
In Psalm 51:10 David prayed: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” As outlined a few days ago, David had committed multiple sins. Big sins. Snowballing sins. Then he was confronted by the prophet Nathan. Psalm 51 is David’s prayer of repentance. He asked God for mercy … Continue reading Create in me a clean heart
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May 24, 2023
Salvation and sanctification
Salvation and sanctification are central to Christianity. But if we get them mixed up, it can mess with our thinking. Salvation is being made right with God, both in this life and the next. When you believe in Jesus and what he has done for you on the cross (dying in your place and paying … Continue reading Salvation and sanctification
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May 23, 2023
Against you only have I sinned
King David sinned. Big time. He committed adultery with Bathsheba. She became pregnant. Her husband Uriah was in David’s army and away at battle. David invited him back with the hopes that he would sleep with his wife making people think the baby was from him instead. But in an act of solidarity with his … Continue reading Against you only have I sinned
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May 22, 2023
When God’s answer is better
“Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry; hold not your peace at my tears!” (Psalm 39:12) “God didn’t answer my prayer.” Have you ever said that? Have you ever thought it? In my experience, when someone says that God didn’t answer their prayer, what they usually mean is that God didn’t … Continue reading When God’s answer is better
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May 19, 2023
Fighting pessimism with praise
King David was no stranger to danger. He faced threats (internal and external), sickness, and war. One of the reasons so many people love his psalms is because they are so honest. He demonstrates a wide range of emotions and thoughts while speaking to (or talking about) God, and while going through his various difficulties. … Continue reading Fighting pessimism with praise
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May 18, 2023
Inner stillness
The most popular verse in Psalm 46 is verse 10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In our world of frantic frenzy, scurrying, stress and busyness, the idea of “being still” really appeals to us. We might not always do it very well, but we sure like it! It makes us think of … Continue reading Inner stillness
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May 17, 2023
Being big picture people
Let’s continue thinking about perspective. When we’re experiencing hardship, it’s helpful to zoom out and try to look at the bigger picture. When we do that, we gain a clearer understanding about what is happening around us. Here is why that can be helpful. In the midst of difficulty, our view can become limited. We … Continue reading Being big picture people
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May 16, 2023
The big picture and right-sizing our problems
Perspective is about seeing the bigger picture and right-sizing our problems. Let me explain. When you are looking through a camera lens and want to see more of whatever you’re looking at, you zoom out or go to a wide-angle. You get a clearer picture about what is happening because you can see more. This … Continue reading The big picture and right-sizing our problems
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May 15, 2023
The seed that grew after thousands of years
I recently came across something that was rather encouraging. If it was encouraging to me, I’m sure it will be encouraging to you as well. A seed was discovered in the ruins of King Herod’s palace at Masada in Israel. In 2008, researchers decided to plant the seed in some soil. Low and behold, it … Continue reading The seed that grew after thousands of years
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May 12, 2023
The trustworthy voice of Jesus
Donald McCullough recalls being in the city of Edinburgh a few weeks before beginning his doctoral studies. He was new to the city so didn’t know his way around very well. One evening he went to a concert at Usher Hall. After it finished he headed out into the night, but it was now dark … Continue reading The trustworthy voice of Jesus
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May 11, 2023
Being pursued by goodness and mercy
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life…” (Psalm 23:6, ESV) Max Lucado tells a story about a mother and her first grade son, Timmy. She became worried when Timmy wanted to walk to school by himself. The mother wasn’t sure it was a good idea. But Timmy thought it … Continue reading Being pursued by goodness and mercy
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May 10, 2023
Powerful truths for perilous times
Viktor Frankl was a psychiatrist. He was also a Jewish man who survived the horrors of the Nazi concentration camps. In one of his books he comments on something remarkable: seeing grown adults walk into a gas chamber reciting the Shema. That’s the central creed of Judaism. It is found in Deuteronomy 6:4.* Christians recognize … Continue reading Powerful truths for perilous times
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May 9, 2023
THROUGH
Life can be difficult. We know it’s true from our own experiences. Plus, the Bible tells us as much. But we are not without help or hope. Psalm 23 is very well known. It is read at funerals, underlined in Bibles, tattooed on bodies, and memorized. It speaks of God as a caring Shepherd. He … Continue reading THROUGH
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May 8, 2023
The fruit-yielding tree God will use to bless others
Psalm 1 describes a person who is seeking to be righteous. They delight in God’s teachings and meditate on them consistently (verse 2). Verse 3 describes something important about that person’s life: “That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season…” They are a fruit-yielding tree, metaphorically … Continue reading The fruit-yielding tree God will use to bless others
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May 5, 2023
Chewing the cud of God’s word
In Psalm 1:2 we are told about a person who is blessed by God. This is a person “whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.” But what does it mean to “meditate”? This word can make us think of some sort of eastern spiritual … Continue reading Chewing the cud of God’s word
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May 4, 2023
Enter by the narrow gate
We’ve been discussing the “way of the righteous” from Psalm 1. It stands in contrast to the “way of the wicked.” Hebrew scholar Robert Alter points out that taking a certain “way” (or “road” or “path”) is a metaphor for a “set of moral choices.”* When I first tried to visualize these two ways, I … Continue reading Enter by the narrow gate
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May 3, 2023
Doesn’t God expect us to be perfect?
In the previous devotional I explained how pursuing “the way of the righteous” as articulated in Psalm 1 is about a direction, not perfection. Some of you will have wondered, but what about Matthew 5:48? “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Ah yes, that statement by Jesus has really been a source … Continue reading Doesn’t God expect us to be perfect?
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May 2, 2023
A direction, not perfection
“For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction” (Psalm 1:6). Psalm 1 is sometimes called the “gateway to the Psalms.” As if providing a general introduction to the 149 psalms that follow, it gives us high-level wisdom about life and foregrounds a very important … Continue reading A direction, not perfection
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May 1, 2023
Godishness
Jesus said: “So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty’” (Luke 17:10). Human beings are naturally selfish. It’s something we need to guard against. It’s also something we should be frequently asking God to forgive us for: “Dear … Continue reading Godishness
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Apr 28, 2023
The God of second chances
After the resurrection, Jesus asked Peter if he loved him. Not once, but three times. “The third time [Jesus] said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I … Continue reading The God of second chances
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Apr 27, 2023
Use what you learn to serve God
We’ve been talking about learning from our mistakes and failures. In fact, when it comes to serving God, they don’t disqualify you, they educate you. Let’s consider the example of Peter. Before Jesus’ crucifixion, he denied knowing him three times. That is a very serious offense, especially in Jesus’ time of need! After the resurrection, … Continue reading Use what you learn to serve God
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Apr 26, 2023
Learn from your mistakes
“We all stumble in many ways” (James 3:2). We all make mistakes. Do you wallow in yours, or do you learn from them? A junior executive at IBM lost over ten million dollars in a risky venture. He was called into the office of Tom Watson Sr., the founder of IBM. The junior executive asked, … Continue reading Learn from your mistakes
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Apr 25, 2023
Mistakes
Mistakes are a part of life. You know that. I know that. But some people dwell on their mistakes—and I mean dwellllll on them—as if they are the defining factor in their lives. Consider Babe Ruth. In his day he was the home run king. He hit an amazing 714 home runs and led the … Continue reading Mistakes
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Apr 24, 2023
God can use opposition for his purposes
In John 15:26-27 (ESV) Jesus said: “when the Helper comes [i.e. the Holy Spirit]… he will bear witness about me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.” Jesus specifically says that in the context of hatred and persecution, the Holy Spirit will ‘bear witness’ (meaning, ‘speak the … Continue reading God can use opposition for his purposes
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Apr 21, 2023
Blood was the only hope
“…by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). Susanna Petroysan and her 4-year old daughter lived in soviet Armenia. They went to visit a relative in an apartment building on December 7, 1988. After they arrived, the country was struck with a massive earthquake. They were on the fifth floor and there was no time … Continue reading Blood was the only hope
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Apr 20, 2023
They stumble because they disobey the word
There are stories about farmers in the American Midwest who would tie ropes from their houses to their barns when a big wind storm was coming. The rope helped them find their way and not get swept away. If they were in the house and needed to check on the animals, they could do so. … Continue reading They stumble because they disobey the word
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Apr 19, 2023
Jesus is our Map
At the church where I serve, we have a monthly memory verse. The more you get into God’s word, the more God’s word gets into you. Recently I introduced John 14:6. It’s quite well-known. I asked the congregation who had memorized this at some point in their lives. About 40 hands went up. These words … Continue reading Jesus is our Map
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Apr 18, 2023
Ordinary missionary
As Christians we have a commission. It’s a word that means “with a mission.” Whenever we use language like this the first thing we often think about is the “great commission” in Matthew 28 to go and make disciples of all nations. But there is a lesser-known commission in John 20:21-22. Jesus said: “As the … Continue reading Ordinary missionary
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Apr 17, 2023
Sacrifice that doesn’t make the news
When Fred Craddock was young he remembered listening to preachers and teachers talk about what it meant to be a Christian. He heard stories about Mother Teresa working with the poor in the slums of Calcutta. He heard about Albert Schweitzer as a medical missionary. He heard about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. … Continue reading Sacrifice that doesn’t make the news
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Apr 14, 2023
Jesus prayed for unity among believers
In John 17, Jesus prayed for his followers, both then and now. It’s important for us to remember that these aren’t just the prayers of some random guy. Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God! Therefore, what Jesus prays for you IS God’s will for you. Hopefully that perks up your ears and heart. … Continue reading Jesus prayed for unity among believers
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Apr 13, 2023
The glory of Jesus outshines
In a prayer for his disciples—both then and now—Jesus prays: “Father, I want those you have given me… to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world” (John 17:24). Jesus prays that we will see his glory. This surely includes a growing appreciation of … Continue reading The glory of Jesus outshines
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Apr 12, 2023
When you finally “get” the cross
In The Pilgrim’s Progress, a character named Christian makes his way to the Celestial City. He would have considered himself “religious,” but doesn’t come to personally experience the significance of the cross until after he has already begun his journey. As he walks along the path, he carries a big “burden” on his back. It … Continue reading When you finally “get” the cross
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Apr 11, 2023
Wisdom or real estate?
Harold Kusher tells the Hasidic story of a man who got a telegram. It told him that a relative had died and left him some valuable property. He had to contact a rabbi for details. When he did so he was told that the relative was Moses and the valuable property was his religious tradition. … Continue reading Wisdom or real estate?
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Apr 10, 2023
The king has one more move
Bobby Fischer was a world chess champion. There’s a story about a time when he went to see a film, called The Seventh Seal. A medieval knight plays a game of chess with death, the evil one. As the film progresses, they make moves back and forth. Finally, the evil one makes a move and … Continue reading The king has one more move
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Apr 7, 2023
Four words for Good Friday
Today is Good Friday. Christians from all over the world gather at special services to ponder the cross and to thank God for what he has done for us in Christ. He has given his life for ours. The Reformer Martin Luther called it the “glorious exchange.” We’re the ones who deserve to be up … Continue reading Four words for Good Friday
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Apr 6, 2023
And we are its hands
Today is Maundy Thursday. It’s not as well-known as Good Friday, Easter morning, or even Palm Sunday. Some churches hold special services; some don’t. Either way, it’s a very significant day. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin translation of Jesus’ words in John 13:34. “Mandatum novum” means “new commandment.” This new commandment is to … Continue reading And we are its hands
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Apr 5, 2023
Talk not only about what you’re doing, but why
Holy Week is upon us. Like Christmas it can be a time of traditions. We wave palms on Palm Sunday, sing “The Old Rugged Cross” on Good Friday, and say “He is Risen!” on Easter morning. Some people also have family gatherings or Easter Egg hunts. At its heart, a tradition is about passing on … Continue reading Talk not only about what you’re doing, but why
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Apr 4, 2023
An upside of tradition
When it comes to traditions, Christians sometimes have mixed views. On the one hand we can be suspicious of them. Fair enough. Over time people can elevate man-made traditions and give them an authority they should not have. In fact, Jesus warns against this in Mark 7:8: “You have let go of the commands of … Continue reading An upside of tradition
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Apr 3, 2023
Generosity or animosity
In April 1958 a young Korean student attending university in Philadelphia wrote a letter to his parents back home. After putting it in the mailbox he was brutally attacked by eleven teenage boys and died. The city was outraged. The district attorney got authority to try the boys as adults so they could receive the … Continue reading Generosity or animosity
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Mar 31, 2023
God is bigger
According to an old legend, many years ago when spies were taken captive by the Persian Army and brought in to be killed, the general did something strange. He would give the spy an option. He could choose to face the firing squad, or he could choose to be subject to whatever was behind a … Continue reading God is bigger
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Mar 30, 2023
A nap and a snack
You want to be faithful. You want to be loving. But if you’re always running on empty that will be hard to do. It will also be difficult if you’re always giving and giving and giving. Yes, giving is good. It can be a blessing when we give our time and talent to help others. … Continue reading A nap and a snack
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Mar 29, 2023
A love-first mentality
“Do everything in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). Jesus had a love-first mentality. Therefore, we also want to have a love-first mentality. Love isn’t wishy-washy or wobbly. It is a resolute commitment to seeking the good of others. It honours God and is often self-sacrificing. But it takes some work. Our default setting is to take … Continue reading A love-first mentality
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Mar 28, 2023
Unofficial leadership
The great physicist Albert Einstein once said: “The significant problems we face today cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.” True! We need better thinking to get better results. But what is “better”? It’s certainly not coercion, power-lust, or blind conformity. I think we’ve had enough … Continue reading Unofficial leadership
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Mar 27, 2023
Don’t let your eyes deceive you
In the movie Poseidon, there is a dramatic scene where fancy people are in a ship which flips on the water. Inside the ship those who go ‘up’ the stairs are actually going deeper down. It is only the people who realize what is happening and who go against conventional logic who do the right … Continue reading Don’t let your eyes deceive you
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Mar 24, 2023
Follow through
In this series of devotionals we’re talking about how to get the most out of a sermon. Since sermons are a major part of Sunday worship, and since you attend as often as you can, they are going to be a significant part of your discipleship. Here’s one more tip: Follow through on the applications. … Continue reading Follow through
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Mar 23, 2023
Pray for yourself… and the preacher
In this series of devotionals we’re talking about how to get the most out of a sermon. If you’re a follower of Jesus, you listen to a lot of sermons. Yes, you certainly do other things like worship, read the Bible, pray, love your neighbours and serve others. But you also listen to sermons. Here … Continue reading Pray for yourself… and the preacher
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Mar 22, 2023
God’s book
If you’re a follower of Jesus you listen to a lot of sermons. Would you rather squander that time or benefit from something God might be saying to you? I’m a preacher, so this topic is a bit awkward! The reason I share this isn’t because I’m fantastic (I’m not), but because God has set … Continue reading God’s book
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Mar 21, 2023
An eternal anchor
In a prayer to his Father in John 17:3 Jesus provides a definition of eternal life: “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John Knox was a well-known Scottish theologian who had a big impact on the church. When he was on … Continue reading An eternal anchor
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Mar 20, 2023
The bride whose life was changed
Martin Luther provided an illustration about who we are as God’s people. Imagine a king marrying a poor girl who was also a prostitute, he said. Her life had been filled with poverty, regret, sin and shame. But all of a sudden, things are different because of the marriage. Her status is now changed—she is … Continue reading The bride whose life was changed
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Mar 10, 2023
An unshakable kingdom
[Note: I'm on vacation next week so the devotional will go on pause after today and will return on March 20th.] Certain events and experiences can shake and unsettle us. A world war can do that. So can events like September 11, 2001. I still remember the day. When terrorists flew planes into the World … Continue reading An unshakable kingdom
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Mar 9, 2023
The other-worldly kingdom
In John 18:36 when standing before the Roman governor, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world.” Let me note a few things. First, his kingdom isn’t just about heaven. It includes heaven but is not limited to heaven. He teaches us to pray that God’s kingdom comes and his will is done “on … Continue reading The other-worldly kingdom
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Mar 8, 2023
Live like royalty
Abraham Heschel tells a story about a man who was a prince. However, he was taken away to live in captivity in another country. He was now surrounded by crude and illiterate people. Over time something can happen. You start to blend in to the people around you—even if they were very different from you … Continue reading Live like royalty
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Mar 7, 2023
Deeply rooted joy
Did you know that Jesus prayed for you? In John 17 he prayed for his apostles. But then in verse 20 he said this: “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message…” That means us! A little while ago I went through and … Continue reading Deeply rooted joy
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Mar 6, 2023
Hello Glow Stick
When I was young we would go camping. I loved it. We would set up tents, ride our bikes, go waterskiing and cook marshmallows around the fire. When it got dark my parents would bring out some glow sticks. They were plastic tubes with liquid in them. When you bent them something broke inside. That … Continue reading Hello Glow Stick
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Mar 3, 2023
In a tight spot
You learn a lot from someone by watching them under pressure. Do they stay true to themselves? Do they buckle? I can’t imagine the pressure and intensity Jesus must have felt in the Garden of Gethsemane. His betrayal was at hand. He was about to be tortured and crucified (and he knew it). Soldiers arrived … Continue reading In a tight spot
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Mar 2, 2023
God’s will and God’s word
“Follow your heart. Go with your gut. Trust you feelings.” These are popular statements. And before I sound too negative, let me just say there are times when your heart, gut and feelings have important things to teach you. But they’re not God. It follows, therefore, that if your heart, gut, or feelings urge you … Continue reading God’s will and God’s word
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Mar 1, 2023
Trust God, not your gut
A person with integrity is someone who acts with whole-hearted (or complete) goodness no matter the situation. It’s easy to show integrity when everything is working out fine and when everyone agrees about what should be done. It’s more difficult, however, under pressure. M. Scott Peck says: “Stress is the test for goodness. The truly … Continue reading Trust God, not your gut
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Feb 28, 2023
What is integrity?
Integrity. We know it’s good. We like to see it in ourselves and in others. But what is it? A popular definition is that it is doing the right thing when no one is looking. When a lot of people are watching you there is social pressure to do the right thing. They will see … Continue reading What is integrity?
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Feb 27, 2023
Three unhelpful over-simplifications
We live in polarizing times. There are days when I feel that our news programs, social media feeds, and ways of communicating, are set-up to be combative and divisive. But hear this warning from Colossians 4:6: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer … Continue reading Three unhelpful over-simplifications
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Feb 24, 2023
What YOU bring to worship
“…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11). An enduring praise song from the 1990’s is Matt Redman’s “The Heart of Worship.” The song emerged after a … Continue reading What YOU bring to worship
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Feb 23, 2023
What Jesus prays for you
It’s great when a friend prays for you. Perhaps they pray that you ace your lab test or that you know how to respond to a friend who is being difficult. It feels good when someone prays for you. And you certainly need to trust God’s wisdom and timing in the process. But that friend … Continue reading What Jesus prays for you
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Feb 22, 2023
Ash Wednesday and holiness
Today is Ash Wednesday. Some Christians are in the habit of putting ashes on their foreheads because they symbolize our mourning and regret for sin. In fact, we’ll do that tonight at a youth-led service at the church I pastor. [This one is in-person only and at 7pm.] Ashes also symbolize our mortality. This recalls … Continue reading Ash Wednesday and holiness
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Feb 21, 2023
Shrove Tuesday and confessing sin
Today is known as Shrove Tuesday. It’s the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. The name comes from a practice in England to “shrive” on this day—meaning confessing our sins and seeking God’s forgiveness. Since many people fast during Lent, there was (and is) a custom of using up fatty foods on this day … Continue reading Shrove Tuesday and confessing sin
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Feb 20, 2023
Chaos around you (not within you)
When someone says they want peace, what do they mean? It somewhat depends on the context. If two diplomats are talking about peace, they are most likely thinking about peace between countries. If a parent says they want some peace and quiet, he or she is most likely wanting their kids to stop being so … Continue reading Chaos around you (not within you)
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Feb 17, 2023
Frowning providence, The Pilgrim’s Progress, and you
John Bunyan was a preacher who was thrown in jail in the 17th century. He was separated from his wife, children and congregation. A colleague named John Owen was a theologian who had a lot of influence, even in the government. Owen tried to get Bunyan released. He used his connections to do so, but … Continue reading Frowning providence, The Pilgrim’s Progress, and you
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Feb 16, 2023
Providence not just in big things, but daily things
We’ve been talking about providence—that we are upheld and guided by God’s invisible hand. Today I encourage you to think about how this is true not only with respect to big things like global movements or world wars, but the little day-to-day details of our lives. Consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 10:29-31: “Yet not one … Continue reading Providence not just in big things, but daily things
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Feb 15, 2023
In Christ you cannot lose
In the previous devotional I talked about providence—that we are upheld and guided by God’s invisible hand. It’s easy to believe in providence when everything is going your way. But what about our moments of personal pain? Consider Jesus and his words on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” He … Continue reading In Christ you cannot lose
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Feb 14, 2023
We see the brushstrokes
Many people think that their lives unfold according to chance. But that contradicts the biblical teaching about providence. The word “providence” sounds like “provide.” A provider in a household anticipates what is needed and then ensures those needs are met. In a similar way, our Provider sees the needs of his people. Since he is … Continue reading We see the brushstrokes
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Feb 13, 2023
Destructive self-importance
An enduring devotional work from the fourteenth century is The Scale of Perfection by Walter Hilton. Hilton was writing to those seeking a deep spiritual life. More specifically, he was writing to a fellow believer most likely in a convent at the time. Among other things, he wrote about humility. His words certainly stand in … Continue reading Destructive self-importance
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Feb 10, 2023
Freedience
Sometimes a new word is created. It might not ever make it into a dictionary, but people use it anyway. An example would be “hangry.” When you get really angry because you’re hungry, you’re “hangry”! Here’s a new one that I’ll throw into the mix: Freedience. It brings together two faith-based ideas which appear to … Continue reading Freedience
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Feb 9, 2023
What you put in, and what you keep out
In the previous devotional I talked about joy. In an age like ours when so many people have become accustomed to instant gratification, we can mistakenly think that joy is easily attainable and sustainable in our hearts and minds. Not always. It’s more like a diet than it is a pill. I’m not talking about … Continue reading What you put in, and what you keep out
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Feb 8, 2023
Joy is a diet (not a pill)
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence…” (Psalm 16:11) We live in the age of the quick-fix. Instant gratification is on the menu. If I have a craving for a cheeseburger I can go to a drive-thru window. If I want my house to … Continue reading Joy is a diet (not a pill)
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Feb 7, 2023
Making margin
I recently had the opportunity to interview the Rev. Dr. Sarah Han. She’s a professor at Tyndale University in Toronto (and also a friend) who is writing a book about “margin.” Having margin in your life is having mental and emotional space in your life. It’s also having a schedule which isn’t consistently jam-packed. Sarah … Continue reading Making margin
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Feb 6, 2023
Persistence without insight
The Mandalorian is a TV series and a part of the Star Wars enterprise. The main character is a bounty hunter named Din Djarin. Every once in a while he meets up with the Armourer—a lady who offers wisdom and, as her name suggests, makes armour. During one of their conversations they are talking about the … Continue reading Persistence without insight
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Feb 3, 2023
Christ will wipe it off
The Bible never fails to surprise. I recently came across 1 Peter 4:14 where the apostle is writing to encourage believers who are surrounded by hostility. Here is what he says: “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” … Continue reading Christ will wipe it off
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Feb 2, 2023
Return hatred with love
If you play hockey in a full-contact league, do not be surprised if you get body-checked. If you go outside when it’s raining, do not be surprised if you get wet. And if you follow Jesus, do not be surprised if the world hates you. The apostle John says that very thing in 1 John … Continue reading Return hatred with love
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Feb 1, 2023
Don’t confuse a battleground for a playground
In John 15 Jesus warns his disciples that the world will hate them. That’s pretty strong language. Matthew Henry says that hatred “is the character and genius of the devil’s kingdom.” Serious language for a serious situation! But why would Jesus spend so much time telling them about the world’s hatred? First, he wants to … Continue reading Don’t confuse a battleground for a playground
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Jan 31, 2023
When you feel like a misfit
When I was younger I loved the cartoon version of Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer. One of the scenes is about The Island of Misfit Toys. It’s for toys that don’t fit in. They sit there dejected, waiting for someone to want them. That’s a how a lot of Christians feel today. With each passing year, … Continue reading When you feel like a misfit
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Jan 30, 2023
Pruning
In John 15, Jesus provides a metaphor: He is the true vine, his heavenly Father is the gardener, and we are the branches. As the branches we are to “bear fruit.” This means that our lives are to show evidence of our faithfulness and discipleship. In verse 2 he says this: “Every branch in me … Continue reading Pruning
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Jan 27, 2023
So little unstructured time
The New Yorker once had a single-pane cartoon which depicted two boys walking down a sidewalk. They were wearing baseball hats and had a stack of books under their arms. One said to the other: “So many toys—so little unstructured time.” It was a commentary about how busy many children are. Their time is very … Continue reading So little unstructured time
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Jan 26, 2023
Presence—not religious box-ticking
Sometimes you hear it said that “Kids don’t want your presents; they want your presence.” It’s a word-play on the fact that presents and presence sound the same but are spelled differently. The statement itself is true, but only partially. I have kids. Many of you have kids. If you told them at their birthday … Continue reading Presence—not religious box-ticking
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Jan 25, 2023
Be present
When it comes to Christianity and the Bible, some topics get all the attention—like the apocalypse, the latest social justice issue, or heaven and hell. “Abiding in Christ” is not usually on that list. And yet, Jesus tells us to do it. “Abide in me, and I in you” (John 15:4). It’s about closely cultivating … Continue reading Be present
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Jan 24, 2023
How do you spell love?
I once heard someone ask, “How do you spell love?” Seems simple, doesn’t it? L-O-V-E. “No,” they said. “You spell it T-I-M-E.”* Technically you don’t spell love like that. But they were obviously making a point: One way you can give someone your love is to give them your time. It’s a powerful message in … Continue reading How do you spell love?
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Jan 23, 2023
Being warred against
Sometimes encouragement comes in the strangest of ways. Like when it feels that everything is going against you. Or when you are being opposed at every turn. Maybe you’re wondering why those negative feelings or experiences can be sources of encouragement. Let me explain. John Climacus was a monk who wrote an influential book in … Continue reading Being warred against
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Jan 20, 2023
Incremental, not accidental
“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25). A few years ago I was walking through the mall. Someone called my name. “Matthew?” I turned around and the other person said, “It’s Luke.” It was someone I used to play hockey with twenty years ago. We grabbed … Continue reading Incremental, not accidental
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Jan 19, 2023
Our Comforter and Advocate
In the last couple of devotionals I highlighted that the Holy Spirit is our Helper. Jesus said: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever…” (John 14:16, ESV) In Greek, the word is Parakletos. It’s a word that is also translated as Counselor, Advocate and Comforter. … Continue reading Our Comforter and Advocate
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Jan 18, 2023
With the Paraklete you are plural
In the previous devotional I highlighted that the Holy Spirit is our Helper. Jesus said: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever…” (John 14:16, ESV) In Greek, the word is Parakletos. It’s a word that is also translated as Counselor, Advocate and Comforter. J.I. Packer … Continue reading With the Paraklete you are plural
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Jan 17, 2023
Tune me to your frequency
In John 14:16-17 (ESV) Jesus tells his disciples that his Heavenly Father will send them “another Helper, to be with you forever… You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” The word Helper is capitalized. This is none other than the Holy Spirit; we’re given that specific detail in verse … Continue reading Tune me to your frequency
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Jan 16, 2023
Our daily discipleship makes an impression
Do you ever wonder if your efforts make any difference? If so, let me assure you of this. Never discount what God can do through his people. Our daily discipleship makes an impression on others—and that impression can start to reveal the face of Jesus. Jane is a thoughtful participant in one of the small … Continue reading Our daily discipleship makes an impression
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Jan 13, 2023
Wrestling with God… to lose
Nikos Kazantzakis was an author who was most famous for his book Zorba the Greek. He once had a conversation with a monk named Father Makarios. The monk had once said that he wrestled with the devil—figuratively speaking, of course. At a later time, Kazantzakis asked: “Do you still wrestle with the devil, Father Makarios?” … Continue reading Wrestling with God… to lose
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Jan 12, 2023
Like a sheep in a ditch… again
I recently came across a video of a young person helping a sheep out of a narrow ditch which had been dug to lay some pipe along the side of a road. Thankfully the boy was able to free to sheep. But as soon as it did, the sheep took off along the side of … Continue reading Like a sheep in a ditch… again
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Jan 11, 2023
Jesus knows what it’s like
As I mentioned in yesterday’s devotional, I’ve been thinking a lot about what Jesus’ life would have been like while here on earth. He spoke Aramaic, a language closely related to Hebrew. His family would have called him Yeshua. He was raised in a small village named Nazareth, perhaps with between 100-400 people. His home … Continue reading Jesus knows what it’s like
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Jan 10, 2023
The reason he endured it all
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman…” (Galatians 4:4) Lately I’ve been thinking about what Jesus’ life was like while on earth. [Full link below.] Life was difficult and dangerous. Consider a few of the details: He was born under Roman oppression under the tyrannical rule … Continue reading The reason he endured it all
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Jan 9, 2023
Whether we’ve been praying for five minutes or fifty years
Paul’s wisdom and instruction in Philippians 4:6 endures: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Note his logic. He first says to not be anxious about anything. That’s something to shoot for, and it is certainly a work-in-progress for many of … Continue reading Whether we’ve been praying for five minutes or fifty years
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Jan 6, 2023
Being compassionately different
“We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Lyman Stone is an advisor for Demographic Intelligence. He highlights something which made Christians stand out from the crowd in centuries past: “Probably a disease related to Ebola, the Plague of Cyrpian helped set off the Crisis of the Third Century in the Roman world. … Continue reading Being compassionately different
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Jan 5, 2023
Talking to your problems about God
Do you have problems? I’m sure you do. If so, you’ve probably been talking to God about them. I recently came across this statement by Mark Batterson: “It’s okay to talk to God about your problems, but at some point you need to talk to your problems about God.”* At first it didn’t sit well … Continue reading Talking to your problems about God
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Jan 4, 2023
Entangling media
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus…” (Hebrews 12:1-2). In these verses, the writer of Hebrews is drawing imagery … Continue reading Entangling media
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Jan 3, 2023
Be a tree
Hello everyone! The Up Devotional is back after a week’s vacation. I slept in, played multiple games of Uno, read my Bible, and set up a swing in the backyard. But now the devotional is back to your email inboxes, social media feeds, radios, and podcasting apps. A clarifying psalm for the start of a … Continue reading Be a tree
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Dec 23, 2022
The God of personal contact
In Waiting for God, Simone Weil describes when God became personal to her. She writes: “In 1938… I was suffering from splitting headaches; each sound hurt me like a blow… I discovered the poem… called “Love” [by George Herbert] which I learnt by heart. Often, at the culminating point of a violent headache, I made … Continue reading The God of personal contact
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Dec 22, 2022
The Word became flesh—here
As we draw closer to December 25th I want to share a reminder that we are remembering and celebrating actual historical events. These aren’t just old stories; they are eternal stories. The Gospels are historical records which have been carefully preserved. Luke’s Gospel tells us about the census, the shepherds, the Inn and the manger. … Continue reading The Word became flesh—here
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Dec 21, 2022
Does Jesus give us a blank cheque in prayer?
There’s a cartoon about prayer. The illustrator’s name is blurry so unfortunately I can’t provide proper credit. But it depicts a man who has just seen someone—someone he was supposed to pray for. His thoughts are described in a bubble above his head: ‘Oh great! Here comes Bob. I told him I’d pray for him! … Continue reading Does Jesus give us a blank cheque in prayer?
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Dec 20, 2022
Blind to our own blind spots
“Hey there, old buddy old pal! How are you today? Would you mind giving me some criticism? What about some constructive-but-very-honest feedback about what I could do to improve myself?” Okay, you’re right. Conversations don’t usually start that way. In fact, we tend to dislike criticism or feedback about how we can “improve ourselves.” Not … Continue reading Blind to our own blind spots
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Dec 19, 2022
The rock that is higher than I
Non-stop news. Overflowing schedules. Phones that won’t stop dinging. Mental and emotional frakis. You're right, "frakis," isn't a word, but you get the gist. Not everyone’s life is like this. But for a lot of people this is a daily reality. One of my favourite verses from the psalms is Psalm 61:2. David says: “lead … Continue reading The rock that is higher than I
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Dec 16, 2022
Is anything too hard for the LORD?
Every year more than 75 billion Lego pieces are sold. That’s a LOT of Lego. But who came up with the idea in the first place? Ole Kirk Christiansen was the originator. He wanted to create something creative for kids. It wasn’t easy. During his life his shop burned down—twice! He eventually came up with … Continue reading Is anything too hard for the LORD?
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Dec 15, 2022
This is the Way
Before Jesus’ followers were called Christians they were known as the followers of “the Way.” For example, in Acts 19:23 a riot is described in Ephesus: “About that time there arose no little disturbance concerning the Way.” In Acts 22:4 Paul described his former way of life: “I persecuted this Way to the death…” This … Continue reading This is the Way
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Dec 14, 2022
What we want to be true vs. what actually is
Jesus said: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Here in the modern west, a new set of cultural values are emerging, both positive and negative. Let me highlight two of the negative. If someone says you are being “exclusive” or … Continue reading What we want to be true vs. what actually is
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Dec 13, 2022
Clarity in confusing times
M. Scott Peck wrote: “one of the characteristics of evil is its desire to confuse.”* That makes sense. Jesus calls Satan the “father of lies” (John 8:44). If we’re always confused and distracted and spinning, we are unable to stand firm on God our Rock and live in a way which is consistent with his … Continue reading Clarity in confusing times
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Dec 12, 2022
Make our hearts a map of heaven
The Puritans are often given a bad rap. If someone says you are “puritanical,” they are not giving you a compliment. This is an unfortunate result of people not knowing what they’re talking about. The actual Puritans (and not the modern, dismissive caricature) were a group of Protestant Christians who primarily lived from the mid-1600’s … Continue reading Make our hearts a map of heaven
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Dec 9, 2022
Increasing winds outside the church
We’ve been exploring Jesus’ new command: “Love one another: As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). That statement is jam packed with meaning and possibility. Here’s something else which is easy to miss. We are to love “one another.” He was speaking to his disciples. Our love is expansive, … Continue reading Increasing winds outside the church
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Dec 8, 2022
Failure doesn’t disqualify you
Jesus calls us to love one another. What’s more is that he provides himself as an example to emulate. “As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). Since he would lay down his life for us, that’s a pretty tall order! We are summoned to self-sacrificial love. Today I’m here … Continue reading Failure doesn’t disqualify you
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Dec 7, 2022
Helping someone in their sea of alligators
In John 13:34 Jesus gave this new commandment: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” Sounds nice. But what is love? When you look at the use of this word in the New Testament here is what you find. To love someone in this way means acknowledging that … Continue reading Helping someone in their sea of alligators
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Dec 6, 2022
Desperate times call for…
Desperate times call for desperate measures. It’s an expression we’ve all heard. Maybe even used. Think of a hail Mary pass near the end of a football game. Or the person who is in such financial ruin that the only thing they can think of doing to help their situation is to rob a bank. … Continue reading Desperate times call for…
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Dec 5, 2022
An alien visitor at Christmas
It’s December. Christmas is approaching. Indulge me with an illustration. Imagine an alien from another planet was sent on a mission to earth to learn about Christmas. And imagine that it came to your house to watch your celebrations and to collect data. And then imagine that it had to report back to its mothership … Continue reading An alien visitor at Christmas
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Dec 2, 2022
Happiness and contentment
A woman named Sarah went to visit Martin Thielen. She had marriage problems, problems with her children, and overwhelming stress in her job. He asked her what she wanted most out of life. Turns out, she wanted to be happy. After thinking for a few moments she explained further: “I make a lot of money. … Continue reading Happiness and contentment
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Dec 1, 2022
The Topsy-Turvy Kingdom
In the previous devotional I highlighted Henri Nouwen’s phrase “downward mobility.”* It stands in stark contrast to modern definitions of success (including “upward mobility”) which are focused on accumulating influence and power. When I was young we would sometimes read the Mr. Men books. One of them was Mr. Topsy-Turvy. Things were very unexpected in … Continue reading The Topsy-Turvy Kingdom
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Nov 30, 2022
Striving to do good, or to look good?
One of Jesus’ most memorable actions was washing his disciples’ feet. The one who had walked on water and turned water into wine took the posture of a servant, even a slave. Foot washing was a job normally reserved for the lowly. But that’s what he did. Consider this context which helps us appreciate his … Continue reading Striving to do good, or to look good?
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Nov 29, 2022
It’s okay to simplify Christmas
Christmas is coming. “It’s practically here!” So sayeth the Grinch. This past Sunday marked the beginning of Advent. That’s a word which means “coming,” referring to the coming of Christ. It’s the four-week period leading up to Christmas. As December 25th draws near, so do many complicated feelings. Because of the pandemic, our celebrations have … Continue reading It’s okay to simplify Christmas
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Nov 28, 2022
Losing ego, finding God
John 12 tells us about some Greek people who wanted to see Jesus. Verse 25 records a part of Jesus’ response: “Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” In view of these seekers, Jesus cuts to the heart of … Continue reading Losing ego, finding God
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Nov 25, 2022
Presently, not just eventually
“make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue…” (2 Peter 1:5, ESV) Salvation. It’s a big word. When a lot of people hear that word, they think about heaven. And they should; it’s one of God’s promises. When you believe in who Jesus is and what he has done for you on the cross, … Continue reading Presently, not just eventually
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Nov 24, 2022
Before darkness overtakes you
Jesus said: “Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you” (John 12:35). One of the stories I have read my kids is “The Dark” by Robert Munsch. A shadow comes to life and starts eating other shadows. As a result, he keeps getting bigger and eventually lives on top of the house casting … Continue reading Before darkness overtakes you
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Nov 23, 2022
The scales have been tipped
After explaining the significance of the resurrection, Paul says this in 1 Corinthians 15:57: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It’s a source of inspiration. But also of confusion. If Jesus has given us victory, why is there still so much pain and hardship? Professor Oscar … Continue reading The scales have been tipped
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Nov 22, 2022
Our enemies shall not touch us
I recently read the biography of an ancient monk named St. Anthony. It was written by the church father and great defender of the faith, Athanasius. I was struck by Anthony’s humility and power. Usually we don’t think of humility and power going together, but they do. When someone is truly humble, God works powerfully … Continue reading Our enemies shall not touch us
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Nov 21, 2022
Steadfast minds
In April 1943 bomb-raid sirens rang throughout the air above London, England. People dropped their things and searched the skies. Buses stopped, people flooded into the streets. Gunfire started to be heard. A nearby antiaircraft artillery launched some rockets. People started going into a frenzy. Some shouted, “They are starting to drop them!” although no … Continue reading Steadfast minds
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Nov 11, 2022
Something greater than ourselves
[Note: After today The Up Devotional will go on pause for a week. It returns on November 21, 2022.] Some Greeks wanted to see Jesus. “Anyone who loves their life will lose it,” he said, “while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life” (John 12:25). Talk about heavy! … Continue reading Something greater than ourselves
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Nov 10, 2022
Resisting the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd
Mark Sayers describes a problem that many people encounter: “We want the freedom and autonomy of radical individualism while being dependent on the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd.”* Do you see the tension? We love to think of ourselves as rugged individualists who don’t need anybody else, thank you very much. Yet at … Continue reading Resisting the opinions and emotional climate of the crowd
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Nov 9, 2022
Re-dedicate it to Jesus
God needs to be first in our lives. Agreed. When we appreciate who God is and what he has done for us, we want to show that appreciation in meaningful and often sacrificial ways. When someone is a follower of Christ and realizes they’re not doing that, they tend to prayerfully think things through and … Continue reading Re-dedicate it to Jesus
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Nov 8, 2022
We all benefit, we all contribute
In 2021 Megan Hill gave a talk titled, “Teach your kids to love the local church.” [You can link to it below.] At her church, volunteers sign up to take turns cleaning the church every Saturday. Each family signs up for two slots each year. When they showed up for their first turn, they brought … Continue reading We all benefit, we all contribute
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Nov 7, 2022
When you’re feeling low
Recently I was feeling a bit low about some things. As I folded my hands to pray, I felt as if God shoved into my mind a long list of blessings he had poured into my life—things, experiences, opportunities and people from my childhood, to my early adulthood, and to now. It was as if … Continue reading When you’re feeling low
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Nov 4, 2022
He makes your life better, not worse
Don Miller tells a story about when he started to take God more seriously in his life. A key moment came at Christmas: “For my mother that year I had purchased a shabby Christmas gift—a book, the contents of which she would never be interested in. I had had a sum of money with which … Continue reading He makes your life better, not worse
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Nov 3, 2022
The best of us, not what’s left of us
Mary the sister of Lazarus “took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair” (John 12:3). That pure nard was equivalent in value to about $30,000! That’s how grateful she was to Jesus. She was trying to show her devotion with … Continue reading The best of us, not what’s left of us
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Nov 2, 2022
Costly devotion
Jesus brought Mary’s brother Lazarus back to life. Not only did he restore a heartbeat, but he restored hope, joy and the certainty of eternal life. At a dinner in Jesus’ honour, Mary wanted to show her gratitude. She “took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet … Continue reading Costly devotion
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Nov 1, 2022
If you follow Jesus you’re different—and that’s okay
If you follow Jesus these days that makes you… different. In 1961, 96% of people in this country identified as Christian. Less than 1% said they had “no religion.” That number is now 25% of the population. “No religion” is now the second highest ‘religious’ category in Canada.* Although 67% of people identified as Christian … Continue reading If you follow Jesus you’re different—and that’s okay
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Oct 31, 2022
That split second moment
Words have power. We all know it’s true. You can’t see them, but that doesn’t matter. They can still carry more force than a tonne of bricks. Sometimes that force is for good. A wise word, a message of encouragement, and even simply hearing the voice of someone you care about can lift your spirits. … Continue reading That split second moment
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Oct 28, 2022
Destructive criticism
Constructive criticism is good. After all, it’s constructive. But what is the opposite of constructive criticism? It’s destructive criticism! It’s when you want to tear someone down instead of build them up. Every once in a while a situation emerges when we are invited to provide input, make suggestions, or offer a critique. Since as … Continue reading Destructive criticism
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Oct 27, 2022
Being Christlike to one another
The great Reformer Martin Luther, wrote: “each person ought to become to the other a kind of Christ, so that we may be Christs to one another…“* One of our goals in life is sanctification. I know, I know, big word. But all it means is to become holy, or to become more like Christ. … Continue reading Being Christlike to one another
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Oct 26, 2022
Can we earn heaven?
I was recently asked this question: “What Jesus says in Matthew 7:21 unsettles me because it indicates that you can only get into heaven if you do God’s will. I thought we couldn’t earn heaven so this seems a bit confusing to me. I'm also very aware of my many faults and sins! Can you … Continue reading Can we earn heaven?
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Oct 25, 2022
WWJD? Be humble
W.W.J.D. That acronym has become very well known. It was started in the 1990’s by a youth pastor in Michigan. She made bracelets with those letters on them to encourage the youth in her group to think proactively about how they lived. It stands for “What Would Jesus Do?” Well, what WOULD Jesus do? He … Continue reading WWJD? Be humble
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Oct 24, 2022
Tears of sadness to gladness
I’ve been reflecting on Jesus’ tears. John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the Bible: “Jesus wept.” But that’s not all he did. After his friend Lazarus had died, and after seeing Mary and Martha crying, Jesus “was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled” (verse 33). The phrase “deeply moved” could also be … Continue reading Tears of sadness to gladness
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Oct 21, 2022
A little pail of tears
When Vernon Davis was just starting at a new church he went to visit a matriarch in the congregation. She was a lovely woman in her 90’s. She knew so much about the church. She had been there through all the peaks and valleys. They had a great visit and Vernon learned a lot. When … Continue reading A little pail of tears
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Oct 20, 2022
The community of imperfect believers
In yesterday’s devotional I told you about an interview I was privileged to have with Thom Rainer. It was about the rise of consumerism in the church. In light of that conversation I asked you to think about whether you are in passive mode or active mode when it comes to the local congregation. During … Continue reading The community of imperfect believers
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Oct 19, 2022
Church consumer or member?
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past three years, you know about how hard things have been. It has been—and will continue to be—a time of great change. As I’ve highlighted elsewhere, we are entering a period which will probably be marked by increased uncertainty, anxiety and complexity. In the midst of … Continue reading Church consumer or member?
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Oct 18, 2022
When things are not as they should be
We want to be “like Jesus.” Definitely. Should we be loving, humble and sacrificial for the benefit of others? Yes. That’s being like Jesus. What about crying like Jesus? That’s not usually something we put in the same category. But consider this. After his friend Lazarus had died, and after seeing Mary and Martha crying, … Continue reading When things are not as they should be
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Oct 17, 2022
Three options when facing despair
Chris Vais tells the story of a Scottish colonel in the First World War. He was preparing his troops for battle when a message came telling him that his own son had been killed on the front earlier that same morning. He went into his tent for a little while. After a time, he came … Continue reading Three options when facing despair
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Oct 14, 2022
An acronym for FEAR
I recently came across an acronym for the word “FEAR.” False Evidence Appearing Real. I don’t know who originally came up with it so I can’t give them credit. But I think it’s a helpful way to think about it. There are times when we let “false evidence” take over our thinking. These are untruths … Continue reading An acronym for FEAR
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Oct 13, 2022
Beating back fear
Fear can’t rule you if God already has the job. In the Bible we are taught to “fear God.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 succinctly says: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” Proverbs 9:10 famously says: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom…” But it’s not a … Continue reading Beating back fear
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Oct 12, 2022
The lions are chained
The Pilgrim’s Progress is an allegorical story by John Bunyan. A man named Christian has left the City of Destruction and is headed toward the Celestial City. At one point in the story he is headed toward a place of rest and safety for travellers. It is called The Palace Beautiful. Standing before him are … Continue reading The lions are chained
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Oct 11, 2022
You can’t rush God
The past several devotionals have been about hearing (or discerning) God’s voice in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. It is usually a proactive process. We’ve talked about the importance of the Bible, prayer, seeking the counsel of other godly people, being humble, and acting with love. Imagine those five parts … Continue reading You can’t rush God
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Oct 10, 2022
Love is important to God—and to his people
The past several devotionals have been about hearing (or discerning) God’s voice in our lives. We’ve talked about the importance of the Bible, prayer, seeking the counsel of other godly people, and being humble. Here’s something else to consider: love. If you think you’re receiving some sort of message for God, and it does not … Continue reading Love is important to God—and to his people
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Oct 7, 2022
Humility and receptivity to God
We’re focusing a few devotionals on hearing (or discerning) the voice of God in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. In addition to saturating yourself with Scripture, and prayer, and seeking the counsel of other godly people, it’s important to cultivate humility in your character. In the Bible, humility comes up … Continue reading Humility and receptivity to God
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Oct 6, 2022
With many advisers they succeed
We’re focusing a few devotionals on hearing (or discerning) the voice of God in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. In addition to saturating yourself with Scripture, and to spending time in prayer, a third habit of discernment is counsel. This has to do with seeking the counsel of other godly … Continue reading With many advisers they succeed
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Oct 5, 2022
Scripture cannot be set aside
We’re focusing a few devotionals on hearing (or discerning) the voice of God in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. The first and most significant thing you can do is saturate yourself with the Bible. It is the primary place where you learn about God’s will. In John 10:35 Jesus says: … Continue reading Scripture cannot be set aside
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Oct 4, 2022
“Hear” is a verb
In John 10:27 Jesus said: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” To his original followers, that made a lot of sense. Their ears could literally receive the sound waves coming out of his mouth. What about today? G. Campbell Morgan was a Bible teacher and author. He said: … Continue reading “Hear” is a verb
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Oct 3, 2022
There’s no better time spent
Jesus says: “I am the good shepherd.” His sheep “follow him because they know his voice” (John 10:11, 4) They follow his voice because they know him and because they trust him. In light of this, they do not listen to the voice of a stranger (verse 5). Thinking of the shepherd-sheep relationship, Neil Anderson … Continue reading There’s no better time spent
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Sep 30, 2022
Does your actual life reflect your purpose?
Yesterday, I invited you to write down on a piece of paper the purpose of your life. Some of you will have done that right away. Some of you are taking some more time to think about it. Let me share a next step for whenever you’re ready. Take a bit of time to ask … Continue reading Does your actual life reflect your purpose?
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Sep 29, 2022
Write down your purpose
In the previous devotional I highlighted Jesus’ words: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10, ESV). I’d like to invite you to do something. It’s kind of heavy. But I think it’s super-important. Write down on a piece of paper the purpose of your life. You can write it … Continue reading Write down your purpose
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Sep 28, 2022
What is ‘abundant’ life?
In John 10:10 (ESV) Jesus tells us one of the reasons he came to the earth: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” I recently did a word study of every single occurrence of the word “life” (Greek: zoe) in John’s Gospel. It is used 36 times. I then made eight … Continue reading What is ‘abundant’ life?
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Sep 27, 2022
Wasteful or wise?
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Have you heard of a “bucket list”? It’s a list of things people want to do before they die—before they “kick the bucket.” There’s a website which lists popular choices. Skydiving, skinny-dipping, visiting the Grand Canyon and sleeping under … Continue reading Wasteful or wise?
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Sep 26, 2022
One of the reasons ‘the world is falling apart’?
While speaking to a friend, Donald Miller said: “The entire world is falling apart because nobody will admit they are wrong.”* Whenever I say that to people—either in person or in a group—I see heads nodding. Generally speaking, people don’t like to admit they are wrong. It makes them look… well… wrong. And we prefer … Continue reading One of the reasons ‘the world is falling apart’?
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Sep 23, 2022
Thinking constructively about hardship
“Through history,” writes Mark Clark, “virtually every society has sought to teach people how to deal with pain and suffering. Sadly, our current culture has largely neglected this task. Why? Because for generations we’ve embraced a secular worldview that assumes that the material world is all there is, and that, thus, pain has no meaningful … Continue reading Thinking constructively about hardship
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Sep 22, 2022
He had no legs. And he bought some shoes.
Some days you just need to be inspired by somebody. Well, today is one of those days. Nick Vujicic was born without arms or legs. If you think it’s hard to have your arm in a cast for eight weeks, just imagine what Nick had to deal with on a daily basis with no arms … Continue reading He had no legs. And he bought some shoes.
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Sep 21, 2022
Is God punishing me?
Do you ever go through something really difficult and wonder if God is punishing you? In John 9:2-3 we come across a man who was born blind. The disciples saw him and asked Jesus: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said … Continue reading Is God punishing me?
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Sep 20, 2022
What God can do through you is greater
There was a man who was born blind. He was also a beggar. The disciples saw him and asked Jesus: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus replied: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in … Continue reading What God can do through you is greater
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Sep 19, 2022
A cord of three strands
Ecclesiastes 4:12 says: “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” True. One cord is more easily broken than a braid with three strands of that same cord. But like so many other things in the Bible, it’s a concept that can be applied more widely. Let’s say you are one strand. By yourself, … Continue reading A cord of three strands
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Sep 16, 2022
The formula that blesses anyone
In the Star Wars movie ‘The Force Awakens’ a new generation of fighters has taken centre stage. The battles of Luke, Leia, Han and Chewbacca are fading memories. New heroes named Finn and Rey are having a conversation with Han Solo. But at first they don’t realize it is THAT Han Solo. They wonder if … Continue reading The formula that blesses anyone
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Sep 15, 2022
Which captain?
In an argument with some opponents, Jesus said, “before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). Jesus was teaching them about his divinity and pre-existence. When Jesus used the phrase “I am” (present tense, here and elsewhere), he was consciously using the name of God which was revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14 and applying it … Continue reading Which captain?
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Sep 14, 2022
What Jesus prayed for you
Do you know that Jesus prayed for you while he was still on earth? In John 17, he prayed these words for his disciples, and also for those who would come to believe in him through their message. If you are a believer, that means you! Here is a small sample of what he prayed: … Continue reading What Jesus prayed for you
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Sep 13, 2022
2 minutes every day
Thom Rainer is the CEO of Church Answers. He was also the president of LifeWay Christian Resources and has authored over 30 books. In a recent article he highlighted eleven signs you might be becoming a church consumer instead of a committed church member. Here is number ten: “You don’t pray for your church regularly.” … Continue reading 2 minutes every day
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Sep 12, 2022
When we cannot trace his hand
As we continually tweak (or renovate) the trajectory of our lives, we need reminders that God is in charge and that he knows what he’s doing. If we forget, we tend to panic, over-function, stress out (or fizzle out) and try to play God. And that never turns out very well. Here’s a corrective. After … Continue reading When we cannot trace his hand
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Sep 9, 2022
The Queen’s words
Yesterday Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away. She served on the throne for more than seventy years. In your daily prayers, I invite you to join in with many others as we pray God’s peace upon her family, and for her eldest son Charles as he takes the throne as the new King. I … Continue reading The Queen’s words
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Sep 8, 2022
Truth matters
We moderns can sometimes shy away from the idea that there is such a thing as objective truth—at least in the realm of spirituality or ethics. Perhaps we hear people having heated discussions and think they just want to win arguments and look superior; so we throw up our hands since it all seems so … Continue reading Truth matters
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Sep 7, 2022
When you turn a blind eye to reality
Kyle Idleman was watching a documentary about a woman who was thirty-four years old. She developed a tumor that grew to twice her initial body weight. How big did it grow, you might ask? Three hundred pounds. That’s right. A three hundred pound tumor. As they prepared to remove it, people wondered why she waited … Continue reading When you turn a blind eye to reality
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Sep 6, 2022
Be alert
Something that comes up in the Bible on several different occasions is the importance of being alert. One of the reasons for that alertness is spelled out quite clearly by the apostle Peter: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 … Continue reading Be alert
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Sep 5, 2022
Careless words
While rebuking his opponents in Matthew 12:36 (ESV) Jesus said: “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak…” Wow. Everyone will have to give an account. Who? Some people? No. Everyone. What will they have to give an account of? A few of the careless … Continue reading Careless words
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Sep 2, 2022
What is uprightness?
In my devotional reading I keep coming across the word “upright” or “uprightness.” It’s a good thing. Here are a few examples: -“May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you” (Psalm 25:21, ESV).-“Whoever walks in uprightness fears the LORD…” (Proverbs 14:2, ESV).-“My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart” … Continue reading What is uprightness?
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Sep 1, 2022
Praying for steadfastness
One of my favourite words in the Bible is steadfastness. Here is one of Paul’s prayers where he uses it. “May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ” (2 Thessalonians 3:5). Isn’t that awesome? I think it’s one of the most neglected prayer verses in the … Continue reading Praying for steadfastness
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Aug 31, 2022
What if fitting in wasn’t the goal
Malam Ibrahim was a teacher of the Qu’ran in northern Nigeria. That’s the holy book for Muslims. Through his reading and study he became convinced that a unique function and role is given to the person of Isa Mahis—Jesus the Messiah—as the mediator “through whom the prayers of the faithful are offered up to” God. … Continue reading What if fitting in wasn’t the goal
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Aug 30, 2022
Shopping for lightning bolts
Hello everyone, I’m back from three weeks of vacation—and so is The Up Daily Devotional! I caught some Z’s, a sunburn and a fish. Business and marketing expert Seth Godin has written: “We need to stop shopping for lightning bolts.”* When it comes to faith, many people seem to be seeking cheap thrills—flashy and electrifying, … Continue reading Shopping for lightning bolts
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Aug 5, 2022
Having the light of life
Jesus said: “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). It’s a promise. If you follow him you will have the light of life. The light of life doesn’t necessarily equal happiness and freedom from care. Sometimes, yes; but not always. The light might not always … Continue reading Having the light of life
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Aug 4, 2022
Lightsome
Thomas More was beheaded in 1535 at the order of King Henry the 8th. The last thing More wrote while imprisoned in the tower of London was a devotional work called The Sadness of Christ. In it he penned this moving phrase about God: “he that by the infinite brightness of his divine majesty maketh … Continue reading Lightsome
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Aug 3, 2022
Real believing and real following
Jesus said: “I am the light of the world. Whoever WATCHES me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Oh, wait a second. That’s a misquote. Of course he didn’t say that. Here’s what he actually said. “I am the light of the world. Whoever FOLLOWS me will never walk … Continue reading Real believing and real following
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Aug 2, 2022
Following the pillar of fire
Very famously Jesus said: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). I love that verse. I quote in on Christmas Eve when we light the Christ Candle and pass out the light to the congregation while singing carols. … Continue reading Following the pillar of fire
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Aug 1, 2022
Cheap grace vs. costly grace
Jesus said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it” (Mark 8:34-35). Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a German pastor and professor who was … Continue reading Cheap grace vs. costly grace
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Jul 29, 2022
The rut of cynicism
I heard about a judge who was hearing the case of a young repeat offender. He was getting sick of seeing his face and was about to be harsh. But something came over him. He started to ask the young man why his life was so hard. What was making things so difficult? Then, in … Continue reading The rut of cynicism
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Jul 28, 2022
The older ones first
In the story of the woman caught in adultery, Jesus famously said this to the mob of scribes and Pharisees: “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her” (John 8:7). He turned the situation around and appealed to their own conscience. Verse 9 tells us … Continue reading The older ones first
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Jul 27, 2022
How can you still attend church?
“Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world” (Isaiah 12:5). Bill Clinton was the 42nd President of the United States. Some of you will remember the Monika Lewinsky scandal. It’s kind of hard to forget. Sometime later at a conference, someone asked Clinton: “How can … Continue reading How can you still attend church?
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Jul 26, 2022
Grace opens doors
She had been caught in the act of adultery. In the very act! She was dragged out in public for everyone to see. According to the law, they could have stoned her. They brought the case to Jesus to test him. He said: “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first … Continue reading Grace opens doors
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Jul 25, 2022
Science AND faith
In a Jack Black movie called Nacho Libre, a character says: “I don’t believe in God, I believe in science.” It reveals an error in thought that some people have, as if you can’t believe in God if you “believe” in science. But the two are not opposites. This kind of statement usually comes from … Continue reading Science AND faith
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Jul 22, 2022
Counter-cultural modesty
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” (1 Corinthians 6:19) Over time some things become less common—like Sunday night dinners, board games, or home-made gifts. But that doesn’t mean they don’t still have value. Here’s another: Modesty. Some of … Continue reading Counter-cultural modesty
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Jul 21, 2022
Get secure
Lee Strobel was on a sailing adventure with some friends in the British Virgin Islands.* Since he was a novice he really enjoyed learning how things were done, and the importance of things being done right. One example is when they would drop the anchor. They would go into a calm cove and let it … Continue reading Get secure
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Jul 20, 2022
The wilderness
In the previous devotional, I shared Mark Sayers’ idea that we are at the start of a new era of human history.* We aren’t there yet. In fact, we have one foot in the previous era, and one foot stepping into the emerging era. He calls this present moment a “gray zone.” There is increased … Continue reading The wilderness
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Jul 19, 2022
A new and uncertain era
Mark Sayers makes the case that we are at the start of a new era.* When you look back on human history you can see how one era gives way to another. The early 1500’s was the start of a new era; so was the industrial revolution. At the time, people wouldn’t have been able … Continue reading A new and uncertain era
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Jul 18, 2022
He had mine
A Christian in China was about to be baptized. The pastor asked her a question to ensure that she understood the meaning of the cross: “Did Jesus have any sin?” The answer, of course, was “No.” Hebrews 4:15 says that Jesus “has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.” Since … Continue reading He had mine
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Jul 15, 2022
Selective listening
If a child is in the other side of the house, and if you say something that interests them—something perhaps about getting ice cream—they can hear you. They have great hearing when it is to their benefit. But if that child is sitting in the other side of the house, and if you say something … Continue reading Selective listening
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Jul 14, 2022
Born blamers
Relationships can be hard. They can be hard on a good day, let alone a bad one. I doubt there’s a person on earth who hasn’t put their foot in their mouth, said something they regret, or did something they wish they could undo. Yup, relationships are hard. So let’s not make them harder than … Continue reading Born blamers
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Jul 13, 2022
Lovingly disagreeing
Maybe you’ve never thought of it like this before, but one of the ways you can contribute to a more thoughtful and respectful world is to learn how to lovingly disagree with someone. That’s right. Disagree with someone. Lovingly. Pastor and writer Rick Warren has expressed how we, as a society, seem to have lost … Continue reading Lovingly disagreeing
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Jul 12, 2022
Rushing to conclusions
Jesus said “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment” (John 7:24, ESV). We know we’re not supposed to judge by appearances. We might struggle with it sometimes, but we know it makes sense. Never judge a book by its cover, right? Well, the same goes for people. Jesus’ statement comes on the … Continue reading Rushing to conclusions
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Jul 11, 2022
When man and God switched places
Elie Wiesel tells a story (a made-up story, but an insightful story nevertheless), about a man who came before God on his heavenly throne. The man said, “Which do you think is harder, to be man or to be God?” “Being God is much harder,” God answered. “I have a whole universe to worry about, … Continue reading When man and God switched places
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Jul 8, 2022
When ‘Serenity Now!’ doesn’t work
In the Seinfeld television show, a character named Frank Costanza had the habit of doing a certain thing whenever he felt himself on the verge of freaking out. He exclaimed “Serenity Now!” He felt that if he called out for serenity he would get it. Unfortunately Mr. Costanza didn’t ever seem to truly deal with … Continue reading When ‘Serenity Now!’ doesn’t work
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Jul 7, 2022
We want Scott!
In 1991 Scott Norwood played for the Buffalo Bills football team. It was the Super Bowl. There was time for one last play. The Bills were down by one point. That’s when Norwood came onto the field. He was their leading scorer. If he scored, they would win. The world watched as he got ready … Continue reading We want Scott!
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Jul 6, 2022
Knowing everything, being perfect and solving every problem
I attended a conference where Don Carson was talking about faith. In the New Testament faith is about its object. In other words, faith is about trusting IN someone—namely God. This turns the focus from us to him! Let’s consider a few of the implications. Faith isn’t about knowing everything, but trusting in the one … Continue reading Knowing everything, being perfect and solving every problem
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Jul 5, 2022
A puzzle piece to God
It was Max Lucado who said: “Most people suffer from small thoughts about God.”* In other words, when we underestimate the sovereignty, wisdom, love and power of God, we do ourselves a radical disservice. Time for a perspective corrective. The world has a lot of problems. Your life has challenges too. But what is puzzling … Continue reading A puzzle piece to God
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Jul 4, 2022
Over-functioning and under-believing
Summer is upon us. It’s a time to change gears. A lot of us are still working, but most of us will probably have a bit of vacation time here or there. Kids are out of school and teens are meandering to the beach. But many people still find it hard to rest. And when … Continue reading Over-functioning and under-believing
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Jul 1, 2022
A recipe for national happiness?
Generally speaking, people want to be happy. But what is happiness, anyway? Is it related to status, money, or an all-expenses paid vacation? What about a lollipop while watching the sunset? I want to briefly share four “ingredients of true happiness” according to John Calvin, a theologian from the 1500’s. I value his insight not … Continue reading A recipe for national happiness?
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Jun 30, 2022
Playing the part, neglecting the heart
This week I’ve been talking about when we try to satisfy our deepest spiritual appetites with things or people who aren’t God. Today let me share one last idea. This is something people do to satisfy their spiritual cravings, but in so doing miss the point. It’s religion. Wait, isn’t religion good? Yes it is. … Continue reading Playing the part, neglecting the heart
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Jun 29, 2022
Dark power
This week I’ve been talking about when we try to satisfy our deepest spiritual appetites with things or people who aren’t God. Jesus is the “bread of life” (John 6:35). He is our ultimate source of nourishment and satisfaction. So if we try to totally organize our lives around feel-good pleasures, experiences and escapes, or … Continue reading Dark power
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Jun 28, 2022
When a relationship becomes TOO central to your soul
“I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another…” (Isaiah 42:8). I’ve been writing about your soul’s appetite. Fill it with the wrong thing and be eternally corroded; fill it with the right thing and be eternally contented. We’re spending a few days on “wrong things,” contrasted with … Continue reading When a relationship becomes TOO central to your soul
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Jun 27, 2022
When nice things become ultimate things
Jesus said: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21). Last week we spent time talking about your soul and about how your soul has an appetite. Fill it with the wrong thing … Continue reading When nice things become ultimate things
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Jun 24, 2022
Gorging on the right things, or the wrong things?
This week we’ve been talking about your soul and about spiritual appetites. A man goes to a fast food restaurant. He has twenty five dollars in his pocket and nowhere to be. He orders his favourite combo and supersizes it. He stuffs himself to the brim, refills his coke, and goes back for a vanilla … Continue reading Gorging on the right things, or the wrong things?
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Jun 23, 2022
Hearing a ‘still small voice’ over the roar of your appetites
In his book, A Hunger for God, John Piper writes: “we are less sensitive to spiritual appetites when we are in bondage to physical ones.”* Fair enough. Here’s where I want to focus us. Some of your physical appetites can be good. But they’re not your boss. Previous generations were much more used to denying … Continue reading Hearing a ‘still small voice’ over the roar of your appetites
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Jun 22, 2022
Impact bias
In yesterday’s devotional I talked about your soul’s appetite. Fill it with the wrong thing and be eternally corroded; fill it with the right thing and be eternally contented. In light of that, I suggested that you think proactively about how you are responding to your deepest longings since they can only and truly be … Continue reading Impact bias
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Jun 21, 2022
Your soul has an appetite
Hello! I’m back after a week away, and so is The Up Daily Devotional to your email inbox, social media feeds or podcast subscriptions five mornings a week! Let’s get to today’s devotional. A lady who was hard up for cash tried to sell her soul on eBay for $2000. Apparently eBay now has a … Continue reading Your soul has an appetite
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Jun 10, 2022
God’s big-picture providence for you
In his book Person of Interest, detective J. Warner Wallace highlights how many political, practical, and linguistic factors came together to maximize the impact and influence of Jesus on the world at that specific time in history. At the pinnacle of Roman Rule, vast areas “were unified under the same economic, military, and linguistic systems.”* … Continue reading God’s big-picture providence for you
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Jun 9, 2022
The best way to teach someone else to trust and follow Jesus
Several years ago I led a workshop about faith formation in children and youth. ‘What can we do or say to help them trust and follow Jesus?’ Is there anything more important? No, there isn’t. Here’s where we landed. The best way to teach someone else to trust and follow Jesus is to trust and … Continue reading The best way to teach someone else to trust and follow Jesus
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Jun 8, 2022
It is I; do not be afraid
In the Old Testament, God is described as master over the waves. God “alone stretched out the heavens and trampled the waves of the sea” (Job 9:8). So even though it’s surprising, it’s no surprise that Jesus walks on water in John 6. After all, he is God come to us in human form. Not … Continue reading It is I; do not be afraid
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Jun 7, 2022
Uncertainty, opportunity, intimacy
There is a lot to feel uncertain about: global armed conflict, differing opinions about the pandemic, other illness, potential food shortages, gas prices, a troubled relationship, random acts of violence, interest rates… Not only are there uncertainties, but sensationalism in the media can further contribute to fear and panic. Frank Furedi counted how many times … Continue reading Uncertainty, opportunity, intimacy
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Jun 6, 2022
Every year you grow, you will find me bigger
“Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed” (Revelation 5:5). In a book by C.S. Lewis called Prince Caspian, a girl named Lucy sees a lion named Aslan. She hasn’t seen him in many years. He has changed; he is bigger. “Aslan, you’re bigger,” she says. … Continue reading Every year you grow, you will find me bigger
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Jun 3, 2022
The E word
Evangelism. It’s sharing the good news about Jesus. But in a society that is increasingly apathetic or hostile toward the things of God, it can be intimidating, or even scary. A few years ago I helped organize a talk on the subject by Will Han. He’s a Buddhist monk-turned-Christian, church planter, former classmate, and friend … Continue reading The E word
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Jun 2, 2022
Peace not panic
In the epic story Moby Dick, there is a turbulent scene where a whaleboat races to try and catch the great whale. The scene is frantic. Sailors are yelling and working hard. The enraged Captain Ahab is at the helm. But one person is calm amidst the chaos. He is steady and focused. It’s the … Continue reading Peace not panic
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Jun 1, 2022
Re-thinking what your legacy will be
In John 15:16 Jesus said: “I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” What impact will I have on the world? What will my legacy be? What kind of a difference will I make? In my experience, people tend to think of their impact or influence in the world … Continue reading Re-thinking what your legacy will be
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May 31, 2022
What do you have to give?
John 6:9 says: “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” Good question. Turns out, they went a very long way! Jesus took them and miraculously fed thousands of people! Let’s focus on some of the details. In the ancient world … Continue reading What do you have to give?
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May 30, 2022
Can I really make a difference?
Do you ever wonder whether or not you can really make a difference? Paul Tudor Jones is the founder of the Robin Hood Foundation. It has channeled 1.45 billion dollars into noble causes. One of Jones’s passions is helping students at under-privileged, inner-city schools. He tells a story about when he was four. He was at … Continue reading Can I really make a difference?
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May 27, 2022
The probability of this specific Messiah
Much is made about Jesus being the long-awaited Jewish Messiah. Messiah is a Hebrew word meaning “anointed one,” which refers to God’s chosen king and representative on the earth. Much is also made about prophecies he has fulfilled which confirm that Jesus is in fact this Messiah. We could reference Micah 5:2: “But you, Bethlehem … Continue reading The probability of this specific Messiah
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May 26, 2022
Violence vs. Love
“Love never fails” (1 Corinthians 13:8). Violence upsets me. Does it upset you? I’m deeply saddened by the death of children. Perhaps this is a strange way to say it, but even though I’m shocked at the presence of real evil in our world, I’m not surprised by it. That itself is a reason to … Continue reading Violence vs. Love
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May 25, 2022
Walking with Jesus
In John 5:32 Jesus said: “There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is true.” In yesterday’s devotional I said that the key to weathering a storm is who you’re weathering it with. Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is a healthy support system—and that … Continue reading Walking with Jesus
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May 24, 2022
He sleeps in a storm
“…the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it… But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid’” (Matthew 14:24, 27). A farmer was looking for a farmhand. There was only one applicant. There was only one sentence on his … Continue reading He sleeps in a storm
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May 20, 2022
God took our heads out
Eugene Nida was a famous Bible translator. He tells a story about a missionary and a man from West Africa. The Bible was being translated into the local Bambara language. The translator wanted to know how to translate the word “redeemed” so that the locals would understand what God has done for us in Jesus. … Continue reading God took our heads out
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May 19, 2022
Can you defend the Gospels in the coming storm?
“Your word, LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens” (Psalm 119:89). When I was attending university, I was headed to class on the subway. I was reading my mini New Testament. A stranger walked over and asked what I was doing. He started to criticize me in front of everyone else (quite loudly, … Continue reading Can you defend the Gospels in the coming storm?
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May 18, 2022
Well-rooted in a world of opinions
In one of his letters, the well-known English statesman Thomas More said: “A soul must be without peace which is ever fluctuating between elation and disappointment from the opinions of [people].”* In other words, we will never have peace if we are disproportionately tethered to the opinions of other people. The end result is an … Continue reading Well-rooted in a world of opinions
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May 17, 2022
A Judge who is FOR you
People balk at having an ultimate Judge. But that doesn't change the fact that we do. His name is Jesus. Yes, he is our teacher, Lord, Saviour, and friend. But he is also our Judge. As we are reminded by Jesus himself in John 5:22: “the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment … Continue reading A Judge who is FOR you
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May 16, 2022
Visual cues for spiritual truths
A stop sign is a visual reminder to stop your vehicle. A stove is a visual reminder that dinner needs to be made. A bed is a reminder that we need sleep. Our world is filled with visual reminders. So why not use them as visual reminders of great and wonderful spiritual realities? Here’s what … Continue reading Visual cues for spiritual truths
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May 13, 2022
Stopping not starting
In John 5 Jesus healed a man on the Sabbath, the day of rest. Verse 16 tells us that “because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jewish leaders began to persecute him.” Observing the day of rest has long been important to God’s people. Even today “there are special ‘religious police’ with … Continue reading Stopping not starting
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May 12, 2022
Heart work is one of his specialties
Jesus healed not only bodies, but hearts. In John 5 we learn of a man who had been unwell for thirty-eight years. That’s a long time, especially in the first century. According to Dr. Craig Evans, an archaeologist and professor, “Life expectancy was short in the time of Jesus—more than half died before reaching 30.”* … Continue reading Heart work is one of his specialties
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May 11, 2022
Confidence in the Word
For years a certain group of scholars said that John’s Gospel was a philosophical and theological work, but not a historical one, meaning that it couldn’t be trusted at face value. One of the reasons for that (faulty) conclusion was that details in the text seemed wrong from a historical perspective. For example, in John … Continue reading Confidence in the Word
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May 10, 2022
God is working (so take the pressure off)
In John 5 Jesus healed a man who had been sick for thirty-eight years. But since he did so on the day of rest, he was criticized for it. Talk about missing for the forest for the trees! In his own defense Jesus said: “My Father is always at his work to this very day, … Continue reading God is working (so take the pressure off)
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May 9, 2022
The ‘Jesus Reference Point’
Jesus said: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (Mark 13:31). A study out of Beijing was titled “Neural Consequences of Religious Belief on Self-Referential Processing.” I know, fun title, right? Anyway, the idea was this. Non-religious people used one of part of their brain to evaluate themselves and … Continue reading The ‘Jesus Reference Point’
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May 6, 2022
Yield to Jesus when you are fearful or anxious about the future
Never in my life have I talked to more people about the uncertainty of the future. If I were alive during World War Two or the upstart of the Cold War, perhaps I would not be able to say that. But fears and anxieties about the future are now common. Is it even possible to … Continue reading Yield to Jesus when you are fearful or anxious about the future
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May 5, 2022
(Really) prioritizing the faith of children as we re-vision our lives
For those of you with children or grandchildren, or for those of you who lead or teach children and youth in some other way, I’m about to share something that might be a bit jarring. But there are times when some soul-rattling is in order. Let me share it with you, and then explain my … Continue reading (Really) prioritizing the faith of children as we re-vision our lives
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May 4, 2022
Desperation at the feet of Jesus
John 4:47 describes a desperate scene: “When this [royal official] heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death.” This was a world of honour and of strict social convention. The royal official humbled himself before Jesus—something … Continue reading Desperation at the feet of Jesus
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May 3, 2022
Cast Away – but never hopeless
Do you remember the Tom Hanks movie called Cast Away? He played a FedEx employee named Chuck. His plane crashed into the sea. Chuck was the only survivor and washed up onto a deserted island. Several packages also washed ashore. He opened them hoping that the contents would help him survive. One package contained hockey … Continue reading Cast Away – but never hopeless
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May 2, 2022
Un-drifting from shore
Hello! The Up Devotional is glad to be back after two weeks of vacation. My family spent some time at the ocean. And yes, it was warm enough to swim. We even saw dolphins! One day my daughters and I were jumping in the waves. They would crash into us. We tried to keep our … Continue reading Un-drifting from shore
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Apr 15, 2022
He experienced your death sentence to set you free
In A Tale of Two Cities two characters named Sydney and Charles love the same woman. The two men look a bit alike, but she ends up marrying Charles. They have two children together. Much later, Charles is put in prison and sentenced to death. In a powerful act of self-sacrifice, Sydney breaks into the … Continue reading He experienced your death sentence to set you free
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Apr 14, 2022
Love one another: The meaning of Maundy Thursday
Today is Maundy Thursday. The word “Maundy” comes from the Latin translation of Jesus’ words in John 13:34. “Mandatum novum” means “new commandment.” This new commandment is to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” We could spend a lifetime pondering and applying those words. And we do. … Continue reading Love one another: The meaning of Maundy Thursday
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Apr 13, 2022
Criticized for faith? Rejoice!
William Lane Craig is a well-known defender of the faith. He writes books, speaks at conferences, and debates atheists in front of thousands upon thousands of people. This makes him a frequent target. He is yelled at, ridiculed, and criticized—over and over and over. Someone asked him how he responded to all of this. He … Continue reading Criticized for faith? Rejoice!
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Apr 12, 2022
Fickle or faithful?
Crowds can be fickle. One day they’re yelling “Hosanna!” and “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13) and later in the week they’re crying, “Crucify him!” (John 19:15) If they weren’t yelling, they had already abandoned him. Where are we in the mix? Are we fickle or faithful? The people … Continue reading Fickle or faithful?
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Apr 11, 2022
Talking faith? Take the pressure off
In 1 Peter 3:15, the apostle says: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” Always? Yes. But the fact of the matter is that many of us lack confidence or clarity when we try to explain (or defend) our faith. … Continue reading Talking faith? Take the pressure off
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Apr 8, 2022
Yield your thoughts
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). I … Continue reading Yield your thoughts
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Apr 7, 2022
Hope is kindled
Today is a new day. Honestly. It is. Yesterday was its own thing. Sure, each new day is influenced by what happened the day before. But there’s nothing you can do about that now, is there? The same goes for last week, last year, or even the last decade. That was then. This is now. … Continue reading Hope is kindled
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Apr 6, 2022
Knowing and showing that better is coming
I’ve previously defined hope like this: Hope is knowing that better is coming. But there’s more. Not only is hope knowing that better is coming, but hope is showing that better is coming. When we know something to be true, that truth gets reflected in our words and actions. In 1 Peter 1:3 the apostle … Continue reading Knowing and showing that better is coming
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Apr 5, 2022
Illness has an end-date
There are seven miraculous “signs” in John’s Gospel. One is the healing of a boy with a death-threatening fever. “The royal official said, ‘Sir, come down before my child dies.’ ‘Go,’ Jesus replied, ‘your son will live’” (John 4:49-50). But what purpose do these signs serve? They certainly provide compassionate help! But they also confirm … Continue reading Illness has an end-date
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Apr 4, 2022
Pray big at the throne
John 4:47 describes a desperate plea by a desperate father: “When [he] heard that Jesus had arrived… he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death.” They were in Cana, but the sick child was in Capernaum. Nevertheless, Jesus healed him—right then and there, and from … Continue reading Pray big at the throne
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Apr 1, 2022
Living each day like death is dead
I saw a sign in a home decorating store. “Live each day like it’s your last.” It’s a nice thought. I like it. But how many of us actually live like that? To be honest, I don’t. If I knew that today was my last day on earth I wouldn’t bother paying the electric bill, … Continue reading Living each day like death is dead
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Mar 31, 2022
Extreme individualism is on the rise
“My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2). Something we could call “extreme individualism” is on the rise. Here’s how I would define it: “We are our own ultimate authority—not God, community, government, family, etc. Each person has their own truth, which isn’t necessarily connected to any source outside … Continue reading Extreme individualism is on the rise
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Mar 30, 2022
Love and hate both take energy
For several weeks I’ve been thinking about Jesus’ encounter with the woman from Samaria. Something which would have made it particularly noteworthy in the 1st century would have been the history of bad blood between the Jews and Samaritans. After the exile, the Samaritan’s didn’t support the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem; in the … Continue reading Love and hate both take energy
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Mar 29, 2022
Saved FROM calamity FOR abundance
“Jesus saves.” We’ve heard it. We’ve said it. We’ve seen it on a thousand billboards. When we put our trust in who Jesus is and what he has done for us, he saves us from the consequences of our sin. Since “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23) this is extremely good news! He … Continue reading Saved FROM calamity FOR abundance
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Mar 28, 2022
Help is never far away
In the cartoon version of The Pilgrim’s Progress, there is a scene near the beginning where the main character, Christian, falls into the swamp of despondency. It is an allegory so the swamp is meant to remind us of a place into which we fall mentally, not physically. The mud isn’t really mud; it is … Continue reading Help is never far away
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Mar 25, 2022
The launching pad for life
We worship and praise God because God is great. He deserves it. Accordingly, Karl Barth says that worship is “the most urgent, the most glorious action that can take place in human life.”* But we can’t miss the fact that how you worship impacts how you live. This isn’t about worship style. It’s not about … Continue reading The launching pad for life
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Mar 24, 2022
Stumbling into (or preparing to) worship
We have been talking about worship and how Jesus says to worship God “in the Spirit and in truth.” In fact, “they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks” (John 4:23). Wow. What do you seek? The weekend, a raise, losing 10 pounds? God seeks people to worship him in a certain way. Today … Continue reading Stumbling into (or preparing to) worship
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Mar 23, 2022
The antithesis of worship
In John 4:23 Jesus says that God seeks true worshipers who “will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth…” After considering the context of this passage and others, here’s what I think this means: It means focusing more on what is happening within you than around you; being open to the movement of … Continue reading The antithesis of worship
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Mar 22, 2022
Warning signs over sanctuary doors
Will Willimon was the dean of the Duke University Chapel. There was a student who had never been to chapel and didn’t have any intention of going. Willimon asked him why. The student explained that things were going pretty well in his life and he didn’t want to get “jerked around” by God in a … Continue reading Warning signs over sanctuary doors
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Mar 21, 2022
The recipe for greatness
John the Baptist tells (and shows) us what humility is like. Speaking about Jesus, he said: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). A lot of people think about what it means to be “great.” Is it fame or fortune? Is it awards or achievement? Is it a great social media profile … Continue reading The recipe for greatness
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Mar 18, 2022
The ongoing billboard of Satan’s defeat
The church is an easy target. We follow a perfect Saviour (but are far from perfect ourselves); we have a moral voice through the Scriptures (but often find ourselves on the “wrong side” of shifting contemporary values); we have a history of building hospitals, feeding the poor, working for justice, and providing free education (but … Continue reading The ongoing billboard of Satan’s defeat
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Mar 17, 2022
The battle you’re in whether you know it or not
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10). Spiritual warfare. William Gurnall says that all Christians are in the battle whether they realize it or not, and that the war is so serious that it makes the cruelest battle between human armies seem like child’s play.* But what is spiritual … Continue reading The battle you’re in whether you know it or not
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Mar 16, 2022
People-pleasers or God-pleasers?
I live beside a cemetery. Some people might think that’s creepy, but not me. Maybe it’s because I’m not afraid of death. A few months ago I wandered through it, looking at the names on the headstones. Some had lived a hundred years, others a hundred days. It was a reminder about the shortness of … Continue reading People-pleasers or God-pleasers?
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Mar 15, 2022
More him, less me
Speaking about Jesus, John the Baptist said: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). This is a succinct statement of what it means to be more like Christ and to grow in holiness. The voice, influence, and power of Jesus must become greater and greater in our lives. This is helped as … Continue reading More him, less me
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Mar 14, 2022
Our fears are afraid of God
Fear is all around us, and sometimes within us. That’s why Psalm 27:1 needs to be invisibly tattooed on our heads and hearts: “The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” It’s a rhetorical question. The answer is ‘No one!’ Recently I was listening to a song by Ross King … Continue reading Our fears are afraid of God
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Mar 11, 2022
Jesus: the choir director who reshapes our moral tune
I’ve been highlighting John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” A much-neglected aspect of this verse is how it compels loving transformation in our lives. Bible scholar N.T. Wright explains: “God’s love comes to … Continue reading Jesus: the choir director who reshapes our moral tune
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Mar 10, 2022
The value of a lifebuoy
I’ve been sharing some thoughts about John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Max Lucado says: “If you know nothing about the Bible, start here. If you know everything in the Bible, return here.”* … Continue reading The value of a lifebuoy
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Mar 9, 2022
If I should wake before I die
When Tony Campolo was in college a professor talked about the well-known childhood prayer: “If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.” He then pointed out what he perceived to be a flaw. Couldn’t it also say: “If I should wake before I die…”?* The implication is that … Continue reading If I should wake before I die
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Mar 8, 2022
You can’t expect the world to change if…
Have you noticed? The online world is a very angry place right now. Just spend a few minutes on Twitter. Or any other social media platform for that matter. People are complaining about this or that. They’re accusing so-and-so of this, that and the other thing. Or they’re advocating for a certain cause and calling … Continue reading You can’t expect the world to change if…
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Mar 7, 2022
Muting the demonic tongue
Max Lucado took a group of 500 people to Israel. One day they held a Bible Study on the steps of the Temple Mount, a location where Jesus himself gathered with his disciples. For Lucado’s lesson he chose John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that … Continue reading Muting the demonic tongue
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Mar 4, 2022
Following is imitating
In John 1:37 we read: “When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus.” Following Jesus. It’s something Christians do. But what does it mean? We can’t physically follow him because he isn’t physically here. I can follow a friend’s car down main street because I can see it. But I can’t see … Continue reading Following is imitating
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Mar 3, 2022
A new time and a new task
The word “Lent” is connected to an old word for “spring.” The idea is that spring roughly corresponds to the approach of Easter, when Jesus rose from the dead. Long story short: Lent has come to be known as a 40-day period of preparation (excluding Sundays) for the main event of the Christian faith: the … Continue reading A new time and a new task
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Mar 2, 2022
The skull of motivation (Ash Wednesday)
Today is Ash Wednesday. Some Christians are in the habit of putting ashes on their foreheads because they symbolize our mourning and regret for sin. But ashes also symbolize our mortality. This recalls Genesis 3:19 where Adam was punished for his disobedience to God and made to work the soil from which he came: “for … Continue reading The skull of motivation (Ash Wednesday)
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Mar 1, 2022
It begins within (What is Shrove Tuesday?)
Lent begins tomorrow on Ash Wednesday. The day before that (today) has long been called Shrove Tuesday. The name comes from a practice in England to “shrive” on this day—meaning confessing our sins and seeking God’s forgiveness. Since many people fast during Lent, there was (and is) a custom of using up fatty foods on … Continue reading It begins within (What is Shrove Tuesday?)
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Feb 28, 2022
The monks were clearly playing by different rules
A story is told from the Vietnam War. A platoon was hunkered down in some rice paddies in the heat of a firefight. Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, a group of six monks started walking through the middle of the field between the two sides. David Busch recounts the scene: “They didn’t look right, … Continue reading The monks were clearly playing by different rules
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Feb 25, 2022
An opportunity to trust God
“pray without ceasing…” (1 Thessalonians 5:17, ESV) It’s a disturbing time. Unsettling. Russia has attacked Ukraine. This is serious stuff. Last evening our congregation had a call to prayer at 7:15 p.m. I know that many of you have been praying as well—and “without ceasing,” as Paul says. My friend Winston Newman says that “Hardship … Continue reading An opportunity to trust God
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Feb 24, 2022
Tears have a way of bringing clarity
“Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy” (Psalm 126:5). The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan is the best-selling English devotional book of all time outside of the Bible. It’s an allegory of the Christian life. The main character, Christian, decides to leave the City of Destruction and experiences all sorts of ups, … Continue reading Tears have a way of bringing clarity
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Feb 23, 2022
When we know the stakes are high
After the disciples saw Jesus cleanse the temple, they remembered that it was written: “Zeal for your house will consume me” (John 2:17). What words do we associate with Jesus? Loving, truthful, holy, powerful, or forgiving? What about zeal? If we want to be “like Jesus,” shouldn’t then zeal be a part of our lives … Continue reading When we know the stakes are high
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Feb 22, 2022
Ritual or relationship?
“Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” [Jesus said] His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me” (John 2:16-17). Jesus had zeal. But what is it? Is it emotionalism? Unbridled fervor? Extremism? No, no, and no. Zeal is a deep and abiding passion and concern for the things … Continue reading Ritual or relationship?
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Feb 21, 2022
An anchored identity
“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” (John 1:12). In his book, Man’s Search for Meaning, Viktor Frankl reflects on what he learned about identity while suffering through a Nazi concentration camp: “The majority of prisoners suffered from a kind … Continue reading An anchored identity
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Feb 11, 2022
Discuss your priorities
If you’re reading or listening to this, you’re probably someone who values priorities. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be subscribed to a devotional which is dedicated to keeping our focus on God. The greatest command is an articulation of priorities: “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?... The Lord our God, the Lord is one. … Continue reading Discuss your priorities
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Feb 10, 2022
The source and security of your dignity
These days a lot of people are on shaky mental-emotional ground. I recently heard the phrase ‘the spiral of exhaustion.’ Here’s a part of my concern: When we are exhausted, we start to doubt ourselves; we start to question who we are; and we are more susceptible to untruth. You make a mistake and then … Continue reading The source and security of your dignity
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Feb 9, 2022
The word you should say when you look in the mirror
To the Ephesians, Paul writes: “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Ephesians 4:1). Do you notice the irony? He tells them to live a worthy life while he himself is in prison. In many people’s eyes, Paul was living a … Continue reading The word you should say when you look in the mirror
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Feb 8, 2022
Disgrace, dignity and wine
John 2:6-7: “Nearby stood six stone water jars… each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, ‘Fill the jars with water’; so they filled them to the brim.” One of Jesus’ most popular miracles is turning water into wine. We like a party, don’t we! And it’s not like it was … Continue reading Disgrace, dignity and wine
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Feb 7, 2022
The fresh air of friendship
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity” (Proverbs 17:17). Glenn Peterson is the President and Superintendent of the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada. Recently he said, “You can never have enough kingdom friends.” Isn’t that the truth! In a world with a lot of isolation and … Continue reading The fresh air of friendship
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Feb 4, 2022
Control issues about the future?
If you have a personal and authentic belief in God you are going to have fewer control issues. I realize this is a work in progress for a lot of you. Oops, typo. I meant to say “we”! We like to control our schedules, our calories (sometimes), and our sleep patterns, playlists and posts. We … Continue reading Control issues about the future?
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Feb 3, 2022
Jump anyway. I can see you!
Jesus said: “Follow me” (John 1:43). I’ve noticed something. People who are confident in Jesus, and who are confident about his ongoing provision and power in their lives, don’t tend to tremor as much at what the future might bring. I’m not saying they never tremor. I’m saying they don’t tend to tremor as much. … Continue reading Jump anyway. I can see you!
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Feb 2, 2022
Confidence and obedience: mutual accelerants
[If you accidentally received this twice, sorry!] Check out this pattern in John 1: Andrew and another disciple asked Jesus where he was staying: “Come, and you will see” (verse 39). Jesus calls Philip with the simple but ever-direct words: “Follow me” (verse 43). Philip tells Nathaniel that they have found the Messiah. Nathaniel isn’t … Continue reading Confidence and obedience: mutual accelerants
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Feb 1, 2022
Following Jesus is 3D, not 2D
Think of a circle, and then think of a ball. One is two-dimensional, and the other is three-dimensional. From a distance, they look the same. But the closer you look, the more you notice a difference. One is flat, the other is, well, not flat. You can play basketball with a basketball. You can’t play … Continue reading Following Jesus is 3D, not 2D
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Jan 31, 2022
Truth because he cares
I remember a story about man and his horse. The horse’s job was to take people here or there in wagons, and even to pull logs through the forest after it had been cleared. But the horse’s owner was increasingly frustrated because it kept bumping into things. As a result, it was bordering on dangerous. … Continue reading Truth because he cares
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Jan 28, 2022
Joy, even after watching his house burn down
I recently had the privilege of interviewing Dan Scott, the national Moderator of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. [Link below.] When he was a boy, he watched his house burn to the ground in an act of arson. The next morning his father read James 1:2-3 to him and his siblings: “Consider it pure joy, … Continue reading Joy, even after watching his house burn down
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Jan 27, 2022
The most important thing on the to-do list crossed off
The risen Jesus said: “‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’ And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:21-22). What an enigmatic event! But why would Jesus give them his peace? Many of their dreams had been dashed (or so they … Continue reading The most important thing on the to-do list crossed off
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Jan 26, 2022
The Holy Spirit makes your spirit whole
“He restoreth my soul” (Psalm 23:3, KJV). What does God’s Spirit do in your life? Among other things the Holy Spirit makes your spirit whole. This is an idea worth pondering (and not just because it’s a neat word-play). A lot of people are talking about “wholeness.” It’s related to being mentally healthy and to … Continue reading The Holy Spirit makes your spirit whole
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Jan 25, 2022
Sigh
Last week a news story of a Toronto boy named Carter sent waves around the internet. He was shovelling piles of snow, dealing with a pandemic, and couldn’t yet go back to in-person learning because his school had been closed because of the storm. As he talked with the reporter he let out an exasperated … Continue reading Sigh
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Jan 24, 2022
A reset if you’re barely holding on
“We all stumble in many ways” (James 3:2). Many of you are reading this on a Monday. Mondays can be a downer. They’re certainly not the weekend. Many of you are headed back to work, school or other things that remind you that life has unavoidable responsibilities. But Mondays are also a kind of re-set … Continue reading A reset if you’re barely holding on
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Jan 21, 2022
Truth-less “grace,” or grace-less “truth”?
In John 1:14 (and elsewhere) we learn that Jesus is God come to us in human form. In that same verse we also read: “We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Notice how Jesus is full of grace and … Continue reading Truth-less “grace,” or grace-less “truth”?
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Jan 20, 2022
Not lacking the arm of God
Yesterday we talked about being adopted by God and the new special status that gives you. You can be at peace and be confident. You are chosen. You are loved. You are royalty. Today let’s flush out another benefit of being adopted by God. Writing in the 17th century, William Gurnall said: “He who has … Continue reading Not lacking the arm of God
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Jan 19, 2022
What it means to be a child of God
In my experience, people tend to downplay (or misunderstand) what it means to be a child of God. We often hear or say that ALL people are children of God. If it’s a status all people have, then it’s not really unique to anyone in particular. I get what people mean in a general kind … Continue reading What it means to be a child of God
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Jan 18, 2022
What’s the point?
John the Baptist was asked to describe himself. He responded by quoting the prophet Isaiah: “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord’” (John 1:23). The point of John’s life was to direct people’s attention elsewhere. That is so refreshing in a world of me, myself … Continue reading What’s the point?
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Jan 17, 2022
The landslide to depravity
One of the ways we guard our hearts and ensure that the pathways of our lives are steadfast is to deliberately direct our attention to good and godly things. In the words of Proverbs 4:25: “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” Some examples of good and godly things would … Continue reading The landslide to depravity
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Jan 14, 2022
Have you heard of FOMO?
Have you heard of F.O.M.O.? It has started to appear in dictionaries. It’s an acronym: “fear of missing out.” Apparently there is an entire group of people who are afraid to miss out on the latest trend, post, gossip, news story or event. As a result, they never disconnect. They have to stay online, track … Continue reading Have you heard of FOMO?