"useless faith"
As a longtime high school science teacher and basketball coach I encountered many teenagers who worked at or above expectations. Occasionally, however, I came across student-athletes that pretty much fell into the category of “useless”. Their lack of preparation and effort invited indifference and failure. So part of my job was to motivate both … those who cared … and those who did not. As one who claims Christ … I certainly do not want to be labeled as “useless”. But James tells us in James 2:17 and 20 that our faith is “dead” and “useless” if we do not …
Centurion Humility
For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, “Go,” and he goes; and that one, “Come,” and he comes. I say to my servant, “Do this,” and he does it. Matthew 8:9 (NIV) *** *** *** *** Today’s guest devotional is provided by Jon Walker – Jesus noted the centurion in the Gospels was a man of extraordinary faith. The Roman officer’s servant was sick, and with Jesus on the way to his home, the centurion sent a message telling him there was no need to come. He said, …
Love That Sweats
We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV) *** *** *** *** Today’s guest devotional is provided by Jon Walker – When Jesus loves, he works up a sweat; he rolls up his sleeves, gets on his knees, and washes our feet with his blood, sweat, and tears. He labors at love, though his love is never like labor. He’s a giver, not a taker, loving us into being with a …
Jesus and the Brooklyn Dodgers
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. Colossians 2:16 (NIV) *** *** *** *** Today’s guest devotional is provided by Jon Walker – During World War II, a common practice among U.S. guards was to ask questions that, presumably, only someone from the U.S. would know (in the days before the Internet and worldwide television). They’d ask a question like, “What league does the Chicago Cubs play in?” One legitimate U.S. general was held for several …
