There’s a popular saying floating around Christian circles that sounds nice but doesn’t hold up to biblical scrutiny: “Christianity isn’t a religion; it’s a relationship.” I get where that’s coming from. People want to emphasize that following Jesus isn’t about cold rituals or lifeless rules. But here’s the problem: that statement creates a false choice… Continue reading Christianity: It’s a Relationship and a Religion
Something deeply ingrained in the American spirit is the belief that with enough hard work, grit, and determination, you can pull yourself up by your bootstraps and make a life for yourself. It’s an inspiring idea because it celebrates responsibility and perseverance. But let’s be honest: nobody truly does it alone. The Biblical Balance: Work… Continue reading Bootstraps, Poverty Theology, and the Next Generation
In our culture, there may be no greater weapon than simply claiming to be offended. Say, “I’m offended,” and suddenly, you’re the victim. The conversation stops, and the person on the other side is expected to apologize, back down, or change course. But here’s the uncomfortable reality: just because someone claims to be offended doesn’t… Continue reading The False Power of Being “Offended”
Why Israel Needed a King — and Why Only Jesus Truly Fits the Throne If you’ve read through the Old Testament, especially books like Judges and 1 Samuel, you might be scratching your head over Israel’s relationship with kings. It feels like a mixed message. One minute, God’s saying they don’t need a king like… Continue reading From Chaos to the Crown:
Imagine driving your car nonstop, daily, never stopping for fuel or maintenance. It wouldn’t be long before that car broke down. And the problem wouldn’t be because it wasn’t built well, but because it wasn’t cared for properly. The same is true for our lives. God built rhythms into creation—times to work and times to… Continue reading The Gift of God’s Rest: Living by His Rhythms
You’ve probably heard it before — “Young men are the problem.” Turn on the news, scroll social media, or sit through a university lecture, and you’ll hear some version of that narrative. But here’s the truth: young men aren’t the problem. They’re a big part of the solution. From a biblical perspective, society doesn’t just… Continue reading Why the World Desperately Needs Young Men
A Biblical Reflection on Gratitude, Sin, and the First Lie Have you ever looked around and thought, “Life isn’t fair”? Perhaps it was watching someone get the promotion you wanted, seeing your friend enjoy a relationship while you remain single, or scrolling through social media, wishing you had their house, kids, and life. If you’ve… Continue reading When Life Seems Unfair, Fight Entitlement
In recent years, more churches have recognized the value of granting their pastors a sabbatical—a designated period away from the regular responsibilities of ministry for the sake of rest, renewal, and spiritual rejuvenation. But while the Pastor steps back for a season, the Church is called to step forward in prayer. A sabbatical isn’t simply… Continue reading How to Pray for a Pastor on Sabbatical
Israel. Few words trigger more debate, emotion, or division in modern politics and theology. While this article could easily wade into a discussion of recent events surrounding Israel, that’s not its purpose. Instead, I want to offer something more lasting, which is a biblical matrix that can help us navigate these events today and next… Continue reading Should the United States Defend Israel No Matter What?
Last year, my church graciously granted me my first sabbatical. I’m incredibly thankful for the opportunity, and I wanted to take a few moments to explain why a sabbatical matters—not just for me but for any pastor. This article isn’t about burnout horror stories or some “woe is me” tale. It’s a biblical reflection on… Continue reading Why Pastors Need a Sabbatical
