When you hear the song “Joy to the World,” what comes to mind? Perhaps warm memories of Christmas gatherings or the sound of joyful carolers. But did you know this beloved hymn wasn’t originally written as a Christmas song? Isaac Watts, a theologian and hymn writer born in 1674, penned “Joy to the World” in… Continue reading Joy to the World: Finding Joy in the Reign of Christ
In one of His shortest yet most potent parables, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a hidden treasure and a pearl of great value (Matthew 13:44-46). In both cases, those discovering these treasures respond similarly: they joyfully give up everything to obtain them. This is the essence of the gospel—a valuable treasure that, once… Continue reading The Priceless Treasure of the Gospel
Do you feel gratitude or guilt when you think about wealth and possessions? Many Christians struggle with this tension. On one hand, we know we are blessed. We have homes, food, transportation, and countless comforts. On the other hand, we see needs all around us—poverty, suffering, people struggling to survive. We might wonder: Is it… Continue reading Enjoying God’s Gifts Without Guilt
Having joy is different from being happy. Happiness depends on our happenings. What goes on around us affects whether or not we are so glad. Our health, finances, relationships, spiritual state, work, or mental and emotional well-being can affect this. Know that joy is not just a fleeting emotion. It’s a promise, a gift reserved… Continue reading How to Receive Joy Despite Having Problems
One way we can joyfully celebrate the birth of Christ is through feasting. It may seem an odd way to worship; through eating, but it has been a part of Christian heritage for thousands of years. In the Old Testament, we see the Israelites celebrating many feasts. From the Passover to Purim to the feasts… Continue reading Joyfully Celebrate Christ’s Birth Through Feasting
There are many times in our lives we have experienced much great joy? For myself, I experienced great times of joy when I married my wife, watched our children be born, and graduated from grad school. There are other times I experience small blips of joy, like when I have a great meal, see a… Continue reading What Kind of Joy Should Salvation Bring?
Often when we think about godly parenting, we think that we are supposed to stop our kids from doing bad things. Essentially, we believe that if they are not doing anything wrong, we should let them go. But if they are going toward sin, that is when we need to step in and stop them.… Continue reading Positive Parenting
For some people winter is a drudgery. It’s something to “get through,” especially for many who live in NEPA. But what if instead of getting through it we could get something out of it. Here are four ways to embrace winter to the glory of God. #1 Use winter to rest and recharge. The first… Continue reading 4 Ways to Embrace Winter to the Glory of God
