Misc. Personal Entry
A James 3 story.
"From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so." James 3:10
"What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD" (Psalm 116:12-13; ESV)
What can we possibly give to God that he does not already have? He blesses us so richly, how can we honor him without insulting him by attempting to be his benefactor?
What is the best way for a dinner guest to praise the cook? Isn't it to ask for seconds? I believe this is what the Psalmist is saying in Psalm 116. As Christians, we are consumers of the continual flow the incalculable blessings of God through his river of grace to us.
Researching the Biblical and historical practice and impact of fasting I came across this great sermon series by John Piper. I would encourage you to listen to these sermons and ask the Lord how how he wants you to incorporate fasting into your life, if it isn't already.
If you have an iPod and would like to download these sermons they can be located at the Desiring God Website.
If you're a reader rather than a listener you can download and read the book Hunger for Fasting: Desiring God Through Fasting and Prayer
Indescribable - Louis Giglio
This presentation by Louis Giglio had a big impact on the way I imagine God's greatness and power. We worship an awesome God who is capable of wonders beyond our imagination.
It's available on DVD from 268Store.com.
This is a powerfully moving skit depicting how Jesus fights for us.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)
"...They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 1:18-19)
John Piper's sermon Happy in Hope, Patient in Pain, Constant in Prayer reminds us that tribulation, affliction and pain are a predictable and necessary part of the Christian walk.
If you've asked the questions, "Where is God in all of this sin and pain?" or "Why would a loving God allow bad things to happen?" then you need to listen to this sermon.
Another resource is the online version of the book edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor, Suffering and the Sovereignty of God.
There can be hope for seemingly hopeless marriage situations. I found this series very helpful.
A resource mentioned in the broadcast is MarriageAndConflict.com
If you're interested you can subscribe to the Focus on The Family podcast. To find other ways of listening to Focus on The Family audio check out their spot at oneplace.com
As a young parent I got a lot out of Dr. Dobson's this.
If you're interested you can subscribe to the Focus on The Family podcast. To find other ways of listening to Focus on The Family audio check out their spot at oneplace.com
I've recently listened to Dr. James Dobson's "Where's Dad?" series and found it both moving and helpful. Perhaps you will too.
If you're interested you can subscribe to the Focus on The Family podcast. To find other ways of listening to Focus on The Family audio check out their spot at oneplace.com
Video of the children singing on Christmas Eve
