Most gardeners will tell you that there’s no growth without rigorous pruning. Dead or unproductive branches, vines, and growth need to be cut away so that the healthy plants can bloom. This same process is true for the church as well. Jesus said, “I am the true grapevine, and my father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t pr... read all »

It is always harder to give up tomorrow’s sin. Today’s challenge is, well, here today. We are facing it and have the resources and presence of mind to focus on it and overcome it if we want to. Today’s temptation is felt, experienced, dealt with in real time and the battle, even though fierce at times, is usually quite short – three seconds act... read all »

Going to church regularly permits us to worship God and increase our Bible knowledge. This good habit also helps us to obey and please God in several ways: We follow the Lord and become faithful in assembling together and avoid the bad habit of neglecting church attendance as some do.    “....not forsaking our own assembling together as is ... read all »

Aside from the gospel, the good news in our congregation is that there are many visitors each week. The not so good news is that they are simply replacing members who are regularly absent. I have noticed that the top five reasons given to me for missing services (on Sunday or Wednesday) are the following: I have to work or work late It is inconvenient / ... read all »

Boxing gloves placed into my hand s are worth about $100. Boxing gloves in the hands of Joachin Alcine are worth several million dollars. It all depends on the hands. A football in my hands is worth $50. A football in the hands of the New York Giants is worth a Super Bowl. It all depends on the hands. A walking stick in my hands will help me walk along a path. A wal... read all »