““Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”” (Psalm 46:10, ESV) Music is a big part of worship at our church. A few weeks back, we planned a service without any music. It was different. It was even uncomfortable at times. Singing songs on Sunday morning is what we know and what we are comfortable with. We like … [Read more...] about 40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 10.Silence
40 Things for Lent
40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 09.Listening
Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. (Matthew 7:24, ESV) Seek to understand We live in a time when there is a charged political atmosphere. There are strong opinions. Everyone has something to say. The problem is that we always have something to say, but rarely hear what is being said. We … [Read more...] about 40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 09.Listening
40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 08.Rest
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29, ESV) The wind and the waves were tossing the boat around. Where was Jesus? He was sleeping (Mark 4:35-41). How could Jesus be sleeping at a moment like this? The boat was sinking. This was not the moment to sleep. A lot of us feel like … [Read more...] about 40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 08.Rest
40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 07.Patience
“Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.” (James 5:7, ESV) Recently, I was enjoying daddy daughter date night with my daughter. The date consisted of a trip to an indoor amusement park. We chose indoors because it was … [Read more...] about 40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 07.Patience
40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 06.Gratitude
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV) Thanksgiving comes around once a year. It is a time to gather together with family. We watch some football and eat a nice meal. While the day is supposed to be about giving thanks, the actual practice of giving thanks is often neglected. The Apostle Paul says to … [Read more...] about 40 Things NOT to Give up for Lent: 06.Gratitude