"The translation of doulos by 'servant' rather than 'slave' [led] to the total effacement of its ancient significance (1965: 319). This ennobling title means the believer belongs to the Lord, who constantly "gives Himself away" in infinite love, through faith. Indeed, the doulos (slave) of Christ is His very Bride (cf. Rev 19:7-9). Accordingly, the faithful believer seeks to do all things in intimate partnership with Christ, as He births faith in the heart (cf. Ro 10:6-8,17; Heb 11:6). This is possible because the believer is joined to Christ as a genuine member of His very body (Jn 14:20; 1 Cor 12:13).
Spiritual Leadership “Spiritual Fathers and Mothers”
Being in spiritual leadership is not easy. You commit yourself to serve people who may not always respect your sacrifice—like Jesus did. When you are a servant leader, you can find yourself carrying a lot of the load while other people relax—like Jesus did.
For the Love of My Daughter – What separation teaches me about love.
Today, in the bittersweet parting of ways with my college age daughter, I found profound perspective. I know the feeling of longing to have one more long walk, one more hug, one more shared couch with her head on my shoulder. Separation is an ache that reminds me of the relationship's tender value.
There’s More Than Enough At God’s Table For You
During the holidays, some of our fondest memories are meals with friends and family around tables laden with tender savory meats, hot creamy mashed potatoes and steaming side dishes. Beautiful, bright vegetables add color to the warmly decorated table. Special dishes come out, along with the candles, lace, nice silver and linen napkins, freshly pressed …
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Pilgrims in a Strange Land
The pilgrims' lives truly were lived in sacrifice without complaining, as was their trademark. They were living in the New World before it was famous for "first world problems". As I poured through their journals and writings, I was gripped with an extreme conviction. Their hard work ethic, their fellowship and unity, their faithfulness, their lack of complaining paints a stark contrast to the world that I live in. The men, women and children who left everything to come to The New World were following what they believed was the strong and direct will of The Lord for their lives. They were refugees in every sense of the word, yet they lived in confident knowledge that the King of Kings was their father and protector.
Prayers for Healing
In a time of distress we seek The Lord for healing. Whether you need emotional, physical, mental, spiritual or relational healing, Jesus Christ is faithful. He will always work his Father's will in your life, as you seek him. I didn't say he will fulfill your will, but he will fulfill his Father's perfect will …
Praying the Psalms~Psalm 19 The Heavens Declare the Glory of God!
Some seasons of our lives are times of change, personal stretching and maybe, even a time of loss. I have been struck this year by the brevity of life. When I count up my years, all that I have lived for and loved seems so small. Even my busiest years seem like a drop in …
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Praying the Psalms~ Psalm 18 Train My Hands for Battle!
This summer, I asked God to give me a "word" for this school year we are starting. I needed a word that would embody God's plan or focus for me and a word to give me personal direction for my life. Some people pick a word for themselves. An example of this may be a …
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Running Into the Fire.
Here is a brief thought today. These brave firefighters in CA are right up on the edge of this fire, feeling the heat and battling for the lives of those in harms way. Let's remember to pray for them. Let's also take a lesson from their example. As believers, when we follow God's call for …
Forgivness is Like a Bath After A Long Day.
Today, as I floated serenely on a body board on a lake, a thought came to me. It was a short, powerful answer to a question I have been asking. I have been searching in prayer concerning forgiveness and it's function in the life of a believer. Why do we need to forgive when we …
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