They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. 2 Corinthians 8:2-3 (NLT) My friend Gary is always
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Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. Romans 13:1-3 (NLT) When I was a college, I had a part-time job helping out some homeowners. They usually had me assist with yard maintenance or some other home upkeep repairs, and I really enjoyed the
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He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29-31 (NIV) I can’t believe it, but I did it again. It seems every couple of years I throw my back out, and find myself out of commission for a day or two. It usually happens in the spring when it first starts to warm up
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But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) Last week I was having one of those down weeks. “What is a down week?” you ask. It’s
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So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her. Genesis 29:20 (NIV) I used to work for a man who was a gunner in the Air Force during World War II. One time he told me a horrific story about watching a friend’s plane get
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He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Isaiah 40:29 (NIV) A few years ago on a spring morning, I woke up and began my day as usual. As I made my way into the kitchen, however, it felt as if the ground began to move under me. I braced myself as I slammed into
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My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. James 1:19, 20 (NIV) One of the most destructive forces in any relationships is anger. By itself, anger is not sinful. However, when we allow ourselves
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Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Job 38:4 (NIV) I remember once seeing a t-shirt that said, “Two things are true: There is a God, and you’re not him.” What a simple concept that we so easily forget! Too many times we try to take on the role of God. We act
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The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:6-7 (NLT) Recently I found myself facing a serious trial. Maybe you’ve been in a situation similar to mine. I began to pray and ask for God’s help.
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But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 1 Timothy 6:6-7 (NIV) Do you ever feel like you’re on one of those hamster wheels, running and running and getting nowhere? Our lives can get so crazy that we start to feel like we’re in a rat
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