Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 (NLT) It happened at elementary summer camp, and it happened fast. In fact, I was smitten with just
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An Excerpt from Shotgun Rider By K. Douglas Brown Every child who is going to the doctor has one question on their mind, am I going to get a shot? I remember as a kid dreading for days before a doctor visit the possibility of getting a shot. Around third grade there was a notice sent home stating that the
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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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He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. Galatians 3:14 (NIV) Abraham told a lie – a really big one. The story begins in Genesis 12 where God told Abraham to leave his home and family for
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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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The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out. Proverbs 20:5 (NIV) Years ago I found myself sitting in a homeowners association meeting; frustrated. The assembled group was trying to solve some neighborhood issues. As we discussed some of the possible solutions, the discussion felt hampered. Everyone in the room seemed to
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Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31 (NIV) The other day I was standing in the garage as my wife got
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I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33(NIV) It was my Christmas gift to my dad and we had planned the deep sea fishing trip for weeks. We got up in the still darkness of that January
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