Encouragement

  • Edify, Stupid!

    Paul instructs his readers to live a Godly life in today’s Bible reading. Nowhere is the idea that you can be saved and then live your life however you want, indulging your fleshly desires. My title above is a tongue-in-cheek way my college friends and I used to remind each other that we should use…

  • Beholding the Mystery

    In today’s Bible reading, Paul says that a mystery hidden through the ages has been revealed in Jesus Christ: The Gentiles are coheirs, members of the same body, and partners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. Ephesians 3:6 (CSB) The Gentiles are included! And not just included, but they’re co-heirs to God’s…

  • Words of Appreciation

    We finish reading through Romans in today’s Bible reading. He ends the letter like he does all of his letters with greetings to specific individuals who have ministered to him and to the church at large. Of course, they don’t do it for the recognition (or they shouldn’t), but people like to be recognized for…

  • For Others

    In today’s Bible reading, Paul highlights the fact that his ministry isn’t about him. He constantly points out that he is reaching out to others. His focus is never about him. He emphasizes here (and elsewhere) that one of his purposes — and one of our purposes — is to build up other people. Look…

  • How Much More

    Paul continues developing his thoughts on justification by grace through faith in today’s Bible reading. He says, “So then, as through one trespass there is condemnation for everyone, so also through one righteous act there is justification leading to life for everyone.” Romans 5:18 (CSB) Each of us is responsible for our own sin, yet…