An old photograph sits in a frame on my desk. Taken in 1959 when I was barely a year old, the black and white photo is of my father sitting at his desk in the pastor’s study. Visible on the … Continue reading 4 Crucial Questions Regarding Our Responsibility to the Next Generation
I don’t like feeling weak, whether it’s physically, emotionally, or spiritually. I just don’t like it. Ironically, however, it’s been by learning to embrace my weaknesses that I’ve grown stronger. In the moments—the seasons—of life during which I’ve been made … Continue reading 3 reasons to embrace weakness
“Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me” (Ps. 23:4, CSB). The most disconcerting thing about walking through the valley of the shadow of death is the uncertainty. When you’re walking … Continue reading 4 lessons from the valley of the shadow of death
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching …” (Acts 2:42). This tells me two things about the early church: (1) members were hungry for teaching; and (2) leaders taught. We have a pretty good idea about what they taught. … Continue reading 5 reasons the church must teach the Bible
What sometimes passes for Christian fellowship is about as nourishing as the doughnut you ate in Sunday School last week. Though enjoyable, it brings little spiritual benefit. To fellowship is to share. That’s the basic meaning of koinonia—sharing. But it’s a sharing … Continue reading Beyond the coffee and doughnuts
In Psalm 119:24, the psalmist called God’s decrees “my counselors.” Let God’s Word counsel you by asking yourself these questions in your moments of decision. 1. Can this be done to the glory of God? (1 Cor. 10:31) “Therefore, whether you eat or … Continue reading 10 questions for discerning God’s will
My favorite time of year has arrived. Football season is in full swing. College basketball is gearing up. The air is turning crisp. The leaves are turning. The holidays are just around the corner. That can mean only one thing: … Continue reading 5 reasons we pack Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes as a family
My pastor needs prayer, and so does yours. Every pastor needs prayer. The apostle Paul acknowledged repeatedly that he needed the church to pray for him. He appealed to the Romans: “strive together with me in your prayers to God … Continue reading 10 ways I’m praying for my pastor
I pray daily for my children. To be honest, though, my prayers too often fall short. They fall short because they focus only on immediate concerns, like behavioral issues, a good day at school, or good health. There’s nothing wrong … Continue reading 17 things to pray for your children
“God’s favorite color is blue,” she said matter-of-factly. “Why?” “Because that’s my Daddy’s favorite color.” I wonder what other characteristics of mine my 5-year-old daughter has projected on God. I wonder if she would say … “God is kind, because … Continue reading A father’s influence on his child’s perception of God
Mike Livingstone 
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