by Bill Elliff
July 14, 2023
To discipline means to train. The Greek word is “gymnasio,” from which we get “gymnasium.” We immediately associate this word with physical exercise, but the word has a far larger application. Paul warns his young disciple, Timothy, about the coming apostasy and what we must do to avoid it through a life of disciplined growth.
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by Bill Elliff
July 13, 2023
When you are weak, do you quit? Do you wallow in despair and self-pity? Do you resign yourself to a second-best effort? Do you try to pull yourself up by your own bootstraps? Or do you, like David, say, "For YOU are the God of my strength!"
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by Bill Elliff
July 11, 2023
Everything in my life that is of value comes to me in the mornings, for this is the time I read, pray, write, and meet with God. I cannot imagine the difference in my life, the lack I would be experiencing if the Lord had not awakened me and the Spirit reminded me (through this verse) of the value of rising.
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by Bill Elliff
June 26, 2023
I wonder what Paul was really like. If he were in our church, what would we think about him? He was amazingly intense, and incredibly focused. He never hesitated to challenge others. I doubt he'd be the guy who'd just piddle around much. Not that it's necessarily wrong or sinful, but I don't see him playing video games or watching television till the early morning hours.
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by Bill Elliff
June 21, 2023
Everyone needs a power beyond their own resources. Tragically, most do not realize it is abundantly available to them through Christ ... all the power they will every need!
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by Bill Elliff
June 19, 2023
There is a relentless passion in man to have more. To have it all. To get everything one can in this life for themselves and those around them.
But what most do not realize is that “all” is possible! In fact, it’s God’s great desire to give unsearchable riches to us, and He has provided a way.
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by Bill Elliff
June 17, 2023
I was challenged by a friend who listed a few of the basics of life ... the things you must do if you do nothing else. Here are my top 20 after 65 years of knowing Christ.
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by Bill Elliff
June 06, 2023
Our job is to remember who He is, who we are, and understand the difference. And then live every common day looking to and relying on the One who is all in all. Ten times in John 15 Jesus uses the word “abide,” which is to remain in a stable, fixed position with Him.
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by Bill Elliff
May 16, 2023
God made us in His image, but He knows we have been marred by the fall. He longs for us to experience the freedom and beauty of such holiness, and He plans to return us there. He wants to return us to holiness. To conform us to the image of His Son. But how does this process work?
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by Bill Elliff
April 12, 2023
Do you long to be aware of His presence? To enjoy more consistent intimacy with God in your life, your home, your church? There are very deliberate things you can do to create an environment where God is pleased to dwell. Thinking of preparing your home for a visit from your most beloved and honored guest. Now, prepare the home of your life for the King. Paying attention to our environments will illustrate what we really want.
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by Bill Elliff
March 29, 2023
As a pastor for the last 55 years, I have had the joy of being encouraged and blessed and prayed for by so many people. It is what carries you in your task of shepherding people. As I look back over five decades of ministry, their love has dramatically enriched my life.
But also, a pastor leads. And when anyone leads, there are almost always some who disagree.
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by Bill Elliff
March 28, 2023
When Jesus was asked which was the most important commandment, He replied with no hesitation: "Love the Lord Your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind." (Matthew 22:37). This first and greatest commandment was given to remind us that what we love we worship. What we love, we serve. And it is fascinating to notice the "all" of this command. There is no room for divided affections.
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