September 08, 2020
Some words are spoken or written, but are utterly unnecessary. Others are merely to entertain. But there are some words upon which history hinges. Words that change the world. Words that articulate facts. To believe them is to be established and real. To ignore them can be deadly.
There are many words and phrases that are essential to real faith. “In the beginning, God created the world” is vital to know, understand, and believe. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” announced the entrance of Christ. But perhaps no eight words are more important than these:
“He is not here, but He has risen.” (Luke 24:6)
Upon this reality rests of all of Christianity. If Christ, who prophesied of His death, burial, and resurrection, had not accomplished all three, He would have been a pathological liar, or a raving lunatic, as C.S. Lewis says.
No one has ever been raised from the dead, never to die again, except Christ. His resurrection brought multiple, eternity-shaping effects. Here are eight realities that spring from these eight, glorious words!
The resurrection of Christ …
Father, thank You for sending Your Son to live a sinless life, die a sacrificial life, and rise from the dead, never to die again! Thank You for what His resurrection means to humanity. Thank You for what it means to me. May the rest of my life be spent in humble gratitude and faithful following of our living Lord!
February 18, 2025
I have known many people who have had great joy and power in the midst of great suffering. It is humbling that the slightest inconveniences deter many of us from following God. We have not gotten to the bottom—settled the issue. Most often, we live for our comfort, reputation, or gain. When any of those goals are touched, we are troubled and discontent.
February 17, 2025
The repentant who finds God gains everything. “He who has God and everything else,” said C.S. Lewis, “has no more than he who has God alone.”
February 12, 2025
Repentance helps us. Repentance heals us. Repentance restores us and refreshes us. And these are all the outcomes a loving Father desires for His children.