Ephesians 1:3-6             Throughout the New Testament, Christians are referred to as God’s chosen (or elect) people.  Paul writes that “He chose us in Him” (i.e. in Christ) to be holy and blameless.  Peter writes that Christians are a “chosen race (generation), a royal priesthood, a holy nation” (1:2:9).  Paul writes to the Thessalonian church (2:2:13) that they had been chosen “for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth.”  This choosing by G

John 11:30-37             Does God cry?  What do you think?  Scripture indicates that God experiences anguish of heart when people do wrong.  In the days of Noah (Genesis 6:5-8) we are told that God observed the continual wickedness of mankind and that “He was grieved in His heart.”  Maybe God in heaven does not shed literal tears, but He certainly is hurt by the sinful and destructive actions of us human beings.             It is also important to know this.  God isn’t only

Ecclesiastes 12:11             What better way to start the new year than with another helping of the sayings and quotes I’ve collected?  Read, savor and be blessed!   >                    Our faith is not true because we believe it; rather, we believe it because it is true.    – Mark Mittelberg   >                    To serve a hungry person a meal is just as holy as to serve them the Lord’s Supper.   >                    Unless you assume a God, the question of life’s purpo

John 14:1-3             There is an old expression: “Home is where the heart is.”  Now, I believe that’s a good sentiment if one understands “the heart” in the expression.  It is one’s love, passion and desire.  For some people home is a place; for others, it’s family.             In a very real sense, Christians are on a journey home.  What we need to be careful about on this journey is where our “heart” is.  Some of us focus on that “mansion just over the hilltop” of which

Matthew 10:7-8             We are in that season of the year in which giving is on everybody’s mind.  A spirit of giving seems to be at every corner and on every website.  Those who celebrate Christmas are busy shopping for gifts for family and friends.  TV ads and fliers remind us of how many shopping days are left and how late you can order on line and still receive your purchase in time for the holiday.             Charitable organizations seize the opportunity of the seas