Out of the Chaos
Inspiration for living outside of the chaos.
Tag: hope
Daily Reads 02.07.2020
One major turning point in my journey occurred during a sixteen week healing care group. As we explored wounds and what we do to protect ourselves, I recognized that I used religion as an escape from the pain I experienced. Without realizing it, I believed the lie that if my behavior was good and my …
The Pain that Performs
A few months ago, as I prepared to speak at a local Christian school, I had an ah-ha moment. As I pondered my own spiritual journey, I recognized that wounds from my past could be my excuse or my strength. Everyone experiences episodes that cause wounds. Interestingly, it is not the episode that causes long …
Daily Reads 01.29.2020
…though I could have confidence in my own effort if anyone could. Indeed, if others have reason for confidence in their own efforts, I have even more! I was circumcised when I was eight days old. I am a pure-blooded citizen of Israel and a member of the tribe of Benjamin—a real Hebrew if there …
Daily Reads 01.28.2020
Consider identity – what you believe about yourself at the core of your being – how was it formed? I can’t help but believe that the beginnings of what we believe is formed very early in life by significant adults. This includes parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, neighbors, aunts, uncles, cousins. As we move into adulthood, …
Daily Reads 01.26.2020
Today as you enter worship, or contemplate your day, invite Jesus into your thoughts. What is it you need today? Set your intention, check your posture, and prepare to receive. He is in the business of renewal. And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all …
Daily Reads 01.18.2020
Read: Ecclesiastes 12:1-7 This passage of scripture is the most picturesque description of aging I have ever read. Years ago when I was teaching Bible in a local private school, I assigned the students to read these verses and procure a picture of what Solomon describes. Not a single student brought a picture of a …
Daily Reads 01.17.2020
Read: Ecclesiastes 11 Today Solomon turns to investment advice. In our house, Dave takes care of our investment portfolio, following the advice of a financial manager. It seems to me that Solomon’s advice is as good as anyone. His perspective: DIVERSIFY. Balance seems to be the key to successful living. He says in all of …
Daily Reads 01.16.2020
Read: Ecclesiastes 10 In this chapter, Solomon contrasts wisdom and folly. Most of his contrasts are written in the form of pithy sayings that cut right to the point. I especially enjoyed verse 10. Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed. Ecclesiastes …
Daily Reads 01.15.2020
Read: Ecclesiastes 9 In Solomon’s exploration of life and its purpose, he also explored death. He concluded that death comes to all regardless of position, power or belief system. And in this, he is correct. One hundred percent of us will die. Because he writes trying to find meaning apart from God, his conclusion is …
Daily Reads 01.13.2020
Read: Ecclesiastes 7 The reading for today is well worth the effort it takes to read the whole chapter. But knowing we don’t all have the same time, I selected my standout verses to share with you today. Here they are: Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins. Don’t eavesdrop …
Out of the Chaos 