It is difficult for me to slow down, relax, and just spend time with God. In fact, I usually measure the success of my days based on how productive I was and the amount of work I got done. Sitting and just “being” doesn’t seem like a great way to find success.
Formations 05.21.2023: Be Good
May 14, 2023 by
Two thousand years of preaching and teaching have provided ample—though sometimes contradictory—guidance on what “good” looks like.
Formations 11.22.2020: Be Joyful Always
November 15, 2020 by
Sometimes it’s hard to feel joyful about other people’s joy. Even when we’re supposed to let a loved one bask in success and happiness, it can be tough to push down our own envy, bitterness, and exasperation.
Connections 09.15.2019: Don’t Be Foolish
September 8, 2019 by
Whenever I see a news story about a complicated cybercrime or some other elaborate scheme, I think, “If those people would use their ingenuity and creativity for good, they could help make this a better world.”
Formations 02.17.2019: You Shall Be Holy
February 10, 2019 by
This week’s text raises our attention to holiness. In the process, I’ve noticed two questions I’ve been struggling with lately—who are we, and what does it mean? As Moses relays these codes for holiness, he begins with identity.
Connections 07.29.2018: Will this Be on the Test?
July 22, 2018 by
We can’t help being fascinated by stories like David’s. A handsome, admired man with a bright future, beloved of God, giant slayer, powerful leader, conqueror of Saul, adored friend of Jonathan.
“Be Still and Know that I Am God”
March 26, 2018 by
Of all Bible verses, “Be still, and know that I am God!” is one of my favorites (Psalm 46:10). A hyperactive individual all my life, just being still is a challenge. And controlling the mind? An act of Congress could not do it, so that’s a feat better left to God. Praise the Lord, I have tried numerous, varied, untold places to pray and meditate.
Formations 02.04.2018: Living in Tensions
January 28, 2018 by
It’s not uncommon that I steal books from my grandfather’s coffee table. He goes ahead and tells me to take what I want, so it isn’t really stealing. Over the years, he has made sure to send me home with books that have been meaningful for him.
Connections 03.19.2017: What Is and What Will Be
March 12, 2017 by
There was a time when I wanted everything to make sense. It didn’t want to, so I tried to force it. It didn’t go well. Somewhere along the way, I gave up on that project. Life’s been better since I did. But folks do try to explain things, don’t they? One of the things we hear well-intentioned Christians say is, “Life’s tough; then you die.”
“Be Not Afraid”
January 24, 2017 by
A popular quote being passed around the internet says that no phrase appears in the Bible more times than “Be not afraid.” One version of the quote claims this phrase occurs 365 times, one for each day of the year. That’s a beautiful idea. Unfortunately, it’s not accurate.
You Need Only Be Still (And Then Get Moving!)
March 16, 2016 by
I’m not very good at being still. I fidget. I pace. I drum my fingers on counters and chew pencils into nubs. There may be some deeper issues at play, but I have always struggled with being still.