Choosing the path of grace is about someone who wants the best for the person they are involved with. In our sinful nature, it’s common to treat people harshly when we’re dissatisfied with their behavior or other issues. Often, when couples face marital problems, they tend to be critical of their spouse’s actions. They criticize …
The need for reconciliation ranks among the most crucial necessities in our lives and the world. Reconciliation brings joy. But its roots often lie in the past. God told Abraham he and Sarah would have the son of the promise. After years with no child, they grew impatient. Sarah proposed having a child with Hagar, their servant, …
We are saved by faith, which reflects God’s work in our lives and the grace He offers us. Paul gives us insight into Abraham’s faith. Romans 4:2If his good deeds had made him acceptable to God, he would have had something to boast about. But that was not God’s way. 3 For the Scriptures tell us, …
God’s plan unfolds despite human deceit. God had given Abraham the promise of many descendants. Sarah was to be the mother of these descendants, who would be as numerous as the stars in the sky. However, when Abraham claimed Sarah as his sister rather than his wife, Abimelech took her into his harem. This put …
What should we do when we doubt God? The best thing we can do is talk to Him about it! The Psalms are an excellent example of people pouring their hearts to God about various issues. God told Abram that He would protect him and give him a great reward, but then Abram responded with …
Fear versus faith is a struggle every believer faces along their faith journey. Fear, not the Lord’s guidance, led Abram and Sarai to travel to Egypt due to a famine. It was fear that led Abram to fabricate the story his beautiful wife was his sister, so he would escape harm. Genesis 12:15 When the palace …
The flood story shows the waters of judgment and hope. The rising waters sealed the fate of the unrepentant while, at the same time, lifting the ark, which was the hope of a new world. God is both judge and Savior. He judged the wicked and provided grace for Noah and his family. God didn’t …
When God’s patience runs out, it is not where a person or group wants to be. It must sadden God’s heart when we go down the wrong road and don’t listen to His cry to turn around. One of the remarkable characteristics of God is His love for humanity to repent of their sins and …
Have you ever thought about finding favor in God’s eyes? The word ‘favor’ is used in various ways throughout the Bible. It can mean grace and acceptance, but in this context, it is the state of favorable regard.[1] Trying to earn God’s favor feels like running a long race without a finish line, climbing a never-ending …
Forgiving in the face of suffering is one of Jesus’ most extraordinary acts of compassion and mercy as He suffers on the cross. Luke 23:34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.[1] As we reflect on this verse, we see …