John 18:28  New International Version (NIV) Then the Jewish leaders took Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. For Meditation Very interesting! The Jewish leaders would not … Continue reading Hypocritical Christianity

John 18:11  New International Version (NIV) Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?” For Meditation It is easy to assume that an extended hand is always a helping hand. Our intentions may be laudable alright; however, the results could be something else. This recalls the story … Continue reading The Unhelpful Help

John 12:19  New International Version (NIV) So the Pharisees said to one another, “See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after him!” For Meditation Jealousy can dull the human sense and blind us to spiritual realities. The self usually gets so enamored by itself that it cannot see anything … Continue reading The Cry of Jaded Pride

Philippians 2:3  New International Version (NIV)  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, For meditation Selfishness is one of the greatest enemies of unity in all relationships. It destroys marriages and rules the affairs of the couple with greed. When this ugly animal rears its head in … Continue reading Unselfish Living

Matthew 13:13 New International Version (NIV) This is why I speak to them in parables: “Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. For Meditation How true scripture is! We pretend to listen to our spouses, but many times, our hearts are not attentive. It is not because we … Continue reading Pretentious Listening

Matthew 26:56 New International Version (NIV)  But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled. For meditation Have you ever felt this lonely before – the time when all your trusted friends and family deserted you? But, didn't they make you think … Continue reading When They All Desert You…

Mark 8:33  New International Version (NIV) But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” For Meditation Imagine this scene. Jesus is with His disciples on the way to some villages around Caesarea Philippi. He … Continue reading The Look that Changed Everything

Haggai 1:12 New International Version (NIV) Then Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest, and the whole remnant of the people obeyed the voice of the Lord their God and the message of the prophet Haggai because the Lord their God had sent him. For Meditation Who wants to be deceived? Who takes delight in disappointment, failure, or … Continue reading Do You Know the Source?

Philemon 1:8-10 New International Version (NIV) Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus—that I appeal to you for … Continue reading Forgive That Person, Please!