Callouses

My hands have become soft! Before I retired I used all sorts of hand tools, screwdrivers, hammers, wrenches, and occasionally a shovel or spade. My hands were calloused. The places on my palms and fingers that received the greatest friction most often became covered with a tough, thick layer of skin, and it wasn't necessary … Continue reading Callouses

Bear Hunting

The story goes about a man who was bear hunting and had hired a local guide. They saw a big bear over on the next hill, within range, and the guide said "Take your shot." The man did so, and wounded the bear, which turned and ran straight at the hunters in a roaring rage. … Continue reading Bear Hunting

Sanctuary Promise

The term 'sanctuary' today has some negative connotations to some people, but to others it seems to be good intent. There is one sanctuary – the True Sanctuary – that means the same for whomever enters into it. The Sanctuary of God. Asaph (aw-sawf) was one of the three men King David put in charge … Continue reading Sanctuary Promise

The Incense of Prayer

When you walk into many yoga studios you are immediately greeted with a pleasant-smelling aroma caused by burning incense. Incense comes from the Latin word(s) meaning “to burn” (incendium, incendi, incendere for example), and it is a mixture of an aromatic substance and a combustible material that binds it all together, usually on a stick … Continue reading The Incense of Prayer

The Mantle of Praise

One of my brothers worked with a man who understood the uplifting power of praising the Lord. He would be walking down an aisle in the hardware store or the grocery store or anywhere and suddenly would start praising God with “Hallelulah” and “Praise God.” When Jesus was in Nazareth and went into the temple, … Continue reading The Mantle of Praise

Ringtone

There's an old gospel song written by Albert E. Brumley called “Turn Your Radio On” in 1939, and it's been sung by just about every gospel singer and group since, plus many country artists. There were several variations on the lyrics, here is a popular one: Come and listen in to a radio station Where … Continue reading Ringtone

Timeline

The future. What is it? Why is it important? Just how important is it? What if plans for our future fall apart? How do your plans for the future affect what you do today? What are you willing to totally give up today for future plans? What is the single most important thing to your … Continue reading Timeline

Tale of Two Athletes

During this time of year we often (and should) turn our thoughts to helping and giving. Christmas in America stands for different things to different people, however. In today's society, some are taught that receiving is more important than giving, and indeed some feel they are entitled to do and say whatever they want. So, … Continue reading Tale of Two Athletes

Abounding in Hope

A story was sent to me about a man who was imprisoned during Napoleon's reign. While sulking in his dungeon one day, he etched on the wall the words "Nobody Cares". A few weeks later, through a crack in the dungeon floor, a little green shoot sprang forth, reaching toward the tiny ray of sunlight … Continue reading Abounding in Hope

Cause and Effect

The following was sent to me via email by a brother; it's from John Hagee Ministries; it's called "Small Beginnings": We love to celebrate big things! We bestow huge awards on people who perform better than everyone else. Behind every person who reaps the recognition, though, someone else has sown the little things. In 1970, … Continue reading Cause and Effect