Acts 13:2 “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’” Fasting does as much for my ears as it does for my heart. As I go through the exercise of consistent, intentional sacrifice and surrender to God,… Continue Reading
Daniel 10:3 “I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over.” One of the most asked questions when it comes to fasting is about the what. Fasting is giving up something for a period of time in order to… Continue Reading
When you Fast! January 1, 2024 Matthew 6:16-18 says, “When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your… Continue Reading
“I’m going to keep preaching this one until you start doing it, then I’ll move on to the next one.” I don’t know if you remember but I preached on this Sunday last year, the Sunday after Christmas. Last year it was January 1. This year, of course, December 31. I preached a message I… Continue Reading
https://youtu.be/Vb8pA3OQBvw?feature=shared The discipline of serving changes us like no other. When we realize that our lives are not about us but rather, about Him and them, we begin to experience the “abundant life” that Jesus offered. We serve in three areas. We serve God. We serve people. And we serve the church. In Matthew 25,… Continue Reading
Paul says, “Study to show yourself approved…” (2 Timothy 2:15) Whatever the subject, being intentional about study makes us more proficient, more productive, and more prepared to share our wisdom. Study, specifically study of our faith and the Word of God, improves our walk, informs our talk, and enhances our life in Christ. Here are… Continue Reading
One of the often overlooked disciplines of the spiritual life is the discipline of simplicity. Here are 6 steps to help you choose a more austere, perhaps Christ-centered life in the days ahead. For a daily thought about this and other topics, subscribe at branchesblog.com, or follow on Facebook or Instagram. (Did I say that… Continue Reading
https://youtu.be/Q_bodGHiFmc?feature=shared God gives us disciplines, sacraments, and encounters as opportunities to experience His grace. When we do what He tells us to do we experience what He wants us to experience. We call those things “means of grace.” And interestingly enough, at the same time He very often uses us to be a means… Continue Reading
At the root of most of our “hurts, habits, and hang-ups” is an inability or an unwillingness to forgive. Forgiveness is the cornerstone of healing, recovery, restoration. But it is hard to do. Here are some thoughts that might help move you along the path from unforgiving to forgiveness. Forgiveness is not a license. I… Continue Reading
Nothing could be more heart breaking, I imagine, than the estrangement of our children. And yet it happens so many time. I meet couples all of the time that are suffering from separation from their children, sometimes without knowing why. The one thing we cannot do is lose hope. Here are some thoughts about God’s… Continue Reading