Holey ground

Our Lord Jesus Christ taught us to pray to avoid temptation and evil (Matt 6:9-15). As Christians, we sometimes believe that we are not capable of committing "certain sins." However, the Bible makes it clear that any one of us could fall into any sin. What sin do you find so contemptible that you believe you couldn't commit it? Are you judging others for that sin?

Tearing up the debt

As Christians, we have been forgiven all of our sin-debt to God, because of the payment made by our Lord, Jesus Christ. This great gift gives us the model to follow when we consider how we should deal with those who owe a debt to us. Are we able to forgive the way Jesus forgave us? Matt 6:9-16

Saving vs hoarding

While the Bible seems to acknowledge the benefits of a wise saving plan(Gen 41), it warns us against trusting in our savings (Matt 6:19-21).  Could this be the reason God's special provision (manna) had to be gathered daily and could not be stored? This limitation kept the food from being hoarded, or used a currency. Are you wisely saving for the future, or are you hoarding God's gifts?

Give Us, not just Give Me

When Jesus instructed his disciples in prayer, he gave them the famous line, "Give us this day our daily bread."(Matt 6:11) As Christ's disciples, modern Christians might consider the plural in this line. God encourages us to remember those around us while we pray for our very sustenance. 

God's family may be larger than you think

When teaching his disciples to pray,  (the famous "Lord's Prayer" Matt 6:9-13), Jesus not only addresses God has Father, but includes the word "our." God's fatherhood over all believers is the basis for our unity and love. Consider that while Jesus was teaching the disciples to call God their "Father," he was addressing men with radically different political positions.

But why can't I hear God anymore?

Often Christians feel the need to cover-up the times when God seems to be silent and far away. Part of having faith is believing in the promises of God, even when we don't see physical evidence of His active participation in our lives (Heb 11:1). These painful silences can be strong reminders of just how dependent we are on God and His blessings, and how little we can do for ourselves.

Why do I have money?

Ephesians 4:28 encourages Christians to work honestly for their paychecks. Surprising, the reason provided is so that we can give to those in need. This simple lesson helps free Christians from materialism and from defining ourselves by our worldly wealth. Do you believe that your wealth is actually God's great provision given to you to pass on to others?