In the rich tapestry of human emotions, the term ‘triggered’ emerges as a multifaceted concept, often tossed around in contemporary discourse. Its usage spans a broad spectrum, from casual references in daily conversations to profound implications in psychological contexts. At its core, being ‘triggered’ encapsulates an intense emotional reaction, typically negative, to a particular stimulus….
Life
Bull Headed vs. Graceful Correction: Lessons from Apollos and the Way of God
Don’t be “bullheaded”… my grandmother used to always say. A bull is a stubborn beast who gets its way in the world, has to be caged, and is feared to destroy the China shops of souls. When it comes to disagreement, especially around theological things, we must always be much less than bullish. We must…
More Undignified Than This: Dress Down, Not Up for Worship
Essay | The Evolution of Church Attire: A Historical and Theological Exploration The practice of dressing up for church, deeply rooted in history and culture, stands in stark contrast to the Biblical teachings emphasizing humility and modesty. This essay delves into the historical evolution of church attire and its theological implications, exploring how societal norms…
Choosing Contentment: The Christian Perspective on the Paradox of Choice
In 2008 my professional life was very organized. Very Simple. This came after a time of great stress and pain, chaos and confusion, and I was determined to embrace a new season of hope. Part of that focus centered on the principle of simplicity. So, I bought a sign. A simple sign that just said,…
Thanksgiving According to the Bible
Gratitude in Scripture: A Living Expression of Love and Thanks Gratitude, as revealed through the Scriptures, is not merely a fleeting sentiment but a profound state of being, deeply intertwined with actions expressed in love. This biblical concept of thankfulness transcends mere words, embedding itself in the fabric of our daily lives. It’s a dynamic…
The Bible Doesn’t Answer Everything
It does speak to everything… in a way of wisdom. In the vast ocean of human experience, where waves of tradition and expectation often threaten to engulf our individuality, it’s crucial to seek a beacon of true understanding. In this context, the Scriptures are frequently perceived as rigid lighthouses, enforcing a strict path of conformity….
Blame the Church… it’s time to be honest.
The Evangelical church in America is a leading contributor to dysfunctional views on marriage, family, and intimacy, thereby distorting the core message of the Gospel. The Evangelical church in America stands at a crossroads, one where the signs point to conflicting directions. On one hand, we have the genuine pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, and on…
Resting in Unseen Assurance: Embracing Faith Like Little Children
In the quiet confidence of a child who rests securely in the care of loving parents, unaware of the complexities and burdens that the parents carry, lies a profound picture of our spiritual journey. This image mirrors how our minds, often clouded with the need for understanding and control, can find true rest in the…
The Embodiment of Rest: Discovering Abundance in the Gospel of Christ
In the ever-turning pages of life’s journey, amidst the ebbs and flows of trials and tranquility, there lies a profound truth, resonant and deep: Jesus Christ is our rest. This is not merely an aspect of His ministry but the essence of the gospel story itself. In Him, the weary find solace, the burdened receive…
Embracing the Soul’s Sabbath: The Restful Work of the Spirit in Our Lives
In a world incessantly bustling with noise, haste, and unrest, the soul longs for a Sabbath—a place of rest not found on a map, but within the tranquil embrace of faith. This rest is the divine work of the Spirit, gifting us with a childlike trust that transcends our finite understanding and tumultuous circumstances. As…