Frankincense
“And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 As a boy, I often puzzled over the gifts of the Magi. Gold was certainly a treasure.… Frankincense
The “Who, Me?” Syndrome
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT When I was attending grade school, some of the biggest infractions were chewing gum in class, throwing chalk, and running in the hallways. When caught, most kids were quick to… The “Who, Me?” Syndrome
Following God with All Our Heart Begins with Repentance and Faith
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT In the history of the kings that followed King David, those kings are often compared to him. Sometimes it is by contrast: “. . . [Abijam] was not loyal to the Lord his… Following God with All Our Heart Begins with Repentance and Faith
“Purge Me with Hyssop”
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT THE HYSSOP PLANT is mentioned twelve times in Scripture1—ten times in the Old Testament and twice in the New. The most familiar reference may be Psalm 51:7, where David writes,… “Purge Me with Hyssop”
The Shibboleth Dilemma
While living in South Dakota, I worked witha colleague who was originally from NewEngland. He was an odd-spoken sort offellow. When he needed to clean his hands, he went to thewarshroom. He later drove home… The Shibboleth Dilemma
God-Centered Worship
It has been correctly observed that genuine, God-centered worship is not limited to worship services. With their entire lives, God’s children worship the God of their creation and redemption. Our worship reveres God, and that… God-Centered Worship
“Mandrakes, Please”
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT The Bible mentions more than one hundred plants, herbs, and trees; everything from acacia and aloe to wheat and wormwood. Knowing the appearance and properties of these plants can help… “Mandrakes, Please”
A Fixer-Upper
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT Anyone familiar with the DIY Network has heard of Chip and Joanna Gaines. They are the married couple from Waco, Texas who find and “fix up” older houses for clients.… A Fixer-Upper
Sacrificing Love on the Altar of Misunderstanding
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (Please read Joshua chapter 22.) The Reubenites, Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh fought alongside the rest of Israel to take possession of the land west of the Jordan.… Sacrificing Love on the Altar of Misunderstanding
Prepared for the Journey
GEMS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT Life is a journey. As Christian travelers, we’re simply passing through the Temporary on our way to the Eternal. During the trip, we often face dangers, difficult terrain, ups and… Prepared for the Journey