Peter's first mistake when denying Jesus was believing that he wouldn't. When Jesus tells you something about yourself, believe Him—especially when it's something you wish weren't true. He brings those hard realities to the surface so we can deal with the spot before the infection spreads too deep to treat. You can't change what you … Continue reading On Denial and Change
What Most People Miss About Integrity
Integrity is revealed in the light but developed in the dark. What you do when others are watching is often image management. What you do when no one is around—when you believe no one will find out and there’s no reward for doing the right thing—that’s real integrity. Integrity is strongest where it is least … Continue reading What Most People Miss About Integrity
The Unexpected Gift That Reminded Me What God’s Grace Really Means
Photo by Irina Chishkova via Unsplash.com Six years ago my son got really sick ended up needing a stem cell transplant. Without question, it was the hardest season of my life. I remember during that time praying, “God, just save my son’s life. If you save my son’s life, that will be enough.” And by … Continue reading The Unexpected Gift That Reminded Me What God’s Grace Really Means
Faith Doesn’t Require Pretending
Trusting God doesn’t mean pretending you’re fine when you’re really not. Sometimes people will share something awful they’re going through, then put a smile on their face and say, “But God is good!” as if everything is okay. You don’t have to fake it until you make it. You’re not a bad Christian if you … Continue reading Faith Doesn’t Require Pretending
The Problems You Don’t See
Everyone you envy has problems you don’t see. No one lives a problem-free life. The people with the life you want often carry problems you know nothing about. There’s heat under every spotlight. Every highlight reel has hours left on the cutting-room floor. Don’t let the blessing you see make you forget the burden you … Continue reading The Problems You Don’t See
When Your Faith Is Tested, Here’s What’s Actually Happening
Courtesy of Victor Freitas via Unsplash.com Ten years ago, I went through one of the worst seasons of my life. I had been unexpectedly laid off, and it took me seven months before I was able to find another job. And those seven months might as well have been seven years. I remember there were … Continue reading When Your Faith Is Tested, Here’s What’s Actually Happening