Why Humility Is a Safeguard for Us

There was a time when pride was seen as a sign of bad character, and even non-Christians believed the proverb: “Let someone else praise you, and not your own mouth; an outsider, and not your own lips” (Proverbs 27:2).

Modern culture has forgotten that wisdom. No wonder we have so many arrogant actors, musicians, politicians, sports stars, and everyday people. 

I'm glad Christ followers follow Scripture not culture because: 

“Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.”  Proverbs 16:18-19

We know that humility leads us in the right direction. 

“Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.”  Proverbs 18:12

And in the end, we understand that humility also brings more favor than pride:

 

“Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor.”  Proverbs 29:23

Most important, we know that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6).

It's easy for us to think too highly of ourselves, and that's why our loving God warns us of the consequences. He doesn't ask us to hate ourselves or think the worst. He expects us to judge ourselves accurately according to how faithful we are to His plans, purposes, and principles:

“Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.” Romans 12:3

Are there ways you should adjust your view of yourself?

For more encouragement, see We Need It: Humility and Modern Psychology Might Be the Biggest Gaslighter of All.

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Find Out if a 2000-year-old Seed Can Produce Fruit

Sixty years ago archaeologists discovered a 2000-year-old jar in an ancient city in Israel. The jar contained palm seeds, and when they planted one in 2005, it grew a healthy palm which produced dates (source)!

Pretty incredible. 

In my devotion Why Genuine Believers Are Like Palm Trees, I explained that Psalm 92 compares faithful Christians to resilient, fruitful palms.

In this devotion I'd like to focus specifically on this promise (vv. 14-15):

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, ‘The Lord is upright; he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.’”

Bearing fruit is a major principle in Scripture (John 15).  

In 2010, after years of moving for career and ministry purposes, my husband and I thought we'd settle near our children in our final earthly home. After all, we were both in our 60s.

We enjoyed that situation for five years before God called us to volunteer with a ministry in another state. There were sacrifices, but we were blessed that God could still use us to bear fruit at that stage of our lives.*

Every time God has moved us, it's been an adventure we'd never have wanted to miss...a challenge, a growing experience, and an opportunity to bear fruit.

God has given my husband and me a life of constant change, but Christians can bear fruit in all of life's circumstances as long as they refuse to “retire” from living out God's principles and purposes (Ephesians 2:10).

Whatever our age or stage of life, we need to look for ways to bear fruit for the Lord...leaving “seeds” of faith that produce fruit long after our time on earth is over.

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*And we've made two moves for ministry since then!

For more on this subject, see Embracing Our Vine and Let's Cling Tightly to Our Life-giving Vine. 

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Foolish Excuses For Sin

Please pray that more women will recognize Satan's propaganda and more Christians will educate themselves in God's Word so we can graciously speak against all of the lies in disguise we encounter daily in our culture.

Have you heard one of the newer arguments of the pro-abortion movement: “Giving a child up for adoption is more painful for a woman than getting an abortion.”

Because pro-abortion groups know childless couples are waiting in line to adopt children, they have trouble justifying late-term abortions when the woman has already carried the child for months.

So they claim that women are more comfortable killing their children than placing them in loving homes.

Imagine how many murders could be justified with this reasoning. For example, a man could save himself from the emotional trauma of divorce and alimony by simply killing his wife.

Taking the easy way out of any problem also leads to increased irresponsibility. No wonder 45% of abortion patients have already had a previous abortion. (source)* 

Pro-abortion groups also deny the reality of post abortion syndrome which causes many women to suffer the emotional scars of their abortion their entire lives. 

Pro-abortion advocates are neither pro-woman nor pro-choice.

Abortion has desecrated our land with innocent blood (Psalm 106:37-38). We must obey our Creator and fight for the lives of these innocent babies (Proverbs 31:8-9; 1 Corinthians 16:13).

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* This percentage is from a study in 2018. Since that time, the abortion pill has become more available and people aren't required to report abortions from the abortion pill. So it's logical to assume that repeat abortions may now surpass 45%. Add this to the fact that birth control has been readily available for decades, and we have to admit that abortion promotes irresponsibility and serial murder.

Additional Resources: 

Abortion Victims: realizing the woman also is harmed by abortion. 

Sophisticated Child Sacrifice: showing how abortion is simply sophisticated pagan child sacrifice.

From Veggie Tales to Situational Ethics: showing a real-life example of “Christians” promoting situational ethics to encourage people to vote for pro-abortion candidates.

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8 Narcissist Problems

Our culture is devolving, taking on more and more narcissistic* characteristics.

This is partly due to dis-proven self-esteem philosophies, and partly due to man's tendency to resist God's ways.

Below are 8 narcissistic characteristics and
✤ 8 Christian characteristics with Scripture.

It's good to periodically examine ourselves and let God's Word correct us (James 1:22-25;  2 Timothy 3:16-17).

1. The narcissist refuses criticism or correction.
✤ The Christian listens and heeds constructive criticism - Proverbs 15:31.
See: The Benefit of Constructive Criticism  

2. The narcissist uses people.
✤ The Christian considers other people's needs and interests - Philippians 2:1-4.
See: The One Thing that Always Damages Relationships 

3. The narcissist exaggerates his/her importance, achievements and talents.
✤ The Christian has a realistic view of self (Romans 12:3).
See: Bragging is Not Biblical

4. The narcissist expects special consideration.
✤ The Christian focuses on treating others considerately (Romans 12:10).
See: 18 Characteristics of Biblical Love

5. The narcissist requires constant attention.
✤ The Christian draws attention to God, not self (Psalm 103). 
See: Does Self Esteem Solve Problems or Cause Problems?

6. The narcissist is often jealous.
✤ The Christian rejoices when others succeed (Romans 12:15).
See: God Warns Against Epicaricacy 

7. The narcissist disregards people's feelings and lacks empathy.
✤ The Christian treats others as he wants to be treated (Matthew 7:12).  
See: Ignoring the Golden Rule.

8. The narcissist is obsessively selfish.
✤ The Christian denies himself (Matthew 16:24).
See: Will You Give up your Seat? 


source: Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Why is Narcissism Increasing

For more on this devotion, check out today's Bite Size Bible Study.
 
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I encourage you to check out the Wisdom for Life Devotional. It contains 100 one-minute devotions to challenge, encourage, instruct, and inspire your love for God's Word: Wisdom for Life. Read the story behind Wisdom for Life HERE. And find out about the two free Bible studies with purchase HERE. You can read the first 4 devotions in the book by clicking "look inside" on Lifeway or Amazon.

 

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Beware of "Christian" Authors Who "Run Ahead"

“Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God;(1) whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.” 2 John 1:9-11

Should we trust an extremely popular Christian author who claimed to write words of Jesus not found in Scripture explaining, “I knew that God communicated with me through the Bible, but I yearned for more”? (source/source)

Should we trust the author of a popular Bible “translation” who adds new content to Scripture and claims God is going to someday give him John 22? (source/source)

Should we trust a mini-series creator who says “Jesus doesn’t actually make for a good main character,” and gives Jesus a new “I Am” statement because he thinks it's “cool”? (You Tube or article)

What about the hugely popular “Christian” author who claims the crucifixion was never part of God's plan? (source/source)

And what about the movie depicting Mary as suicidal about her call to carry our Savior? (source) 

Millions of Christians are passionately following and justifying those who “run ahead” of what's taught in Scripture. They've forgotten that Satan's most effective tool is presenting attractive half-truths.

Loyalty to God's Word will keep us safe as the world around us grows darker. Justifying biblical errors in popular books and movies prepares us to accept darker lies that damage our faith. 

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How can any Christian want more than the word of God which “is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12)?

Before defending human additions to God's Word and stories depicting our Lord, we should read 2 Corinthians 11:4,13-14: “For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough...For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.”

(1) Commentary on “run ahead”

“The essential idea is, that the truth must be held respecting the precepts, the character, and the work of the Saviour.” Barnes Notes on the Bible 

The Cambridge Bible explains this refers to those who go beyond the gospel, such as the Gnostics who believed they had advanced knowledge about God.

“The heresy of this age is that religious teachers may 'go beyond' Christ's teachings in any direction they please.” Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible

“The apostle lets his readers, and all readers to come, know that it is dangerous to tamper with God’s word...[going] beyond the limits of Christian doctrine.”  Contending for the Faith

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Are You In Need of a "Jesus Break"?

Sometimes I need a Jesus break.

 

What I mean is that I sometimes need to step away from all the drama, negativity, and disappointments in life and do one or all of these things:

 
1. Close my eyes and ask God to help me ponder who He is.

• My “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6)
• My Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)
• King of kings and Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16)
• The way, and the truth, and the life (John 14:6)
• My strong tower where I can run to find safety (Proverbs 18:10)

Well, I could go on for pages, but you understand what I mean. You might want to check out Jesus' Role in Every New Testament Book.

 
2. I need to quit thinking about my problems, pull out a notebook, and write down my blessings.

 
God’s love and salvation top the list. But I also need to think of the many blessings I take for granted, something as simple as a good night’s sleep, a friendly hug, a comfortable breeze, or a good meal. And I need to think about the things I’ve learned through past difficulties and how they've strengthened my faith.

 

See Do You Have a Happiness Diary?  

 
3. I need to listen to or sing a song of praise and joy.

 

See Praise Music Therapy. 

 
4. I need to read one of my favorite chapters or short books of the Bible. 

 

Philippians is often the one I choose. See Philippians: Joy-filled, Loving, Powerful.

 

Are you in need of a Jesus break today? 

Consider doing one or all of these things to cheer and sustain your spirit.

 

 

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Speech Lessons: Learning God's Language

Genuine faith involves controlling our tongue, because words can do great damage. And James 3:1-12 is a reminder of this truth.

 

The first verse talks about higher standards for teachers because their words have greater influence. 

Then James admits that we all “stumble.” 

How do people stumble with their tongues?

• By sharing lies, half-truths, gossip, and slander. 

• By flattering or misleading someone. 

• With boasting, angry rants, and hateful statements. 

• By remaining quiet when we should speak up. 

 

James 3:3-6 goes on to remind us that small things can have enormous consequences. Lighting a small match can set an entire forest ablaze, and a few short sentences can light or extinguish an argument.

 
As our love and dependence for God grow, so should our ability to speak truth graciously, honestly, and unashamedly (Romans 12:2).

 

That's why it's good to periodically examine our speech and ponder the strong teachings of Scripture so we can continually grow more faithful in our speech. 

 

Please consider reading at least one of the additional one-minute devotions below. And please take a few minutes to carefully and prayerfully read the passages below.

 

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Devotions: 
Seasoned with Salt 

Do You Know What Makes a Fool Look Wise?

Is It Just My Imagination, or Is “Rude” the New Normal?  

 

 

Don't be a blabbermouth! 

Proverbs 10:19-21: “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of a fool is worthless. The words of the godly encourage many,  but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.”

 

Consider how your words might encourage a friend going through difficulty. 

Proverbs 12:25: “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”

Proverbs 16:24: “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”

 

Never forget this important warning. 

Matthew 12:34-37: “You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” 

 

 

 

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Scrape…Scrape…Scrape, Feeling Invisible

Scraping…scraping…and more scraping…

When we lived in Hungary, I often studied and wrote on the second floor of a small restaurant with a view overlooking a busy Budapest utca (street). One afternoon, I gazed out the window to see a man scraping dirty light poles along the sidewalk.

 

People clutter these poles by gluing fliers on them advertising special events, rental flats, and other items. I'd never thought that someone would have a job with the city scraping old flyers off the poles. But from the window I could see this man doing it.

Scraping…scraping…and more scraping…He cleaned one pole after another while people walked past him as if he were invisible. 

Have you ever felt unappreciated when doing the same chores or performing the same duties day after day, week after week? 

 

We may not be scraping poles in a downtown city street, but many things in life can seem thankless, repetitive, and monotonous. That's when we need to embrace the message of Colossians 3:23-24:


“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” 

And this applies to everything, not simply our work:

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 

 

Whenever we focus on our Lord, we can find meaning and purpose in menial tasks. For example, we can pray while doing them, making the time especially worthwhile! 

 

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For more insights on this subject, see Cleaning Bathrooms and Servant Evangelists. 

If you aren't a subscriber, why not add some more of God's Word to your schedule by having a one-minute devotion like this one delivered to your email each weekday. Sign up for a free subscription to Bible Love Notes HERE.

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Our Strongest Heritage Is Not Bloodline, Country, Race, or Culture

I've lived all over the U.S., from California to New Jersey, Florida to North Dakota. I've also lived four years in Germany and five years in Hungary. And I've learned that most people think their country, region, race, culture, or subculture is the best.

There's nothing wrong with this...

unless it divides us, makes us feel superior, makes us insensitive to others, or makes us prideful.

Being a Christ-follower is our most important heritage, and the family of God, which is multi-cultural and multiracial, is our most important family. 

God's family is also multi-denominational. By that I mean that genuine Bible-believing denominations have different views about non-essential beliefs, and we shouldn't let these differences divide us.*

If we let our denomination, earthly heritage, family, income, education, country, race, or culture divide us from other genuine believers, we're grieving the Holy Spirit (James 2:1-9).

“Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” should be the character traits of God's family (Galatians 5:22-23).

We must love the unsaved and seek to share the gospel with them, but we must remember that the saved are our true family, deserving of our deepest loyalty. 

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10

We must give up anything and everything that negatively affects our love for the family of God. We must reject cultural anti-Christian stereotypes. We must speak up and defend those who are unfairly criticized for speaking God's Word.

Why? Because Jesus is our true home, and the family of believers is our true family.

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For more inspiration on this subject, see Are You Sticking Up for Your Family? and Did You Know Your Brother Is a Songwriter?

* We do not compromise on essential beliefs: Genuine believers oppose any denomination that denies God's Word is perfect, inerrant, and eternal. We believe that some Old Testament commands were for a specific group or time in history, but all New Testament commands are loving, applicable, and unchanging. See Understanding the Law. 

We believe Jesus is fully God and part of the Trinity, one God in three persons. See Don't Claim You Understand the Trinity. That's why we don't have Christian fellowship with Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses. See Articles on Mormonism. Jesus is the only way of salvation, and we must accept His offer of forgiveness and follow Him to be saved. See Eternal Life as one resource to help explain this truth to others. 

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When Your Challenges Seem Overwhelming

This last year has brought me and my husband enormous challenges of all sorts, more than we’ve ever experienced in such a short time before. 

I know other Christians are also dealing with increasing trials and testing.

Why does God sometimes allow life to come at us so hard?

I don’t pretend to know all the answers, but 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to “be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 

This doesn’t mean we need to be thankful for all circumstances. But because we have the Lord, we can be thankful in all circumstances, knowing difficulties can build our faith. If we love God and seek His purposes, He promises to use our hardship for good:

“We know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 

If you’re facing increasing challenges, join me in reading, reciting, and memorizing passages like those below:

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18

God's Word is alive and powerful, giving us wisdom to persevere (Hebrews 4:12; Romans 12:12). 

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For more encouragement, see We're More Than Overcomers! 

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