If you’re at CROSS Conference between January 1-3, I’d love to meet you. Please stop me and say hello if you see me wandering around! You can also find me at the Canada Gathering at 10:10 PM on January 1 at room M104/107.
Today’s Kindle deals include an excellent book for those who have a seasoned marriage. If you don’t catch it yesterday, take a look at Alistair Begg’s Pray Big. On the general market side, The Wager is a fascinating read—one of my favorites from 2024.
We Have Smartphones — Why Memorize Scripture?
It’s a good question: If we have constant access to Scripture through our phones, why should we take the time to memorize it?
The Long Walk Home
This is a moving article from Kirsten Black. “I prayed until Ezra’s very last breath that Jesus would heal him. I believed he was able and hoped he was willing. I, like Jairus, implored Jesus for help. I knew he was our last hope. I knew what the science said. I knew what the doctors spoke. But I also know Jesus. I know what he is able to do and prayed with expectant hope that he would move and heal my son.”
The Farmer Who Chose to Plant Kindness
This biblically based fable teaches children the consequences of selfishness and how genuine, Christlike kindness can be contagious. (Sponsored)
“To Help Fellow Pilgrims Along the Road”
“Books are particularly useful for pastors. Those whose primary work is the ministry of the word and prayer benefit greatly from good books; ones that help wrestle with Scripture to sharpen their preaching, ones of a devotional quality to nourish their soul, and books of theology, history, and many more to deepen.”
Why Women Are Going to Therapy Instead of Church
“In my role as a women’s ministry director over the past 15 years, I’ve observed an increase in church women struggling with emotional and relational issues and a decrease in women coming to pastors, women’s ministry directors, and small group leaders for help. Many women are turning to therapy instead.” Laura Kleinschmidt explains why this is.
How Inerrancy Improves Preaching
Paul Schlehlein explains why believing in inerrancy improves preaching. “Inerrancy is not an ivory tower doctrine for eggheads, a belief secluded from any real-world relevance. This article of faith wears running shoes, or in this case, a suit and a tie. Here are four ways inerrancy improves preaching…”
Don’t Judge New Year Newbies at the Gym or in the Church
This may be a needed word of rebuke: Don’t judge new year newbies at the gym or in the church.
Flashback: The Best Way to Begin a New Year
There is no better way to begin a new year than with the knowledge of your freedom and the desire to live for the glory of the one who has extended such grace. Christian, you are free and clear.
Church of Jesus, let us please be men and women who understand the difference between moralism and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let’s be careful to preach the dos and don’ts of Scripture in the shadow of the cross’s ‘Done!’
—Matt Chandler
