First Things

You want to know how to deal with what’s in front of you. So do I. But when you face overwhelming circumstances, don’t fall into the trap of obsessively asking, "What should I do?" It seems logical, but because all the focus is on the problem, your own negative thoughts become quicksand, in which the …

Hey, Ump

There's an amazing sentence in Colossians 3 that's often on my mind: "Let the peace of God rule in your heart." "Rule" doesn't mean God wants to control, manipulate, condemn, or punish your heart—we do that to ourselves and others just fine. This is the opposite—God wants to empower your heart to see and engage …

Breathe

A few days ago, I prayed for a woman struggling with a walker and large oxygen tank. I usually ask what someone specifically wants prayer for, and she obviously had specific needs. But I felt strongly to just have her sit, and to bless her quietly with peace and joy, for about five minutes. Later …

A PM from God

This message was sent to the king: “Don’t let your God, in whom you trust, deceive you with promises you will not be in my hand. You know we’ve completely destroyed everyone who stood in our way, and you’re no different. Have the gods of other nations rescued them?” (2 Kings 19:10–12, paraphrase). Satan's been …

Extra Large Fries

Last night, I had a dream of sitting with Jesus, eating French fries (or chips, if you prefer) with ketchup. They were the best ever. He looked at me and said, “Really good, huh?” I nodded enthusiastically. He picked one up and said, “Ketchup—totally my idea.” I wondered about the ketchup thing, and looked up …