“We don’t need so much to hide our righteous acts from others as we need to hide them from ourselves” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

“Humility is not acquired by being modest; it is found in embracing the simple matters of ordinary work. Not only will I take out the garbage or clean a bathroom because I am asked, I assume such chores as an ongoing responsibility.  I find much of God’s presence in doing the simple things” –Gordon MacDonald

“May we be as severe with ourselves over our own subtle sins as we are with the vile sins we condemn …

Elijah experienced one of the greatest national victories in the history of Israel.  He descended from Mount Carmel having glorified his God.  Victoriously, his prayer brought down fire from heaven.  But within a few short verses Elijah was on the run for his life.  He entered into a cave discouraged, defeated, and ready to die.  Why such extremes?  Better still, why do we too experience defeat after such great victories?

His historic and monumental victory was short-lived primarily because Elijah allowed the enemy to control the situation.  Here are sure-fire ways to stay defeated:

1. Elijah Lost Sight of

It was Henry Martyn who said, “The spirit of missions is the spirit of Christ. The nearer we get to Him the more intensely missionary we become.”  I concur; drawing closer to the Lord means acquainting ourselves with the work He has set out for us to do.  If we love Him, we will keep His commandments.  If the heart of the church is engaged with His, it will beat with the passion of reaching the world with the gospel message.  Our first order of business in the church should be His last commission to the church.

Such missionary endeavors …

I am sure you have seen the bumper stickers.  Engraved into the word COEXIST are the symbols of various religions, beliefs, and cults around the world. The word may only be seven letters in length, but the effects of the message are far-reaching.   The idea may seem innocent at first glance and thought.  I mean, who doesn’t want to live in a peaceful society?  Why must we have divisive boundaries that separate us?  Shouldn’t we just accept the fact that there are others who are not like us? Why can’t we just all get along?

Innocent-sounding? Yes.

Innocent?  Far from

I am a die-hard Georgia Bulldogs fan.  I rarely miss a game, and if I do, be sure, it is being recorded to watch at a later time, even if I know the outcome.  I love Georgia football.  And if I had tickets, which I do not, I would do everything I could to go to the game.  I would amend my calendar, reschedule my appointments, and prioritize my activities to ensure my attendance.  But if something happened, and I couldn’t make it, it would not affect the dynamic of the crowd, or the outcome of the event.  It wouldn’t …