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Just Add Water (John 17:17)

“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (John 17:17)

Try washing the dishes in your sink without water, or washing the clothes in your laundry machine without water, or taking a bath without water. Pretty difficult and ineffective right?

We can’t expect those things to be thoroughly cleaned without immersing them in water, and we likewise can’t expect to live a sanctified life (set apart for use by God, cleansed, made holy) without immersing ourselves in His Word. So why do so many Christians think they can? (more…)

IF / THEN

So an interesting thing happened recently. For my men’s group reading, we’re now back in the book of Matthew after completing the Old Testament. As I was chatting with a friend from my group via Email, I told him, “I’m excited to get into the New Testament again and study Jesus’ life even closer!” Okay, I know that doesn’t sound all that interesting. But it is and let me tell you why… I’ve honestly never been THIS excited to read the Bible before! (more…)

Leftovers

Imagine going to a restaurant with your spouse, fiancé, or boyfriend/girlfriend. As they sit across from you, you order a delicious entree of your favorite food. You carefully select each part of the meal, making sure it has a mixture of all of the things you really like. Ready with fork and knife in hand, you sit in anticipation as your savory dinner is set before you. (more…)

Letting Go
The next morning, Harriet brought Sam [the dog stuffed animal] to breakfast.
“Thanks, Harriet,” said Franklin, reaching for his dog.
But Harriet clung tightly to Sam.
Franklin tugged on Sam‘s tail. Harriet tugged back.
“He’s mine!” said Franklin.
“No, mine!” shouted Harriet.
They pushed and pulled until something terrible happened.

[Excerpt from Franklin and Harriet, Bourgeois and Clark] (more…)