Does Jesus lead or follow?

The way we deal with uncertainty says a lot about whether Jesus is ahead of us leading or if we’ve put Him behind us to carry our stuff.

Dancing With God’s Purpose

Our battles are first won or lost in the secret places of our will, never in full view of the world. You’ll never have any idea what other people are really going through. Just know that other believers wrestle with God’s will, just like you.

You can always choose the quality of your life.

In spite of the flow of time, I can make choices as how to use it. Things around me change all the time. I just need to make wise decisions in the midst of all that change. I am not powerless. I can choose.

when disaster strikes

When Disaster Strikes

As Christians, our first response to personal disasters should be to stand firm in faith. Disclaimer: That ain’t always easy.

living in fear

Why are we living in fear?

When Jesus was arrested, the disciples bolted and ran. At the crucifixion itself, I’m guessing some of them felt close to despair. They deserted Him because they were flat-out scared, and the best some of them could manage while Jesus was on the cross was to watch from a distance.

looking toward the future with hope

Why NOT me?

“Why me?” Have you ever asked that? I have, and I’ll bet you have too. I don’t think it’s because any of us feel entitled, but it is a natural response when things are piling up on us. Why me? It’s a hard question. I’ve prayed plenty of prayers that started out with “Why…?” Several […]

no one listens or understands

No one listens, and no one understands.

“No one listens, and no one understands.” Have you ever said or thought that? You are not alone. “We have learned that the places to which He (God) leads usually have nothing to do with what we think we will make us happy.” – Erin Napier, Make Something Good Today. If you ever say, “No […]

RAS

Your RAS (Reticular Activating System): Three thoughts.

The reason I’m taking a look at the RAS today is because (drum roll!) I’m about to help you understand who you are and why you do and think the things you do. I was today years old when I learned about the Reticular Activating System (RAS).

I know that sounds pretty esoteric, but stick around. You’re about to have your eyes opened.

it's not all that bad

It’s not all that bad.

It may feel like we collectively, and you, specifically, are in a bad way – but it’s not all that bad. “Tony,” you say, “you gotta be kidding me.” It’s true, though. It’s not all that bad. I’ve had a little epiphany, courtesy of a federal judge and Yale law professor named Guido Calabresi.  You […]

The Gate of the Year.

More than ever we need peace in these dark, troubled days. Minnie Louise Haskins’ little poem spoke to the British Empire during WWII, and it sure speaks today. We’ll explore it together.

indifference of god

The indifference of God.

The indifference of God. Maybe you know what I’m talking about.

If you’re a believer, you’ve been taught that God cares for you. You’ve experienced that care, perhaps.

There have been times when I’ve rested in the arms of Jesus. Storms wail, waves crash, darkness looms, and yet I feel perfectly safe. He’s got me, in other words.

Other times, it’s as though I’ve hung on for dear life. It’s like walking to the edge of the abyss, peeking over, and knowing that one misstep is certain death.

I think you need to relax.

I think you need to relax. You are just a fragile human being, who changes as much as the weather.