By Annie F. Downs I didn’t plan to write books. Today’s call to courage? I need to be willing to write about some things I don’t want to share but feel nudged by God to do so. But in 2006, when this whole journey began for me, it looked like eight pages. I had to [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/take-that-first-courageous-step/">Take That First Courageous Step</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<img class="alignright wp-image-65657 size-full" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18120446/AnnieFDowns_Portrait2.png" alt="Annie F. Downs" width="33%" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18120446/AnnieFDowns_Portrait2.png 280w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18120446/AnnieFDowns_Portrait2-150x150.png 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18120446/AnnieFDowns_Portrait2-120x120.png 120w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" />By Annie F. Downs
I didn’t plan to write books. Today’s call to courage? I need to be willing to write about some things I don’t want to share but feel nudged by God to do so. But in 2006, when this whole journey began for me, it looked like eight pages.
I had to start somewhere.
The day I finished Beth Moore’s <a href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=686030&amp;p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Believing God in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Believing God</a> study, I sat down at my computer and pounded out an eight-page document of my life as a storyteller—from a childhood full of exaggeration to an adult life of wanting to be full of truth but telling the BEST stories. I wrote about how God was revealing to me, through Mrs. Beth’s teaching, that this was the direction my life was about to go.

God’s brave moment for me that day in February 2006 was to write out what I was feeling with regard to sharing stories. He knows me. He knows you. He knows we need dreams in pieces because we would be too scared of the whole puzzle. Had I known I’d be an author and a speaker back then, I probably would have crawled under my covers and stayed there for a year or five. I’m here today because of the little starts and the brave moments dotted throughout my writing career that have grown into this.
I think of King David, way back when he’s a kid <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel%2017&amp;resource_entry=dictionary-of-bible-themes/8214-confidence-basis&amp;tab=study" title="Read 1 Samuel 17 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">checking on his brothers in the battle against the Philistines</a>. When he gets there, everyone is scared to death of Goliath, this beast of a man who is fighting for the other army.
Young David the shepherd tells King Saul he’ll go against Goliath. Everyone is stunned because David is a kid and the rest of the Israelite army, full of adult dudes, is afraid of him. David’s response shows us the importance of the daily steps of courage that lead to the bigger story.
But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the LORD be with you.” 
—<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+17%3A34-37&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=reformation-study-bible/1Sam.17.33-1Sam.17.37&amp;tab=study" title="Read 1 Samuel 17:34-37" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1 Samuel 17:34–37</a>
And go he did! You can read what happened in this epic battle between David and Goliath in the rest of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Samuel+17&amp;resource_entry=bible-panorama/1Sam.17&amp;tab=study" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1 Samuel 17</a>. It’s worth a read, even if you’ve known the story your whole life.
David, as a shepherd boy, fought a lion. And a bear. And rescued his sheep. He never killed the lion in preparation for the bear. He didn’t kill the bear in preparation for Goliath. He just chose to be brave at every turn—to do his job and protect the sheep. And as the challenges grew in scope, so did David’s belief in the ways God had uniquely created him, and more importantly, David believed wholly in who God is and in the reality that David had a role to play on this planet that would require courage. Just like me. Just like you.
In 2006, I wasn’t dreaming of writing books. I could barely imagine writing out the story of how I wanted to tell stories! Then I started a blog that took courage every day to write. Then I wrote a Bible study for a group of high school girls who came over to my house on Monday nights. Then those printed-out lessons became <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/perfectly-unique-love-yourself-completely-just-as-you-are?variant=20534938894447&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Perfectly Unique in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Perfectly Unique</a>, a book read by thousands of girls around the world. And then came my next book, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/speak-love-your-words-can-change-the-world?variant=30694366412936&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Speak Love in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Speak Love</a>. And now we are here. You and I. And we are fighting against the fear.
My lion.
My bear.
My Goliath.
Oh my.
David wasn’t done after Goliath. I am not done being brave either. Neither are you, I hope.
My prayer for you today is that you will open the eyes of your heart to the map and the next brave thing and the step you need to start. Tell someone your dream. Maybe even write that first step. Make that first move to research or learn or pray about the thing that is like a God-struck match lit on your insides.
Maybe for you, it’s writing a note. Singing a song. Making a phone call. Having a conversation. Composing a story. Writing a check. Booking that trip. Sending an email. Going on a date. Reading a book. Signing up.
I’m trying to list as many options as possible, but you know the thing God is doing in your life better than I do. It’s time to get quiet before the Lord and ask him what it looks like for you to live a life of courage today. To start.
Just start. 
________
<a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/lets-all-be-brave-living-life-with-everything-you-have-1?variant=39485797990536&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright wp-image-65656 size-full" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18115811/LetsAllBeBrave_Cover2.png" alt="Let's All Be Brave" width="280" height="280" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18115811/LetsAllBeBrave_Cover2.png 280w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18115811/LetsAllBeBrave_Cover2-150x150.png 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/18115811/LetsAllBeBrave_Cover2-120x120.png 120w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a>Adapted from <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/lets-all-be-brave-living-life-with-everything-you-have-1?variant=39485797990536&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Let’s All Be Brave: Living Life with Everything You Have</a> by Annie F. Downs. <a href="https://www.zondervan.com/p/lets-all-be-brave-living-life-with-everything-you-have-by-annie-downs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Click here</a> to learn more about this book.
A call to embrace the God-given courage living inside you from host of the That Sounds Fun podcast and bestselling author Annie F. Downs.
How often does fear hold you back from the very things you most want to taste, touch, and experience? New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker Annie F. Downs admits she&#8217;s not exactly the bravest woman in the world. Even as an adult, she still cries sometimes when she leaves her parents&#8217; home in Georgia, she&#8217;s never jumped out of a plane, and she only rides roller coasters to impress guys. But Annie knows that courage resides inside each and every one of us, and she&#8217;s on a mission to conquer her own fears while encouraging you to do the same.
<a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/lets-all-be-brave-living-life-with-everything-you-have-1?variant=39485797990536&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Let&#8217;s All Be Brave</a> is more than a book; it&#8217;s a battle cry. Annie uses honest and often humorous illustrations from her own life, contemporary real-life examples from the lives of others, and fascinating biblical stories to challenge you to:
<ul>
<li>Discover God&#8217;s surprising answers to overcoming fear, uncertainty, and anxiety</li>
<li>Let go of the things that hold you back—relationships, comfort zones, expectations, and more</li>
<li>Say yes to both small and big things</li>
<li>Live boldly and sacrificially for God and others</li>
<li>Hold on to hope, trust God, and be brave no matter your circumstances</li>
</ul>
This book is your call to step into those places that require courage, giving you the help you need to take the next step forward—even when it&#8217;s scary.
Annie F. Downs is a New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been longtime friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Network—which includes her aptly named flagship show, That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books including That Sounds Fun, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/100-days-to-brave-devotions-for-unlocking-your-most-courageous-self?variant=13750726918255" target="_blank" rel="noopener">100 Days to Brave</a>, and Remember God, Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at <a href="https://www.anniefdowns.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">anniefdowns.com</a> and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/take-that-first-courageous-step/">Take That First Courageous Step</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

By Annie F. Downs
I didn’t plan to write books. Today’s call to courage? I need to be willing to write about some things I don’t want to share but feel nudged by God to do so. But in 2006, when this whole journey began for me, it looked like eight pages.
I had to start somewhere.
The day I finished Beth Moore’s Believing God study, I sat down at my computer and pounded out an eight-page document of my life as a storyteller—from a childhood full of exaggeration to an adult life of wanting to be full of truth but telling the BEST stories. I wrote about how God was revealing to me, through Mrs. Beth’s teaching, that this was the direction my life was about to go.

God’s brave moment for me that day in February 2006 was to write out what I was feeling with regard to sharing stories. He knows me. He knows you. He knows we need dreams in pieces because we would be too scared of the whole puzzle. Had I known I’d be an author and a speaker back then, I probably would have crawled under my covers and stayed there for a year or five. I’m here today because of the little starts and the brave moments dotted throughout my writing career that have grown into this.
I think of King David, way back when he’s a kid checking on his brothers in the battle against the Philistines. When he gets there, everyone is scared to death of Goliath, this beast of a man who is fighting for the other army.
Young David the shepherd tells King Saul he’ll go against Goliath. Everyone is stunned because David is a kid and the rest of the Israelite army, full of adult dudes, is afraid of him. David’s response shows us the importance of the daily steps of courage that lead to the bigger story.
But David said to Saul, “Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul said to David, “Go, and the LORD be with you.”
1 Samuel 17:34–37
And go he did! You can read what happened in this epic battle between David and Goliath in the rest of 1 Samuel 17. It’s worth a read, even if you’ve known the story your whole life.
David, as a shepherd boy, fought a lion. And a bear. And rescued his sheep. He never killed the lion in preparation for the bear. He didn’t kill the bear in preparation for Goliath. He just chose to be brave at every turn—to do his job and protect the sheep. And as the challenges grew in scope, so did David’s belief in the ways God had uniquely created him, and more importantly, David believed wholly in who God is and in the reality that David had a role to play on this planet that would require courage. Just like me. Just like you.
In 2006, I wasn’t dreaming of writing books. I could barely imagine writing out the story of how I wanted to tell stories! Then I started a blog that took courage every day to write. Then I wrote a Bible study for a group of high school girls who came over to my house on Monday nights. Then those printed-out lessons became Perfectly Unique, a book read by thousands of girls around the world. And then came my next book, Speak Love. And now we are here. You and I. And we are fighting against the fear.
My lion.
My bear.
My Goliath.
Oh my.
David wasn’t done after Goliath. I am not done being brave either. Neither are you, I hope.
My prayer for you today is that you will open the eyes of your heart to the map and the next brave thing and the step you need to start. Tell someone your dream. Maybe even write that first step. Make that first move to research or learn or pray about the thing that is like a God-struck match lit on your insides.
Maybe for you, it’s writing a note. Singing a song. Making a phone call. Having a conversation. Composing a story. Writing a check. Booking that trip. Sending an email. Going on a date. Reading a book. Signing up.
I’m trying to list as many options as possible, but you know the thing God is doing in your life better than I do. It’s time to get quiet before the Lord and ask him what it looks like for you to live a life of courage today. To start.
Just start.
Adapted from Let’s All Be Brave: Living Life with Everything You Have by Annie F. Downs. Click here to learn more about this book.
A call to embrace the God-given courage living inside you from host of the That Sounds Fun podcast and bestselling author Annie F. Downs.
How often does fear hold you back from the very things you most want to taste, touch, and experience? New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker Annie F. Downs admits she’s not exactly the bravest woman in the world. Even as an adult, she still cries sometimes when she leaves her parents’ home in Georgia, she’s never jumped out of a plane, and she only rides roller coasters to impress guys. But Annie knows that courage resides inside each and every one of us, and she’s on a mission to conquer her own fears while encouraging you to do the same.
Let’s All Be Brave is more than a book; it’s a battle cry. Annie uses honest and often humorous illustrations from her own life, contemporary real-life examples from the lives of others, and fascinating biblical stories to challenge you to:
Discover God’s surprising answers to overcoming fear, uncertainty, and anxiety
Let go of the things that hold you back—relationships, comfort zones, expectations, and more
Say yes to both small and big things
Live boldly and sacrificially for God and others
Hold on to hope, trust God, and be brave no matter your circumstances
This book is your call to step into those places that require courage, giving you the help you need to take the next step forward—even when it’s scary.
Annie F. Downs is a New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been longtime friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Network—which includes her aptly named flagship show, That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books including That Sounds Fun, 100 Days to Brave, and Remember God, Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at anniefdowns.com and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.
The post Take That First Courageous Step appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

By Annie F. Downs I didn’t plan to write books. Today’s call to courage? I need to be willing to write about some things I don’t want to share but feel nudged by God to do so. But in 2006, when this whole journey began for me, it looked like eight pages. I had to […]
The post Take That First Courageous Step appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

Take That First Courageous Step

By Christopher Reese On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we remember his pioneering work as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle to bring about a more equitable and just society. Justice is also one of the central concerns of the Bible, and it&#8217;s no coincidence that leaders of the Civil Rights [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/what-does-the-bible-say-about-justice/">What Does the Bible Say About Justice?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-l-reese/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><img class="alignright" alt="Christopher Reese" title="Christopher Reese" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/28170009/Christopher_Reese.jpg" width="20%"></a>By Christopher Reese
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we remember his pioneering work as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle to bring about a more equitable and just society. Justice is also one of the central concerns of the Bible, and it&#8217;s no coincidence that leaders of the Civil Rights Movement frequently appealed to Scripture as they advocated for fair and nondiscriminatory treatment under the law.
As long as we live in a fallen world in which human beings naturally gravitate toward evil (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+17%3A9&amp;resource_entry=encyclopedia-of-the-bible/Nature-Man&amp;tab=study" title="Read Jeremiah 17:9 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jeremiah 17:9</a>), we must always strive to pursue justice in our personal lives as well as in our various communities. Below we’ll explore some key aspects of what the Bible says about justice and how justice relates to God, our relationship with him, and with one another. We’ll also see that justice is an integral part of the mission God has called us to today.

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<h3>The Source of Justice</h3>
The most basic but important point to make about justice is that its source and foundation is God’s holy nature. God himself is the standard of right and wrong, rather than anything outside of God. Scripture declares “he is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+32%3A4&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nkjv-macarthur-study-bible/dt-32-4-the-rock&amp;tab=study" title="Read Deuteronomy 32:4 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Deuteronomy 32:4</a>). Since God desires to communicate his will to humanity, his commands in Scripture reflect his just and righteous character. Thus David declares, “As for God, his way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Samuel+22%3A31&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-grace-and-truth-study-bible/2sa-22-29-51&amp;tab=study" title="Read 2 Samuel 22:31 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">2 Samuel 22:31</a>).
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<h3>God’s Call to Justice</h3>
Because God is just and righteous, he calls us to reflect these same qualities in all we do, say, and think. While “justice” is a difficult term to define, a helpful definition in the context of this discussion is the following: “Justice is the manifestation of God’s righteous character in the world—the execution of God’s righteousness. Justice is the expression of God’s righteousness through right action.” <a href="#1">1</a>
As has been the case throughout human history, in Old Testament Israel those most likely to suffer injustice were the weak, vulnerable, and marginalized. Consequently, God expressed special concern for those who experienced these circumstances, especially the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners. Here are a few representative passages:
<ul>
<li> “There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+15%3A11&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nasb-stanley-life-principles-bible/life-lessons-deut-15-11&amp;tab=study" title="Read Deuteronomy 15:11 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Deuteronomy 15:11</a>).</li>
<li> “You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+10%3A17-18&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=reformation-study-bible/Ps.10.17-Ps.10.18&amp;tab=study" title="Read Psalm 10:17-18 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Psalm 10:17-18</a>).</li>
<li> “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=is.+1%3A17&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-biblical-theology/isa-1-17&amp;tab=study" title="Read Isaiah 1:17 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Isaiah 1:17</a>).</li>
<li> “You are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy+10%3A19&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-first-century-study-bible/dt-10-18-19&amp;tab=study" title="Read Deuteronomy 10:19 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Deuteronomy 10:19</a>).</li>
<li> “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+5%3A4&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nkjv-macarthur-study-bible/jas-5-4-wages-you-kept-back&amp;tab=study" title="Read James 5:4 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">James 5:4</a>).</li>
</ul>
God’s concern for the vulnerable and oppressed has not changed, so we should be watchful today for ways we can help those least able to help themselves. Citing James again, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+1%3A27&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-first-century-study-bible/jas-1-26-27&amp;tab=study" title="Read James 1:27 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">James 1:27</a>).
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<h3>The Mission of God’s People and Social Responsibility</h3>
Some Christians have worried, especially over the past century and a half, that an emphasis on social responsibility will detract from preaching the gospel. They view the primary mission of the church and individual Christians as evangelism, and see involvement in social issues to be a distraction from that primary goal. However, a strong biblical case can be made that preaching the gospel and ministering to practical needs are actually two sides of the same coin—namely, the mission of God’s people. Biblical scholar Christopher Wright summarizes this mission as “the whole church taking the whole gospel to the whole world.” <a href="#2">2</a>
The best example of the harmony between proclaiming the good news and meeting social needs is Jesus’s earthly ministry. Jesus not only “went around teaching from village to village,” but also “went around doing good and healing” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+6%3A6&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nkjv-macarthur-study-bible/mk-6-6-he-marveled-because-of-their-unbelief&amp;tab=study" title="Read Mark 6:6 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mark 6:6</a>; <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+10%3A38&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=believers-bible-commentary/10-36-38&amp;tab=study" title="Read Acts 10:38 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Acts 10:38</a>). He taught the importance of repentance and conversion through the Parable of the Prodigal Son (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+15%3A11-32&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nasb-stanley-life-principles-bible/life-lessons-luke-15-32&amp;tab=study" title="Read Luke 15:11-32 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luke 15:11-32</a>), as well as the necessity of providing physical well-being through the Parable of the Good Samaritan (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+10%3A25-37&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-grace-and-truth-study-bible/lk-10-25-37&amp;tab=study" title="Read Luke 10:25-37 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Luke 10:25-37</a>).
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2021/12/angels-in-heaven-frequently-asked-questions/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions) by Christopher Reese</a>]
The late church leader and theologian John Stott observed, “There was in [Jesus’] ministry an indissoluble bond between evangelism and compassionate service. He exhibited in action the love of God he was proclaiming.” <a href="#3">3</a>
Jesus’ example is one reason the church and individual Christians have often been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts that have changed the world—from creating the first hospitals, to establishing universal education, to abolishing the slave trade, to passing labor reforms, to advocating for social justice.
In remembering the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and those who opposed unjust laws that fell short of God’s standard of justice, may we be encouraged and challenged by God’s directives recorded by the prophet Micah:
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;And what does the LORD require of you? 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To act justly and to love mercy 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;and to walk humbly with your God. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Micah+6%3A8&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-study-bible/mic-6-8&amp;tab=study" title="Read Micah 6:8 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Micah 6:8</a>)
<a id="1"></a>
<blockquote></blockquote>
1. [Mae Elise Cannon, <a href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=837151&amp;p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Social Justice Handbook in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World</a> (IVP, 2009), 20.] 
<a id="2"></a> 
2. [Christopher J. H. Wright, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/the-mission-of-gods-people-a-biblical-theology-of-the-church-s-mission?variant=13763225878639&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Mission of God’s People in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Mission of God’s People: A Biblical Theology of the Church’s Mission, Biblical Theology for Life</a> (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2010), 266.] 
<a id="3"></a> 
3. [John Stott, <a href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=689378&amp;p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The World (God's Word for Today) in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The World (God&#8217;s Word for Today)</a> (InterVarsity Press, 2019), 58, Kindle Edition. Much of my discussion here draws from Stott’s insights in this volume.]
<hr>
BIO: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-l-reese/" title="Visit the LinkedIn page of Christopher Reese" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Christopher Reese</a> (MDiv, ThM) (<a href="https://twitter.com/clreese" title="Christopher Reese Twitter stream" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">@clreese</a>) is a freelance writer and editor-in-chief of <a href="https://worldviewbulletin.substack.com/archive?utm_source=menu-dropdown" title="Visit The Worldview Bulletin" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">The Worldview Bulletin</a>. He is a general editor of the <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/dictionary-of-christianity-and-science-the-definitive-reference-for-the-intersection-of-christian-faith-and-contemporary-science?variant=13746105909359&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of the Dictionary of Christianity and Science in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dictionary of Christianity and Science</a> (Zondervan, 2017) and <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/three-views-on-christianity-and-science?variant=34292904001672&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Three Views on Christianity and Science in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Three Views on Christianity and Science</a> (Zondervan, 2021). His articles have appeared in Christianity Today and he writes and edits for Christian ministries and publishers.
<blockquote>
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The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/what-does-the-bible-say-about-justice/">What Does the Bible Say About Justice?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

By Christopher Reese
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we remember his pioneering work as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle to bring about a more equitable and just society.  Justice is also one of the central concerns of the Bible, and it’s no coincidence that leaders of the Civil Rights Movement frequently appealed to Scripture as they advocated for fair and nondiscriminatory treatment under the law.
As long as we live in a fallen world in which human beings naturally gravitate toward evil (Jeremiah 17:9), we must always strive to pursue justice in our personal lives as well as in our various communities.  Below we’ll explore some key aspects of what the Bible says about justice and how justice relates to God, our relationship with him, and with one another.  We’ll also see that justice is an integral part of the mission God has called us to today.

Delve deeper into the topic of justice in the Bible by signing up for these Bible Gateway free short-run email devotionals
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made: A Devotion About Race and Ethnicity (14 days).
Encountering the God of Justice (7 days).

The Source of Justice
The most basic but important point to make about justice is that its source and foundation is God’s holy nature.  God himself is the standard of right and wrong, rather than anything outside of God.  Scripture declares “he is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4).  Since God desires to communicate his will to humanity, his commands in Scripture reflect his just and righteous character.  Thus David declares, “As for God, his way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless” (2 Samuel 22:31).

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God’s Call to Justice
Because God is just and righteous, he calls us to reflect these same qualities in all we do, say, and think.  While “justice” is a difficult term to define, a helpful definition in the context of this discussion is the following:  “Justice is the manifestation of God’s righteous character in the world—the execution of God’s righteousness. Justice is the expression of God’s righteousness through right action.” 1
As has been the case throughout human history, in Old Testament Israel those most likely to suffer injustice were the weak, vulnerable, and marginalized.  Consequently, God expressed special concern for those who experienced these circumstances, especially the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners.  Here are a few representative passages:
 “There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land” (Deuteronomy 15:11).
 “You, LORD, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed” (Psalm 10:17-18).
 “Learn to do right; seek justice.  Defend the oppressed.  Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (Isaiah 1:17).
 “You are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt” (Deuteronomy 10:19).
 “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty” (James 5:4).
God’s concern for the vulnerable and oppressed has not changed, so we should be watchful today for ways we can help those least able to help themselves.  Citing James again, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (James 1:27).

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The Mission of God’s People and Social Responsibility
Some Christians have worried, especially over the past century and a half, that an emphasis on social responsibility will detract from preaching the gospel.  They view the primary mission of the church and individual Christians as evangelism, and see involvement in social issues to be a distraction from that primary goal.  However, a strong biblical case can be made that preaching the gospel and ministering to practical needs are actually two sides of the same coin—namely, the mission of God’s people.  Biblical scholar Christopher Wright summarizes this mission as “the whole church taking the whole gospel to the whole world.” 2
The best example of the harmony between proclaiming the good news and meeting social needs is Jesus’s earthly ministry.  Jesus not only “went around teaching from village to village,” but also “went around doing good and healing” (Mark 6:6; Acts 10:38).  He taught the importance of repentance and conversion through the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32), as well as the necessity of providing physical well-being through the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions) by Christopher Reese]
The late church leader and theologian John Stott observed, “There was in [Jesus’] ministry an indissoluble bond between evangelism and compassionate service. He exhibited in action the love of God he was proclaiming.” 3
Jesus’ example is one reason the church and individual Christians have often been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts that have changed the world—from creating the first hospitals, to establishing universal education, to abolishing the slave trade, to passing labor reforms, to advocating for social justice.
In remembering the legacy of the Civil Rights Movement and those who opposed unjust laws that fell short of God’s standard of justice, may we be encouraged and challenged by God’s directives recorded by the prophet Micah:
    He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.
ORD require of you?
Micah 6:8)


1. [Mae Elise Cannon, Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World (IVP, 2009), 20.]

The Mission of God’s People: A Biblical Theology of the Church’s Mission, Biblical Theology for Life (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2010), 266.]

The World (God’s Word for Today) (InterVarsity Press, 2019), 58, Kindle Edition.  Much of my discussion here draws from Stott’s insights in this volume.]
BIO: Christopher Reese (MDiv, ThM) (@clreese) is a freelance writer and editor-in-chief of The Worldview Bulletin. He is a general editor of the Dictionary of Christianity and Science (Zondervan, 2017) and Three Views on Christianity and Science (Zondervan, 2021). His articles have appeared in Christianity Today and he writes and edits for Christian ministries and publishers.
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The post What Does the Bible Say About Justice? appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

By Christopher Reese On Martin Luther King Jr. Day we remember his pioneering work as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle to bring about a more equitable and just society. Justice is also one of the central concerns of the Bible, and it’s no coincidence that leaders of the Civil Rights […]
The post What Does the Bible Say About Justice? appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

What Does the Bible Say About Justice?

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By John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Editor&#8217;s Note: The following content is excerpted from God and Race by John Siebeling and Wayne Francis (HarperChristian Resources, 2021) &#8220;At the end of the Bible, in the book of Revelation, we get an amazing glimpse of God’s plan for race: &#8216;After this I looked, and there before me [&#8230;]
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<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><a href="https://churchsource.com/collections/god-and-race" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img src="https://blog.churchsource.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/God-and-Race-Facebook-Cover-V3-1024x450.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-19832"/></a></figure></div>



By John Siebeling and Wayne Francis



<blockquote><center>Editor&#8217;s Note: The following content is excerpted from <a href="https://churchsource.com/collections/god-and-race" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">God and Race</a> by John Siebeling and Wayne Francis (HarperChristian Resources, 2021)</center></blockquote>



&#8220;At the end of the Bible, in the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;tab=intro" title="Read the book of Revelation on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">book of Revelation</a>, we get an amazing glimpse of God’s plan for race: &#8216;After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb&#8217; (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=revelation+7%3A9&amp;version=NIV" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Read Revelation 7:9 on Bible Gateway" target="_blank">Revelation 7:9, NIV</a>). The end of our story is a beautiful picture of a diverse group of people all worshiping together before God. This is where the church will end up one day.&#8221;







<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-medium"><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=revelation+7%3A9&amp;version=NIV"><img loading="lazy" width="300" height="300" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-300x300.png" alt="" class="wp-image-65566" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-300x300.png 300w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-150x150.png 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-768x768.png 768w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2-120x120.png 120w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13084640/GR-Social-Graphic-5-2.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></figure></div>



&#8220;But this is not necessarily how the church looks today. In fact, odds are that if you walk into a random church, it will look more like one single tribe, tongue, and nation. Multiracial churches are not certainly the norm. But we believe—with a lot of hard work and honest conversations—we can get there together. The change may not happen overnight, but if we all devote ourselves to discussions and commit to learning how to learn from one another through healthy dialogue, we can work together to build houses that look like heaven.&#8221;



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-medium"><a href="https://churchsource.com/collections/god-and-race" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><img loading="lazy" width="300" height="300" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-300x300.png" alt="" class="wp-image-65568" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-300x300.png 300w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-150x150.png 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-768x768.png 768w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2-120x120.png 120w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/13085032/GR-Social-Graphic-9-2.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></figure></div>



&#8220;This is the purpose of the <a href="https://churchsource.com/collections/god-and-race" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">God and Race book and small-group study</a>. Often, we in the church feel that the words God and race don’t go together. They feel like unrelated topics. But nothing could be further from the truth! Diversity and unity are pivotal pieces of God’s plan. For this reason, we want to give you a guide for understanding the issues of race and faith from both a black and white perspective. We also want to equip you with the tools you need to enter into open, honest, and fruitful conversations about God and race with confidence.&#8221;



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://blog.churchsource.com/download/19669/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Download God &amp; Race Session One</a></h2>



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



&#8220;God and Race is meant to guide you and your fellow church members to move beyond black fists and white knuckles. We want to help you open your hands to the truth of the gospel and explore what it really has to say about race and how we interact with one another. We’ll talk about allowing God to search our hearts to get us ready to engage in these conversations. We will then shift our focus externally and talk about your household—helping you to invite diversity into your home and your social circle. Finally, we’ll talk about inviting diversity into the house of God and lay out some strategies for making that happen.&#8221;


<center><iframe loading="lazy" title="Is it Best to Keep Racial Questions Out of Church? God &amp; Race CLIP | John Siebling &amp; Wayne Francis" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AC3F5pW1Qyg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>



&#8220;If you are brand new to the race conversation and scared to death that you are going to say the wrong thing . . . this study is for you.&#8221;



&#8220;If you are frustrated with the lack of attention your church is giving race relations and you’re interested in being a part of the solution for positive change . . . this study is for you.&#8221;



&#8220;If you are a church leader unsure of how to take the next step to help your congregation get it . . . this study is for you.&#8221;



&#8220;If you are unsure what to believe about the current state of racial tension in our country . . . this study is for you.&#8221;



&#8220;If a friend handed you this book and you are only reading it to do them a favor . . . guess what? This study is for you.&#8221;







&#8220;The truth is, that as a nation, we are divided. We may not have created this division, but we are living in it. So, if you still have a pulse, you have a responsibility to be the answer and help push us forward toward the future God designed. Let this study be a guide along the way, because unless we make a solid and intentional choice to connect, understand, reach, and love one another, we will remain divided—and we can’t afford to stay divided.&#8221;







&#8220;Let’s loosen our grips, unclench our fists, open our hands, and come together.&#8221;







—John Siebeling and Wayne Francis



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h4>In God and Race, John Siebeling and Wayne Francis provide a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to start to dialogue about this important issue. John and Wayne probe the meaning of racial reconciliation and reveal how the church can be a positive and effective leader to move us forward, beyond hate and injustice, to equality and love.</h4>


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The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/should-we-talk-about-race-in-church-pastors-john-siebeling-and-wayne-francis-say-yes/">Should We Talk About Race in Church? Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Say YES</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

By John Siebeling and Wayne Francis
Editor’s Note: The following content is excerpted from God and Race by John Siebeling and Wayne Francis (HarperChristian Resources, 2021)




“At the end of the Bible, in the book of Revelation, we get an amazing glimpse of God’s plan for race: ‘After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb’ (Revelation 7:9, NIV). The end of our story is a beautiful picture of a diverse group of people all worshiping together before God. This is where the church will end up one day.”


“But this is not necessarily how the church looks today. In fact, odds are that if you walk into a random church, it will look more like one single tribe, tongue, and nation. Multiracial churches are not certainly the norm. But we believe—with a lot of hard work and honest conversations—we can get there together. The change may not happen overnight, but if we all devote ourselves to discussions and commit to learning how to learn from one another through healthy dialogue, we can work together to build houses that look like heaven.”

“This is the purpose of the God and Race book and small-group study. Often, we in the church feel that the words God and race don’t go together. They feel like unrelated topics. But nothing could be further from the truth! Diversity and unity are pivotal pieces of God’s plan. For this reason, we want to give you a guide for understanding the issues of race and faith from both a black and white perspective. We also want to equip you with the tools you need to enter into open, honest, and fruitful conversations about God and race with confidence.”
Download God & Race Session One
“God and Race is meant to guide you and your fellow church members to move beyond black fists and white knuckles. We want to help you open your hands to the truth of the gospel and explore what it really has to say about race and how we interact with one another. We’ll talk about allowing God to search our hearts to get us ready to engage in these conversations. We will then shift our focus externally and talk about your household—helping you to invite diversity into your home and your social circle. Finally, we’ll talk about inviting diversity into the house of God and lay out some strategies for making that happen.”

“If you are brand new to the race conversation and scared to death that you are going to say the wrong thing . . . this study is for you.”
“If you are frustrated with the lack of attention your church is giving race relations and you’re interested in being a part of the solution for positive change . . . this study is for you.”
“If you are a church leader unsure of how to take the next step to help your congregation get it . . . this study is for you.”
“If you are unsure what to believe about the current state of racial tension in our country . . . this study is for you.”
“If a friend handed you this book and you are only reading it to do them a favor . . . guess what? This study is for you.”




“The truth is, that as a nation, we are divided. We may not have created this division, but we are living in it. So, if you still have a pulse, you have a responsibility to be the answer and help push us forward toward the future God designed. Let this study be a guide along the way, because unless we make a solid and intentional choice to connect, understand, reach, and love one another, we will remain divided—and we can’t afford to stay divided.”




“Let’s loosen our grips, unclench our fists, open our hands, and come together.”




—John Siebeling and Wayne Francis
In God and Race, John Siebeling and Wayne Francis provide a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to start to dialogue about this important issue. John and Wayne probe the meaning of racial reconciliation and reveal how the church can be a positive and effective leader to move us forward, beyond hate and injustice, to equality and love.

Expand your Bible reading experience using our valuable library of more than 50 top resources by becoming a member of Bible Gateway Plus. Try it free right now!

The post Should We Talk About Race in Church? Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Say YES appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

By John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Editor’s Note: The following content is excerpted from God and Race by John Siebeling and Wayne Francis (HarperChristian Resources, 2021) “At the end of the Bible, in the book of Revelation, we get an amazing glimpse of God’s plan for race: ‘After this I looked, and there before me […]
The post Should We Talk About Race in Church? Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Say YES appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

Should We Talk About Race in Church? Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis Say YES

This is the one-hundred-ninety-first lesson in author and pastor Mel Lawrenz&#8217; How to Live the Bible series. If you know someone or a group who would like to follow along on this journey through Scripture, they can get more info and sign up to receive these essays via email here. A lot of us deal [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/how-to-live-the-bible-goodness-is-always-greater/">How to Live the Bible — Goodness Is Always Greater</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<center><img width="640" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-16229" alt="howtostudythebible" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/19094916/howtolivethebibleheader.jpg"></center>
This is the <a title="See all the lessons of How to Live the Bible on Bible Gateway" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/category/how-to-live-the-bible/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">one-hundred-ninety-first lesson</a> in <a title="Browse books by Mel Lawrenz in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/page/tcg/biblegateway/bible-gateway-promotions/bg-mel-lawrenz?p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">author</a> and pastor Mel Lawrenz&#8217; <a title="Sign up to receive weekly email lessons on How to Live the Bible from Bible Gateway" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/how-to-live-the-bible/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to Live the Bible series</a>. If you know someone or a group who would like to follow along on this journey through Scripture, they can get more info and sign up to receive these essays via email <a title="Sign up to receive weekly email lessons on How to Live the Bible from Bible Gateway" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/how-to-live-the-bible/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.
<hr>
A lot of us deal with worry. When someone says, “You shouldn’t worry so much,” our first thought is: “Easy to say, but look around. There is plenty to worry about!”
<img width="90%" class="aligncenter" alt="A photo of woman appearing to be worrying" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/12144108/How-To-Live-The-Bible-Worrying-Woman.jpg">

For some people, worry is real anxiety, an always-near sense of tension, agitation, and fear. The <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible</a> never says worry and anxiety are sins, or even that they show a lack of faith. Yet Jesus made a statement in the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+5&amp;resource_entry=encyclopedia-of-the-bible/Sermon-on-Mount&amp;tab=study" title="Read about the Sermon on the Mount in the Encyclopedia of the Bible on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sermon on the Mount</a>, so familiar to us: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6%3A25&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=matthew-henry/Matt.6.25-Matt.6.34&amp;tab=study" title="Read Matthew 6:25 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matt. 6:25</a>).
What, exactly, did he mean?
Jesus was addressing some of the universal pressing questions we all ask: Who is going to take care of me? Will I be able to endure this period of my life? Could next year be better than the last?
The answer?
“Your heavenly Father knows you need them,” (i.e. food, drink, and clothing) so don’t get caught in the rat race or, we might say, the pagan chase (“the pagans run after all these things”) (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+6%3A32&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=dictionary-of-bible-themes/1330-God-provider&amp;tab=study" title="Read Matthew 6:32 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matt. 6:32</a>). We can do better than living a life of desperate grabbing. Our security does not come from how much money we have in the bank or from the brand names of our clothing. Having enough food in the house is a good thing. But no matter how much any of us have to eat or drink or wear or drive or store, we&#8217;ll never know security until we trust in the love of God. God knows what we have and what we need. God also knows, more than we do, what we need. What we really need.
<blockquote></blockquote>
<center>Sign up to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">get the</a><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Know the Bible free email lesson series</a> from Bible Gateway.</center>
<blockquote></blockquote>
Sparrows do fall to the ground. But not one of them falls to the ground apart from the care of God the Father (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+10%3A29&amp;resource_entry=ivp-nt/Gods-Care&amp;tab=study" title="Read Matthew 10:29 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matt. 10:29</a>). A lot of us are like birds with broken wings right now. We don’t travel or get out as much as we used to. This year might be a time when we see loved ones ill or even pass away. But this is not new in human history. Life is an ongoing pattern of both gain and loss.
The reality of pain and loss does not nullify providence. Goodness is always greater than evil as surely as light is greater than darkness. The only reasonable explanation for why our lives work at all is that the Creator of all things <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+1%3A16-17&amp;resource_entry=dictionary-of-bible-themes/1305-God-activity&amp;tab=study" title="Read Colossians 1:16-17 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">keeps everything going day by day</a>.
There are many things that could go wrong with my body right now, but at the moment it seems to be working just fine. My meals are being converted from fuel to energy and my lungs are taking in air and putting life-giving oxygen into my blood. My brain is firing away, directing every function in my body, and my heart is beating without pause, pushing lifeblood to every part of my body. I’ve been ill before, and I know I’ll be ill again. Actually, I’m astonished that my body works as well as it does. The function of my body is the ongoing, providential work of God.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2020/01/how-to-live-the-bible-living-in-the-confidence-of-providence/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, How to Live the Bible — Living in the Confidence of Providence" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, How to Live the Bible — Living in the Confidence of Providence</a>]
Our lungs and hearts don’t always work right, and sooner or later they all stop. The world has continual international conflicts and wars. Every moment of the day, someone somewhere is perpetrating a serious crime against someone else. Horrible things go on behind closed doors.
But all wicked acts and personal injuries are set against the backdrop of so many healthy days, good relationships, and proper exchanges. Kindness, forgiveness, forbearance, generosity, patience: these are signs that God keeps gifting us. The irrepressible good things that happen in life come about because the God who gave us life is a good God.
Rain keeps falling, living things keep growing, and the human race keeps reaching out for hope and life. In some ways, the creation keeps asserting itself. It is alive, even though drought and disease and death are inevitable. The Creator keeps giving good things. God keeps saying, I’ve made what I’ve made. I will keep it going and growing and re-create as the need arises.
So, when Jesus says, “do not worry about your life,” he is not telling us to play a game in which we ignore loss or pain—he himself experienced distress and sorrow and tension. Instead, Jesus is reforming our security. He is saying that anxiety about food and clothing, or about pursuing status in the eyes of the world, will not actually deliver security and comfort. There is a better way.
[See previous – <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/how-to-live-the-bible-turning-the-calendar/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, How to Live the Bible — Turning the Calendar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Turning the Calendar</a>] 
___________

___________
[If you believe this series will be helpful, this is the perfect time to forward this to a friend, a group, or a congregation, and tell them they too may <a title="Sign up to receive weekly email lessons on How to Live the Bible from Bible Gateway" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/how-to-live-the-bible/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sign up for the weekly emails here</a>]
<hr>
Mel Lawrenz (<a title="Mel Lawrenz Twitter stream" href="https://twitter.com/MelLawrenz" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">@MelLawrenz</a>) trains an international network of Christian leaders, ministry pioneers, and thought-leaders. He served as senior pastor of Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin, for ten years and now serves as Elmbrook’s teaching pastor. He has a PhD in the history of Christian thought and is on the adjunct faculty of Trinity International University. Mel&#8217;s <a title="Browse books by Mel Lawrenz in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/page/tcg/biblegateway/bible-gateway-promotions/bg-mel-lawrenz?p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">many books</a> include <a title="Buy your copy of Spiritual Leadership Today in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/spiritual-leadership-today-having-deep-influence-in-every-walk-of-life?variant=13756491726959&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Spiritual Leadership Today: Having Deep Influence in Every Walk of Life</a> (Zondervan, 2016). See more of Mel&#8217;s writing at <a href="http://www.wordway.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">WordWay</a>.
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/how-to-live-the-bible-goodness-is-always-greater/">How to Live the Bible — Goodness Is Always Greater</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

This is the one-hundred-ninety-first lesson in author and pastor Mel Lawrenz’ How to Live the Bible series. If you know someone or a group who would like to follow along on this journey through Scripture, they can get more info and sign up to receive these essays via email here.
A lot of us deal with worry. When someone says, “You shouldn’t worry so much,” our first thought is: “Easy to say, but look around. There is plenty to worry about!”


For some people, worry is real anxiety, an always-near sense of tension, agitation, and fear. The Bible never says worry and anxiety are sins, or even that they show a lack of faith. Yet Jesus made a statement in the Sermon on the Mount, so familiar to us: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear” (Matt. 6:25).
What, exactly, did he mean?
Jesus was addressing some of the universal pressing questions we all ask: Who is going to take care of me? Will I be able to endure this period of my life? Could next year be better than the last?
The answer?
“Your heavenly Father knows you need them,” (i.e. food, drink, and clothing) so don’t get caught in the rat race or, we might say, the pagan chase (“the pagans run after all these things”) (Matt. 6:32). We can do better than living a life of desperate grabbing. Our security does not come from how much money we have in the bank or from the brand names of our clothing. Having enough food in the house is a good thing. But no matter how much any of us have to eat or drink or wear or drive or store, we’ll never know security until we trust in the love of God. God knows what we have and what we need. God also knows, more than we do, what we need. What we really need.

Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway.

Sparrows do fall to the ground. But not one of them falls to the ground apart from the care of God the Father (Matt. 10:29). A lot of us are like birds with broken wings right now. We don’t travel or get out as much as we used to. This year might be a time when we see loved ones ill or even pass away. But this is not new in human history. Life is an ongoing pattern of both gain and loss.
The reality of pain and loss does not nullify providence. Goodness is always greater than evil as surely as light is greater than darkness. The only reasonable explanation for why our lives work at all is that the Creator of all things keeps everything going day by day.
There are many things that could go wrong with my body right now, but at the moment it seems to be working just fine. My meals are being converted from fuel to energy and my lungs are taking in air and putting life-giving oxygen into my blood. My brain is firing away, directing every function in my body, and my heart is beating without pause, pushing lifeblood to every part of my body. I’ve been ill before, and I know I’ll be ill again. Actually, I’m astonished that my body works as well as it does. The function of my body is the ongoing, providential work of God.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, How to Live the Bible — Living in the Confidence of Providence]
Our lungs and hearts don’t always work right, and sooner or later they all stop. The world has continual international conflicts and wars. Every moment of the day, someone somewhere is perpetrating a serious crime against someone else. Horrible things go on behind closed doors.
But all wicked acts and personal injuries are set against the backdrop of so many healthy days, good relationships, and proper exchanges. Kindness, forgiveness, forbearance, generosity, patience: these are signs that God keeps gifting us. The irrepressible good things that happen in life come about because the God who gave us life is a good God.
Rain keeps falling, living things keep growing, and the human race keeps reaching out for hope and life. In some ways, the creation keeps asserting itself. It is alive, even though drought and disease and death are inevitable. The Creator keeps giving good things. God keeps saying, I’ve made what I’ve made. I will keep it going and growing and re-create as the need arises.
So, when Jesus says, “do not worry about your life,” he is not telling us to play a game in which we ignore loss or pain—he himself experienced distress and sorrow and tension. Instead, Jesus is reforming our security. He is saying that anxiety about food and clothing, or about pursuing status in the eyes of the world, will not actually deliver security and comfort. There is a better way.
[See previous – Turning the Calendar]

___________
[If you believe this series will be helpful, this is the perfect time to forward this to a friend, a group, or a congregation, and tell them they too may sign up for the weekly emails here]
Mel Lawrenz (@MelLawrenz) trains an international network of Christian leaders, ministry pioneers, and thought-leaders. He served as senior pastor of Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin, for ten years and now serves as Elmbrook’s teaching pastor. He has a PhD in the history of Christian thought and is on the adjunct faculty of Trinity International University. Mel’s many books include Spiritual Leadership Today: Having Deep Influence in Every Walk of Life (Zondervan, 2016). See more of Mel’s writing at WordWay.
The post How to Live the Bible — Goodness Is Always Greater appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

This is the one-hundred-ninety-first lesson in author and pastor Mel Lawrenz’ How to Live the Bible series. If you know someone or a group who would like to follow along on this journey through Scripture, they can get more info and sign up to receive these essays via email here. A lot of us deal […]
The post How to Live the Bible — Goodness Is Always Greater appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

How to Live the Bible — Goodness Is Always Greater

So, You Decided to Follow Jesus. Now What!? Whether you or someone you know has decided to follow Jesus, the next steps of living out a radically different life can be overwhelming. “Read your Bible” is certainly wise advice given to new disciples. But not having some guidance on where to start or how to [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/the-christians-guide-to-new-life/">The Christian’s Guide to New Life</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/collections/the-open-bible?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" alt="Buy your copy of The Open Bible in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/22160912/TheOpenBiblebanner.jpg" width="100%"></a>
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<h3>So, You Decided to Follow Jesus. Now What!?</h3>
Whether you or someone you know has decided to follow Jesus, the next steps of living out a radically different life can be overwhelming. “Read your Bible” is certainly wise advice given to new disciples. But not having some guidance on where to start or how to address a specific question can lead to frustration and extinguish the zeal of new faith.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2016/11/the-bible-table-of-contents/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Bible Table of Contents" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Bible Table of Contents</a>]

<blockquote></blockquote>
<center>Sign up to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">get the</a><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Know the Bible free email lesson series</a> from Bible Gateway.</center>
<blockquote></blockquote>
The Christian’s Guide to New Life
For more than 40 years, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/collections/the-open-bible?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Open Bible</a> has helped millions of people, from new Christians to lifelong disciples, read the Bible in a comprehensive, practical way. Built as an unbiased yet comprehensive resource, The Open Bible contains a library of study aids in one book. Take, for example, one essential feature: “The Christian’s Guide to New Life.” This resource offers a doctrinal overview of the Scripture to help you read for yourself what the Bible says.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2021/03/thomas-nelson-releases-the-open-bible-for-the-first-time-in-the-niv/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Thomas Nelson Releases The Open Bible® for the First Time in the NIV" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Thomas Nelson Releases The Open Bible® for the First Time in the NIV</a>]
&#8220;The Christian’s Guide to New Life&#8221; is organized in outline form into seven main areas of study:
<ol>
<li> Knowing God’s Word</li>
<li> Understanding God’s Being</li>
<li> Understanding Other Spirit Beings</li>
<li> Beginning the New Life</li>
<li> Growing in the New Life</li>
<li> Facing Problems in the New Life</li>
<li> Recognizing God’s Institutions</li>
</ol>
<blockquote>
<center>The Open Bible is one of the more than 50 Bible study references conveniently available to members of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway Plus</a>. Learn how you can <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">try it right now</a>!</center></blockquote>
An Easy-to-Follow Chained Reference
Imagine you or someone new to the faith wanted to learn more about suffering—what it is, why Christians experience it, God’s role in it, etc. Not an easy theological topic to touch, right? So, where do you start?
You’ll remember that in “The Christian’s Guide to New Life” one of the seven major themes is Facing Problems in the New Life. “Suffering” is a subsection of that theme.
<a href="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/14163518/The_Open_Bible_page_1peter.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" title="Click to enlarge this page sample of 1 Peter 3:17 in The Open Bible" alt="Click to enlarge this page sample of 1 Peter 3:17 in The Open Bible" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/14163518/The_Open_Bible_page_1peter.jpg" width="75%"></a>
To start your Bible study, you could follow the first reference that mentions different kinds of suffering. <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/collections/the-open-bible?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Open Bible</a> guides you to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+3%3A17&amp;resource_entry=dictionary-of-bible-themes/5565-suffering-believers&amp;tab=study" title="Read 1 Peter 3:17 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">1 Peter 3:17</a>. Once there, you’ll find an article at the bottom of the page titled “Kinds of Suffering.” Here, The Open Bible classifies three basic kinds of suffering and provides further exposition and Scripture references to help fill out your study. At the end of the article, you&#8217;ll be guided to continue through the outline from the &#8220;Christian’s Guide&#8221; by going to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+2%3A7&amp;resource_entry=dictionary-of-bible-themes/5561-suffering-nature&amp;tab=study" title="Read Job 2:7 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Job 2:7</a> that details the purposes of suffering. Once more, the Job reference contains an article with additional references and a link to the next related article from the outline. And so on.
<a href="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/14164039/The_Open_Bible_page_job.jpg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" title="Click to enlarge this page sample of Job 2:7 in The Open Bible" alt="Click to enlarge this page sample of Job 2:7 in The Open Bible" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/14164039/The_Open_Bible_page_job.jpg" width="75%"></a>
The Open Bible Is Open to Anyone
Whether you’re a new Christian or guiding someone toward faith in Christ, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/collections/the-open-bible?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Open Bible</a> provides an easy and simplified approach to studying God’s Word.
The Open Bible is available in the <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/kjv-open-bible-red-letter-edition-comfort-print-complete-reference-system?variant=34351710240904&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible KJV in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">King James Version (KJV)</a>, <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/nkjv-open-bible-red-letter-edition-comfort-print-complete-reference-system?variant=34351754707080&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible NKJV in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New King James Version (NKJV)</a>, and <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/niv-open-bible-red-letter-edition-comfort-print-complete-reference-system?variant=34360743231624&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Open Bible NIV in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New International Version (NIV)</a>
[Read the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/Authorized-King-James-Version-AKJV-Bible/#booklist" title="Read the King James Version (KJV) Bible translation on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">KJV</a>, <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-King-James-Version-NKJV-Bible/#booklist" title="Read the New King James Version (NKJV) Bible translation on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NKJV</a>, and <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/New-International-Version-NIV-Bible/#booklist" title="Read the New International Version (NIV) Bible translation on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NIV</a> Bible translations on Bible Gateway.]
<blockquote>
<center>Study the Bible with confidence and convenience when you become a member of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway Plus</a>. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Try it right now!</a></center></blockquote>
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/the-christians-guide-to-new-life/">The Christian’s Guide to New Life</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

So, You Decided to Follow Jesus. Now What!?
Whether you or someone you know has decided to follow Jesus, the next steps of living out a radically different life can be overwhelming. “Read your Bible” is certainly wise advice given to new disciples. But not having some guidance on where to start or how to address a specific question can lead to frustration and extinguish the zeal of new faith.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Bible Table of Contents]


Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway.

The Christian’s Guide to New Life
For more than 40 years, The Open Bible has helped millions of people, from new Christians to lifelong disciples, read the Bible in a comprehensive, practical way. Built as an unbiased yet comprehensive resource, The Open Bible contains a library of study aids in one book. Take, for example, one essential feature: “The Christian’s Guide to New Life.” This resource offers a doctrinal overview of the Scripture to help you read for yourself what the Bible says.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Thomas Nelson Releases The Open Bible® for the First Time in the NIV]
“The Christian’s Guide to New Life” is organized in outline form into seven main areas of study:
 Knowing God’s Word
 Understanding God’s Being
 Understanding Other Spirit Beings
 Beginning the New Life
 Growing in the New Life
 Facing Problems in the New Life
 Recognizing God’s Institutions
The Open Bible is one of the more than 50 Bible study references conveniently available to members of Bible Gateway Plus. Learn how you can try it right now!

An Easy-to-Follow Chained Reference
Imagine you or someone new to the faith wanted to learn more about suffering—what it is, why Christians experience it, God’s role in it, etc. Not an easy theological topic to touch, right? So, where do you start?
You’ll remember that in “The Christian’s Guide to New Life” one of the seven major themes is Facing Problems in the New Life. “Suffering” is a subsection of that theme.

To start your Bible study, you could follow the first reference that mentions different kinds of suffering. The Open Bible guides you to 1 Peter 3:17. Once there, you’ll find an article at the bottom of the page titled “Kinds of Suffering.” Here, The Open Bible classifies three basic kinds of suffering and provides further exposition and Scripture references to help fill out your study. At the end of the article, you’ll be guided to continue through the outline from the “Christian’s Guide” by going to Job 2:7 that details the purposes of suffering. Once more, the Job reference contains an article with additional references and a link to the next related article from the outline. And so on.

The Open Bible Is Open to Anyone
Whether you’re a new Christian or guiding someone toward faith in Christ, The Open Bible provides an easy and simplified approach to studying God’s Word.
The Open Bible is available in the King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), and New International Version (NIV)
[Read the KJV, NKJV, and NIV Bible translations on Bible Gateway.]
Study the Bible with confidence and convenience when you become a member of Bible Gateway Plus. Try it right now!

The post The Christian’s Guide to New Life appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

So, You Decided to Follow Jesus. Now What!? Whether you or someone you know has decided to follow Jesus, the next steps of living out a radically different life can be overwhelming. “Read your Bible” is certainly wise advice given to new disciples. But not having some guidance on where to start or how to […]
The post The Christian’s Guide to New Life appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

The Christian’s Guide to New Life

By Scott Erickson Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might. —2 Samuel 6:14 I love the song “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn. I love it because it reminds me of my junior high crush Lynn Voorhees, which never amounted to anything. But I love the [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/the-gift-of-existence/">The Gift of Existence</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-65519" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085710/ScottEricksonBW_Portrait2.jpg" alt="Scott Erickson" width="30%" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085710/ScottEricksonBW_Portrait2.jpg 280w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085710/ScottEricksonBW_Portrait2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085710/ScottEricksonBW_Portrait2-120x120.jpg 120w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" />By Scott Erickson
Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might. —<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Samuel+6%3A14&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=matthew-henry/2Sam.6.12-2Sam.6.19&amp;tab=study" rel="noopener noreferrer" title="Read 2 Samuel 6:14 on Bible Gateway" target="_blank">2 Samuel 6:14</a>
I love the song “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn. I love it because it reminds me of my junior high crush Lynn Voorhees, which never amounted to anything. But I love the feeling. Because to love someone or something deeply is the best feeling of all. Because to love is to desire, and to desire is to want to be here. This song reminds me of what a joy it is to be here.
My favorite smell is low tide. I love low tide. I grew up in a small Pacific Northwest town called Mukilteo, and the smell of salt and decay was always around. Low tide is magical because it reveals a world that’s mostly hidden. And to walk around the tide pools and scattered kelp beds and witness that hidden world is to remember that what we see is not all there is.

[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2020/10/advent-is-a-time-to-recognize-the-wonder-of-god-with-us-an-interview-with-scott-erickson/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Advent is a Time to Recognize the Wonder of God with Us: An Interview with Scott Erickson" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Advent is a Time to Recognize the Wonder of God with Us: An Interview with Scott Erickson</a>]
I love rolled-up socks.
I love plastic sandwich bags, with or without sandwiches in them.
I love a good rainstorm.
I love the way my body feels after a long swim.
I love my body. Well, I’m trying to. I mean, I’ve been programmed to see it as not good enough for so long, mostly in Speedo® situations, that I forget what a joy it is to be incarnate in such a magical biological masterpiece. I remember this most when I hug my kids.
I love remembering that moment when my daughter was a baby, and I was lying on the bed with her. I heard the voice of God tell me she was going to be a gift to the world—and when God tells you a secret, you never forget it.
I love church. Not necessarily what we’ve made it in America. There’s a lot of fluff that can go away as far as I’m concerned. But here’s what I love. I love what happens to my eyes and my ears and my heart when I’m in the midst of a gathering. The poet Rumi has a poem that says, “Where am I going on this glorious journey? To your house, of course.” I believe this poem the most when we gather in Its holy name.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2020/10/recapture-the-wonder-of-god-with-us-this-advent-season/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Recapture the Wonder of God-With-Us This Advent Season" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Recapture the Wonder of God-With-Us This Advent Season</a>]
I love you, Giver of existence—even though I have some deep questions about your invisibility and the suffering in this world and the absurdity of salmon migrations! I see that you have given us the gift of existing. Admittedly, existing is trying at times. There’s so much loss. Don’t get me wrong. There’s a lot of loss. But what a gift to receive, and what a world to live in, and what a cup to drink deeply from.
So thank you for my life. This one. With its dad tummy and its forty-year-old creaky knees and its proclivity to melancholiness (Enneagram 4!). I’m glad to be alive! I love being here.
We as your people want to dance in your presence, in the presence of the Giver of existence, in the presence of Existence itself.
So come, come and dance with me. Not because it’s a religious thing to do, but because it’s something lovers can’t be stopped from doing.
<img loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-65521 size-full" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10090845/Dancing.jpg" alt="Dancing" width="585" height="150" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10090845/Dancing.jpg 585w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10090845/Dancing-300x77.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 585px) 100vw, 585px" /> 
________
<a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/say-yes-discover-the-surprising-life-beyond-the-death-of-a-dream?variant=39485796778120" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignright size-full wp-image-65520" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085953/SayYes_Cover2.jpg" alt="Say Yes" width="280" height="280" srcset="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085953/SayYes_Cover2.jpg 280w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085953/SayYes_Cover2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/10085953/SayYes_Cover2-120x120.jpg 120w" sizes="(max-width: 280px) 100vw, 280px" /></a>Taken from <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/say-yes-discover-the-surprising-life-beyond-the-death-of-a-dream?variant=39485796778120" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream</a> by Scott Erickson. <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/say-yes-discover-the-surprising-life-beyond-the-death-of-a-dream?variant=39485796778120" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click here</a> to learn more about this book.
<a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/say-yes-discover-the-surprising-life-beyond-the-death-of-a-dream?variant=39485796778120" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Say Yes</a> gives you the mental and spiritual practices you need to enjoy your life again—and bring greater fullness than you could imagine before.
&#8220;My life doesn&#8217;t look anything like I wanted it to. How do I even keep going?&#8221; When the dreams for our life die, our vision of who we hoped to become often dies too. That&#8217;s when The Voice of Giving Up appears.
Visual artist and spiritual director Scott Erickson has had long midnight conversations with The Voice of Giving Up, and he knows how anxiety and depression make The Voice especially loud. But he&#8217;s discovered that our darkest moments are sometimes doorways to a deeper, more joy-filled journey of recovering who we are, why we&#8217;re here, and why the future bursts with possibilities if we are willing to say yes to life&#8217;s brightest gifts.
In <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/say-yes-discover-the-surprising-life-beyond-the-death-of-a-dream?variant=39485796778120" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Say Yes</a>, Scott helps you learn how to reawaken your deepest desires, disempower your greatest fears, and identify the destructive narratives holding you back. Combined with Scott&#8217;s beautiful, thought-provoking illustrations, this is a profound exploration of beginning again after:
<ul>
<li>Disappointment at how life is turning out</li>
<li>Suspecting we are not prepared or smart enough</li>
<li>Losing hope that change is possible and that pain can have a purpose</li>
</ul>
Take the first step to gain the gentle yet powerful tools you need, and say yes to what lies ahead today.
Scott Erickson is a touring painter, performance storyteller, and creative curate who mixes autobiography, biblical narrative, and visual aesthetics that speak to our deepest experiences. He is currently touring his multimedia storytelling piece “Say Yes: A Liturgy of Not Giving Up on Yourself” and is the author of Honest Advent: Awakening to the Wonder of God-With-Us Then, Here, and Now. Scott is most loved by his wife, Holly, and their three children in Austin, Texas.
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/the-gift-of-existence/">The Gift of Existence</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

By Scott Erickson
Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might. —2 Samuel 6:14
I love the song “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn. I love it because it reminds me of my junior high crush Lynn Voorhees, which never amounted to anything. But I love the feeling. Because to love someone or something deeply is the best feeling of all. Because to love is to desire, and to desire is to want to be here. This song reminds me of what a joy it is to be here.
My favorite smell is low tide. I love low tide. I grew up in a small Pacific Northwest town called Mukilteo, and the smell of salt and decay was always around. Low tide is magical because it reveals a world that’s mostly hidden. And to walk around the tide pools and scattered kelp beds and witness that hidden world is to remember that what we see is not all there is.

[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Advent is a Time to Recognize the Wonder of God with Us: An Interview with Scott Erickson]
I love rolled-up socks.
I love plastic sandwich bags, with or without sandwiches in them.
I love a good rainstorm.
I love the way my body feels after a long swim.
I love my body. Well, I’m trying to. I mean, I’ve been programmed to see it as not good enough for so long, mostly in Speedo® situations, that I forget what a joy it is to be incarnate in such a magical biological masterpiece. I remember this most when I hug my kids.
I love remembering that moment when my daughter was a baby, and I was lying on the bed with her. I heard the voice of God tell me she was going to be a gift to the world—and when God tells you a secret, you never forget it.
I love church. Not necessarily what we’ve made it in America. There’s a lot of fluff that can go away as far as I’m concerned. But here’s what I love. I love what happens to my eyes and my ears and my heart when I’m in the midst of a gathering. The poet Rumi has a poem that says, “Where am I going on this glorious journey? To your house, of course.” I believe this poem the most when we gather in Its holy name.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Recapture the Wonder of God-With-Us This Advent Season]
I love you, Giver of existence—even though I have some deep questions about your invisibility and the suffering in this world and the absurdity of salmon migrations! I see that you have given us the gift of existing. Admittedly, existing is trying at times. There’s so much loss. Don’t get me wrong. There’s a lot of loss. But what a gift to receive, and what a world to live in, and what a cup to drink deeply from.
So thank you for my life. This one. With its dad tummy and its forty-year-old creaky knees and its proclivity to melancholiness (Enneagram 4!). I’m glad to be alive! I love being here.
We as your people want to dance in your presence, in the presence of the Giver of existence, in the presence of Existence itself.
So come, come and dance with me. Not because it’s a religious thing to do, but because it’s something lovers can’t be stopped from doing.

Taken from Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life beyond the Death of a Dream by Scott Erickson. Click here to learn more about this book.
Say Yes gives you the mental and spiritual practices you need to enjoy your life again—and bring greater fullness than you could imagine before.
“My life doesn’t look anything like I wanted it to. How do I even keep going?” When the dreams for our life die, our vision of who we hoped to become often dies too. That’s when The Voice of Giving Up appears.
Visual artist and spiritual director Scott Erickson has had long midnight conversations with The Voice of Giving Up, and he knows how anxiety and depression make The Voice especially loud. But he’s discovered that our darkest moments are sometimes doorways to a deeper, more joy-filled journey of recovering who we are, why we’re here, and why the future bursts with possibilities if we are willing to say yes to life’s brightest gifts.
In Say Yes, Scott helps you learn how to reawaken your deepest desires, disempower your greatest fears, and identify the destructive narratives holding you back. Combined with Scott’s beautiful, thought-provoking illustrations, this is a profound exploration of beginning again after:
Disappointment at how life is turning out
Suspecting we are not prepared or smart enough
Losing hope that change is possible and that pain can have a purpose
Take the first step to gain the gentle yet powerful tools you need, and say yes to what lies ahead today.
Scott Erickson is a touring painter, performance storyteller, and creative curate who mixes autobiography, biblical narrative, and visual aesthetics that speak to our deepest experiences. He is currently touring his multimedia storytelling piece “Say Yes: A Liturgy of Not Giving Up on Yourself” and is the author of Honest Advent: Awakening to the Wonder of God-With-Us Then, Here, and Now. Scott is most loved by his wife, Holly, and their three children in Austin, Texas.
The post The Gift of Existence appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

By Scott Erickson Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might. —2 Samuel 6:14 I love the song “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” by P.M. Dawn. I love it because it reminds me of my junior high crush Lynn Voorhees, which never amounted to anything. But I love the […]
The post The Gift of Existence appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

The Gift of Existence

By Christopher Reese A new year brings a fresh start, new opportunities, and different possibilities. You may have made New Year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, or relationships. Having a desire to deepen your relationship with God is a worthy goal whether we make it in January or anytime of the year. Here are [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/new-year-resolutions-goals-4-ways-to-grow-spiritually/">New Year Resolutions (Goals): 4 Ways to Grow Spiritually</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-l-reese/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><img class="alignright" alt="Christopher Reese" title="Christopher Reese" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/28170009/Christopher_Reese.jpg" width="20%"></a>By Christopher Reese
A new year brings a fresh start, new opportunities, and different possibilities. You may have made New Year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, or relationships. Having a desire to deepen your relationship with God is a worthy goal whether we make it in January or anytime of the year. Here are four ways to grow spiritually in 2022 and beyond. And since the Bible plays such a key role in our spiritual growth, all four of the following points relate to it.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2021/12/what-does-the-bible-say-about-trusting-god/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, What Does the Bible Say About Trusting God?" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, What Does the Bible Say About Trusting God? by Christopher Reese</a>]
<h3>#1 – Read Scripture</h3>
The printed Word is God’s communication to humankind and, for Christians, is the bedrock for everything we believe about God and everything we do in relation to God. The Bible describes the true nature of reality and establishes the blueprint for how God desires us to live.
<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/join/new-creation/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus_newcreation" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><img class="alignright" alt="Sign up to get the free 5-day Bible study, You Are A New Creation" title="Sign up to get the free 5-day Bible study, You Are A New Creation" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/30160743/You_Are_A_New_Creation_banner.jpg" width="45%"></a>
The <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2020/12/getting-to-know-the-major-characters-of-the-new-testament-part-2-peter-stephen-paul-john/#Peter" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Getting to Know the Major Characters of the New Testament: Part 2 (Peter, Stephen, Paul, John)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">apostle Peter</a> highlights Scripture’s importance for spiritual growth when he writes, “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+peter+2%3A2&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=reformation-study-bible/1Pet.2.2&amp;tab=study" title="Read 1 Peter 2:2 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">1 Peter 2:2</a>). Just as infants receive nourishment from milk that leads to their physical growth, so we receive sustenance from Scripture, leading to our spiritual growth. It then makes sense that we need a regular intake of spiritual milk from the Bible.
The <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2020/12/getting-to-know-the-major-characters-of-the-new-testament-part-2-peter-stephen-paul-john/#Paul" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Getting to Know the Major Characters of the New Testament: Part 2 (Peter, Stephen, Paul, John)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">apostle Paul</a> reminded the young pastor Timothy that “all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy+3%3A16-17&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=nasb-stanley-life-principles-bible/what-bible-says-about-importance-scripture&amp;tab=study" title="Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">2 Timothy 3:16-17</a>). The Bible equips us to live the Christlike life God wants us to live.

You may be unsure where to begin reading the Bible. One way to start is to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/reading-plans/" title="Sign up to get free email Bible reading plans from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sign up to receive the free Bible Gateway reading plan that&#8217;s right for your personal schedule</a>. Scripture passages will be delivered daily directly into your email inbox. Read the entire Bible in a year, or just the New Testament. Receive readings based on the church calendar. Or read through smaller portions of Scripture like the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2021/06/what-are-the-gospels-2/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, What Are the Gospels?" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gospels</a> or <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;tab=intro" title="Read the book of Proverbs on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Proverbs</a>. Receiving these prepared plans by email every day is one of the easiest ways to get into the beneficial routine of reading Scripture and growing spiritually as a result.
<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/newyear/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter" alt="Sign up to get free email Bible reading plans from Bible Gateway" title="Sign up to get free email Bible reading plans from Bible Gateway" src="https://bg3-blog.s3.amazonaws.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/29151004/NewYearDevos_600x250_2022.jpg" width="85%"></a>
<h3>#2 – Meditate on Scripture</h3>
Along with reading Scripture, make it your goal to meditate on it as well. Unlike reading news articles or social media posts which we tend to set aside and quickly forget, the Bible is life&#8217;s sourcebook to deeply contemplate and remember. Ponder passages and verses. Consider what they tell us about God and ourselves, and the implications of those teachings for living our lives to the fullest. You may find it helpful to keep a journal for this purpose—to record thoughts, comments, questions, or prayers about your daily reading. You can do so electronically with your <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/login/" title="Create your own Bible Gateway free personal account to upgrade your Bible Gateway experience" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway free personal account</a>.
<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps.+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-jesus-bible/psalm-1-1-6&amp;tab=study" title="Read Psalm 1 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Psalm 1</a> describes the person “whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.” This person experiences great blessing and is “like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps.+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-jesus-bible/psalm-1-1-6&amp;tab=study" title="Read Psalm 1:1-3 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Psalm 1:1-3</a>). Meditating on Scripture is life-giving.
With a <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/login/" title="Create your own Bible Gateway free personal account to upgrade your Bible Gateway experience" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">free Bible Gateway account</a>, you can write personal notes on passages that will sync across your devices (like keeping a digital journal), and you can also highlight and bookmark favorite verses.
Another aid to meditating on Scripture is listening to it while you work, drive, do housework, exercise, or get ready to sleep. Often hearing Scripture will result in insights that may not have occurred to you while reading it, and if you both read and listen to the same passage, it will stay with you all the more. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/audio/" title="Listen to the Bible on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Listen</a> to the Bible through the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/audio/" title="Listen to the Bible on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway website</a>, as well as with the free <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/bible-audio-app/" title="Learn more about the free Bible Gateway Bible Audio App" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway Audio App</a>.
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<h3>#3 – Study Scripture</h3>
The Bible can be a challenging book to understand. Yes, Scripture’s call to believe in and follow Jesus is broadly understandable, but that same message of salvation has such depth that we can spend our whole lives studying it and still not fully grasp it. Church leader Gregory the Great said centuries ago, “Scripture is like a river . . . broad and deep, shallow enough here for the lamb to go wading, but deep enough there for the elephant to swim.” [Quoted in Patrick Schreiner, <a href="https://biblegateway.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=574115&amp;p=1172374&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of The Mission of the Triune God: A Theology of Acts in the Bible Gateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Mission of the Triune God: A Theology of Acts</a>, ed. Thomas R. Schreiner and Brian S. Rosner, New Testament Theology (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2022).]
The Bible was written in three foreign languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) by people living in very different times and places than we do. Just as we may travel to a foreign country today and have only a basic grasp of what’s happening around us, the Bible itself is a foreign country, in a sense, and we often need a knowledgeable guide to help us navigate through it. When Philip the Evangelist met the Ethiopian official in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+8&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-biblical-theology/ac-8-4-40&amp;tab=study" title="Read Acts 8:31 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Acts 8</a> who was reading the <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;tab=intro" title="Read the book of Isaiah on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">book of Isaiah</a>, Philip asked him, “Do you understand what you are reading?” The man replied, “How can I . . . unless someone explains it to me?” We can all relate to this question when it comes to understanding Scripture (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+8%3A31&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=niv-grace-and-truth-study-bible/ac-8-29-38&amp;tab=study" title="Read Acts 8:31 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Acts 8:31</a>).
This is where tools like study Bibles, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and commentaries shed indispensable light on verses, passages, and the Bible as a whole. An easy way to access all of these resources is with a membership in <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/join/you-are-a-new-creation/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=bghome&amp;utm_campaign=new-creationimage" title="Learn more about Bible Gateway Plus and get the free 5-day Bible study, You Are A New Creation" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway Plus</a>. For any verse or collection of verses you want to study, you&#8217;ll quickly find explanatory notes, dictionary entries, and other helpful references to guide you in understanding and applying the biblical text.
Accurately grasping the teachings of the Bible will allow you to move beyond the “milk” of introductory ideas to the “solid food” of a deeper, more mature faith (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+5%3A13-14&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=quest-study-bible/what-are-milk-fed-christians-like-5-13&amp;tab=study" title="Read Hebrews 5:13-14 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hebrews 5:13-14</a>).
<blockquote></blockquote>
<center>Sign up to <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">get the</a><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Know the Bible free email lesson series</a> from Bible Gateway.</center>
<blockquote></blockquote>
<h3>#4 – Learn from Christian Leaders</h3>
Grow spiritually this year by learning from established Christian thinkers and communicators, both past and present. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1&amp;version=NIV&amp;tab=intro" title="Read the book of Proverbs on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Proverbs</a> exhorts us to “walk with the wise and become wise” (<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+13%3A20&amp;version=NIV&amp;resource_entry=reformation-study-bible/Prov.13.20&amp;tab=study" title="Read Proverbs 13:20 on Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Proverbs 13:20</a>). As we listen to voices of wisdom we can benefit from the hard-won insights of Christian leaders, teachers, and pastors.
Bible Gateway provides numerous <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/newsletters/" title="See the free email devotionals and newsletters available for you from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">free email devotionals and newsletters</a> from renowned authors like C.S. Lewis, Billy Graham, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Charles Spurgeon, John Piper, and others. There are also devotionals for families, couples, men, women, and children. Or, choose our free email <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/landing/know-the-bible/" title="Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Know the Bible Series</a> which provides a foundational introduction to the Bible and its teachings.
Sign up for one or more of these newsletters and receive daily instruction and encouragement from some of the leading voices of the Christian faith.
Whether you’re seeking to make a New Year’s resolution in 2022 or simply to set a new personal goal any time of the year, we encourage you to always make spiritual growth your top priority and to take advantage of the many tools we offer to help you grow in your knowledge and understanding of Scripture.
[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2021/12/angels-in-heaven-frequently-asked-questions/" title="Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions) by Christopher Reese</a>]
BIO: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-l-reese/" title="Visit the LinkedIn page of Christopher Reese" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Christopher Reese</a> (MDiv, ThM) (<a href="https://twitter.com/clreese" title="Christopher Reese Twitter stream" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">@clreese</a>) is a freelance writer and editor-in-chief of <a href="https://worldviewbulletin.substack.com/archive?utm_source=menu-dropdown" title="Visit The Worldview Bulletin" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">The Worldview Bulletin</a>. He is a general editor of the <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/dictionary-of-christianity-and-science-the-definitive-reference-for-the-intersection-of-christian-faith-and-contemporary-science?variant=13746105909359&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of the Dictionary of Christianity and Science in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dictionary of Christianity and Science</a> (Zondervan, 2017) and <a href="https://store.faithgateway.com/products/three-views-on-christianity-and-science?variant=34292904001672&amp;utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bookpromo" title="Buy your copy of Three Views on Christianity and Science in the FaithGateway Store where you'll enjoy low prices every day" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Three Views on Christianity and Science</a> (Zondervan, 2021). His articles have appeared in Christianity Today and he writes and edits for Christian ministries and publishers.
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<center>Learn more about growing your faith and thousands of other topics when you become a member of <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bible Gateway Plus</a>. <a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/plus/?utm_source=bg&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=bgplus" title="Try Bible Gateway Plus FREE for 30 days starting right now" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Try it right now!</a></center></blockquote>
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/new-year-resolutions-goals-4-ways-to-grow-spiritually/">New Year Resolutions (Goals): 4 Ways to Grow Spiritually</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

By Christopher Reese
A new year brings a fresh start, new opportunities, and different possibilities.  You may have made New Year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, or relationships.  Having a desire to deepen your relationship with God is a worthy goal whether we make it in January or anytime of the year.  Here are four ways to grow spiritually in 2022 and beyond. And since the Bible plays such a key role in our spiritual growth, all four of the following points relate to it.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, What Does the Bible Say About Trusting God? by Christopher Reese]
#1 – Read Scripture
The printed Word is God’s communication to humankind and, for Christians, is the bedrock for everything we believe about God and everything we do in relation to God.  The Bible describes the true nature of reality and establishes the blueprint for how God desires us to live.

The apostle Peter highlights Scripture’s importance for spiritual growth when he writes, “Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation” (1 Peter 2:2).  Just as infants receive nourishment from milk that leads to their physical growth, so we receive sustenance from Scripture, leading to our spiritual growth.  It then makes sense that we need a regular intake of spiritual milk from the Bible.
The apostle Paul reminded the young pastor Timothy that “all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  The Bible equips us to live the Christlike life God wants us to live.

You may be unsure where to begin reading the Bible. One way to start is to sign up to receive the free Bible Gateway reading plan that’s right for your personal schedule. Scripture passages will be delivered daily directly into your email inbox.  Read the entire Bible in a year, or just the New Testament. Receive readings based on the church calendar. Or read through smaller portions of Scripture like the Gospels or Proverbs.  Receiving these prepared plans by email every day is one of the easiest ways to get into the beneficial routine of reading Scripture and growing spiritually as a result.

#2 – Meditate on Scripture
Along with reading Scripture, make it your goal to meditate on it as well.  Unlike reading news articles or social media posts which we tend to set aside and quickly forget, the Bible is life’s sourcebook to deeply contemplate and remember.  Ponder passages and verses. Consider what they tell us about God and ourselves, and the implications of those teachings for living our lives to the fullest.  You may find it helpful to keep a journal for this purpose—to record thoughts, comments, questions, or prayers about your daily reading.  You can do so electronically with your Bible Gateway free personal account.
Psalm 1 describes the person “whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.”  This person experiences great blessing and is “like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (Psalm 1:1-3).  Meditating on Scripture is life-giving.
With a free Bible Gateway account, you can write personal notes on passages that will sync across your devices (like keeping a digital journal), and you can also highlight and bookmark favorite verses.
Another aid to meditating on Scripture is listening to it while you work, drive, do housework, exercise, or get ready to sleep.  Often hearing Scripture will result in insights that may not have occurred to you while reading it, and if you both read and listen to the same passage, it will stay with you all the more.  Listen to the Bible through the Bible Gateway website, as well as with the free Bible Gateway Audio App.

It only takes a minute to create your own Bible Gateway free personal account and you’ll immediately upgrade your Bible Gateway experience. Do it right now!

#3 – Study Scripture
The Bible can be a challenging book to understand.  Yes, Scripture’s call to believe in and follow Jesus is broadly understandable, but that same message of salvation has such depth that we can spend our whole lives studying it and still not fully grasp it.  Church leader Gregory the Great said centuries ago, “Scripture is like a river . . . broad and deep, shallow enough here for the lamb to go wading, but deep enough there for the elephant to swim.” [Quoted in Patrick Schreiner, The Mission of the Triune God: A Theology of Acts, ed. Thomas R. Schreiner and Brian S. Rosner, New Testament Theology (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2022).]
The Bible was written in three foreign languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) by people living in very different times and places than we do.  Just as we may travel to a foreign country today and have only a basic grasp of what’s happening around us, the Bible itself is a foreign country, in a sense, and we often need a knowledgeable guide to help us navigate through it.  When Philip the Evangelist met the Ethiopian official in Acts 8 who was reading the book of Isaiah, Philip asked him, “Do you understand what you are reading?”  The man replied, “How can I . . . unless someone explains it to me?”  We can all relate to this question when it comes to understanding Scripture (Acts 8:31).
This is where tools like study Bibles, dictionaries, encyclopedias, and commentaries shed indispensable light on verses, passages, and the Bible as a whole.  An easy way to access all of these resources is with a membership in Bible Gateway Plus.  For any verse or collection of verses you want to study, you’ll quickly find explanatory notes, dictionary entries, and other helpful references to guide you in understanding and applying the biblical text.
Accurately grasping the teachings of the Bible will allow you to move beyond the “milk” of introductory ideas to the “solid food” of a deeper, more mature faith (Hebrews 5:13-14).

Sign up to get the Know the Bible free email lesson series from Bible Gateway.

#4 – Learn from Christian Leaders
Grow spiritually this year by learning from established Christian thinkers and communicators, both past and present.  Proverbs exhorts us to “walk with the wise and become wise” (Proverbs 13:20).  As we listen to voices of wisdom we can benefit from the hard-won insights of Christian leaders, teachers, and pastors.
Bible Gateway provides numerous free email devotionals and newsletters from renowned authors like C.S. Lewis, Billy Graham, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Charles Spurgeon, John Piper, and others.  There are also devotionals for families, couples, men, women, and children.  Or, choose our free email Know the Bible Series which provides a foundational introduction to the Bible and its teachings.
Sign up for one or more of these newsletters and receive daily instruction and encouragement from some of the leading voices of the Christian faith.
Whether you’re seeking to make a New Year’s resolution in 2022 or simply to set a new personal goal any time of the year, we encourage you to always make spiritual growth your top priority and to take advantage of the many tools we offer to help you grow in your knowledge and understanding of Scripture.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Angels in Heaven (Frequently Asked Questions) by Christopher Reese]
BIO: Christopher Reese (MDiv, ThM) (@clreese) is a freelance writer and editor-in-chief of The Worldview Bulletin. He is a general editor of the Dictionary of Christianity and Science (Zondervan, 2017) and Three Views on Christianity and Science (Zondervan, 2021). His articles have appeared in Christianity Today and he writes and edits for Christian ministries and publishers.
Learn more about growing your faith and thousands of other topics when you become a member of Bible Gateway Plus. Try it right now!

The post New Year Resolutions (Goals): 4 Ways to Grow Spiritually appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

By Christopher Reese A new year brings a fresh start, new opportunities, and different possibilities. You may have made New Year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, or relationships. Having a desire to deepen your relationship with God is a worthy goal whether we make it in January or anytime of the year. Here are […]
The post New Year Resolutions (Goals): 4 Ways to Grow Spiritually appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

New Year Resolutions (Goals): 4 Ways to Grow Spiritually

Read this week&#8217;s Bible Gateway Weekly Brief newsletter ⇨ Bible Gateway Weekly Brief ⇨ Newsletter signup ▼ Support Bible Gateway—Find the Resources You Need At: ⇨ FaithGateway Store ⇨ Christianbook.com Order Resources in Bulk At: ⇨ ChurchSource ▼ ⇨ See Bible News Roundup weekly posts Get biblically wise and spiritually fit. Become a member of [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/weekly-brief-week-of-january-2-2022/">Weekly Brief – Week of January 2, 2022</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

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The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/weekly-brief-week-of-january-2-2022/">Weekly Brief – Week of January 2, 2022</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

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Read this week’s Bible Gateway Weekly Brief newsletter ⇨ Bible Gateway Weekly Brief ⇨ Newsletter signup ▼ Support Bible Gateway—Find the Resources You Need At: ⇨ FaithGateway Store ⇨ Christianbook.com Order Resources in Bulk At: ⇨ ChurchSource ▼ ⇨ See Bible News Roundup weekly posts Get biblically wise and spiritually fit. Become a member of […]
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Weekly Brief – Week of January 2, 2022

King David prayed for protection from his enemies. Jesus prayed for all believers. The early church prayed for courage. The most powerful prayers of Scripture have one thing in common: they reflect the promises of God in his Word. How does praying biblical prayers of confession, thanksgiving, praise, intercession, petition, and communion equip you to [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog/2022/01/bible-prayers-every-believer-should-pray-an-interview-with-o-s-hawkins/">Bible Prayers Every Believer Should Pray: An Interview with O.S. Hawkins</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.biblegateway.com/blog">Bible Gateway Blog</a>.

King David prayed for protection from his enemies. Jesus prayed for all believers. The early church prayed for courage. The most powerful prayers of Scripture have one thing in common: they reflect the promises of God in his Word. How does praying biblical prayers of confession, thanksgiving, praise, intercession, petition, and communion equip you to effectively pray for peace in times of change, courage to overcome your fears, and healing for yourself and others?
Bible Gateway interviewed O.S. Hawkins (@OSHawkins) about his book, The Prayer Code: 40 Scripture Prayers Every Believer Should Pray (Thomas Nelson, 2021).

[Sign up for the free email devotional, Codes for Christian Living by O. S. Hawkins]
What is prayer and why is it important?
O.S. Hawkins: Prayer, simply defined, is talking to God. Like all communication, it involves two-way conversation, listening and speaking. We speak prayers, sometimes very short, like Peter’s “Lord, save me!” as he was drowning in the Sea of Galilee, sometimes more elaborate as we pour our burdens out to the Lord. Of course, the Lord speaks to us primarily through His word.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Nehemiah Code: An Interview with O. S. Hawkins]
How many prayers are in the Bible? How did you select the 40 that comprise this book?

O.S. Hawkins: There are more than 650 recorded prayers in Scripture: prayers of penitence, praise, petition, protection, and provision. Selecting only 40 from the pages of Scripture was a great challenge. These are prayers that cover the gamut of human emotions and challenges. And much like hors d’oeuvres, whet our appetite for more. My hope is that after studying these 40 prayers in Scripture, readers will go on to read other great prayers found throughout the Bible.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Daniel Code: An Interview with O. S. Hawkins]

You write, “The foundation of true prayer is built on an unselfish recognition.” What do you mean?
O.S. Hawkins: We have to realize, unselfishly, that we’re not the center of all knowledge and experience. Prayer is the battlefield of the Christian life, the place where the struggles of life are won. Like all soldiers, we have to follow the battle plan of our general, the Lord Jesus himself.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Apostles’ Code: The Holy Spirit in You]
How should we see the Lord’s Prayer as a model for all our prayers?
O.S. Hawkins: It’s remarkable that Scripture only records one thing the disciples asked Jesus to teach them. They didn’t ask how to heal the sick or to multiply loaves and fishes—they didn’t even ask him to teach them how to turn water into wine! They simply asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.” That should make our ears perk up. Jesus has performed great miracles, taught with authority; the disciples apparently recognized that prayer—communion with the Father—was key to Jesus’ ministry.
With that simple request, he teaches them the model prayer. In it, we see God’s glory is the object of the prayer and our good is the outcome of the prayer. We praise God’s name, seek his kingdom, ask for him to meet our needs, to forgive our sins and deliver us from evil. And we close with praise and expectancy about the kingdom to come.
Do we have to recite the prayer verbatim each time we pray? Not necessarily, but I believe it’s an important prayer we should all know and pray ourselves regularly.

What should we expect from our prayers?
O.S. Hawkins: First, God is listening to our prayers. Every one of them. Sometimes it can feel as though our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, but he hears them and he answers them—every single one of them. Sometimes his answer is direct; we pray and the answer comes. Sometimes they’re delayed. We pray, but in God’s providence, he waits to answer them. Sometimes, they’re different. God answers, but in a way that’s different than we anticipated. While not always evident, those different answers are always better. Finally, there are times he denies our request. I’m grateful God has not answered all my prayers with a yes because there are times I’ve asked him for something that in his providence was not best for me.
How is the Holy Spirit our prayer partner?
O.S. Hawkins: Romans 8:26–27 tells us the Spirit helps in our weakness. The Spirit himself makes intercession when we don’t have the strength or the words. What an incredible fact! The Spirit makes intercession when we can’t. The Spirit is our prayer partner. And he’s a great prayer partner because in verse 28 Paul tells us the Spirit “makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” The longer I walk this road as a follower of Christ, the more I see the need to pray according to God’s will.

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What are we to learn from King David’s prayer of Psalm 51?
O.S. Hawkins: We’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. We all need forgiveness. While it’s true no one reading this interview will go to the lengths that David did to cover up his sin, it’s true all of us cover our sin from time to time. David, though, once confronted, modeled the steps we should take in prayer to repent:
 assume personal responsibility
 seek reconciliation
 embrace restoration.
In fact, recognizing his forgiveness, he pledged to teach transgressors God’s ways. We should learn that forgiveness is possible, and that God is faithful and just to forgive us if only we ask.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, The Gospel is the Message of the Second Chance]
What does it mean when the Bible says to pray without ceasing?
O.S. Hawkins: Paul writes in Ephesians 6:18, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.”
Prayer is truly the battlefield of the Christian life. Think about the parallel—a solider on the battlefield has to be ready for battle at any moment. He drills, he prepares, he keeps his weapon ready to go. For us, we have to be ready for the enemy’s slings and arrows at all times. When we pray without ceasing, it doesn’t necessarily mean we’re focused with our hands folded, our heads bowed and eyes closed. We might be driving down the highway, or sitting in a meeting, or sitting in a doctor’s office. It’s being in constant communion with God. There’s value in getting alone with God in the prayer closet, but I can pray as I meet with our team, or when I’m sitting amongst friends. Being in constant communion with the creator of the universe is a tremendous blessing we should embrace.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Jesus Died so We Might Be Saved]
What is the last prayer of the Bible and why should we embrace it?
O.S. Hawkins: At the end of his life, John, the disciple Jesus loved, is in exile on Patmos. He receives the vision we know as Revelation and faithfully records the wondrous imagery he has seen to the best of his ability. Almost at the very end of the book, our Lord and Savior—John’s Lord and Savior—after 66 books, 1,189 chapters, 31,103 verses, and almost one million written words, closes this book of all books by promising to come back to this planet again saying, “Surely I am coming quickly” (Revelation 22:20). John had to be excited. He’s old, frail, and on an island with criminals and the insane. He’s tired. He’s seen the visions of what is to come. And as he pens Jesus’ words, John almost cries out “Even so, come, Lord Jesus,” (Rev. 22:20). It’s the very last prayer in Scripture.
Jesus is coming again to bring a true and lasting peace among us. This should give us peace for the moment, confidence for the future, and an urgency to tell others the good news!
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, God Proved His Love Toward Us]
What do you consider a personally favorite prayer of the Bible?
O.S. Hawkins: Personally, my favorite prayer in the Bible is the longest one recorded. This is commonly referred to as our Lord’s high intercession prayer recorded in John 17 when, on the eve of the crucifixion, he pours his heart out to the Father praying for himself, his disciples, and finally for you and me, along with all those in the coming generations who would put their faith and trust in him. And the good news is he’s still praying for us this very moment. The Bible says, “He ever lives to make intercession for us” (Hebrews 7:25). So if you ever wonder what Jesus is doing right now…he is praying for you!

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What is a favorite Bible passage of yours and why?
O.S. Hawkins: The day I made my public profession of Christ as Lord and Savior, a man in the church came to me and handed me a piece of paper and said you’re going to need to memorize this. The paper read, “1 Cor. 10:13.” The next day, I drove to downtown Fort Worth to the Baptist Bookstore and purchased my first Bible. I found the passage and made it the first verse I ever memorized. Paul reminds us, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.”
Because I had hidden this verse in my heart, only God has recorded how many times across the years—when I found myself faced with some sort of temptation—it surfaced in my memory and kept me from many a potential mistake. It’s a powerful passage, memorized at the very start of my Christian journey, that speaks to me all these years later.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Ash Wednesday—Amazing Grace]
What are your thoughts about Bible Gateway and the Bible Gateway App and Bible Audio App?
O.S. Hawkins: Bible Gateway resources can really help people growing in their faith, and busy Bible study teachers and pastors who are preparing lessons, sermons, or looking for devotional resources. I know Bible study leaders who appreciate the commentary resources and the various translations that can help shed light on a particular passage.
[Read the Bible Gateway Blog post, Moved by the Holy Spirit]
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
O.S. Hawkins: These Code books have blessed so many. Weekly, I hear from pastors, businesspeople, Sunday school teachers and many others about how the books have blessed them as they’ve read and meditated on them. One of the direct recipients of the blessings, though, are the 2,500 retired pastors and, in most cases their widows, who receive financial assistance through Mission:Dignity. One hundred percent of author’s royalties and proceeds from The Prayer Code, and in fact all of our Code books, go to this wonderful ministry we lead through GuideStone. One of the things I love about Mission:Dignity, beyond the important work it does, is that every dime of every gift goes to help those we serve. An endowment established many years ago provides for the administrative needs of the ministry. I’d encourage anyone who cares about pastors who served in rural or urban locations, away from the limelight, out in the highways and hedges, to visit MissionDignity.org to learn more and learn how they can participate.
The Prayer Code is published by HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., the parent company of Bible Gateway.

Bio: O.S. Hawkins has served pastorates, including the First Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, for more than 25 years. A native of Fort Worth, Texas, he has three earned degrees (BBA, MDiv, and DMin) as well as several honorary degrees. He is the president of GuideStone Financial Resources, with assets under management of 16 billion dollars, serving 250,000 pastors, church staff members, missionaries, doctors, university professors, and other workers in various Christian organizations with their investment, retirement, and benefit service needs. He is the bestselling author of more than 40 books, including The Joshua Code and The Jesus Code, which have sold over 1.5 million copies, and speaks regularly to business groups and churches across America. All of the author’s royalties and proceeds from the entire Code series go to support Mission:Dignity. Learn more about Mission:Dignity by visiting MissionDignity.org.
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The post Bible Prayers Every Believer Should Pray: An Interview with O.S. Hawkins appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

King David prayed for protection from his enemies. Jesus prayed for all believers. The early church prayed for courage. The most powerful prayers of Scripture have one thing in common: they reflect the promises of God in his Word. How does praying biblical prayers of confession, thanksgiving, praise, intercession, petition, and communion equip you to […]
The post Bible Prayers Every Believer Should Pray: An Interview with O.S. Hawkins appeared first on Bible Gateway Blog.

Bible Prayers Every Believer Should Pray: An Interview with O.S. Hawkins

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="statue of the apostles, on whose faith the creed is based" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Who wrote the Apostles&#8217; Creed? Why is it important? Keep reading! This article from the free Lexham Bible Dictionary gives those answers (and many, many more). Apostles’ Creed (Symbolum Apostolorum): A statement of Christian belief that is used by Western churches, both Catholic and Protestant. While it is explicitly affirmed only in Western churches, it [&#8230;]

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="statue of the apostles, on whose faith the creed is based" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Apostles-Creed-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Who wrote the Apostles&#8217; Creed? Why is it important? Keep reading! This article from the <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/36564/lexham-bible-dictionary?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free Lexham Bible Dictionary</a> gives those answers (and many, many more).
Apostles’ Creed (Symbolum Apostolorum):
A statement of Christian belief that is used by Western churches, both Catholic and Protestant. While it is explicitly affirmed only in Western churches, it reflects traditions that were affirmed officially by the entire Church in the Nicene Creed. Although its roots are much earlier, in its present form it dates to about the eighth century.
<h2>The Old Roman Creed</h2>
An early version of what later became the Apostles’ Creed, called the “Old Roman Creed,” was in use as early as the second century&nbsp;(Kelly,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/34092/j-n-d-kellys-early-christian-doctrines-and-creeds?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress">Creeds</a>, 101). The earliest written form of this creed is found in a letter that Marcellus of Ancyra wrote in Greek to Julius, the bishop of Rome, about AD 341. About 50 years later, Tyrannius Rufinus wrote <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/25397/nicene-and-post-nicene-fathers-second-series-volume-iii?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a commentary on this creed</a> in Latin (Commentarius in symbolum apostolorum). In it, he recounted the viewpoint that the apostles wrote the creed together after Pentecost, before leaving Jerusalem to preach (<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/25397/nicene-and-post-nicene-fathers-second-series-volume-iii?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress">Symb</a>.&nbsp;2). The title “Apostles’ Creed” is also mentioned about 390 by Ambrose, where he refers to “the creed of the Apostles which the Church of Rome keeps and guards in its entirety” (Ep. 42, trans. in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/33662/fathers-of-the-church-latin-fathers-of-the-nicene-era#504?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Saint Ambrose: Letters</a>).
The text of the Old Roman Creed is as follows, with the last phrase (included by Marcellus but omitted by Rufinus) in brackets (Kelly,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/34092/j-n-d-kellys-early-christian-doctrines-and-creeds?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Creeds</a>, 102):
I believe in God the Father almighty; 
and in Christ Jesus His only Son, our Lord, 
Who was born from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, 
Who under Pontius Pilate was crucified and buried, 
on the third day rose again from the dead, 
ascended into heaven, 
sits at the right hand of the Father, 
whence he will come to judge the living and the dead; 
and in the Holy Spirit, 
the holy Church, 
the remission of sins, 
the resurrection of the flesh, 
[life everlasting].
<h2>The Later Creed</h2>
What we now know as the Apostles’ Creed is an enlargement of the Old Roman Creed.&nbsp;The first known occurrence of the Apostles’ Creed, in a form that is nearly equivalent to its final form, is in the Latin tract&nbsp;De singulis libris canonicis scarapsus&nbsp;by the monk Priminius (sometimes spelled “Pirminius”) from the early eighth century. The process by which the Old Roman Creed became the Apostles’ Creed cannot be exhaustively known, though Kelly notes that creeds that are “practically identical” to the Apostles’ Creed began to appear in South Gaul in the fifth century (Kelly,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/34092/j-n-d-kellys-early-christian-doctrines-and-creeds?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Creeds</a>, 413). Over the next few centuries, the Apostles’ Creed in its final form gained acceptance throughout France and Germany. It was officially recognized by Charlemagne throughout the Frankish Empire in the early ninth century, and was eventually incorporated into the liturgy of the Church of Rome.
The creed as it exists today consists of three main articles, like the Old Roman Creed divided according to a Trinitarian arrangement. The text is as follows (Kelly,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/34092/j-n-d-kellys-early-christian-doctrines-and-creeds?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Creeds</a>, 369):
I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth; 
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, 
Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born from the Virgin Mary, 
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried, descended into hell, 
on the third day rose again from the dead, 
ascended to heaven, sits at the right hand of God the Father almighty, 
thence He will come to judge the living and the dead; 
I believe in the Holy Spirit, 
the holy Catholic Church, 
the communion of saints, 
the remission of sins, 
the resurrection of the flesh, 
and eternal life. 
Amen.
<a href="http://https://www.logos.com/basic?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28747 size-full" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1.jpg" alt="Free Bible Software. Priceless Insights. clickable image" width="1280" height="336" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1.jpg 1280w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-300x79.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-1024x269.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-768x202.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-716x188.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-820x215.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /></a>
<h2>Disputed phrases</h2>
Grudem argues that the phrase “He descended into&nbsp;hell” is a late addition to the creed.&nbsp;This phrase is commonly understood as a reference to the “harrowing of hell,” which is based on one interpretation of&nbsp;1 Pet 3:19. The phrase is first mentioned by Rufinus in the late fourth century, and does not appear in any other versions of the creed until AD 650. Rufinus himself notes that the clause “is not added in the Creed of the Roman Church” (<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/25397/nicene-and-post-nicene-fathers-second-series-volume-iii?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress">Symb.</a>&nbsp;18), though he includes it in the version of the creed that was accepted by his own church of Aquileia (see&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/25397/nicene-and-post-nicene-fathers-second-series-volume-iii?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress">Symb.</a>&nbsp;3). Moreover, Rufinus makes clear that he did not believe Christ literally descended into hell, but rather that the phrase merely meant He was&nbsp;buried. The&nbsp;Greek&nbsp;form of the creed has&nbsp;ᾅδης (hades), which can mean merely “the grave” rather than a place of punishment. Thus a more accurate version would be, “He descended into the grave” or “He descended to the dead” (Grudem, “<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/4624/journal-of-the-evangelical-theological-society?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress">He Did Not Descend</a>,” 102). This understanding of the phrase is reflected, for example, in Question 50 of the Westminster Larger Catechism.
Instead of “holy catholic church,” some Protestant churches, particularly in the Lutheran tradition, recite “holy Christian church” to avoid misinterpreting the phrase as a reference to the Catholic Church.&nbsp;The creed seems to use “catholic” in the sense of “universal” or “global” (the Latin uses the adjective&nbsp;catholicam); this interpretation fits with the historic nature of the creed, which predates in its tradition the split of the Orthodox and Catholic churches.
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<h2>Tradition, the “Rule of Faith,” and core Christian beliefs</h2>
The Apostles’ Creed seems to represent some form of what the early church called the “rule of faith.” The early Christians were guided by the “rule of faith,” the Holy Spirit working in community and individuals, and the authoritative Scriptures. Before the “rule of faith” was called such, there were general references to the teachings and traditions of the apostles. It is these core teachings that seem to make up the Apostles’ Creed.
Signs of these “core teachings” are seen as early as the&nbsp;New Testament&nbsp;book of&nbsp;Hebrews, which speaks of a need for Christians to grasp and embrace the basic concepts of&nbsp;faith&nbsp;so that they can move into deeper parts of their Christian faith, while at the same time realizing how essential it is that they never depart from a core belief in the real and living&nbsp;Christ&nbsp;(Hebrews 5:11–6:12). The Apostles’ Creed represents a set of uncompromisable core beliefs for Christians. As such, the core tradition of it is also found in the Nicene Creed. The Apostles’ Creed, like all creeds, functions like a filter for orthodoxy; it indicates what is and what is not “Christian.” It is a public profession of belief in historic Christianity.
<h2>Watch the Apostles’ Creed</h2>
<iframe loading="lazy" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LK85tVOjLtA?rel=0" width="630" height="354" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<h2>Teach the Apostles&#8217; Creed</h2>
<a href="https://lexhampress.com/fatcat-books?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/assets/11981625/optimized?share=eK3Vvt2a69IyE7zj?w=250" alt="cover of The Apostles' Creed: For All God's Children book" width="124" height="133"></a>In the new book <a href="https://lexhampress.com/fatcat-books?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Apostles&#8217; Creed: For All God&#8217;s Children</a>, families can visualize, memorize, understand, and confess the Apostles’ Creed. With a list of Scriptures for further learning and a family prayer, this FatCat book is perfect to read again and again.
<a href="https://lexhampress.com/fatcat-books?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/assets/12663819/optimized" alt="FatCat reading the Bible" width="490" height="215"></a>
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<h2>Rediscover the Apostles&#8217; Creed</h2>
The Apostles’ Creed has united Christians from different times, places, and traditions. It proclaims eternal truths for life today. We believe them, we recite them, but do we build our lives on them?
Rediscover the creed in <a href="https://lexhampress.com/product/147146/the-apostles-creed-a-guide-to-the-ancient-catechism?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Apostles Creed: A Guide to the Ancient Catechism</a>. See what about the Christian faith is so counter-cultural and what truths embedded in the Apostles’ Creed we’ve come to assume—when really they should amaze us.
<h2>Get more from your Bible study</h2>
When you read your Bible with the free <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/36564/lexham-bible-dictionary?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lexham Bible Dictionary</a>, thousands of articles like this help you understand important concepts, words, people, and more. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.logos.com/product/36564/lexham-bible-dictionary?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lexham Bible Dictionary</a> syncs with the library inside <a href="https://www.logos.com/basic?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Logos Bible Software (also available free)</a> to create a never-ending source of insight into topics and passages. In the <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/36564/lexham-bible-dictionary?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=apostlescreedelliotritzema&amp;utm_campaign=promo-lexhampress" target="_blank" rel="noopener">LBD</a>, this article links to several others, so you can keep learning.
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* * *
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Who wrote the Apostles’ Creed? Why is it important? Keep reading! This article from the free Lexham Bible Dictionary gives those answers (and many, many more).
Apostles’ Creed (Symbolum Apostolorum):
A statement of Christian belief that is used by Western churches, both Catholic and Protestant. While it is explicitly affirmed only in Western churches, it reflects traditions that were affirmed officially by the entire Church in the Nicene Creed. Although its roots are much earlier, in its present form it dates to about the eighth century.
The Old Roman Creed
An early version of what later became the Apostles’ Creed, called the “Old Roman Creed,” was in use as early as the second century (Kelly, Creeds, 101). The earliest written form of this creed is found in a letter that Marcellus of Ancyra wrote in Greek to Julius, the bishop of Rome, about AD 341. About 50 years later, Tyrannius Rufinus wrote a commentary on this creed in Latin (Commentarius in symbolum apostolorum). In it, he recounted the viewpoint that the apostles wrote the creed together after Pentecost, before leaving Jerusalem to preach (Symb. 2). The title “Apostles’ Creed” is also mentioned about 390 by Ambrose, where he refers to “the creed of the Apostles which the Church of Rome keeps and guards in its entirety” (Ep. 42, trans. in Saint Ambrose: Letters).
The text of the Old Roman Creed is as follows, with the last phrase (included by Marcellus but omitted by Rufinus) in brackets (Kelly, Creeds, 102):
I believe in God the Father almighty;
The Later Creed
What we now know as the Apostles’ Creed is an enlargement of the Old Roman Creed. The first known occurrence of the Apostles’ Creed, in a form that is nearly equivalent to its final form, is in the Latin tract De singulis libris canonicis scarapsus by the monk Priminius (sometimes spelled “Pirminius”) from the early eighth century. The process by which the Old Roman Creed became the Apostles’ Creed cannot be exhaustively known, though Kelly notes that creeds that are “practically identical” to the Apostles’ Creed began to appear in South Gaul in the fifth century (Kelly, Creeds, 413). Over the next few centuries, the Apostles’ Creed in its final form gained acceptance throughout France and Germany. It was officially recognized by Charlemagne throughout the Frankish Empire in the early ninth century, and was eventually incorporated into the liturgy of the Church of Rome.
The creed as it exists today consists of three main articles, like the Old Roman Creed divided according to a Trinitarian arrangement. The text is as follows (Kelly, Creeds, 369):
I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth;

Disputed phrases
Grudem argues that the phrase “He descended into hell” is a late addition to the creed. This phrase is commonly understood as a reference to the “harrowing of hell,” which is based on one interpretation of 1 Pet 3:19. The phrase is first mentioned by Rufinus in the late fourth century, and does not appear in any other versions of the creed until AD 650. Rufinus himself notes that the clause “is not added in the Creed of the Roman Church” (Symb. 18), though he includes it in the version of the creed that was accepted by his own church of Aquileia (see Symb. 3). Moreover, Rufinus makes clear that he did not believe Christ literally descended into hell, but rather that the phrase merely meant He was buried. The Greek form of the creed has ᾅδης (hades), which can mean merely “the grave” rather than a place of punishment. Thus a more accurate version would be, “He descended into the grave” or “He descended to the dead” (Grudem, “He Did Not Descend,” 102). This understanding of the phrase is reflected, for example, in Question 50 of the Westminster Larger Catechism.
Instead of “holy catholic church,” some Protestant churches, particularly in the Lutheran tradition, recite “holy Christian church” to avoid misinterpreting the phrase as a reference to the Catholic Church. The creed seems to use “catholic” in the sense of “universal” or “global” (the Latin uses the adjective catholicam); this interpretation fits with the historic nature of the creed, which predates in its tradition the split of the Orthodox and Catholic churches.

Tradition, the “Rule of Faith,” and core Christian beliefs
The Apostles’ Creed seems to represent some form of what the early church called the “rule of faith.” The early Christians were guided by the “rule of faith,” the Holy Spirit working in community and individuals, and the authoritative Scriptures. Before the “rule of faith” was called such, there were general references to the teachings and traditions of the apostles. It is these core teachings that seem to make up the Apostles’ Creed.
Signs of these “core teachings” are seen as early as the New Testament book of Hebrews, which speaks of a need for Christians to grasp and embrace the basic concepts of faith so that they can move into deeper parts of their Christian faith, while at the same time realizing how essential it is that they never depart from a core belief in the real and living Christ (Hebrews 5:11–6:12). The Apostles’ Creed represents a set of uncompromisable core beliefs for Christians. As such, the core tradition of it is also found in the Nicene Creed. The Apostles’ Creed, like all creeds, functions like a filter for orthodoxy; it indicates what is and what is not “Christian.” It is a public profession of belief in historic Christianity.
Watch the Apostles’ Creed

Teach the Apostles’ Creed
In the new book The Apostles’ Creed: For All God’s Children, families can visualize, memorize, understand, and confess the Apostles’ Creed. With a list of Scriptures for further learning and a family prayer, this FatCat book is perfect to read again and again.


Rediscover the Apostles’ Creed
The Apostles’ Creed has united Christians from different times, places, and traditions. It proclaims eternal truths for life today. We believe them, we recite them, but do we build our lives on them?
Rediscover the creed in The Apostles Creed: A Guide to the Ancient Catechism. See what about the Christian faith is so counter-cultural and what truths embedded in the Apostles’ Creed we’ve come to assume—when really they should amaze us.
Get more from your Bible study
When you read your Bible with the free Lexham Bible Dictionary, thousands of articles like this help you understand important concepts, words, people, and more. The Lexham Bible Dictionary syncs with the library inside Logos Bible Software (also available free) to create a never-ending source of insight into topics and passages. In the LBD, this article links to several others, so you can keep learning.
Download the Lexham Bible Dictionary for free today.
* * *

Who wrote the Apostles’ Creed? Why is it important? Keep reading! This article from the free Lexham Bible Dictionary gives those answers (and many, many more). Apostles’ Creed (Symbolum Apostolorum): A statement of Christian belief that is used by Western churches, both Catholic and Protestant. While it is explicitly affirmed only in Western churches, it […]

The Apostles’ Creed: Its History and Origins

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="pastor sitting on the edge of his bed thinking about his mental health" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Several years ago, the New York Times observed that “members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen.”

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="pastor sitting on the edge of his bed thinking about his mental health" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Pastors-Mental-Health-Report-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Several years ago, the New York Times observed that “members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen.”<a href='https://blog.faithlife.com/5-ways-to-help-prevent-pastoral-burnout/#easy-footnote-bottom-1-33669' title=' &lt;span style=&quot;font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, &#039;Segoe UI&#039;, Roboto, Oxygen-Sans, Ubuntu, Cantarell, &#039;Helvetica Neue&#039;, sans-serif;&quot;&gt;Paul Vitello, “Taking a Break from the Lord’s Work,” New York Times, Aug 2, 2010, https://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/02/ nyregion/02burnout.html.'>1</a>
The solution proposed by healthcare experts and religious leaders? Rest.
I can’t snap my fingers and give you a sabbatical, but if you or a pastor you know is on the brink of burnout, here are some things you can do to make regular rest a reality.
<h2>1. Find a small group you don’t have to lead</h2>
I’m in a small group with a pastor who works at another church. Throughout the week, he pours everything he can into his relationships with the young adults he serves. In our small group, he just shows up with his family and enjoys the company of his brothers and sisters in Christ.
He doesn’t have to prepare anything. He doesn’t have to teach anything. He can choose to share what’s on his heart and what God’s been teaching him—or just listen.
How many relationships in your life require you to sacrifice something? Wisdom, compassion, grace, and empathy are powerful gifts pastors try to bring to every relationship, regardless of whether it’s reciprocated. God has an infinite supply of each of those blessings, and an infinite capacity to give them—but you don’t.
Pouring yourself out for the body without letting the body pour into you is like being a heart that only has arteries. Sooner or later, you’re going to bleed out.
I’m not suggesting there is some magic ratio of relationships you pour into versus relationships that pour into you. Maybe for you, adding rest into your schedule means gathering with other local pastors or a close friend. It shouldn’t feel like “one more thing” in your week.
Whatever it looks like, make time for relationships that permit you to just be. Look for relationships that fill you up and prepare you to pour out again.
<h2>2. Create healthy boundaries</h2>
One pastor I know found himself constantly drained. Members of his congregation loved that they could come to him for anything, at any time. He loved it, too—for a while. As a pastor, that was exactly what he signed up for.
He loves developing leaders, building people up, and serving his congregation. But as many pastors know all too well, this role stretches well beyond 9–5. When you’re too available, the window for rest is constantly shrinking.
Without boundaries, this pastor was going to burn out.
A youth leader on my team recently shared that as a full-time teacher and a wife, she couldn’t be as available to the girls she was leading, and she was conflicted about it. Investing in relationships and being available to people who need you is important—but how do you balance work, life, and ministry without collapsing under the weight?
Her solution was to make herself available to the girls at specific times. Rather than bending over backward to fit into their schedules, she made it clear that she’s always available at a specific time, and that she wants to spend that time with them.
For some, the solution may mean being less available—or else building this availability into your regular schedule. Obviously life doesn’t fit into our schedules perfectly. God isn’t bound to our calendars, itineraries, or templates for ministry. But sooner or later, your congregation has to accept that pastors still exist in the fourth dimension (time) and are bound by human limits.
If you don’t set healthy boundaries because you want to maximize your impact, think about what squeezing in a little extra work now could cost you later. If you burn out, that’s it. You’re done. You’re trying to build a fire that lasts, not light a firework that fizzles out.
<a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/how-to-empower-church-leaders?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=pastoralburnout&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2022"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-30953 size-full" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Churcher-Leaders-Guide.jpg" alt="Get a Deeper Bench: How to Raise Up New Ministry Leaders: Get Free Guide ad" width="620" height="150" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Churcher-Leaders-Guide.jpg 620w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Churcher-Leaders-Guide-300x73.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a>
<h2>3. Seek counsel regularly</h2>
Pastors are exposed to the worst days, worst secrets, and worst mistakes of people they love on a regular basis.
You may not always need professional help to process what you’re going through, but you should always at least have someone (or a group of people) walking through the valleys with you, just as you do for your congregation.
Pastors spend a lot of time in the valleys anyway—don’t make those valleys deeper by isolating yourself from help.
People have high moral expectations for pastors that often extend far beyond the accountability of James 3:1. Some people unfairly expect too much from pastors’ spouses, children, and lives—as if pastors’ families are somehow superhuman. This can make some pastors feel so isolated that they don’t ask for help when they need it. Family conflicts or tension can get dismissed or addressed inadequately, creating long-term problems that only get worse.
Seeking counsel is not admitting defeat or showing weakness—it’s an intentional commitment to progress as a person and a pastor.
<h2>4. Celebrate with your church</h2>
Rigid routines and never-ending cycles of busyness can accelerate pastor burnout. When you’re stuck thinking about ministry in terms of the Christmas, Easter, summer slump, and back-to-school cycle, it’s easy to lose sight of the positive things occurring in your church.
Break up your calendar by taking time to recognize the things worth celebrating in your congregation. Make an intentional effort to call out volunteer or staff contributions, baptisms, growing families, students, service projects, and milestones of spiritual growth.
Pastors are constantly invited into crises and asked to help people process tragedy. To stay emotionally and spiritually healthy, churches need to celebrate together.
<h2>5. Build a volunteer program</h2>
There are people in your church just waiting to be asked to help share the load. Maybe they don’t know how to help. Maybe they haven’t been invited to help in the right way yet. If your church staff is overburdened, and your time as a pastor brings you more stress and heartache than joy, it might be time to refill your pool of <a href="https://blog.faithlife.com/get-church-volunteers/">church volunteers</a>. The body is made of many parts, not just you and your staff—so let them build you up as well.
***
This article originally appeared in the fall 2021 issue of <a href="https://faithlife.com/products/ministry-team-magazine?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=pastoralburnout&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ministry Team magazine</a>.
<a href="https://faithlife.com/products/proclaim?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=pastoralburnout&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/files/51577687/assets/12026628/content.png?signature=hf9F1uIuPhPNd1CrkpZRd8krUFw" alt="" width="1200" height="350" /></a>

Several years ago, the New York Times observed that “members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen.”1
The solution proposed by healthcare experts and religious leaders? Rest.
I can’t snap my fingers and give you a sabbatical, but if you or a pastor you know is on the brink of burnout, here are some things you can do to make regular rest a reality.
1. Find a small group you don’t have to lead
I’m in a small group with a pastor who works at another church. Throughout the week, he pours everything he can into his relationships with the young adults he serves. In our small group, he just shows up with his family and enjoys the company of his brothers and sisters in Christ.
He doesn’t have to prepare anything. He doesn’t have to teach anything. He can choose to share what’s on his heart and what God’s been teaching him—or just listen.
How many relationships in your life require you to sacrifice something? Wisdom, compassion, grace, and empathy are powerful gifts pastors try to bring to every relationship, regardless of whether it’s reciprocated. God has an infinite supply of each of those blessings, and an infinite capacity to give them—but you don’t.
Pouring yourself out for the body without letting the body pour into you is like being a heart that only has arteries. Sooner or later, you’re going to bleed out.
I’m not suggesting there is some magic ratio of relationships you pour into versus relationships that pour into you. Maybe for you, adding rest into your schedule means gathering with other local pastors or a close friend. It shouldn’t feel like “one more thing” in your week.
Whatever it looks like, make time for relationships that permit you to just be. Look for relationships that fill you up and prepare you to pour out again.
2. Create healthy boundaries
One pastor I know found himself constantly drained. Members of his congregation loved that they could come to him for anything, at any time. He loved it, too—for a while. As a pastor, that was exactly what he signed up for.
He loves developing leaders, building people up, and serving his congregation. But as many pastors know all too well, this role stretches well beyond 9–5. When you’re too available, the window for rest is constantly shrinking.
Without boundaries, this pastor was going to burn out.
A youth leader on my team recently shared that as a full-time teacher and a wife, she couldn’t be as available to the girls she was leading, and she was conflicted about it. Investing in relationships and being available to people who need you is important—but how do you balance work, life, and ministry without collapsing under the weight?
Her solution was to make herself available to the girls at specific times. Rather than bending over backward to fit into their schedules, she made it clear that she’s always available at a specific time, and that she wants to spend that time with them.
For some, the solution may mean being less available—or else building this availability into your regular schedule. Obviously life doesn’t fit into our schedules perfectly. God isn’t bound to our calendars, itineraries, or templates for ministry. But sooner or later, your congregation has to accept that pastors still exist in the fourth dimension (time) and are bound by human limits.
If you don’t set healthy boundaries because you want to maximize your impact, think about what squeezing in a little extra work now could cost you later. If you burn out, that’s it. You’re done. You’re trying to build a fire that lasts, not light a firework that fizzles out.

3. Seek counsel regularly
Pastors are exposed to the worst days, worst secrets, and worst mistakes of people they love on a regular basis.
You may not always need professional help to process what you’re going through, but you should always at least have someone (or a group of people) walking through the valleys with you, just as you do for your congregation.
Pastors spend a lot of time in the valleys anyway—don’t make those valleys deeper by isolating yourself from help.
People have high moral expectations for pastors that often extend far beyond the accountability of James 3:1. Some people unfairly expect too much from pastors’ spouses, children, and lives—as if pastors’ families are somehow superhuman. This can make some pastors feel so isolated that they don’t ask for help when they need it. Family conflicts or tension can get dismissed or addressed inadequately, creating long-term problems that only get worse.
Seeking counsel is not admitting defeat or showing weakness—it’s an intentional commitment to progress as a person and a pastor.
4. Celebrate with your church
Rigid routines and never-ending cycles of busyness can accelerate pastor burnout. When you’re stuck thinking about ministry in terms of the Christmas, Easter, summer slump, and back-to-school cycle, it’s easy to lose sight of the positive things occurring in your church.
Break up your calendar by taking time to recognize the things worth celebrating in your congregation. Make an intentional effort to call out volunteer or staff contributions, baptisms, growing families, students, service projects, and milestones of spiritual growth.
Pastors are constantly invited into crises and asked to help people process tragedy. To stay emotionally and spiritually healthy, churches need to celebrate together.
5. Build a volunteer program
There are people in your church just waiting to be asked to help share the load. Maybe they don’t know how to help. Maybe they haven’t been invited to help in the right way yet. If your church staff is overburdened, and your time as a pastor brings you more stress and heartache than joy, it might be time to refill your pool of church volunteers. The body is made of many parts, not just you and your staff—so let them build you up as well.
***
This article originally appeared in the fall 2021 issue of Ministry Team magazine.

Several years ago, the New York Times observed that “members of the clergy now suffer from obesity, hypertension and depression at rates higher than most Americans. In the last decade, their use of antidepressants has risen, while their life expectancy has fallen.”

5 Ways to Prevent Pastoral Burnout

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-5-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals. *** Packing Light: Thoughts on Living Life with Less Baggage Allison Vesterfelt had an idea of what her life was “supposed” to be like. When it didn’t [&#8230;]

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***
<h2>Packing Light: Thoughts on Living Life with Less Baggage</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/31639/packing-light-thoughts-on-living-life-with-less-baggage?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/assets/1399597/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="175" height="263" /></a>Allison Vesterfelt had an idea of what her life was “supposed” to be like. When it didn’t turn out that way and left her feeling weighed down, she took drastic action: quitting her job and traveling to all 50 states over six months. Along the way, she learned what we really need to thrive. 
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<h2>Worn Out by Obedience: Recovering from Spiritual Fatigue</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/129553/worn-out-by-obedience-recovering-from-spiritual-fatigue?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/assets/1324253/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="188" height="284" /></a>Many Christians have a deep desire to “turn the corner” in their walk with Jesus. Some don’t know where to start, others are held back by the past, and still others are blinded or calloused by sin. Worn Out uses the story of King David to help Christians keep going—or start moving. 
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<h2>The Constantine Codex</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/14821/the-constantine-codex?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.amberfile.com/v1/assets/11753055/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="193" height="280" /></a>In this “theological thriller,” Harvard Professor Jonathan Weber is finally enjoying a season of peace when a shocking discovery thrusts him into the national spotlight once again. While touring monasteries in Greece, Jon and his wife Shannon—a seasoned archaeologist—uncover an ancient biblical manuscript containing the lost ending of Mark and an additional book of the Bible. 
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<h2>Praying Women: How to Pray When You Don’t Know What to Say</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/187492/praying-women-how-to-pray-when-you-dont-know-what-to-say?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://cmrc1.logoscdn.com/www.logos.com/images/products/187492.jpg?974055275648" alt="" width="192" height="274" /></a>In Praying Women, bestselling author Sheila Walsh shares practical helps directly from God&#8217;s Word, teaching how to use prayer as a weapon in the midst of a struggle, pray as joy-filled warriors, stand on God’s promises, and more. 
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<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/187492/praying-women-how-to-pray-when-you-dont-know-what-to-say?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more</a> 
 
<h2>Fearless Families: Building Brave Homes in an Uncertain World</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/197319/fearless-families-building-brave-homes-in-an-uncertain-world?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.amberfile.com/v1/assets/11033704/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="183" height="274" /></a>Kevin A. Thompson reveals how when Christians are led by love, they will choose trust over safety, heart over appearances, connection over materialism, and submission over power. Thompson demonstrates how, as we make choices based on these values, fears decrease and love increases.
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<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/197319/fearless-families-building-brave-homes-in-an-uncertain-world?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more</a>
***
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These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals.
***
Packing Light: Thoughts on Living Life with Less Baggage
Allison Vesterfelt had an idea of what her life was “supposed” to be like. When it didn’t turn out that way and left her feeling weighed down, she took drastic action: quitting her job and traveling to all 50 states over six months. Along the way, she learned what we really need to thrive.

$10.99  $1.99
Read more  
Slaying Dragons: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Warfare
Slaying Dragons shows how the demonic realm fits into orthodox thoughts on salvation, redemption, and kingdom life. Daniel Kolenda demystifies spiritual warfare to shine light on what the enemy is doing in readers’ lives and what they can do to slay every dragon they encounter.

$4.99  $2.99
Read more
Worn Out by Obedience: Recovering from Spiritual Fatigue
Many Christians have a deep desire to “turn the corner” in their walk with Jesus. Some don’t know where to start, others are held back by the past, and still others are blinded or calloused by sin. Worn Out uses the story of King David to help Christians keep going—or start moving.

$11.99  $5.99
Read more  

The Constantine Codex
In this “theological thriller,” Harvard Professor Jonathan Weber is finally enjoying a season of peace when a shocking discovery thrusts him into the national spotlight once again. While touring monasteries in Greece, Jon and his wife Shannon—a seasoned archaeologist—uncover an ancient biblical manuscript containing the lost ending of Mark and an additional book of the Bible.

$3.99  $1.99
Read more
Praying Women: How to Pray When You Don’t Know What to Say
In Praying Women, bestselling author Sheila Walsh shares practical helps directly from God’s Word, teaching how to use prayer as a weapon in the midst of a struggle, pray as joy-filled warriors, stand on God’s promises, and more.

$22.99  $1.99
Read more

Fearless Families: Building Brave Homes in an Uncertain World
Kevin A. Thompson reveals how when Christians are led by love, they will choose trust over safety, heart over appearances, connection over materialism, and submission over power. Thompson demonstrates how, as we make choices based on these values, fears decrease and love increases.
$17.99  $1.99
Read more
***
Come back each week for a fresh batch of massively discounted books that explore God’s Word and the Christian life. For even more savings, check out our other books on sale!

These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals. *** Packing Light: Thoughts on Living Life with Less Baggage Allison Vesterfelt had an idea of what her life was “supposed” to be like. When it didn’t […]

Faithlife Ebooks Weekly Deals: Jan. 13–17, 2022

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="worship leader on stage reading call to worship Scriptures" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/worship-leader-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />What’s the first part of your church’s worship services? Chances are, it’s a call to worship—even if your church doesn’t actually refer to it as a call to worship. What is a call to worship? Simply put, a call to worship is the beginning of a worship service that “calls God’s people into his presence” [&#8230;]

What’s the first part of your church’s worship services? Chances are, it’s a call to worship—even if your church doesn’t actually refer to it as a call to worship.
What is a call to worship?
Simply put, a call to worship is the beginning of a worship service that “calls God’s people into his presence”1 with “a Scripture or anthem that focuses on God and helps us ‘tune in.’”2
While a pastor or worship leader may issue the call to worship, it’s actually a call from God to his people, as Michael Goheen says in his course on pastoral ministry. He continues, 
It’s not something they have decided to do because it is a good idea, it’s because God has called them to assemble and to worship. . . . It can also be a call to the people of God to come into the presence of God to be nourished so that the very life that they are given is for the sake of the world.3
This time helps the congregation refocus on why they’re gathered:
To worship the living God

To remember God’s greatness, kindness, and power

To worship with others in the body of Christ by the power of the Spirit


The call to worship is a powerful component of the worship service—and regardless of what your church calls it, it’s a great way to turn distracted eyes and hearts toward God.

16 call to worship Scriptures
One of the best ways to plan your church’s call to worship is by turning to Scripture. 
The book of Psalms models the call to worship for us, as the psalmists often open (or interject) with calls to praise God amid trials, grief, victories, or remembering their history (Pss 27, 99, 105, 132, 135, to name a few). 
You can open the Psalms to find calls to worship, or scroll through this list of 16 passages of calls to worship from Scripture:
Romans 11:33–36
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!
“For who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?”
“Or who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?”
For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen. 
Psalm 99:1–3 (CSB)
The LORD reigns! Let the peoples tremble.
He is enthroned between the cherubim.
Let the earth quake.
The LORD is great in Zion;
he is exalted above all the peoples.
Let them praise your great
and awe-inspiring name.
He is holy. 
Call to worship idea: Read the whole psalm together and invite the congregation to read a few lines of the psalm aloud in unison.
Philippians 2:5–11
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 
Psalm 136:1–3
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
Call to worship idea: Read the whole Psalm together. The worship leader or pastor can read the odd-numbered lines, and the congregation can repeat the refrain, “for his steadfast love endures forever.”
John 15:4–5, 9–10 (CSB)
Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me. . . . As the Father has loved me, I have also loved you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commands you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. 
Psalm 63:1–4
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.
Because your steadfast love is better than life,
my lips will praise you.
So I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands. 
Revelation 21:3–6
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 
And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.”
Psalm 138:1–3 (CSB)
I will give you thanks with all my heart;
I will sing your praise before the heavenly beings.
I will bow down toward your holy temple
and give thanks to your name
for your constant love and truth.
You have exalted your name
and your promise above everything else.
On the day I called, you answered me;
you increased strength within me. 
Call to worship idea: Read the whole psalm together and invite the congregation to read a few lines of the psalm aloud.
Isaiah 55:1–3, 6–7 (NIV)
Come, all you who are thirsty,
come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without cost.
Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare.
Give ear and come to me;
listen, that you may live.
I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
my faithful love promised to David. . . .
Seek the LORD while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.
Let the wicked forsake their ways
and the unrighteous their thoughts.
Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

Psalm 100
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!
Serve the LORD with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!
Know that the LORD, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
For the LORD is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations. 
Hebrews 12:18–19, 22–29 (CSB)
For you have not come to what could be touched, to a blazing fire, to darkness, gloom, and storm, to the blast of a trumpet, and the sound of words. . . . Instead, you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God (the heavenly Jerusalem), to myriads of angels, a festive gathering, to the assembly of the firstborn whose names have been written in heaven, to a Judge, who is God of all, to the spirits of righteous people made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which says better things than the blood of Abel. 
See to it that you do not reject the one who speaks. For if they did not escape when they rejected him who warned them on earth, even less will we if we turn away from him who warns us from heaven. His voice shook the earth at that time, but now he has promised, “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also the heavens.” This expression, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of what can be shaken—that is, created things—so that what is not shaken might remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful. By it, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. 
Psalm 66:16–20 (NIV)
Come and hear, all you who fear God;
let me tell you what he has done for me.
I cried out to him with my mouth;
his praise was on my tongue.
If I had cherished sin in my heart,
the Lord would not have listened;
but God has surely listened
and has heard my prayer.
Praise be to God,
who has not rejected my prayer
or withheld his love from me! 
Exodus 15:1–2, 11–13
I will sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously;
the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.
The LORD is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation;
this is my God, and I will praise him,
my father’s God, and I will exalt him. . . .
Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods?
Who is like you, majestic in holiness,
awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?
You stretched out your right hand;
the earth swallowed them.
You have led in your steadfast love the people whom you have redeemed;
you have guided them by your strength to your holy abode.
Psalm 96:1–4
Oh sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all the earth!
Sing to the LORD, bless his name;
tell of his salvation from day to day.
Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous works among all the peoples!
For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised;
he is to be feared above all gods. 
Revelation 15:3–4
Great and amazing are your deeds,
O Lord God the Almighty!
Just and true are your ways,
O King of the nations!
Who will not fear, O Lord,
and glorify your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come
and worship you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed.
Psalm 108:1–5
My heart is steadfast, O God!
I will sing and make melody with all my being!
Awake, O harp and lyre!
I will awake the dawn!
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, among the peoples;
I will sing praises to you among the nations.
For your steadfast love is great above the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens!
Let your glory be over all the earth! 
***
Add Scripture to your services with a click inside Faithlife Proclaim. Start a 30-day trial of Faithlife Proclaim today, and make sure you try out our Pro Media. It has thousands of worship backgrounds, stock photos, and more, all specifically designed for churches like yours.

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What’s the first part of your church’s worship services? Chances are, it’s a call to worship—even if your church doesn’t actually refer to it as a call to worship. What is a call to worship? Simply put, a call to worship is the beginning of a worship service that “calls God’s people into his presence” […]

16 Call to Worship Scriptures & How to Use Them

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals. *** Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God&#8217;s Will With pastoral wisdom and tasteful wit, Kevin DeYoung debunks unbiblical ways of understanding God’s will and [&#8230;]

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ebooks-Weekly-Deals-Header-4-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or <a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/search?sortBy=Savings&amp;limit=15&amp;page=1&amp;filters=status-live_Status%2Bstorefront-vy_Available%20At&amp;ownership=unowned&amp;geographicAvailability=availableToMe&amp;utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=mainCTA-faithlifeebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">view all of this week’s deals</a>.
***
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God&#8217;s Will</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/148975/just-do-something-a-liberating-approach-to-finding-gods-will?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.amberfile.com/v1/assets/12146337/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="151" height="290"></a>With pastoral wisdom and tasteful wit, Kevin DeYoung debunks unbiblical ways of understanding God’s will and constructs a simple but biblical alternative: live like Christ. He exposes the frustrations of our waiting games and unfolds the freedom of finding God’s will in Scripture and then simply doing it. 
<del> 
$8.99</del>&nbsp; $3.99 
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/148975/just-do-something-a-liberating-approach-to-finding-gods-will?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more  </a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Your Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/148714/your-best-year-ever-a-5-step-plan-for-achieving-your-most-important-goals?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://cmrc1.logoscdn.com/www.logos.com/images/products/148714.jpg?421891320064" alt="" width="156" height="237"></a>In Your Best Year Ever, Michael Hyatt shares a powerful, research-driven system for setting and achieving goals. Readers learn how to design their best year ever in just five hours, including three simple ways to triple the likelihood of achieving their goals, how to quit-proof their goals, what to do when they feel stuck, and much more. 
<del> 
$24.99</del>&nbsp; $1.99 
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/148714/your-best-year-ever-a-5-step-plan-for-achieving-your-most-important-goals?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more</a>
<h2>8 Habits for Growth: A Simple Guide to Becoming More Like Christ</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/205428/8-habits-for-growth-a-simple-guide-to-becoming-more-like-christ?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.amberfile.com/v1/assets/11565805/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="135" height="202"></a>In 8 Habits for Growth, Darryl Dash reveals the eight long-term practices—all very doable—that lead to permanent growth. Personal growth doesn’t happen overnight. But it does happen, slowly, God’s habits are built into life. 
<del> 
$11.99</del>&nbsp; $5.99 
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/205428/8-habits-for-growth-a-simple-guide-to-becoming-more-like-christ?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more</a>
<h2>
The Powerful Purpose of Introverts: Why the World Needs You to Be You</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/195946/the-powerful-purpose-of-introverts-why-the-world-needs-you-to-be-you?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft" src="https://files.amberfile.com/v1/assets/10945406/optimized?w=250" alt="" width="125" height="235"></a>In this transformative book, Holley Gerth dives into the brain science behind introversion to help readers understand the psychological, relational, and spiritual aspects of being an introvert. She explores how introverts can make meaningful connections, experience quiet confidence, cultivate soul-filling solitude, exercise unexpected influence, and much more. 
<del> 
$16.99</del>&nbsp; $1.99 
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/195946/the-powerful-purpose-of-introverts-why-the-world-needs-you-to-be-you?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=ebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read more</a>
***
Come back each week for a fresh batch of massively discounted books that explore God’s Word and the Christian life. For even more savings, <a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/search?sortBy=Savings&amp;limit=15&amp;page=1&amp;filters=status-live_Status%2Bstorefront-vy_Available%20At&amp;ownership=unowned&amp;geographicAvailability=availableToMe&amp;utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=mainCTA-faithlifeebooksweeklydeals&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksQ1pubdeals2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">check out our other books on sale</a>!

These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals.
***
Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God’s Will
With pastoral wisdom and tasteful wit, Kevin DeYoung debunks unbiblical ways of understanding God’s will and constructs a simple but biblical alternative: live like Christ. He exposes the frustrations of our waiting games and unfolds the freedom of finding God’s will in Scripture and then simply doing it.

$8.99  $3.99
Read more  
Your Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals
In Your Best Year Ever, Michael Hyatt shares a powerful, research-driven system for setting and achieving goals. Readers learn how to design their best year ever in just five hours, including three simple ways to triple the likelihood of achieving their goals, how to quit-proof their goals, what to do when they feel stuck, and much more.

$24.99  $1.99
Read more
8 Habits for Growth: A Simple Guide to Becoming More Like Christ
In 8 Habits for Growth, Darryl Dash reveals the eight long-term practices—all very doable—that lead to permanent growth. Personal growth doesn’t happen overnight. But it does happen, slowly, God’s habits are built into life.

$11.99  $5.99
Read more
In this transformative book, Holley Gerth dives into the brain science behind introversion to help readers understand the psychological, relational, and spiritual aspects of being an introvert. She explores how introverts can make meaningful connections, experience quiet confidence, cultivate soul-filling solitude, exercise unexpected influence, and much more.

$16.99  $1.99
Read more
***
Come back each week for a fresh batch of massively discounted books that explore God’s Word and the Christian life. For even more savings, check out our other books on sale!

These deals are so good, they won’t stay around long! Add these new favorites to your library before the bargains disappear, or view all of this week’s deals. *** Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God’s Will With pastoral wisdom and tasteful wit, Kevin DeYoung debunks unbiblical ways of understanding God’s will and […]

Faithlife Ebooks Weekly Deals: Jan. 6–10, 2022

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="Randy Alcorn, special speaker at Faithlife&#039;s upcoming online event" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-1536x806.jpg 1536w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-2048x1075.jpg 2048w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Christmastime brings a spirit of giving . . . but how can churches nurture that spirit in the light of a new year? Join Faithlife at our premier online event to find out.&#160; It begins Tuesday, January 25, at 10:00 a.m. PST, and it’s packed with helpful information for church leaders. Special guest Randy Alcorn [&#8230;]

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="Randy Alcorn, special speaker at Faithlife&#039;s upcoming online event" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630.jpg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-300x158.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-1024x538.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-768x403.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-1536x806.jpg 1536w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-2048x1075.jpg 2048w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-716x376.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/GiveEvent_Blog-Header_1200x630-820x431.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Christmastime brings a spirit of giving . . . but how can churches nurture that spirit in the light of a new year? <a href="https://grow.faithlife.com/premier?utm_source=blog.logos.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=liveeventq122&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8Bpromo-q1premier" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Join Faithlife at our premier online event to find out</a>.&nbsp;
It begins Tuesday, January 25, at 10:00 a.m. PST, and it’s packed with helpful information for church leaders.
Special guest Randy Alcorn (author of <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/14780/managing-gods-money-a-biblical-guide?utm_source=blog.logos.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=liveeventq122&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8Bpromo-q1premier" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Managing God’s Money: A Biblical Guide</a> and many other books) will share how the Spirit equips us for generosity in times of adversity. You’ll also hear from other special guests about fascinating trends in Christian giving and casting a vision for giving in the new year.
Plus, those who register and attend will get the chance to win giveaways. <a href="https://grow.faithlife.com/premier?utm_source=blog.logos.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=liveeventq122&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8Bpromo-q1premier" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sign up today</a>.
Even if you can’t make it live, we’ll send you the recording.
<a href="https://grow.faithlife.com/premier?utm_source=blog.logos.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=liveeventq122&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%80%8B%E2%80%8Bpromo-q1premier" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/files/55363002/assets/12633767/content.png?signature=nwXhsX31-ge1lW1V-6OdtHDoAQc" alt="clickable image reading Online Event, Generosity in Times of Adversity, Register for free" width="748" height="192"></a>

Christmastime brings a spirit of giving . . . but how can churches nurture that spirit in the light of a new year? Join Faithlife at our premier online event to find out. 
It begins Tuesday, January 25, at 10:00 a.m. PST, and it’s packed with helpful information for church leaders.
Special guest Randy Alcorn (author of Managing God’s Money: A Biblical Guide and many other books) will share how the Spirit equips us for generosity in times of adversity. You’ll also hear from other special guests about fascinating trends in Christian giving and casting a vision for giving in the new year.
Plus, those who register and attend will get the chance to win giveaways. Sign up today.
Even if you can’t make it live, we’ll send you the recording.

Christmastime brings a spirit of giving . . . but how can churches nurture that spirit in the light of a new year? Join Faithlife at our premier online event to find out.  It begins Tuesday, January 25, at 10:00 a.m. PST, and it’s packed with helpful information for church leaders. Special guest Randy Alcorn […]

[Online Event + Giveaways] Christian Generosity in Adversity

<img width="1220" height="628" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="cover of Sunsets, Faithlife Ebooks&#039; Jan 22 free book of the month" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan.jpg 1220w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-300x154.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-1024x527.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-768x395.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-716x369.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-820x422.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1220px) 100vw, 1220px" />This January, you can download a free book and a free audiobook from Faithlife. Here’s a quick look at both: Free book—Sunsets: Reflections for Life’s Final Journey How can those who are dying and those who love them be prepared for the pain and grief that accompany death? In Sunsets, Deborah Howard shares words of [&#8230;]

<img width="1220" height="628" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="cover of Sunsets, Faithlife Ebooks&#039; Jan 22 free book of the month" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan.jpg 1220w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-300x154.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-1024x527.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-768x395.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-716x369.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Ebooks-Jan-820x422.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1220px) 100vw, 1220px" />This January, you can download a <a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free book</a> and a <a href="https://audio.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free audiobook</a> from Faithlife. Here’s a quick look at both:
<h2>Free book—Sunsets: Reflections for Life’s Final Journey</h2>
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-33596" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/sunsets.jpg" alt="Sunsets book cover" width="181" height="245" /></a>How can those who are dying and those who love them be prepared for the pain and grief that accompany death?
In Sunsets, Deborah Howard shares words of comfort and encouragement for everyone coping with suffering and death. Her compassion, firm faith in Christ, and years of working as a hospice nurse create a uniquely sensitive, experiential, and biblical volume.
Above all, she emphasizes that there is a light that cuts through death&#8217;s dark shadow. That light is Jesus Christ, and he offers hope and comfort to all facing life&#8217;s final journey.
<a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get it free.</a>
<h2>Free audiobook—The Heart of Christ in Heaven Towards Sinners on Earth</h2>
<a href="https://audio.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignleft wp-image-33598 size-full" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ.jpg" alt="The Heart of Christ in Heaven Towards Sinnners on Earth audiobook cover" width="200" height="200" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ.jpg 200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ-150x150.jpg 150w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ-166x166.jpg 166w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ-24x24.jpg 24w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ-48x48.jpg 48w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Heart-of-Christ-96x96.jpg 96w" sizes="(max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a>The Son of God sitting at the right hand of the Father in the throne room of heaven—a perfect, eternal, and sinless being—is a daunting and intimidating image. Thomas Goodwin seeks not to diminish that truth but to enhance it by ensuring the Church that Jesus Christ is also still perfectly loving and astoundingly forgiving.
His love for his people is pure, genuine, and humble.
He is still the one who washed his disciples’ feet and met a sinner at the well.
He is a compassionate and tender father who desires to encourage and uplift his children. Goodwin encourages Christians to endeavor to fully grasp this concept and let it influence their own perception of and love for Christ.
<a href="https://audio.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get it free.</a>
***
While you’re on the <a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free book</a> and <a href="https://audio.faithlife.com/free-book-of-the-month?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">free audiobook</a> pages, explore other deals like these:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/155091/in-his-image-10-ways-god-calls-us-to-reflect-his-character?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">In His Image: 10 Ways God Calls Us to Reflect His Character</a> ebook by Jen Wilkin (<del>$12.99</del> $3.99)</li>
<li><a href="https://ebooks.faithlife.com/product/198086/thriving-in-grace-twelve-ways-the-puritans-fuel-spiritual-growth?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=jan22freebook&amp;utm_campaign=promo-ebooksfreebookjan2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thriving in Grace: Twelve Ways the Puritans Fuel Spiritual Growth</a> audiobook by Joel Beeke and Brian Hedges (<del>$19.95</del> $5.99)</li>
</ul>

This January, you can download a free book and a free audiobook from Faithlife. Here’s a quick look at both:
Free book—Sunsets: Reflections for Life’s Final Journey
How can those who are dying and those who love them be prepared for the pain and grief that accompany death?
In Sunsets, Deborah Howard shares words of comfort and encouragement for everyone coping with suffering and death. Her compassion, firm faith in Christ, and years of working as a hospice nurse create a uniquely sensitive, experiential, and biblical volume.
Above all, she emphasizes that there is a light that cuts through death’s dark shadow. That light is Jesus Christ, and he offers hope and comfort to all facing life’s final journey.
Get it free.
Free audiobook—The Heart of Christ in Heaven Towards Sinners on Earth
The Son of God sitting at the right hand of the Father in the throne room of heaven—a perfect, eternal, and sinless being—is a daunting and intimidating image. Thomas Goodwin seeks not to diminish that truth but to enhance it by ensuring the Church that Jesus Christ is also still perfectly loving and astoundingly forgiving.
His love for his people is pure, genuine, and humble.
He is still the one who washed his disciples’ feet and met a sinner at the well.
He is a compassionate and tender father who desires to encourage and uplift his children. Goodwin encourages Christians to endeavor to fully grasp this concept and let it influence their own perception of and love for Christ.
Get it free.
***
While you’re on the free book and free audiobook pages, explore other deals like these:
In His Image: 10 Ways God Calls Us to Reflect His Character ebook by Jen Wilkin ($12.99 $3.99)
Thriving in Grace: Twelve Ways the Puritans Fuel Spiritual Growth audiobook by Joel Beeke and Brian Hedges ($19.95 $5.99)

This January, you can download a free book and a free audiobook from Faithlife. Here’s a quick look at both: Free book—Sunsets: Reflections for Life’s Final Journey How can those who are dying and those who love them be prepared for the pain and grief that accompany death? In Sunsets, Deborah Howard shares words of […]

Light & Love in January’s Free Book + Audiobook

<img width="620" height="342" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter.jpg 620w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter-300x165.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" />The new year always brings with it the anticipation of hope—whatever defined last year can change in this one. New Year&#8217;s resolutions usually involve aspirations of self-improvement, like exercising, losing weight, or saving money. But what if your resolution looked completely different this year? What if instead of focusing on an outward goal, you focused [&#8230;]

<img width="620" height="342" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter.jpg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter.jpg 620w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Final-typewriter-300x165.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" />The new year always brings with it the anticipation of hope—whatever defined last year can change in this one.
New Year&#8217;s resolutions usually involve aspirations of self-improvement, like exercising, losing weight, or saving money.
But what if your resolution looked completely different this year? What if instead of focusing on an outward goal, you focused on changing the way you think? As Craig Groeschel said, &#8220;Our lives move in the direction of our strongest thoughts.&#8221;
<h2>Choose a word for the year</h2>
One popular trend in new-year goal setting is choosing a word or verse for the year to direct your thoughts.
The average person has around 30,000 thoughts per day. Our mental and physical health changes based on the direction of our thoughts. Think of it as a footpath: the more you walk on the path, the easier it is to follow. If our minds are continually focused on the negative—the what if’s, doubts, and fears—the easier it is for our mind to go down the negative footpath when faced with trouble.
Research shows that fear, all on its own, triggers more than 1,400 known physical and chemical responses and activates more than 30 different hormones. That&#8217;s just one emotion!
However, as believers, we have the power of the Holy Spirit. We can choose to focus on the goodness of God rather than negativity. &#8220;Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think&#8221; (<a href="https://biblia.com/books/nlt/Ro12.2">Romans 12:12</a>, NLT).
It&#8217;s an incredible gift that when we give our thoughts to God, we experience peace even in the hardest seasons of life. On top of that, the more we meditate on God&#8217;s Word, the more our mind is renewed and strengthened. “But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace” (<a href="https://biblia.com/books/nlt/Ro8.6">Romans 8:6)</a>.
<h2>How to choose your word and verse of the year</h2>
<h3>1. Reflect</h3>
Take time to think through these questions and write down your answers. This process will help you narrow down your decision.
<ul>
<li>What negative thoughts derail your thinking? What do they lead you to do?</li>
<li>How do you feel about the direction your current thoughts are leading you?</li>
<li>What truth about God could help you defeat your negative thinking?</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Pray</h3>
This step seems obvious, but lay your reflections before God. Ask him to search your heart and reveal areas of your life where growth and repentance need to continue or begin. Ask him to help you choose a word that will bring him glory and help you be more Christlike.
Prayers for God’s glory and growth in holiness are the kind God loves to answer. “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us” (1 John 5:14). 
<img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-28597" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="256" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0-300x75.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0-768x192.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0-716x179.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pasted-image-0-820x205.jpg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />
<h3>3. Choose</h3>
After reflection and prayer, what do you think God is calling you to this year? You’re ready to choose your word.
Here are some words and verses my colleagues at Faithlife have chosen for themselves this year:
<ul>
<li>Grace (1 Cor 15:10)</li>
<li>Stillness (Psalm 46:10)</li>
<li>Abundant (2 Pet 1:2)</li>
<li>Bold (Heb 4:16)</li>
<li>Listen (Luke 10:39)</li>
<li>Beauty (Ecc 3:11)</li>
<li>Hope (Rom 15:13)</li>
<li>No compromise (1 Cor 15:58)</li>
</ul>
Share your word &amp; verse with your family and friends. Post it places you’ll see often, like the mirror, car dash, computer background, or phone wallpaper.
<h3>4. Pick a word for your family or community</h3>
You don’t have to stop with yourself. Gather your family and choose a word and verse to pursue together. Pick a word with your spouse to strengthen your relationship. Maybe your small group can go through the exercise above and choose a word for the whole group. It’s amazing what happens when you intentionally pursue God with others.
<h2>Free resource </h2>
Did you know we have a free version of Logos Bible Study Software? It’s called <a href="https://www.logos.com/basic?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=analternativetonewyears-resolution2019&amp;utm_campaign=promo-resolutionword2019">Logos Basic</a>. This free version of Logos Bible Software helps you quickly and accurately pull up insights from across all of Scripture and a collection of key biblical resources. It&#8217;s ideal for anyone who wants to get more from the Bible and go beyond the reading plan.
We hope this is your best year yet. Happy New Year!<a href="https://www.logos.com/basic?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=analternativetonewyears-resolution2019&amp;utm_campaign=promo-resolutionword2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-30437 size-large" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-1024x269.jpg" alt="Free Bible Software. Priceless Insights. clickable image" width="716" height="188" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-1024x269.jpg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-300x79.jpg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-768x202.jpg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-716x188.jpg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2-820x215.jpg 820w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Blog-Footer-Ad-L9-Basic-640x168-1-2.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 716px) 100vw, 716px" /></a>

The new year always brings with it the anticipation of hope—whatever defined last year can change in this one.
New Year’s resolutions usually involve aspirations of self-improvement, like exercising, losing weight, or saving money.
But what if your resolution looked completely different this year? What if instead of focusing on an outward goal, you focused on changing the way you think? As Craig Groeschel said, “Our lives move in the direction of our strongest thoughts.”
Choose a word for the year
One popular trend in new-year goal setting is choosing a word or verse for the year to direct your thoughts.
The average person has around 30,000 thoughts per day. Our mental and physical health changes based on the direction of our thoughts. Think of it as a footpath: the more you walk on the path, the easier it is to follow. If our minds are continually focused on the negative—the what if’s, doubts, and fears—the easier it is for our mind to go down the negative footpath when faced with trouble.
Research shows that fear, all on its own, triggers more than 1,400 known physical and chemical responses and activates more than 30 different hormones. That’s just one emotion!
However, as believers, we have the power of the Holy Spirit. We can choose to focus on the goodness of God rather than negativity. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think” (Romans 12:12, NLT).
It’s an incredible gift that when we give our thoughts to God, we experience peace even in the hardest seasons of life. On top of that, the more we meditate on God’s Word, the more our mind is renewed and strengthened. “But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace” (Romans 8:6).
How to choose your word and verse of the year
1. Reflect
Take time to think through these questions and write down your answers. This process will help you narrow down your decision.
What negative thoughts derail your thinking? What do they lead you to do?
How do you feel about the direction your current thoughts are leading you?
What truth about God could help you defeat your negative thinking?
2. Pray
This step seems obvious, but lay your reflections before God. Ask him to search your heart and reveal areas of your life where growth and repentance need to continue or begin. Ask him to help you choose a word that will bring him glory and help you be more Christlike.
Prayers for God’s glory and growth in holiness are the kind God loves to answer. “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us” (1 John 5:14).

3. Choose
After reflection and prayer, what do you think God is calling you to this year? You’re ready to choose your word.
Here are some words and verses my colleagues at Faithlife have chosen for themselves this year:
Grace (1 Cor 15:10)
Stillness (Psalm 46:10)
Abundant (2 Pet 1:2)
Bold (Heb 4:16)
Listen (Luke 10:39)
Beauty (Ecc 3:11)
Hope (Rom 15:13)
No compromise (1 Cor 15:58)
Share your word & verse with your family and friends. Post it places you’ll see often, like the mirror, car dash, computer background, or phone wallpaper.
4. Pick a word for your family or community
You don’t have to stop with yourself. Gather your family and choose a word and verse to pursue together. Pick a word with your spouse to strengthen your relationship. Maybe your small group can go through the exercise above and choose a word for the whole group. It’s amazing what happens when you intentionally pursue God with others.
Free resource 
Did you know we have a free version of Logos Bible Study Software? It’s called Logos Basic. This free version of Logos Bible Software helps you quickly and accurately pull up insights from across all of Scripture and a collection of key biblical resources. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to get more from the Bible and go beyond the reading plan.
We hope this is your best year yet. Happy New Year!

The new year always brings with it the anticipation of hope—whatever defined last year can change in this one. New Year’s resolutions usually involve aspirations of self-improvement, like exercising, losing weight, or saving money. But what if your resolution looked completely different this year? What if instead of focusing on an outward goal, you focused […]

An Alternative to New Year’s Resolutions

<img width="1200" height="631" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29.jpeg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="Branches covered in snow in the winter" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29.jpeg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-300x158.jpeg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-1024x538.jpeg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-768x404.jpeg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-716x376.jpeg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-820x431.jpeg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Many of our Faithlife employees and their families are enjoying a rare White Christmas in the Bellingham area, but unfortunately, most won’t be returning to the office anytime soon. Late on December 27, a pipe burst on the rooftop of the Flatiron Building, one of our offices in downtown Bellingham, which then flooded a large [&#8230;]

<img width="1200" height="631" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29.jpeg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="Branches covered in snow in the winter" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29.jpeg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-300x158.jpeg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-1024x538.jpeg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-768x404.jpeg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-716x376.jpeg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Winter-29-820x431.jpeg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />
Many of our Faithlife employees and their families are enjoying a rare White Christmas in the Bellingham area, but unfortunately, most won’t be returning to the office anytime soon. Late on December 27, a pipe burst on the rooftop of the Flatiron Building, one of our offices in downtown Bellingham, which then flooded a large portion of the building.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://files.logoscdn.com/v1/files/38961274/assets/9640553/content.jpg?signature=Lb4GpAm3qFfyIpq2Qg5Ab_P91Pw" alt="" width="348" height="522"/><figcaption>The burst pipe happened on the roof of the Flatiron Building.</figcaption></figure></div>



The flooding took out our campus internet, VPN, and several of our essential systems. Not to mention the physical damage to the flooring, elevator, electrical systems, and more. All in all, it will probably be at least a month before everything is fully back to normal.



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-768x1024.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-33645" width="-788" height="-1051" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-768x1024.jpeg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-225x300.jpeg 225w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-332x443.jpeg 332w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-716x955.jpeg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-820x1093.jpeg 820w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Gushing-Pipe-scaled.jpeg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /><figcaption>Water spraying from a burst pipe in one of our Bellingham offices.</figcaption></figure></div>



There’s never a good time to lose functionality in one of your key offices, but we have a lot to be thankful for:



<ul><li>This happened immediately after Christmas, and therefore has had minimal impact on our customers and customer-facing services.</li><li>It happened at a time where few of our employees were impacted and almost everyone can work from home.</li><li>We have offices in four locations and five different buildings in Bellingham alone.</li><li>Even though one of our key facilities is down, we’re still able to serve our customers—and we’re continuing to work on being less dependent on any single location.</li><li>Our unbelievably awesome facilities and operations teams identified the problems and found solutions to the cascading issues.</li><li>Our customers (like you!) show us unending patience and care when unexpected things like broken pipes require us to get creative.</li></ul>



Long story short: things happen, and we’re grateful for your patience as our team works to get everything fixed up! (Oh, and check your pipes.)

Many of our Faithlife employees and their families are enjoying a rare White Christmas in the Bellingham area, but unfortunately, most won’t be returning to the office anytime soon. Late on December 27, a pipe burst on the rooftop of the Flatiron Building, one of our offices in downtown Bellingham, which then flooded a large portion of the building.
The burst pipe happened on the roof of the Flatiron Building.
The flooding took out our campus internet, VPN, and several of our essential systems. Not to mention the physical damage to the flooring, elevator, electrical systems, and more. All in all, it will probably be at least a month before everything is fully back to normal.
Water spraying from a burst pipe in one of our Bellingham offices.
There’s never a good time to lose functionality in one of your key offices, but we have a lot to be thankful for:
This happened immediately after Christmas, and therefore has had minimal impact on our customers and customer-facing services.
It happened at a time where few of our employees were impacted and almost everyone can work from home.
We have offices in four locations and five different buildings in Bellingham alone.
Even though one of our key facilities is down, we’re still able to serve our customers—and we’re continuing to work on being less dependent on any single location.
Our unbelievably awesome facilities and operations teams identified the problems and found solutions to the cascading issues.
Our customers (like you!) show us unending patience and care when unexpected things like broken pipes require us to get creative.




Long story short: things happen, and we’re grateful for your patience as our team works to get everything fixed up! (Oh, and check your pipes.)

Many of our Faithlife employees and their families are enjoying a rare White Christmas in the Bellingham area, but unfortunately, most won’t be returning to the office anytime soon. Late on December 27, a pipe burst on the rooftop of the Flatiron Building, one of our offices in downtown Bellingham, which then flooded a large […]

Burst Pipe Dreaming of a White Christmas

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team.jpeg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="church welcome team member greets a visitor" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team.jpeg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-300x158.jpeg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-1024x538.jpeg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-768x403.jpeg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-716x376.jpeg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-820x431.jpeg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />I’m going to lay all of my cards on the table right here at the beginning: I wholeheartedly, unreservedly, and unashamedly believe that every church should have a plan in place to care for its guests.

<img width="1200" height="630" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team.jpeg" class="attachment- size- wp-post-image" alt="church welcome team member greets a visitor" loading="lazy" style="float:left; margin:0 15px 15px 0;" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team.jpeg 1200w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-300x158.jpeg 300w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-1024x538.jpeg 1024w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-768x403.jpeg 768w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-716x376.jpeg 716w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/church-welcome-team-820x431.jpeg 820w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />By Danny Franks
I’m going to lay all of my cards on the table right here at the beginning: I wholeheartedly, unreservedly, and unashamedly believe that every church should have a plan in place to care for its guests.
Christians, both individually and corporately, are called to hospitality (1 Pet 4:9; Rom 15:7). Kindness should be a marker of our ministries. And our churches should be a place where those on the outside are welcomed in with open arms.
But for small- to medium-sized churches, a robust guest services ministry might feel out of reach or out of place. After all, if hospitality is something we’re all called to, shouldn’t we all naturally do it—plan or no plan, team or no team?
Well, yes. We should. But often we don’t. We let guests slip in and out unnoticed. Or worse, we notice them but aren’t compelled to reach out because we assume someone else will. That’s where a formalized guest services plan and an organized guest services team can make a difference.
Here are seven common reasons I hear for why churches can’t (or shouldn’t) have a plan, and why those reasons don’t hold up.
<h2>1. “Our church doesn’t get that many guests”</h2>
Maybe your church has declined over the years. Perhaps you’re tucked away in a rural area, and not a lot of people are moving to your neighborhood. While it may be that your inflow of guests is more of a drip than a steady stream, a good plan for one guest is better than no plan for 100 guests.
So ask yourself, “What would we do this Sunday if someone brand new showed up?” Would they know where to park? Which door to enter? Where to sit? Follow the counsel of Stephen Covey and begin with the end in mind. You might be surprised that when you walk into the weekend expecting guests, guests will eventually walk in.
<h2>2. “Our volunteers are stretched too thin”</h2>
It could be that you have a slate of long-serving, faithful <a href="https://blog.faithlife.com/get-church-volunteers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">volunteers</a>, but they’re exhausted. For years, they’ve kept the nursery and balanced the books and mowed the lawn and passed out bulletins. Introducing something new would feel overwhelming to them.
That’s a sure indicator of a shallow vision for a guest services ministry. Rather than tell them what you want to do, explain why you want to do it. Remind them that your church may be intimately familiar to them, but it’s scarily unfamiliar to a first-time guest. Tell them that meaningful encounters can happen in the parking lot just as easily as they can happen behind the pulpit. Infuse a new vision to your stretched volunteers, and you might find them stretching towards a brand new goal.
<a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/how-to-welcome-visitors-to-your-church?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="alignnone" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Church-Visitors_Display-A_640x186.jpg" alt="clickable image reading Will Your Guest's First Sunday Be Their Last Get Free Guide" width="620" height="180" /></a>
<h2>3. “We don’t have anyone to run it”</h2>
If you’re a leader in your church, you have no lack of people with ideas on how you can add something else to your job description. Articles like this one may feel more discouraging than encouraging.
To be clear, if you preach weekly, your focus should be more on the sermon and less on the sidewalk greeters. If you are the lead shepherd, you should be equipping your sheep for the work of the ministry.
So start with someone with a friendly smile and a steady hand. Find a congregant who never seems to meet a stranger and has a few basic organizational skills. Cast your vision, ask them to start small, but challenge them to start somewhere. Give them the responsibility and authority to develop a fully-fledged guest services ministry.
<h2>4. “We don’t know where to start”</h2>
You don’t have to do everything right now. It can be overwhelming to think about starting a new ministry. We don’t know how to plan or how to budget or how to recruit volunteers. We’re unaware of things like ideal traffic flow or signage or guest-friendly language from the stage.
So don’t start there. Start by imagining that you are new. What would you want to know? What would you want to feel? What would confuse you? Draw you in? Drive you away? If it’s hard to get in that mindset in your church building, think about the last time you walked into a new restaurant or retail establishment. What increased your anxiety? What calmed you down?
Do a walk-around of your building with brand-new eyes. Look for weedy flower beds, scuffed paint, and outdated signage that points to a space that your regulars know is the old sanctuary but your new people wouldn’t. Better yet, invite a trusted out-of-town friend to walk the property with you. Don’t try to give them explanations; just write down their comments along the way. Their 30-minute first-time guest simulation may yield months of simple fixes that you can’t see.
<h2>5. “‘Guest services’ sounds too fluffy”</h2>
Believe me, I get it. We’re well over halfway through the article, and you’re still hung up that a church would call a ministry something that sounds so &#8230; corporate. And yes, there’s a real danger in focusing on making the guest happy. But here’s the stark reality: if we don’t learn to greet our guests, they may never meet Jesus. It takes an inordinate amount of courage for someone to walk into a strange church for the first time. All of their senses are on high alert. They’re watching for cues on whether your church is a place where they are welcomed, safe, and included.
Our goal is not to make newcomers like us, but to lead them to love Jesus. I wrote <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/167432/people-are-the-mission-how-churches-can-welcome-guests-without-compromising-the-gospel?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an entire book on how to honor guests without compromising the gospel</a>, so this is something I’ve personally wrestled with throughout my 18 years as a (clears throat) pastor of guest services. So call it guest services or hospitality or greeting or the welcome team, but make the call that you’ll treat every stranger as an honored guest.
<a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/digital-discipleship-guide?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-28409 size-full" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/disc.png" alt="From Strangers to Visitors to Evangelists. Learn how to build a biblically based discipleship journey that actually works." width="700" height="171" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/disc.png 700w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/disc-300x73.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a>
<h2>6. “We’re already friendly”</h2>
If you choose to get serious about a guest services plan, you’ll be met with no shortage of eye rolls and harrumphs. Because, leader, your church already believes it is friendly. Each Sunday morning is met with handshakes and side hugs and catch ups and bless-your-hearts.
But that’s the point: most church members are friendly to each other. They are friendly because their friends are there. It takes far more than friendliness to help an outsider feel welcome. It takes intentionality. And sometimes it takes an official team and an actual title for a greeter to leave their huddle, cross the lobby, and introduce themselves to someone they’ve never met.
<h2>7. “It’s not really a necessity”</h2>
We’re coming full circle to reason #1: “Our church doesn’t get that many guests.” Maybe you’re still not convinced that a formalized guest services plan is a need for your church. Maybe you don’t have the leadership, the volunteers, the ideas, the plan, the heart, or the passion. And if that’s the case, you’re right: guest services is not a necessity for you. It’s not a priority for those who are a part of your church.
But it’s absolutely a necessity for those outside your walls. Every single weekend can be someone’s first weekend. Every single Sunday, you can see someone cross from darkness to light. Every single time you gather can be an opportunity for your church to greet guests well so that they will hear the gospel well. A guest services plan is about so much more than parking cars or pouring coffee or putting people in seats.
When we display hospitality, we are declaring that our guests’ comfort is more important than our own. When we sacrifice time and energy and money to <a href="https://blog.faithlife.com/church-welcome-ideas-free-religious-merry-christmas-images/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">make a guest feel welcome</a>, we are demonstrating tangible care for them. When we do whatever it takes to reach the people that God puts in our path, we are paving the way for them to meet Jesus, removing all barriers along the way.
So no, a formal guest services plan isn’t a necessity for you. But it’s crucial for your neighbors.
***
This article original appeared in the fall 2021 issue of <a href="https://faithlife.com/products/ministry-team-magazine?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021">Ministry Team</a> magazine.
Danny Franks is a pastor of guest services at The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, NC. He is the author of <a href="https://www.logos.com/product/167432/people-are-the-mission-how-churches-can-welcome-guests-without-compromising-the-gospel?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">People Are the Mission: How Churches Can Welcome Guests Without Compromising the Gospel</a>, and speaks, trains, and consults with churches around the country. He also makes a life as the husband to an out-of-his-league better half and the dad to an elementary school princess, one college-aged son, two adult sons, and two incredible daughters-in-law. 
***
<h3 style="text-align: left;">How to get—and keep—church visitors</h3>
Become a magnetic, engaging church that visitors can’t help but come back to. The free guide <a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/how-to-welcome-visitors-to-your-church?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Complete Guide to Getting (and Keeping) Church Visitors</a> is full of best practices and simple tips you can put into action this Sunday. <a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/how-to-welcome-visitors-to-your-church?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Get the guide free today.</a>
<a href="https://faithlife.com/ministry-resources/equip/guide/how-to-welcome-visitors-to-your-church?utm_source=blog.faithlife.com&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_content=welcometeam&amp;utm_campaign=promo-MT2021" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" class="aligncenter wp-image-26777 size-full" src="https://blog.faithlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Church-Visitors_Display-A_640x186.jpg" alt="clickable image reading Will Your Guest's First Sunday Be Their Last Get Free Guide" width="620" height="180" srcset="http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Church-Visitors_Display-A_640x186.jpg 620w, http://3755m57z6oq15b6iq3xq9f8h.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Church-Visitors_Display-A_640x186-300x87.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 620px) 100vw, 620px" /></a>

By Danny Franks
I’m going to lay all of my cards on the table right here at the beginning: I wholeheartedly, unreservedly, and unashamedly believe that every church should have a plan in place to care for its guests.
Christians, both individually and corporately, are called to hospitality (1 Pet 4:9; Rom 15:7). Kindness should be a marker of our ministries. And our churches should be a place where those on the outside are welcomed in with open arms.
But for small- to medium-sized churches, a robust guest services ministry might feel out of reach or out of place. After all, if hospitality is something we’re all called to, shouldn’t we all naturally do it—plan or no plan, team or no team?
Well, yes. We should. But often we don’t. We let guests slip in and out unnoticed. Or worse, we notice them but aren’t compelled to reach out because we assume someone else will. That’s where a formalized guest services plan and an organized guest services team can make a difference.
Here are seven common reasons I hear for why churches can’t (or shouldn’t) have a plan, and why those reasons don’t hold up.
1. “Our church doesn’t get that many guests”
Maybe your church has declined over the years. Perhaps you’re tucked away in a rural area, and not a lot of people are moving to your neighborhood. While it may be that your inflow of guests is more of a drip than a steady stream, a good plan for one guest is better than no plan for 100 guests.
So ask yourself, “What would we do this Sunday if someone brand new showed up?” Would they know where to park? Which door to enter? Where to sit? Follow the counsel of Stephen Covey and begin with the end in mind. You might be surprised that when you walk into the weekend expecting guests, guests will eventually walk in.
2. “Our volunteers are stretched too thin”
It could be that you have a slate of long-serving, faithful volunteers, but they’re exhausted. For years, they’ve kept the nursery and balanced the books and mowed the lawn and passed out bulletins. Introducing something new would feel overwhelming to them.
That’s a sure indicator of a shallow vision for a guest services ministry. Rather than tell them what you want to do, explain why you want to do it. Remind them that your church may be intimately familiar to them, but it’s scarily unfamiliar to a first-time guest. Tell them that meaningful encounters can happen in the parking lot just as easily as they can happen behind the pulpit. Infuse a new vision to your stretched volunteers, and you might find them stretching towards a brand new goal.

3. “We don’t have anyone to run it”
If you’re a leader in your church, you have no lack of people with ideas on how you can add something else to your job description. Articles like this one may feel more discouraging than encouraging.
To be clear, if you preach weekly, your focus should be more on the sermon and less on the sidewalk greeters. If you are the lead shepherd, you should be equipping your sheep for the work of the ministry.
So start with someone with a friendly smile and a steady hand. Find a congregant who never seems to meet a stranger and has a few basic organizational skills. Cast your vision, ask them to start small, but challenge them to start somewhere. Give them the responsibility and authority to develop a fully-fledged guest services ministry.
4. “We don’t know where to start”
You don’t have to do everything right now. It can be overwhelming to think about starting a new ministry. We don’t know how to plan or how to budget or how to recruit volunteers. We’re unaware of things like ideal traffic flow or signage or guest-friendly language from the stage.
So don’t start there. Start by imagining that you are new. What would you want to know? What would you want to feel? What would confuse you? Draw you in? Drive you away? If it’s hard to get in that mindset in your church building, think about the last time you walked into a new restaurant or retail establishment. What increased your anxiety? What calmed you down?
Do a walk-around of your building with brand-new eyes. Look for weedy flower beds, scuffed paint, and outdated signage that points to a space that your regulars know is the old sanctuary but your new people wouldn’t. Better yet, invite a trusted out-of-town friend to walk the property with you. Don’t try to give them explanations; just write down their comments along the way. Their 30-minute first-time guest simulation may yield months of simple fixes that you can’t see.
5. “‘Guest services’ sounds too fluffy”
Believe me, I get it. We’re well over halfway through the article, and you’re still hung up that a church would call a ministry something that sounds so … corporate. And yes, there’s a real danger in focusing on making the guest happy. But here’s the stark reality: if we don’t learn to greet our guests, they may never meet Jesus. It takes an inordinate amount of courage for someone to walk into a strange church for the first time. All of their senses are on high alert. They’re watching for cues on whether your church is a place where they are welcomed, safe, and included.
Our goal is not to make newcomers like us, but to lead them to love Jesus. I wrote an entire book on how to honor guests without compromising the gospel, so this is something I’ve personally wrestled with throughout my 18 years as a (clears throat) pastor of guest services. So call it guest services or hospitality or greeting or the welcome team, but make the call that you’ll treat every stranger as an honored guest.

6. “We’re already friendly”
If you choose to get serious about a guest services plan, you’ll be met with no shortage of eye rolls and harrumphs. Because, leader, your church already believes it is friendly. Each Sunday morning is met with handshakes and side hugs and catch ups and bless-your-hearts.
But that’s the point: most church members are friendly to each other. They are friendly because their friends are there. It takes far more than friendliness to help an outsider feel welcome. It takes intentionality. And sometimes it takes an official team and an actual title for a greeter to leave their huddle, cross the lobby, and introduce themselves to someone they’ve never met.
7. “It’s not really a necessity”
We’re coming full circle to reason #1: “Our church doesn’t get that many guests.” Maybe you’re still not convinced that a formalized guest services plan is a need for your church. Maybe you don’t have the leadership, the volunteers, the ideas, the plan, the heart, or the passion. And if that’s the case, you’re right: guest services is not a necessity for you. It’s not a priority for those who are a part of your church.
But it’s absolutely a necessity for those outside your walls. Every single weekend can be someone’s first weekend. Every single Sunday, you can see someone cross from darkness to light. Every single time you gather can be an opportunity for your church to greet guests well so that they will hear the gospel well. A guest services plan is about so much more than parking cars or pouring coffee or putting people in seats.
When we display hospitality, we are declaring that our guests’ comfort is more important than our own. When we sacrifice time and energy and money to make a guest feel welcome, we are demonstrating tangible care for them. When we do whatever it takes to reach the people that God puts in our path, we are paving the way for them to meet Jesus, removing all barriers along the way.
So no, a formal guest services plan isn’t a necessity for you. But it’s crucial for your neighbors.
***
This article original appeared in the fall 2021 issue of Ministry Team magazine.
Danny Franks is a pastor of guest services at The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, NC. He is the author of People Are the Mission: How Churches Can Welcome Guests Without Compromising the Gospel, and speaks, trains, and consults with churches around the country. He also makes a life as the husband to an out-of-his-league better half and the dad to an elementary school princess, one college-aged son, two adult sons, and two incredible daughters-in-law. 
***
How to get—and keep—church visitors
Become a magnetic, engaging church that visitors can’t help but come back to. The free guide The Complete Guide to Getting (and Keeping) Church Visitors is full of best practices and simple tips you can put into action this Sunday. Get the guide free today.

I’m going to lay all of my cards on the table right here at the beginning: I wholeheartedly, unreservedly, and unashamedly believe that every church should have a plan in place to care for its guests.

7 Bad Reasons for Not Having a Church Welcome Team

Date: January 30, 2022 The Pitfall of Temptation The Point: Remembering what is at stake helps us overcome temptation. Get Into the Study Use the following information to introduce Question #1. Begin by sharing  this news item: Last October, the EatThis,NotThat! website published a list of the most popular snack foods in America. Based on [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/extra-ideas-for-adults-how-to-avoid-lifes-pitfalls-session-2/">Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life&#8217;s Pitfalls – Session 2</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Date: January 30, 2022 The Pitfall of Temptation The Point: Remembering what is at stake helps us overcome temptation. Get Into the Study Use the following information to introduce Question #1. Begin by sharing  this news item: Last October, the EatThis,NotThat! website published a list of the most popular snack foods in America. Based on […]
The post Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls – Session 2 appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls – Session 2

Sunday, January 23, 2022Preschool: Jesus Told About a Kind Man Kids: Jesus Told a Parable
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/winter-2021-22-ps-kids-unit-2-session-4-weekly-leader-training/">Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 4 Weekly Leader Training</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Sunday, January 23, 2022Preschool: Jesus Told About a Kind Man Kids: Jesus Told a Parable
The post Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 4 Weekly Leader Training appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 4 Weekly Leader Training

Date: January 23, 2022 The Pitfall of Betrayal The Point: God is at work, even when it’s not obvious. Get Into the Study Use the following information to introduce Question #1. Graduate students at Binghamton University recently published a study describing the qualities people value in team members in the workplace. Their study showed that [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/extra-ideas-for-adults-how-to-avoid-lifes-pitfalls-session-1/">Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life&#8217;s Pitfalls – Session 1</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Date: January 23, 2022 The Pitfall of Betrayal The Point: God is at work, even when it’s not obvious. Get Into the Study Use the following information to introduce Question #1. Graduate students at Binghamton University recently published a study describing the qualities people value in team members in the workplace. Their study showed that […]
The post Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls – Session 1 appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Extra! Ideas for Adults – How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls – Session 1

Sunday, January 16, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Healed a Man Born Blind
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/winter-2021-22-ps-kids-unit-2-session-3-weekly-leader-training/">Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 3 Weekly Leader Training</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Sunday, January 16, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Healed a Man Born Blind
The post Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 3 Weekly Leader Training appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 3 Weekly Leader Training

Date: January 16, 2022 Session: Seeking Justice in an Unjust World The Point: Join God in pursuing justice in the face of indifference and oppression. Get Into the Study Use the following story as an alternate introduction to this session. In December of 2021, the Justice Department closed its investigation on the grisley Mississippi murder [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/extra-ideas-for-adults-seeking-justice-in-an-unjust-world-special-focus/">EXTRA! Ideas for Adults &#8211; Seeking Justice in an Unjust World &#8211; Special Focus</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Date: January 16, 2022 Session: Seeking Justice in an Unjust World The Point: Join God in pursuing justice in the face of indifference and oppression. Get Into the Study Use the following story as an alternate introduction to this session. In December of 2021, the Justice Department closed its investigation on the grisley Mississippi murder […]
The post EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Seeking Justice in an Unjust World – Special Focus appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Seeking Justice in an Unjust World – Special Focus

Mountains and Valleys BY JEN SCHMIDT God is with us in joy and sadness. My weekend encapsulated one of those magical moments that little girls dream about their whole lives — their wedding day. With her faithful father by her side, my niece floated down the venue stairs. Robed in white, her shimmering eyes sparkled [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/seeking-justice-special-focus-session-mountains-and-valleys/">Seeking Justice &#8211; Special Focus Session &#8211; Mountains and Valleys</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Mountains and Valleys BY JEN SCHMIDT God is with us in joy and sadness. My weekend encapsulated one of those magical moments that little girls dream about their whole lives — their wedding day. With her faithful father by her side, my niece floated down the venue stairs. Robed in white, her shimmering eyes sparkled […]
The post Seeking Justice – Special Focus Session – Mountains and Valleys appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Seeking Justice – Special Focus Session – Mountains and Valleys

Sunday, January 9, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Taught About God&#8217;s Care
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/winter-2021-22-ps-kids-unit-2-session-2-weekly-leader-training/">Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 2 Weekly Leader Training</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Sunday, January 9, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Taught About God’s Care
The post Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 2 Weekly Leader Training appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 2 Weekly Leader Training

Date: January 9, 2022 Session: The Ruler Who Cares for His People The Point: Jesus leads and cares for His people. Get Into the Study Use the following story as an optional introduction to the session. Former Republican Senator Bob Dole passed away in December of 2021 at age 98. As a servant of our [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/extra-ideas-for-adults-irrefutable-session-1-2/">EXTRA! Ideas for Adults &#8211; Irrefutable &#8211; Session 6</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Date: January 9, 2022 Session: The Ruler Who Cares for His People The Point: Jesus leads and cares for His people. Get Into the Study Use the following story as an optional introduction to the session. Former Republican Senator Bob Dole passed away in December of 2021 at age 98. As a servant of our […]
The post EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Irrefutable – Session 6 appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

EXTRA! Ideas for Adults – Irrefutable – Session 6

Sheltered in His Sovereignty When we wait humbly on God’s will, we can rest assured in His mercy and power. by LEE ECLOV WHEN I WAS A KID, the Christmas season didn’t begin the day after Thanksgiving nor with the first Sunday in Advent. The countdown to Christmas always began with the arrival of the [&#8230;]
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/irrefutable-session-6-sheltered-in-his-sovereignty/">Irrefutable &#8211; Session 6 &#8211; Sheltered in His Sovereignty</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Sheltered in His Sovereignty When we wait humbly on God’s will, we can rest assured in His mercy and power. by LEE ECLOV WHEN I WAS A KID, the Christmas season didn’t begin the day after Thanksgiving nor with the first Sunday in Advent. The countdown to Christmas always began with the arrival of the […]
The post Irrefutable – Session 6 – Sheltered in His Sovereignty appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

Irrefutable – Session 6 – Sheltered in His Sovereignty

Sunday, January 2, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Visited Martha and Mary
The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com/winter-2021-22-ps-kids-unit-2-session-1-weekly-leader-training/">Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 1 Weekly Leader Training</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://biblestudiesforlife.com">Bible Studies for Life</a>.

Sunday, January 2, 2022Preschool and Kids: Jesus Visited Martha and Mary
The post Winter 2021-22 PS/Kids Unit 2, Session 1 Weekly Leader Training appeared first on Bible Studies for Life.

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