"you obeyed from the heart". Servants must obey and it is very important whom they obey. Of second importance is whether they obey from the heart. If someone else put you up to 'being a Christian' or if you were in any way coerced into it, your service may not last for long and will ... Read more

"What gives life is God's Spirit". Not enthusiasm - the best of which may wane and disappear according to the strength of the opposition or feelings of the individual. Not learning - this might make a theologian but not a Spirit-filled Christian. Not science - continually being updated yet never touching the spiritual aspect. Not ... Read more

"he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord". King Hezekiah was succeeded by his son Manasseh who did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord. It is surprising because his father was a godly king. Manasseh was succeeded by Amon who also did that which was evil. Then ... Read more

That we don't deserve it doesn't matter; when mercy takes over blessings fall unimpeded. Call for mercy and He will bless you!"God be merciful unto us, and bless us". This prayer at the beginning of a delightful psalm acknowledges our need for mercy. We do not bring the good that we have done but our ... Read more

"an honest and good heart". It is not where you live or work that determines your success, it is what you are. All too often we make our environment the excuse for our failure - as though what we really are will only reach its potential in different surroundings. I always remember working with a ... Read more

"in all points tempted like as we are". Because of this everybody and anybody can come to Jesus knowing He will understand their case. We may come boldly to His throne in prayer and expect mercy and know forgiveness. But it does not end there. Because He was tempted, He can guide you safely through ... Read more

"where have you come from, and where are you going? " The two questions must be asked if you would accurately determine your present position. They relate to a spiritual journey, as Hagar was to learn. It is an honest answer to these questions that will help you. The past you cannot change. You may, ... Read more

"Teacher, we want to see a miraculous sign from you". Spectacular displays are short-lived and usually achieve little of lasting value. Jesus could have given the Pharisees all they wanted and much more. But three years of miracles would not have saved a soul. It was only by giving His life on the cross that ... Read more

"I will strengthen you". What more do you need? If the Lord strengthens your weak frame you can be sure it will be strong enough to withstand all the strains it will meet, for He knows exactly what demands will be made upon it. There will be no problem deciding when strength should be applied ... Read more

"meaningless talk". It can be very convincing and sound very well and the more fascinating it appears the more useless it is likely to be. Talking for talking's sake, or because you like the sound of your own voice is quite futile and can be harmful. Paul's wise counsel to the young man Timothy is ... Read more