Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 28, 2010
A recent reading in the book of Psalm was a great reminder to me of the importance of praise. I am not talking about the praise of mankind that we share building up one another. Rather, I am talking about the expressions of our lips that should bubble over and articulate the amazing goodness of God in every moment. What are your lips saying?
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 26, 2010
John Wesley, a courageous and famous 18th century preacher and theologian, was passionate "fiery" for God. Sometimes he turned religious people off with his passion for God; he wasn't allowed to preach in some organized churches because of that passion. Wesley believed that Christians should give themselves wholly to God; God should "own" us. Are you owned by God?
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 23, 2010
Did you know that Jesus offended people? He offended the religious leaders, his neighbors, his family, and friends. Oh, and get this, He did it without apology. The reason Jesus offended others is because he was unwilling to compromise the truth of God's heart. Jesus says, "Blessed is he who is not offended because of me" (Luke 7:23).
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 15, 2010
What comes to your mind when I say the word "worship?" Do you picture a gathering of people in a religious building? Perhaps you think of a style of service or maybe your thoughts move to music? Just what does the word "worship" conjure up for you?
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 13, 2010
I love it when things are fair, don't you? I mean I seem to be "wired" for things to go right all the time. 
Jesus said, however, as long as we live in the world we can expect difficulties; a certain amount of persecution. As courageous Christians, how will we respond to the unfair situations and circumstances in life? It certainly will take us leaving our human perspective and reaching for a divine perspective, because just accepting the unfair things in life seems to go against our created "soul grain."
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 09, 2010
Our level of courage will determine whether or not we "live big." Most people say they want to courageously walk through new doors of opportunity and embrace change, but few will ever make the decision to do so. Change is frightening. Safety calls to us and tries to keep us from the bigger and deeper life God has prepared for those who love Him. God rewards our faith-filled lives; a desire for safety tries to stand in the way of our faith.
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 07, 2010
Billy Graham once said, "Courage is contagious! When a brave man (woman) takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened." As we get around other people who are busy listening to God and living for the truth of His love, our backbones grow in strength. Truth, God's Spirit, flowing courageously from others is inspiring. I guess each of us better ask ourselves, "Is my courage contagious?"
Posted by: mhaley
on Sep 06, 2010
It takes a courageous spirit to live among the challenges of our days, doesn't it? The spirit of the world intends to lead and expects us to obediently follow; demands our worship. Courageous decisions are in demand if we are going to be Christ followers. If Christ calls us to take a courageous stand for Him, we need to get ready for war. Expect it. The battle with fear is just around the corner and it is a doozy!
