Body
“We are often brought to our knees after losing a battle. But we need to fall to our knees before the battle begins.” - Randy Alcorn
- About
- Forum
- Account
Disturbing but Worth It: Getting Outside Our Bubble
In seminary we were encouraged—well, required—to read outside our own theological perspective. A few students recoiled a bit. They had been living in a bubble, and those outside it had been mostly ignored, sometimes caricatured, but never directly listened to with the goal of accurate understanding.
Most students relished the wider reading. They’d already learned that curiosity, personal connection, and questioning assumptions can result in life-changing bursts of discovery and personal growth.
… which is why effective educational institutions do that sort of thing.
Most people today don’t think they need a pastor. Here’s why you do.
Body
“God knows we’re embattled in this world. That’s why he doesn’t leave us to fight alone. Instead, he gives us pastors. Your pastor may not look like a warrior, but his job description is to battle on your behalf through his ministry of the Word and prayer.” - 9 Marks
What Does Trouble Do?
Body
“Though we may not see an answer in the immediate circumstances of our lives, we can begin to put one together as we look at the lives of other believers. What did trouble do for Joseph?…What did trouble do for David?….for Paul?” - Challies
There’s No Contradiction Between God’s Empowerment and Our Efforts to Battle Sin
Body
“But God’s Word never says, ‘Since you’re a sinner, there’s no reason to expend effort to gain victory over sin.’ On the contrary, Paul says, ‘For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me’ (Colossians 1:29).” - Randy Alcorn
Every Pinch of Pain Has Purpose
Body
“What’s the point of such discipline? Four verses later, we get the answer to that question. It says, ‘[God] disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness.’” - John Piper
In Sanctification, Where You’re Going Is More Important Than Where You Are
Body
“It’s a little bit of a bummer to realize that later I’ll look back at the me I am now and be glad I’m not entirely the same me any longer. But [1 Tim 4.15] has mainly been an encouragement. It means I can be qualified to be an elder and set an example with my life without ‘having arrived.’ I can grow.” - Kevin DeYoung
Why I Will Not Set Goals In 2025
Body
“Each of these years taught me a painful but valuable lesson: life is unpredictable…. this year, instead of setting specific goals, I’m focusing on something more foundational: habits and consistency.” - P&D
Biblical Optimism for the New Year
Body
“No Christian should be a pessimist. We should be realists—focused on the actuality that we serve a sovereign and gracious God. Because of the reality of Christ’s atoning sacrifice and His promises, biblical realism is, ultimately, optimism.” - Randy Alcorn
The 2025 Christian Reading Challenge
Body
“Whether you are a light reader or completely obsessed, this 2025 Christian Reading Challenge is designed to help you read more and broaden the scope of your reading.” - Challies
