As we read through the New Testament, particularly the Gospels and Acts, we encounter the practice of fasting which is seldom given much attention in the local churches with which I am familiar. There is nothing particularly mysterious about fasting; it is simply abstaining from eating for a specified period of time. In 1 Corinthians, Paul indicates that a married couple may choose to set aside normal sexual activity during a fast, though this is not required. A fast can be absolute (no food or drink whatsoever) or partial. Most fasts, particularly longer ones, allow water or other clear beverages. [...]

Much of my burden comes from my own assembly and the assemblies of close friends.  I long to see us grow in the Lord and be a shining light in the communities we have been placed into.  That doesn’t come without effort and dedication to the leading of the Spirit. As we look to a new year ahead here are 8 ways I see the assemblies moving forward and making progress.  I pray that these become a vital part of every assembly in 2018. 1. A fresh surrender to the Holy Spirit This is not the first point by accident. [...]

At this time of year stores start playing Christmas songs, lights go up on houses, trees are set up with lots of decorations and people start planning their holiday schedule and meals. Many churches hold special services, choir concerts and some put nativity scenes out front. It’s also the time of year when many Christians criticize those who celebrate the Lord’s birth. Some will even accuse them of being pagan worshipers. Many who do not celebrate Christmas look down on those who do as being swept away by worldliness and commercialism. In some ways they have a point. Christmas can become an [...]

In my last article, I spoke about the tendency to equate attendance with godliness. When we become too rigid in our view of how the meetings of the church should function we lose sight of the greater goal of growth within the body of Christ. On the other hand, there is in our society a general lack of commitment towards things that are of ultimate value. We firmly believe that the church is founded upon the Word of God and it gives us several key reasons why we should meet together. Not just a social club At its very core the [...]

I’m sure by now you, dear reader, are aware of the natural disaster in Houston, Texas. Hurricane Harvey rained down so much water that it is best described as “Biblical” in proportion. A great many people were evacuated prior to the storm’s landfall, but a great many more were advised to stock up and ride out the rain. Areas categorized as “no-flood” zones were assumed to be safe. My sister, Sarah, and her husband and four small children live in just such a zone. They went to sleep Saturday night, listening to the rainfall, and thanking the Lord for their [...]