Staff/Lifeway Christian Resources

Remember living rooms? These were always separate from a family room or den. The living room was used only for special occasions. It always had the nicest furniture in the house, furniture the kids were not to play on.

Perhaps you’ve seen the image known as “Rubin’s Vase,” where from one viewpoint a vase is seen and from the other, two men are facing each other. It’s a classic trick that our own brain can play on us. We see what we’re expecting to see.

If you have ever read an online review for a restaurant, hotel or product, you know that there are those who love to complain. The truth is, we all complain at one time or another.

The late baritone Barry White serenaded his sweetheart in 1974, proclaiming, “You’re the First, the Last, My Everything.” But have you ever truly considered that of any one person?

Parents are excited to hear their child’s first words, especially when those first words are Mama or Daddy. Not all words, though, cause elation. Seemingly, children soon learn two other words they say with much conviction. The first is No! The second is Mine! Nobody has to teach children to be selfish; instead, we have to teach them to share.

In America, we tend to glorify athletes, worship beauty and tend to relate popularity to power. These aren’t bad things in themselves but as believers, we need to ask the question: Who is truly deserving of our worship?

After God delivered the Israelites from cruel slavery in Egypt, God demonstrated His concern for human welfare, righteousness and flourishing of His image-bearers by giving the Ten Commandments.

The truths found in the great Exodus story of the Passover still apply to us today. We can trust God to remember us and deliver us from whatever bondage we suffer.

One thing that’s great about Hallmark Christmas movies is that they are predictably, inevitably heartwarming, offering perfect endings and a longed-for peace hard to come by on Earth.

We are sometimes overwhelmed by our weaknesses, unable to see how God can use us. God reminds us that His strength is sufficient, and everything is under His sovereign hand.