Posts Tagged ‘Devotions’
Recommended Christmas Devotional Books
One of the main things that helps me keep a good perspective through December is reading a Christmas or Advent devotional book. Some years I’ve followed reading plans for Scripture that specifically deal with the coming of Christ, including the prophecies of His birth. I don’t have one on hand, but I’m sure there are…
Read MoreA Few Thoughts on Daily Devotions
I was ten years old when I first started having daily devotions. A godly Sunday School teacher challenged me to read the Bible and pray at least five minutes every day. “I can do that,” I thought, so I accepted her challenge. Little did I know at that time how transformative the practice of daily…
Read MoreTips for Getting Out of a Devotional Rut
Do you ever chafe at the routine things you have to do? Some days I am irked at having to take a shower. I know, I know, people didn’t always bathe every day, and I don’t have to. But if I don’t, I won’t be able to stand myself before the day is over. Then…
Read MoreThree Battles to Fight for Personal Bible Study
We often see products — toothpaste, bandages, vitamins — labeled for “double” or “triple protection.” This claim, even if it seems gimmicky, is founded on the truth that damage can come from multiple sources. In fact, the most deceptive forms of decay come from multiple sources, incrementally and simultaneously engaged. Spiritual disciplines similarly suffer when…
Read MoreNew Year’s Reading on the Book of Psalms
The new year is here, with a golden opportunity to read more and better in the months ahead. Maybe you were given money for books for Christmas. Wonderful! There’s little that I enjoy more than helping other people spend money on good books! I want to recommend the possibility of your working through three books…
Read MoreFading Joy: Am I Seeking an Experience or a Relationship?
The lights dim as the music begins to play. The energy in the crowd seems to almost crackle audibly. You feel a surge of anticipation for the songs you know, the empowering words you always hear, and the inspirational, larger-than-life people you see standing before you. At a well-designed worship service, Bible conference, or summer…
Read MoreAm I Worshiping Myself During My Devotions? Narcissism & Spiritual Dryness
“I need some me time,” says everyone these days—parents, employees, even Olympic athletes. In the current vernacular, time with God could also be viewed as spiritual me time. Without even realizing it, we can begin to substitute personal wellness for closeness to God—but they aren’t the same thing. If we make that switch, we will…
Read MoreHow to Spend an Hour in Prayer
Do you feel that you cannot pray because you run out of things to say? One of the most practical ways to solve this problem is to combine Biblical meditation with prayer. Here are some practical steps to do this: Write down a prayer list of people or needs for which you need to pray.…
Read MoreHow to Have a Real-Word Experience
One week not too long ago my family and I were able to get away. We decided to go to Orlando for the week. I am sure we were probably the only out-of-state family there who didn’t go to Disney but believe it or not, there is a lot to do even if you bypass…
Read MoreIn Quest of Your Quiet Time
Bobbie Yearick The pursuit for a quiet time with the Lord is a constant battle. Yet how we need this daily experience. One morning I answered a knock at our door. There was Joan obviously troubled and discouraged. It was evident that she was defeated in her spiritual life. “Joan,” I asked, “when did you…
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