"Based on the gift they have recieved, everyone should use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God." -1 Peter 4:10 Two things I want to emphasize here: "based on the gift they have recieved", and, "the varied grace of God". If you don't fit in, maybe it's because God … Continue reading Unique
Tag: focus
Callings and Arguments
In John 12:1-7, Judas chastised Mary for anointing Jesus’ feet with an expensive, fragrant oil, which he argued could’ve been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. Jesus replied, “Leave her alone; she has kept it for the day of my burial. For you always have the poor with you, but you do not … Continue reading Callings and Arguments
My Two Biggest Fears
My two biggest fears are; 1.) Not having sufficient emotional abundance and availability to really be helpful on that level to those who are closest to me, primarily my wife and possible children in the future. 2.) Getting stuck at a level, personally, professionally, and spiritually that is well below my potential. Why these thoughts … Continue reading My Two Biggest Fears
At the Heart Level
Sharing these passages, the theme I have in mind is that of God calling people closer to Him at the heart level: Isaiah 1:11-16 11 “What are all your sacrifices to Me?” asks the Lord. “I have had enough of burnt offerings and rams and the fat of well-fed cattle; I have no desire for the … Continue reading At the Heart Level
Press In
So, what if you find yourself in that place, maybe too busy, or just feeling off track? If you are struggling, if you don't feel loved, if you feel empty, if you feel broken, guilty, ashamed, or dirty: press in. Press in when you would rather withdraw. Press in with God. I’m not going to … Continue reading Press In
Sooner and Simpler
Romans 4:21 says, “...because he was fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.” It might not be in every detail, in the form that we expect it. But that is an important point, because the road to something being accomplished is often shorter and simpler than we think. God … Continue reading Sooner and Simpler
On Being a Firefighter
I recently moved out of my hometown where I had served on the local fire department for the last four and a half years. It was a small department located just outside of a village of about 400. Our coverage area was 54 square miles (one and a half townships), plus providing aid to other … Continue reading On Being a Firefighter
My Toothbrush is Holy
I am a big fan of demystifying churchey words, not because I am irreverent, but because I don't want their effect to be lost. So, "holy". I would describe "holy" as 'designated for a particular purpose'. People have holidays (holy-days) designated for remembrance of certain religiously significant events. A holy day, or holy place, or … Continue reading My Toothbrush is Holy
Andrew K. Banks 