Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy (Matthew 5:7). Implicit in Jesus’ promise is this reality: the merciful recognize their own need for mercy. Otherwise, how could Jesus’ promise hold any weight? If I don’t need mercy, then what good is there in promising me mercy? But if I see my own need of mercy, then I will want to emulate any description of those who obtain mercy. The merciful recognize their own need for mercy.
Friendships
Walking With the Wise, Forsaking the Foolish
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. (Proverbs 9:6) It is interesting how these two things go together: 1) forsaking foolishness, and 2) living wisely. In order to pursue the way of truth, the way of understanding, you must forsake the company of foolish companions. You can’t have both. You can’t go in the way of understanding, and also keep your foolish friends close by. “Forsake the foolish and live,” and in forsaking the foolish, “go in the way of understanding.” To pursue wise ways of living, you must—you must—forsake the company and counsel of
How Do Smartphones Affect Relationships?
[I am reposting these thoughts from guest writer Noah Weaver, because this is such a helpful and timely topic for us all in this digital age.] The material below was shared at a recent men’s breakfast at our church. The insights given are biblical, relevant, and insightful. And they are things everyone in our day needs to be conscious of and intentional about as electronic devices are increasingly woven into the fabric of our daily lives. While smartphones may be relatively new, human invention and ingenuity is not. In a sense, Paul was using the technology of his day as