Ponder, delight, remember, extol. The psalmist employs these four verbs (as translated in the New International Version) in today’s psalm. Do these encompass what it means to fear the Lord? To...

We could paraphrase many of our prayers in this way: “God, get down here and fix it.” We commonly plead for God to end our pain, suffering, conflict, or threat from...

Solomon follows his father’s instructions with one notable exception—King Solomon offers sacrifices and incense in the high places. In most biblical contexts, such sacrifices were not acceptable, but here Solomon takes...

There is a phenomenon among babies and infants called “failure to thrive.” This may happen when newborns or infants have their physical needs met but do not respond normally. Sometimes the...

There is a phenomenon among babies and infants called “failure to thrive.” This may happen when newborns or infants have their physical needs met but do not respond normally. Sometimes the...

In his letter to the church at Ephesus, Paul offers sound advice on how to oil the wheels of human community. It sounds much like my insistence to my daughters when...

The situation kept deteriorating. Pastor Seth accepted this call to ministry two years ago, trusting his skills could meet the congregation’s needs. A few members were still upset over the departure...

King David was known for many things, including being a poet and songwriter. Though David’s life belies such pronouncements as “I will bless the Lord at all times,” or “Let the...

King David tries to protect his son on the battlefield, but his plans are thwarted in the heat of battle. When messengers tell King David about the defeat of his enemies,...

Absalom’s life seems to consist of one crisis after another, many brought about by his own decisions. We would expect his father, King David, to use the battlefield as a way...