Alive and Active Life

When I was in college, I took a "Camping - Hiking Course." It fulfilled a basic requirement. Overall, it was a good experience. Interestingly, I learned a lot. However, I remember one bad experience - the weather didn't cooperate. Our group pitched our tent. But it started POURING. Then, the temperature dropped dramatically. It was a freezing, soppy mess. Sadly, our group squeezed into a car and spent the night there - shivering. Unfortunately, our tent nor our car, provided the covering and protection we needed. Thankfully, God's covering and protection doesn't look like that. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Do you remember being a little kid and you just thought it would never get to your birthday - or to Christmas? Now, fast-forward to your current age. Whatever decade you're in - your perspective is likely different. Even teens start to say things like - "time has passed so quickly." Essentially, time is growing short. We live knowing we will eventually die. If nothing else, time is certainly limited. So, let's explore how to live each day while time is growing short. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

In our last article/podcast, A Plan To Be More Like Jesus, we laid out a reasonable plan using twenty-five helpful action points to keep you matched up with Scripture. You've likely formed many plans over the years with strategies to carry them out. Subsequently, it makes sense to develop a plan and long-term strategies to be more like Jesus. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Do you need a long-overdue vacation? Or perhaps you want to pay off a loan quickly. Maybe you've never gardened, but you want to try one. Could be you've decided to change careers but need more education. Or you might commit to lose a few unwanted pounds. Regardless, whatever the scenario, you need a plan - or you'll get nowhere fast. Similarly, you need a plan to be more like Jesus. Incidentally, it doesn't just happen. So, let's look at a good plan to do just that. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

A few years ago, we published an article about "your number." The content is important enough to explore again with a fresh look - especially considering current global times. Interestingly, everyone uses numbers each day - finances, critical dates, paying bills, trips to the grocery store or gas pump. Then there are birthdays - "how old are you this year?" Incidentally, what's your number for your tax return this year? So many numbers! Most important, what's your number that represents your life? Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Just the other day, I was putting on a pair of gloves - without paying attention and with some difficulty. Wouldn't you know it! I was trying to maneuver the left glove onto my right hand, leaving the right glove waiting for my left hand. Silly, eh? Needless to say, it wasn't going well. After a good look, I saw the problem and switched them out. No wonder they didn't fit! I think there's a life lesson in this. Namely: how well do your gloves fit? Time for a fit check . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Some years back, I accompanied my grandkids to a park. They were full of energy and expectation. Upon arrival, I gave the usual warning - "Now, be careful as you tackle this playground!" Their response? "O.K. We will!" Well, they climbed equipment, explored, and jumped from tree stump to every conquerable obstacle. The oldest mid-teen made a bounding leap - landing in a wipe-out. Boom! "Are you OK?" "Ya. I'm fine." Then, another bounding leap - another wipe-out! Kersplat! "You still OK?" "Yup, I'm good." Remarkably, yet another attempted giant leap for "teen-kind." Ya-hoo-hoo-hoo! Trip-and-sprawl! Back up again - still grinning. Goodness! That brilliant offspring found every stumbling stone the park offered. Perhaps a successful visit?! I think it's worth exploring what a stumbling stone is. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

This past Christmas season, my family watched a wonderful concert of M.W. Smith, Amy Grant, and Michael Tait. It was so good! The vocals were beautiful, the band professional and creative, the lights and special features very well-done. Best of all, the message was inspiring. Worshipfully, the entire concert focused on Jesus Christ. One of the talking points impressed me. So, as I've been pondering it, I decided to write an article about "love, like, and fond-of." This is the perfect material for Easter week. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Last article/podcast, we explored "A Positive Mindset Works." Actually, there's nothing more critical to your success as a Jesus follower. Why? Simply, because a person's mindset propels them forward into response. Essentially, into action. Subsequently, let's look at more healthy mindset action points today, with the goal of building character like Christ. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

I’m sure it’s not just me. Surely, you’ve been there, too. Your computer, phone, or device just isn’t cooperating. So, you refresh. If that doesn’t work, you turn it off – and back on again. Plus, you take care of Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

In our last article/podcast, "Refuse To Refuse," we talked about living with hope. Since hope is so critical, it's worth a look at how God tethers you to hope. Actually, it's challenging to be a Jesus follower in today's world. Equally, to live without hope is tragic. Let's explore how God tethers you to hope - and exactly what a tether is. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

"No thank you. Perhaps some other time. Nah, not doin' it! No - I don't think so. Ask me next week." Those are some ways people refuse something. But, what does it look like to "refuse to refuse." Remarkably, this little phrase has been behind many world-changing events. It's made heroes out of ordinary people. That means you and I can be heroes-of-a-kind. Interestingly, refusing to refuse provides constructive action that makes significant differences in your life. Often, it's your best choice! So, let's look at "refuse to refuse." Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

I don't know about you, but the words - "It's for your own good" - conjure up numerous memories. Think back to your childhood. Surely, you had adults and various others who had influence in your life . . . and said - "it's for your own good." Chances are, most of those folks were trying to cast a purposeful vision forward into your life. Plus - don't you sometimes do the same thing now as you attempt to influence someone you care about? Whether or not you do - God does. In case you didn't know, that phrase - "for your own good." - is straight out of Scripture. Now, let's explore exactly "what" is supposed to be for your own good. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Have you ever seen a good three-strand cord? It's super strong! Basically, it's impossible to rip apart. In fact, it looks strong enough to hold a ginormous military ship with aircraft landing strip, or perhaps a cruiser with intimidating deck canons and torpedoes - securely to a dock. Explore another three-strand cord - your "past, present, and future" - all tenses of your life. Woven into one cord, your life is strong. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

There are lots of resources about boundaries. Equally, there's lots of confusion about that topic. I've heard many opinions about setting boundaries. Some are helpful. Others are uninformed. A few are arrogant. And some are rather judgmental. Basically, it seems many folks are unsure about boundaries. So, is "boundaries" just another “buzz” word? What does God think about boundaries? And why would you set boundaries in your life? Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Have you ever thought about God crying? Well, it's true. God weeps! When God weeps, He connects with you and me. Actually, that's a very comforting thing. Plus, it gives permission to you to weep when your life overflows with disappointment. What Does God Weep About? Let's explore together . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

There's a whole section in published books called "self-help" books. Some have helpful information. Others - not-so-much. I happen to know a very effective book that covers all topics of your life! Further, it provides focus points to improve your character. Incidentally, the ten points in today's content help you be like Christ's. They are practical, fairly easy to practice, and help in your relationships. Let's look together. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

I'm sure you've heard warnings about looking straight at the sun during an eclipse. Well, what about looking straight at God? Recently, we published "Turn Your Face Toward It." I recommend this article/podcast which explores a phrase right out of Scripture - "turn your face toward it." The intent? Well, to turn your face toward God's face. Especially interesting because Scripture says no one can look at Him and live! So, the question is - can you look at God? Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

I remember a funny quote in the movie, "Mulan." : “Dishonor! Dishonor on your whole family! Dishonor on you, dishonor on your cow . . . ” Do you remember it? Incidentally, this rebuke is spoken by Mushu, a Chinese dragon - Mulan's companion. Actually, dishonor is something like shame. In fact, dishonor is a strong match for shame according to a thesaurus. You might wonder if I'm going to suggest - - under no circumstances should you allow yourself to experience shame. Not so. Unfortunately, too many people don't have healthy contrition anymore. Conversely, many people don't know what to do with undeserved shame. Let's explore the shame thing. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

When I'm driving somewhere, I always look for road markers and signs to assure I'm in the right place, ready for what's coming. In fact, road markers help you stay in the right place in every day life. Knowing your surroundings provides perspective and management options - particularly when you're down. Let's explore two verses that give helpful actions steps to manage difficult times and still keep you on a good path. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

In the first few months of a New Year, there's a unique opportunity to change - or tweek - perspectives. However, to do this, you need to "turn your face toward it." In today's content, we'll explore this interesting phrase. Oddly, it comes straight out of Scripture. Actually, it gives you an effective and powerful tool to maintain a healthy, balanced life. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

If you could choose only one thing you need this year more than anything else – what would you pick? That’s a hard question to answer. Actually, I’m not sure I could do it. Nevertheless, let’s see if God’s Word Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

A New Year is an opportunity to let go of some things, hold onto other things, and reach for new things. Even though a New Year can feel scary, not knowing what's ahead, it can also be exciting with new opportunities. Often, there's relief to adopt fresh perspective. Hope begins to rise. These are positive ideas healthy people embrace as one year morphs into another. Let's explore these ideas together. . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

It's Christmas week! How can you prepare your heart to receive Emmanuel in fresh new ways during busy Christmas week? In this content, we look at simple action steps to focus on Emmanuel: God With You. Preparing your heart is just as important as all the other preparations. Perhaps even more important. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

You might be surprised to know Christmas sadness is a real thing. It hits when people go through difficulties that stretch into the season of Christmas. Or it happens with unexpected tragedy or bad news. But Christmas sadness can sometimes appear when everything is going fine. Unexpectedly, something rises inside you without permission - and surprises you. In fact, you may even wonder why it's there because there's no identifiable reason. Whatever the scenario, you are not alone if you experience Christmas sadness. Subsequently, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to learn how to manage Christmas sadness.  Let's explore this together. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

You know the little kid in the back seat on a long trip? Every 15 minutes, they ask (with a tired sigh) - "Are we there yet?!" That's the same little cherub, along with a host of other little kids - and just as many adults - who asks, "Is it Christmas yet?" The first exclamation - "Are we there yet?" - is more like - "Gosh! How much longer?!" An impatience and a feeling of being confined. The second exclamation - "Is it Christmas yet?" - is more like - "I'm so excited, I can hardly wait." An expression of the joy of anticipation. Please join me as we explore the joy of anticipation this week! Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Most people really like Christmas. There are a few grinches who despise the annual celebration. But many more cherish this annual holiday. They lean into invisible qualities of hope and joy connected to the evergreen tree, lights and decorations, beautiful music, giving and receiving, special goodies, and moments of reflection. Unfortunately, many of these same "Christmas-loving" people feel overwhelmed at the hustle and bustle. So, how do you prepare your heart for this beloved holiday? This is the first in a series to help prepare your heart for Christmas. Each week we will light another candle in our hearts as a statement of preparation in Advent. Please - join me. Connect with God, enjoy meaningful traditions, and anticipate something fresh and new from God. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Thanksgiving is a time to practice exceptional character. Why is that? Because thankfulness is one of the noblest character qualities. Additionally, it's a time for celebration and fun activities. In this content, we look at both: A thankful heart. Celebration and fun. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

I remember communion from when I was a child. Even as a youngster, I wanted to understand the bread and cup. But honestly, I did wonder why the bread was so "itty-bitty." And the cup was barely a good swig! Don't you remember sticking your tongue into that tiny cup and licking every drop out when you were a kid? Nevertheless, it was clear to me as a child, that communion is not a meal - or even a snack. It's about celebrating a precious sacrament - and remembering. Today, let's take a fresh look at communion. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

So, are you an Apple user or an Android user? Regardless, have you noticed what I've figured out? As soon as you update your device, you're made aware of the latest and greatest? New features. Better camera. Faster processing. Greater connectivity. Technology is a fast-paced industry. Frankly, it affects pretty much everything in our lives. Regardless, life is so much more than technology. In fact, I suggest the latest and greatest you can experience in life is found in God. Let's explore. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Some years back, we published an article called - "The Sin List." About a year later, we published another article - "The Skinny On Sinning." Recently, we published "When You're Down." In that content, we mention two modern sins. Oddly, people are always curious about "what's on the serious sin list." Additionally, folks are interested in how to get Relief and Hope in hardships. So, people flux between - Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

When you're down, it's hard to function at your best. Things don't look normal, and you can't quite get your bearings. Things may not be going as you expected. Or, you've had a disappointment - possibly a piercing loss. Perhaps you lack energy from carrying your load a long time. Often, there's a pile-up of things. "Stuff" is going on in your heart - and in your world. But - there's also something else going on. And you can't quite put your finger on it. Let's look together. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Don't you just love it when someone gives you the "heads-up?" It helps you know what's coming - and what to do next. Yes, we really like a "heads-up." So, it's even more valuable when the heads-up comes from Jesus. He's always giving helpful information, insights, a peek into the future, and - yes - thankfully - warnings. Let's explore how these timely messages are a life-saver. And while we're at it - let's figure out what a "woe" is! Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

For starters, we'll share a Star Wars example that shows discouragement - when hope flickers. If you're not a Star Wars fan, you still know what I mean. Perhaps you only need to look in the mirror to see discouragement - when hope flickers. You need hope! Let's explore 12 practical action steps back into encouragement. PLUS, a very transparent prayer that touches the deep places in your heart - to use when you are vulnerable and discouraged. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

In a previous article, we shared a fun excerpt from the movie, “The Kid.” Bruce Willis plays Russ Duritz, a grown-up under stress. He regresses to a comfort when he was a kid – a sandwich. As he makes one, he says – “There's safety in a sandwich!” He grips his almost finished sandwich and flips it around while stressfully raving. Alfalfa sprouts fly everywhere. Then, lettuce flips out. It's not much of a sandwich any more. Certainly not a perfect sandwich. So, let's take a few minutes to explore the perfect sandwich in your "on-the-go life." Afterall, you need to fill the hunger in your soul. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

For just a moment - think basketball, football, soccer, ballet, or gymnastics. Now, consider how agile some athletes are. They just seem to pivot into position on a dime, as needed - with little or no warning. Similarly, your life pivots. Actually, with so many events, people, and unknowns - your ability to maneuver is a critical skill. Consequently, during challenge, disappointments, threats, bad news, conflict - there's good news! Your life pivots on principles that never change. So, let's explore practical ideas and helpful action steps to pivot skillfully - with little or no warning. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

During many wars, including world wars, there are clever, secret codes used to conceal a powerful message intended for an ally. Espionage and undercover work quite literally help nations advance and win wars. The powerful message is coded for transmission. Eventually, it's decoded - translated - into it's true meaning. Essentially, this is the method used to deceive those who shouldn't receive the information, as well as make it plain and simple for the receiver once it's decoded. So, what is God's coded message to you? Have you decoded it and applied it to your daily life? Let's explore this. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Recently, we entertained special guests - dear friends of many years. It was great to see them again. But - people change. Incidentally, this is exciting. Why? Because it means there's more to know about them. In contrast, God never changes. (Heb.13:8) Remarkably, there's always more opportunity to know and see God in life. In fact, this will continue through eternity. God is incredible! To know and see God is a privilege - something to celebrate even in difficult times. Let's look together . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

As we explore good news in difficult times, consider this story. You're on a long trip. You're really hungry. Mmmm - a hamburger and an ice-cold soda comes to mind. So, you off-ramp into a small town with one grocery on the only street. The grocer says, "Well, go down the aisles. Gather supplies. Make your own sandwich. Soft drinks are stacked by the bread." Consequently, you head to the next off-ramp - a gas station. The owner says, "Sorry. All we got is cold beer and a bathroom 'round back." Next off-ramp - an ice-cream stand. But you're told - "Only ice-cream here. Sorry." All you want is a burger and a soda! Interestingly, this "less serious scenario" describes how people feel when they need good news. Instead, they are offered everything else. Nevertheless, there's still one source of good news in difficult times. Let's take a look . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Do you take the trash out at your house on a regular basis? Or is that somebody else's job? Have you ever had a pile-up of junk and stuff that needs to be thrown out? Realistically, keeping up with trash, junk, and stuff is part of living well. This is true for your inner person, too. I'm excited to get into this content. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

How much can a person take? It's hard to keep going when the onslaught just won't stop! Nevertheless, no matter what you are going through, there's a very "special something" that links you to relief and hope. Incidentally, you and I both know we often need relief and hope. In fact, more frequently than we might wish. So, what is that "special something" that links you to relief and hope? Let's explore. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Life is an amazing privilege with many opportunities. But let's face it: life is also really hard – especially when you are stressed out. Join me to explore stress and how to manage it to be a balanced, healthy person . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

You go to the mail box and pull out a crisp white envelope with an official seal. The exquisite handwriting specifies your name and address. Rather than ripping it open - like junk mail - you pull out your letter opener to surgically slide along the top envelope crease. From the open slot, you gingerly slip out a beautiful, heavy-weight card that says, "You Are Invited." In surprise and wonder, you flip open the card to see - it's the very event you've always wanted to attend! Up till now, you've never dreamed you'd have the opportunity. Perhaps that scenario has never happened for you. Indeed, you may wish it had. Regardless, I want to assure you there is a lovely invitation waiting for you. It has your name on it. Let me tell you about this amazing invitation! Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

This past spring when we planted our garden, the sun pierced our bodies as we bent over the soil. Then, every-so-often, a coolness enveloped us. Why? Well, clouds moved in. Subsequently, their shadow covered us from the hot sun. It was quite pleasant. Now consider this situation. You pursue forward movement in some endeavor. Yet, you continually hit road blocks and barriers that work against you. A "sea of obstacles" prevents progress. So, your goal awaits your arrival from a distance. Now - let's look specifically at how you can be under cloud protection and how you can get through a sea of difficulties. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

You've seen it in a parking lot. Or even on your driveway. Perhaps in a community park. A tiny green "fragile-looking" plant pushes up through pavement, concrete, or asphalt as it reaches for the sun. That's power! And it's impressive. In fact, it's a good picture of will power - a skill you need daily. Many people have lost this critical skill. At the same time, others break through concrete on their way to healthy living. Thankfully, will power is a skill you can pick up again any time. Last article, Upended, we talked about will power. But, today's content explores how will power helps you each day in everything you do. Let's look together . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

As I considered this article, I decided to look up the word "upended." The definitions made me think of a boat or canoe. Maybe a personal craft on the sea of life. Here are synonyms I found to help define upended. flipped inverted overturned upset bottom-side-up tipped over capsized I don't know about you, but these synonyms gave me a mental picture of upended. Let's take a closer look . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Have you ever dissected something? High school biology? Perhaps college anatomy? If you've been following Alive and Active Life, you know you can dissect Scripture, too. Thankfully, I'm not talking about heavy-duty, theological stuff. Rather, this is a lighter approach to dissect something meaningful - with practical action steps for your life. Much like you command a kitchen knife, you must learn how to wield your sword - the Scriptures. So, why not dissect something meaningful with me today? Let's look together . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

How many times have you heard - "Did I happen to mention . . . " and then someone finishes a thought. Indeed, every mention can become a conversation. Incidentally, this is exactly what Jesus does. He mentions things. In fact, He's a master at mentioning critical information. Let's look at some things Jesus mentions . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Every nation goes through seasons of change. This election year in the United States brings a responsibility to remember who we are. And I, for one, still believe in this country of opportunity. Additionally, I'm thankful for freedom. As complicated and challenging as democracy can become, it's still quite a worthy experiment. Matter of fact, Winston Churchill once said: “Democracy is the worst form of government – except for all the others that have been tried.” If that is true, then what responsibilities must we faithfully carry forward to preserve this country's foundation? What is required of us to be worthy citizens, as well as followers of Jesus? Let look . . . Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

As we explore "Little gods," I'm thinking about a superhero movie - The Avengers. There's an exchange between the Black Widow and Captain America, discussing whether to go after Thor and Loki. If you're familiar with the Marvel superhero movies, you'll know the conversation - Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow): I'd sit this one out, Cap! Steve Rogers (Captain America): I don't see how I can! Natasha Romanoff: These guys come from legend. They're basically gods. Steve Rogers: There's only one God, Ma'am, and I'm pretty sure He doesn't dress like that! You know, it's one thing to talk about make-belief superheroes as "gods." But to talk about people like you and me being gods? Realistically, that's a stretch! Interestingly, Scripture does. Consequently, what practical application does "little gods" have for you? Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.

Most people have felt alone at least once in their life. What about you? Perhaps you've been forgotten by friends or family, and you feel set aside. It could be your child or spouse dies, and you are left. Sometimes, you stand alone in conviction when others around you do what you know is wrong. Then, there's a scenario you are seriously ill, so you must fight to survive. Maybe, you've taken a critical moral stand everyone is against, and you suffer by yourself. Unfortunately, you may have had to leave your home, and you have no idea if/when you can return. Perhaps you're in a marriage you thought was a partnership, but you realized over time you are alone. To all these situations - and many more - I strongly encourage you to believe the truth. You're not alone! Let's talk about this. Read More ... For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.