Springs of Life Cedar Rapids

Speaking mainly of prayer, James closes, restating some of the letter's key themes.A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.

Quarrels divide what was once united, from the inside, but source and solution may be more unlikely than you think. A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. With all honesty, how have you blamed others for your anger or envy in your frustrated desire?2. In your own words, what is the difference between acting in response to what God has done and acting because we think it is all up to us? 3. What does drawing near to God mean to you? What are the ways you can intentionally pursue greater relationship with God today, and this next week? 

 Small things can cause great results, for bad or good. What if the solution was available to you before the problem arrived?A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. How can you invite God to guide your tongue like a rudder before the “storm” hits?2. What does my pattern of speech reveal about what's going on inside my heart?3.Do your words reflect peace or stir up conflict? How can you become a peacemaker with your words this week?

There is no dichotomy between faith and works, and you can't have one without the other.A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.

Favoritism and discrimination are violations of the kingdom law of love.A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.

It's Practical Christianity mandated by the gospel, and characterized by both truly “hearing” and then resolutely “doing” the truth.A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. How has the “Implanted Word of Christ” changed you? What's different now in your thoughts, words and actions? 2. What are the obstacles that get in the way of you allowing the fruit of self-control be more evident in your life?3.What does a life of service look like for you? What are your next steps in pursuing, or reinforcing this in your life?

Trials test faith in order to make spiritual pilgrimages complete. They are part of the “good gifts” God gives his people in order to make them whole.  A summer series through the book of James, a letter that serves as a how-to manual for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one's life.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. Check your posture: In what ways are you lacking humility under God, thereby robbing yourself of His Joy? (ie. trust, self-reliance, comparison, etc.)2. What needs to change in you to reset the order to reflect the words of James: “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.”3. What HOPE does the promise to “receive the crown of life” stir up in you in the midst of your trials?

Identifying the battle plans of the enemy and the spiritual oppression wewill all encounter.Ever wonder why life feels like an endless struggle? It might not just be about bad luck or tough circumstances. What if there's a deeper, spiritual reason behind our daily battles? What you see is not all there is. The Bible says, "We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world..." (Eph 6:12) In this series, we'll explore the unseen forces influencing our lives, gain insights into the true nature of our challenges and the hope we have in Christ.Questions For The Road:1. Why do you think that putting on the full armor of God is presented as a mandate to believers in Ephesians 6?2. How can we guard against “chinks in our armor” by not being equipped for battle?3.How does living in community with other believers help us to stay protected in our spiritual battles?4.How has this series on spiritual warfare challenged, encouraged, or empowered you? What are your main take-aways?

Identifying the battle plans of the enemy and the spiritual oppression wewill all encounter.Ever wonder why life feels like an endless struggle? It might not just be about bad luck or tough circumstances. What if there's a deeper, spiritual reason behind our daily battles? What you see is not all there is. The Bible says, "We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world..." (Eph 6:12) In this series, we'll explore the unseen forces influencing our lives, gain insights into the true nature of our challenges and the hope we have in Christ.Questions For The Road:1. There are many ways that “spiritual doors” can be opened in our lives. Did any of these resonate with you and your own experiences? Unrepentant, intentional sin & Unintentional sin, Generational strongholds & curses, Trauma & childhood vulnerabilities2. Some “unintentional sins” include: emotional idolatry, over-indulgence, pride, jealousy, idolatrous nationalism, inappropriate intimate relationships, dabbling with darkness - to name a few. Is the Holy Spirit highlighting any area of your life that may be offensive to God (and harmful to you), but you just didn't realize it?3. Are you ready to be delivered from oppression? Pray about talking with someone you trust spiritually to work through the “10 R's of Chain-Breaking” together!Recognize the lies Renounce the lies Repent if needed Rebuke the enemy Replace lies with truthRefill ‘house' with Holy Spirit Remain free:Resist the enemyRenew your mind Rejoice!

We're already in a battle, so how do we engage it? Holy Spirit Power,Presence & Spiritual AuthorityEver wonder why life feels like an endless struggle? It might not just be about bad luck or tough circumstances. What if there's a deeper, spiritual reason behind our daily battles? What you see is not all there is. The Bible says, "We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world..." (Eph 6:12) In this series, we'll explore the unseen forces influencing our lives, gain insights into the true nature of our challenges and the hope we have in Christ.Questions For The Road:1. Of the four battlegrounds mentioned, is there one in particular that you find yourself most often?2. When you “think about what you're thinking about,” what do you notice is going on in your mind?3. When you're fighting spiritual battles, do you tend to isolate or reach out for help and support? What is dangerous about trying to do it alone?4. Did you identify any “open doors” in your life that may have created a vulnerability to attack? What can you do about it?

Identifying the battle plans of the enemy and the spiritual oppression wewill all encounter.Ever wonder why life feels like an endless struggle? It might not just be about bad luck or tough circumstances. What if there's a deeper, spiritual reason behind our daily battles? What you see is not all there is. The Bible says, "We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world..." (Eph 6:12) In this series, we'll explore the unseen forces influencing our lives, gain insights into the true nature of our challenges and the hope we have in Christ.Questions For The Road:Questions for the Road:1) According to John 10:10, the enemy and Jesus have very different missions and purposes for their presence in our lives. How have you seen that play out in your own life?2) In this season, does it feel like you are living defeated and discouraged - or experiencing the “sozo” wholeness that God intends for you?3) How does knowing that Satan is not the opposite of God encourage you?4) Even though the forces of darkness are highly organized and strategic, 1 John 4:4 reminds us that God's spirit in His followers is even more powerful. In the upcoming week, try to identify yourself as a victor in Christ, rather than a victim of attacks. Observe how it impacts how you think, feel, and behave!

What we see is not all there is, and there are things at work that can transform us for better or worse.Ever wonder why life feels like an endless struggle? It might not just be about bad luck or tough circumstances. What if there's a deeper, spiritual reason behind our daily battles? What you see is not all there is. The Bible says, "We are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world..." (Eph 6:12) In this series, we'll explore the unseen forces influencing our lives, gain insights into the true nature of our challenges and the hope we have in Christ.Questions For The Road:1. Read 2 Kings 6:15-18. Reflect on a time when you realized God was doing something spiritually that you couldn't see with your natural eyes.2. What do you need to “ask” for wisdom for right now in the struggles you are facing from our adversary?3. How does knowing the truth that you are not alone and have been given authority by Jesus change your perspective in the face of spiritual struggles?

Even in the midst of experiencing rejection, there is still an invitation. Within this series lies the truth. Actually, it's the truth about lies. The lies we tell ourselves, that repeat over and over like a hidden song in our minds, and the damage they do if we don't take hold. Using 2 Corinthians 10:5 as our starting point, we will expose the running tracks that wage war against us, and take them captive with the truth found in scripture that redefines our identity.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. How might your experience of rejection be keeping you from experiencing freedom through the invitation of Christ?2. What is the invitation in your rejection experience? What do you feel God is inviting you to experience differently in this moment?3. Instead of retreating, who will you extend an invitation to in the midst of your own rejection?

 Overlooked, unappreciated and hopeless–but what if I told you that someone DOES see you?Within this series lies the truth. Actually, it's the truth about lies. The lies we tell ourselves, that repeat over and over like a hidden song in our minds, and the damage they do if we don't take hold. Using 2 Corinthians 10:5 as our starting point, we will expose the running tracks that wage war against us, and take them captive with the truth found in scripture that redefines our identity.

This one is actually a truth, that has been twisted and weaponized against you. Yikes.Within this series lies the truth. Actually, it's the truth about lies. The lies we tell ourselves, that repeat over and over like a hidden song in our minds, and the damage they do if we don't take hold. Using 2 Corinthians 10:5 as our starting point, we will expose the running tracks that wage war against us, and take them captive with the truth found in scripture that redefines our identity.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Be real, what is does it mean to you to be God's masterpiece? Do you feel like you have to earn that, or do you believe it at face value?2. What ways do you find yourself constantly on the treadmill of working to be ‘Good Enough'?3. What needs to be surrendered in your heart, or in your actions to fully embrace your true identity in Christ?

Following Jesus means practicing the art of embracing weakness.Within this series lies the truth. Actually, it's the truth about lies. The lies we tell ourselves, that repeat over and over like a hidden song in our minds, and the damage they do if we don't take hold. Using 2 Corinthians 10:5 as our starting point, we will expose the running tracks that wage war against us, and take them captive with the truth found in scripture that redefines our identity.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. What “hidden tracks” have been running in the background of your mind about strength, weakness, or self-reliance?2. Where might God be inviting you to embrace weakness, not as failure, but as a place for His grace and strength to show up?3. How does the image of Christ — the One who wore the crown of thorns — reshape the way you see yourself and others?

Regret & Shame have no place under the actual victory we celebrate today.Within this series lies the truth. Actually, it's the truth about lies. The lies we tell ourselves, that repeat over and over like a hidden song in our minds, and the damage they do if we don't take hold. Using 2 Corinthians 10:5 as our starting point, we will expose the running tracks that wage war against us, and take them captive with the truth found in scripture that redefines our identity.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. What is the cone of shame you are wearing? Take a step of faith and invite Jesus to remember the wrong you've done, but redeem it through his promise of “You are forgiven”. Don't miss out on this opportunity!2. Make a visual reminder of 1 John 1:9 (card, sticky note, etc) and place it somewhere you can be reminded often that redemption covers your self-condemnation. 

What if 2nd place was actually “first to win”?Nobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. What are the ways you find yourself falling for the performance trap?2. How do you actually view God's Power? Take a moment to reflect and write out the ways you have personally experienced the power of God.3. As a declaration of “I am in second place,” what action can you take reinforce that you believe it?

You can't please everyone. Trust me, that's a good thing. Nobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice.

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

There's a fine-line between pursuing excellence and perfectionism, and you had better go to the heart of it all to find out what you're working with.Nobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. How does perfectionism most commonly show up in you and your actions?2. How do you see God bringing awareness to your own pride within perfectionism, and what is your response?3. What areas of your life do I need to admit weakness to receive the grace that God gives through Jesus Christ?

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

Money and StuffNobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice.

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

ControlNobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Is your own anxiousness your treasure? Do you think that you can do something about all of these things by being anxious?  2. How do you tend to try and control life? How has control become an idol to you? 3. How does shifting our focus from earthly needs to Christ as our ultimate satisfaction change the way we respond to anxiety and uncertainty in life?

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

Filling an eternal longing with temporary comfort will only lead to an empty life.Nobody likes to be unhappy, uncomfortable and in pain. Instead, we chase “Good Vibes” that only bring fleeting moments of happiness, fulfillment, or validation. In this series, we'll look at the Good Vibes we all commonly chase, and participate in the season of Lent by observing Jesus' example during his 40 days in the wilderness. Jesus invites us to experience the power of emptying ourselves of distracting vibes, and learning to rely on Him for all our deepest needs during this season of anticipating the significant gift of God's loving sacrifice. QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. What are some ways in which chasing good vibes of comfort eliminates our need for faith in Jesus? How have you seen that play out in your life?2. What steps do you need to take in order to “Embrace Divine Discomfort” in your life?3. What truths about God do you need to believe? What lies do you need to turn from today?

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

This year, Springs has an opportunity as a church family to participate together in a Fast for the season of Lent, March 5th to April 17th. We would love for you to join us in prayerfully considering what God would be leading you to fast during the Lent season, as an act of “emptying” yourself to create more space for God in your heart as we look forward to celebrating Easter.

Discipline is not something you do to your child, but rather for your child. And God honoring discipline must start within the parent first.Children are a gift, but let's be honest, parenting is complicated. Am I doing it right? Am I messing them up? How do I even know the difference? Let's talk about it in our new series, Family Matters.QUESTION FOR THE ROAD:1.) What might I need to become a healthier parent?2.) What areas of my parenting might need more discipline?3.) What heart issues might be beneath my child's behavioral problems?

The way you extend The Blessing to your children today, will shape who they become and what they believe tomorrow.Children are a gift, but let's be honest, parenting is complicated. Am I doing it right? Am I messing them up? How do I even know the difference? Let's talk about it in our new series, Family Matters.1. Read Psalm 146. What Blessing does this passage of scripture speak to you straight from the mouth of God? Take time and write it out as God reveals it to you.2. In what way will you extend your blessing to those in your family, or the New Family of Christ, this week? Be intentional in speaking life over them sooner than later!

God understands Parental Pain, and gives us a model for extravagant, unconditional love.Children are a gift, but let's be honest, parenting is complicated. Am I doing it right? Am I messing them up? How do I even know the difference? Let's talk about it in our new series, Family Values.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Have you ever had a season of running from and rebellion of God? How did God “Do whatever it takes” to bring you home?2. How does the mercy and grace of being a “child of God” shift your own perspective of your children, or those you would consider spiritual children?3. How can you tangibly show extravagant, unconditional love to your children this week, regardless if they are home or are currently prodigal? It might be helpful to reflect on how you personally experience this kind of love from God. 

How do we help our children learn to love God? What stifles their spiritual growth? Let's talk about it.Children are a gift, but let's be honest, parenting is complicated. Am I doing it right? Am I messing them up? How do I even know the difference? Let's talk about it in our new series, Family Matters.

The empowering habit of letting go of needing more.In new seasons, we often focus on what we should do more of, or what's next. But what if we started this new season with stopping? In our series, Stop Before You Start, we'll take a deep breath, make space for God, and allow Him to work in our lives.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD: 1. Take and honest inventory: What “things” in your life need to be shared with others to ease the burden you carry? Who will you reach out to for help with this?2. Create a ‘To Don't List'. What “things” need to be stopped and added to this list?3. What are the burdens you are carrying that you have a hard time surrendering to God? What radical next step do you need to take to see change?

The curious momentum in the habit of slowing and sabbath. In new seasons, we often focus on what we should do more of, or what's next. But what if we started this new season with stopping? In our series, Stop Before You Start, we'll take a deep breath, make space for God, and allow Him to work in our lives.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD: 1. Be real, what does practicing the sabbath look like for you currently? 2. What what does each step within practicing sabbath (stop, rest, delight & remember) look like for you to practically implement on a weekly basis?3. Take time to plan, prepare and start practicing sabbath this week.

The healing habit of taking an honest inventory withinIn new seasons, we often focus on what we should do more of, or what's next. But what if we started this new season with stopping? In our series, Stop Before You Start, we'll take a deep breath, make space for God, and allow Him to work in our lives.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD: 1. Watch - How are you looking at things? Is it mostly positive or negative? Are you singing a melody in your heart or have you lost your song?2. Listen - How are you hearing the people around you? Are you suspicious of them or are you full of grace for people and their habits and hang ups?3. Repentance - What needs to change? What is God saying, “this is out of alignment with my Word? Come, return to me, and I will give you rest.

Silence and Solitude—incredible power, simple actions.In new seasons, we often focus on what we should do more of, or what's next. But what if we started this new season with stopping? In our series, Stop Before You Start, we'll take a deep breath, make space for God, and allow Him to work in our lives.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD: 1. What benefits do you think you would experience personally from practicing solitude and silence with God?2. Take inventory: What usually prevents you from practicing solitude and silence with God?3. Take the next step: What is your plan to intentionally and consistently put into practice solitude and silence with God? And when will you start?

God is, was and always will be with us. So why doesn't that change anything for us?In this series we will unpack the Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love through well known Christmas carols, culminating in our Christmas Service.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Think back on a difficult circumstance, situation or season. How did you experience God being with you then? Record the ways, whether big or small.2. How does recalling how God WAS with you encourage you in your current trials and/or celebrations3. What can you do practically to be reminded that God will still be with you, regardless of what is ahead?

What can a Christmas carol, that isn't actually about Christmas, teach us about Joy?In this series we will unpack the Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love through well known Christmas carols, culminating in our Christmas Service.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Do you think you live more like eternity with Jesus is a far-off idea, or a soon, coming promise? What needs to shift, or be reinforced, in your perspective of eternity with Jesus?2. Read Psalm 51:12. How does the joy of your salvation in Jesus inspire you to rejoice?3. Create a visual reminder of the truth, “Our Lord is Coming.” Place it somewhere that you can be reminded of it daily.

In this series we will unpack the Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love through well known Christmas carols, culminating in our Christmas Service.

The season of advent is the perfect time to reevaluate the current state of your hope.In this series we will unpack the Advent themes of Hope, Peace, Joy and Love through well known Christmas carols, culminating in our Christmas Service.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD:1. Reevaluate your Hope: Is your hope FOR SOMETHING, or IN SOMEONE?2. Take some time with the 3 Part Exercise: Get Real with God, Be Still & Listen, Embrace with Rejoicing. Ask someone to pray and stand with you as you let your pain, doubts, and difficulties drive you to God. 3. Read Habakkuk 3:1-3. Describe a time when you saw the goodness of God or experienced His faithfulness.

Daring to forgive the vilest offender—Yourself.To err is natural, to forgive is supernatural. Discover the miracle of forgiveness. Stop drinking the poison of bitterness and expecting your offenders to die. And along the way learn to forgive yourself, because you too are forgiven.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. What would it look like for you to spend some time around the charcoal fire with Jesus? Take a step of faith and invite Jesus to remember the wrong you've done, but redeem it through his promise of “You are forgiven”. 2. Don't miss out on this opportunity!Make a visual reminder of 1 John 1:9 (card, sticky note, etc) and place it somewhere you can be reminded often that redemption covers your self-condemnation. 

Seeing our pain through from a new perspective—that we are just as broken as everyone else. To err is natural, to forgive is supernatural. Discover the miracle of forgiveness. Stop drinking the poison of bitterness and expecting your offenders to die. And along the way learn to forgive yourself, because you too are forgiven.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. Think about a time where you hurt someone, and then received forgiveness from them. What how did that make you feel?2. Think of a hurt you are trying to forgive. Filter that hurt through the REACH Process of Forgiveness: Recall the Hurt, Empathize with your Offender, Altruistic Gift, Commit and Hold on to Forgiveness.

Jesus rejected the code of reciprocity, and replaced ill will with good will.To err is natural, to forgive is supernatural. Discover the miracle of forgiveness. Stop drinking the poison of bitterness and expecting your offenders to die. And along the way learn to forgive yourself, because you too are forgiven.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. Take moment to ask yourself honestly—Do you have a root of bitterness? Expose it by identifying the source of this bitterness.2. Forgiveness isn't fair and isn't forgetting, but it does mean giving others what God has given us. What are some ways you can forgive and still set boundaries?3. If God is calling you to forgive someone, take that step. Ask God for the Faith to Forgive. 

Jesus rejected the code of reciprocity, and replaced ill will with good will.To err is natural, to forgive is supernatural. Discover the miracle of forgiveness. Stop drinking the poison of bitterness and expecting your offenders to die. And along the way learn to forgive yourself, because you too are forgiven.QUESTIONS FOR THE ROAD1. Take an honest evaluation: How have you turned the Golden Rule into your own Code of Reciprocity?2. What practical step from Jesus' teaching in Luke 6:27-26 resonates most to you in Minding the Injustice Gap?3. Ponder the “why” behind your answer to #2, and how you can put that step into practice the next time you experience an offense.

This four-week series provides a survey of the book of Philippians. One of the key messages of Paul's letter to the church of Philippi focuses on discovering a true joy in the Lord, because Jesus's kingdom surpasses the circumstances of life.

What has the Lord put in your heart.This four-week series provides a survey of the book of Philippians. One of the key messages of Paul's letter to the church of Philippi focuses on discovering a true joy in the Lord, because Jesus's kingdom surpasses the circumstances of life.