The Teachable Heart

Based on Psalm 98, Isaac Watts' classic “Joy to the World” was written about Christ's 2nd coming, not His birth. 

Although translated into English in 1851, the carol dates back to the 8th or 9th Century.

The song originated as a spiritual, dating back to at least 1865.  Since then, it's implored God's children to share His good news with everyone, everywhere!

If Jesus was not the Son of God through a miraculous event, then He was simply the son of another imperfect man. 

We'd be foolish to place our assurance in ourselves; and thankfully, we don't have to.

The purpose of the bright light in the sky was to direct the wise men to the brightest of lights in the manger. 

If Christmas is going to overwhelm us, let it be with the wonder that God loved us enough to enter the world to save us. 

The phrase goes further back than you likely know. And it teaches us that our selfish actions muddy someone else's water. 

The story is more than a demonstration of God's life-giving power; it a story of hope.

God is with us in every common place, at every common time.

In response to their concerns about Jesus stealing his thunder, John replied, “He must become greater; I must become less”(John 3:30). May that be our cry as well.

It was a 911 call she never thought she would make. 

If each of us had a manufacturing tag sewn onto us, those tags would all say, “Handmade in Heaven. 

If we're not super vigilant about our relationship with Christ, we'll drift from Him and His grace.

While the Disciples' fear drove them into hiding, Joseph's fear drove him into action. 

If we base our conclusions about God on theoutcomes we receive, our relationship with Him will be tossed to and fro by our circumstances. 

Callousness will drive us away from human need; compassion will drive us toward it.

In the minds of the crowd, the blind men were responsible for their condition; therefore, they were unworthy to receive mercy or help. 

The day is coming when there will be no “Black Friday” because there will not be one single thing that any of us will ever need again.  

Too much attention on our work, our hobbies, our possessions, or other people and we'll quickly be pulled off center from God.

Because Jesus is unchanging, the “rules” for our salvation don't change.

If you're expectation is that most people will eagerly listen as you attempt to spread God's Word, you're likely to bedisappointed. 

To those who are thinking of walking away from the faith, the Book of Hebrews says, “Don't give up!”

“He's got the whole world in His hands” is pretty good theology after all.

God has more for us than a great job, a nice house, a new car, or even afantastic family.

We have a “speaking God” who consistently reaches out to the people He created.

Rest is the outcome for those who “dwell” in the shelter of God.

There are three types of faith in Christ, struggling, clinging, andresting.  Which do you have?

Many of our pursuits are not immoral, but they may be fruitless.

A significant percentage of today's young adults are approaching marriage not as a lifelong commitment, but as a “test drive.” 

Lost resources are bad; but lost souls are much worse.  Which are more important to you?

Frequently, the person in the wrong won't take the first step toward making things right.  Will you be the bigger person? 

Quickly, completely, frequently, undeservedly, mercifully, and without causing us shame. That's how God has forgiven us. How are you forgiving others?

He never had biological children. But he was a father to thousands. 

God not only forgives us with urgency, He also wants to restore us to a right relationship with Him immediately. 

We all listen to someone. To whose voice are you listening?

We are not the treasure; God's powerful message of forgiveness within us is!

We won't carry a heavy burden if we don't first accept it as God's will for us.

Sinning is like buying everything on credit.  It may be fun in the moment – but eventually the bills come due!

Sin is first and foremost against God because God defines what sin is.

Like any designer/creator, Jesus has a purpose foreverything He created.

Don't mistake popularity with being correct.

When a message of love is spoken by a person who has demonstrated love, hearts and ears open.

When your way and God's Word conflict, which do you exalt?

Whatever you may be questioning, may your first question be, “What has the Lord said that pertains to this situation?”

Joyful, gentle, not anxious, prayerful, thankful, and peaceful in their hearts and minds.  That's not a personality type – that's the Spirit of God showing through.

The goal of growing in our faith is achieved by God's Spirit and our dedication to the task and hard work.  There are no shortcuts or luck involved. 

God reminds us through Jeremiah, that advice is only wise if it aligns with Scripture. 

Some things shouldn't be celebrated; they should cause us to blush.

This life is too hard to try to make it through on your own power and ability.  Thankfully, we don't have to. 

Godly people will not sit complacently while godlessness takes over their culture.