Sex and the Single Christian

Young Couple

Young Couple, by Richard Foster (Flickr), Creative Commons License

“In a recent study conducted by ChristianMingle.com, Christian singles between the ages of 18 to 59 were asked, ‘Would you have sex before marriage?’ The response? Sixty-three percent of the single Christian respondents indicated yes.” [1]

Find Your Wings

Justin O'Rear

Justin O’Rear

To my son Justin:

Dear Bubba,

I started praying for you before you were even born:

  • Praying that you would be a healthy, happy boy.
  • Praying that Mom and I would be good parents for you.
  • Praying that your life would be full of blessings and joy.
  • Praying that God would provide a special measure of His love and protection and blessing for the girl, whoever she is, who would someday become your wife; that she would grow up in a happy, godly home, and that God would prepare her to become the half that makes your life whole.

Heritage of Faith

Grandpa Horace and Mama Grace

Grandpa Horace and Mama Grace

It was Tuesday, May 17, 1994. The east Texas sun warmed the afternoon air as we buried my 91-year-old grandmother beside her husband in Laws Chapel Cemetery on the outskirts of Atlanta, Texas. Grandpa Horace had preceded her in death by more than 25 years. He had been a faithful gospel preacher during his time. Mama Grace was a diligent student of God’s word, and had taught numerous Bible classes throughout her lifetime. These were my Dad’s parents.

Where Are You, God?

(cc) Adam Baker - Flickr

(cc) Adam Baker – Flickr

Have you ever wondered if God is really there; if He is really listening to you when you pour out your heart to Him in prayer?

Has it ever gotten to the point that it seemed like He wasn’t there, or like He just didn’t even care?

Have you ever found yourself asking that question – “Where are you, God?” – desperately wanting to hear His gentle voice whisper, “Don’t worry; I’m right here”?

If you have ever experienced the loneliness of not feeling God’s presence – of not being able to find Him, or feel Him, or sense His closeness – you are not alone.

The Prodigal Son (Brother’s Perspective)

Return of the Prodigal Son by Murillo

Return of the Prodigal Son by Murillo

[PART 4 OF 4]

In the previous article, we looked at the Parable of the Prodigal Son from the perspective of the prodigal son himself. In this article, we will re-examine the parable from the perspective of the older brother.

Go ahead and read through the parable again by clicking here. Then come back and continue reading.

The Prodigal Son

Return of the Prodigal Son by Murillo

Return of the Prodigal Son by Murillo

[PART 1 OF 4]

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is one of Jesus’ most well-known parables. It is actually the third in a series of parables that Jesus told, one after the other, in Luke chapter 15. All three parables have a common theme.

The Santa Claus Factor 5

© Scott Hancock - Fotolia

© Scott Hancock - Fotolia

[PART 5 OF 5]

I believe that the story of Santa Claus is the story of God!

As I’ve stated in my previous “Santa Claus Factor” articles, I believe the story of Santa Claus can be viewed as a parable that teaches us some important lessons about God. This will be my last article in this series.

The Santa Claus Factor 4

© Scott Hancock - Fotolia

© Scott Hancock - Fotolia

[PART 4 OF 5]

I believe that the story of Santa Claus is the story of God!

In the last article, we discussed Santa’s list. We noticed the similarities between Santa’s “nice” and “naughty” lists, and God’s. In this article, we will continue to explore the parable-like nature of the Santa Claus story, and its ability to help us understand God a little better.