Author Archives: Pete

Earnest Counsel

It’s an episode of “friends” that captures the spotlight in my Proverbs reading this morning. Faithful are the wounds of a friend;       profuse are the kisses of an enemy. Oil and perfume make the heart glad,       and the sweetness of a friend … Continue reading →

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Done Deal! But Not Done Dealing. (2018 Rerun)

Ours is a faith of holy tensions. Many of our foundations and principles for navigating life as Christians are not just either/or, but rather both/and. For example, God is sovereign, and we have free will. Jesus will build His church, … Continue reading →

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Our HOV Lane

Isaiah 35 looks forward to a day when the wilderness will be renewed. A day when the weak of hands and the feeble of knees and the anxious of heart will be redeemed. A day when “they shall see the … Continue reading →

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Bad Breath

Judgment. It’s just what you’re going to encounter when you read the prophets. Perhaps that’s why some avoid this part of their bibles. They want the God of steadfast love, abounding grace, and perpetual patience. They want the promises and … Continue reading →

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A Delicacy Free Menu

This morning, it’s a twice repeated warning in Proverbs that’s causing me to pause and noodle a bit. When you sit down to eat with a ruler,       observe carefully what is before you,and put a knife to your throat       if you are … Continue reading →

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We Wait (2016 Remix)

So often what gets me wrapped around the axle with prophecy is trying to lock down the “when.” When will that happen? In ancient Israel’s day? During Christ’s first advent? At His second advent? Presently, during this now but not … Continue reading →

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The Pompous Pride of All Glory

Isaiah 23:17-18 hooks me. I’m intrigued by how God purposes to redeem the “merchandise and wages” of a prostitute and make them “holy to the LORD.” And so, I hover over Isaiah 23 for a bit this morning. I quickly … Continue reading →

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The Blessing

One of the things about early morning devos is that sometimes it can be a bit foggy between the ears when opening the Word. Times when that first cup of coffee is enough to open the eyes but not quite … Continue reading →

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Sharers in Christ

Reminded this morning that there is a world of difference between being a spectator and being a participant. Between simply watching something and wholly sharing in it. Between the act of receiving a gift and the activity of engaging with … Continue reading →

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A Conduit (2020 Rerun)

It really was a big ask on Paul’s part. Receive back a runaway slave as a brother. No punishment, though it was due. No making him an example before the others slaves, though it would have been prudent. No demanding … Continue reading →

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