“Frankly, many of us would prefer this passage were not in the Bible.” So writes one scholar about a verse you are no doubt familiar with: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.” (James 1:2) At first glance this is one perplexing verse and one we might prefer was not in Scripture, particularly when we experience trials and suffering. So let me get this straight. When I encounter a trial, when I find myself…
Over the past 15 years three godly men have approached me and asked my permission to marry my three daughters. These men have ventured where angels feared to tread. In approaching me about my daughters—and Carolyn and I are very grateful that God gave them the necessary courage to do so—it was our joy to give them our blessing. We derive great joy from observing how they have cared for and led our daughters and our 12 grandchildren. Along the…
In this series of posts, we’ve learned from James 4:1–2 that relational conflict is worse than we think and that resolving conflict is simpler than we think. But James has more wisdom for us: resolving conflict is also easier than we think. Let’s look at verse 10 and experience the grace present in this verse and promised by this verse: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” James 4:10 In order to really and fully appreciate this…
Last time, we looked at how James 4:1-2 teaches us that relational conflict from a biblical perspective is worse than you think. But it is also simpler than you think. Let me explain. Relational conflict can sure seem complicated. It can certainly feel complicated when you’re in the midst of it. I cherish my bride of more than four decades. We have had a most blessed and romantic four decades of marriage by the grace of God. But we are…
Over the past 15 years three godly men have approached me and asked my permission to marry my three daughters. These men have ventured where angels feared to tread. In approaching me about my daughters—and Carolyn and I are very grateful that God gave them the necessary courage to do so—it was our joy to give them our blessing. We derive great joy from observing how they have cared for and led our daughters and our 12 grandchildren. Along the…