Let’s face it: while our “new man” desires to know the Lord and to spend time with Him, the “old man,” our sin-twisted former self (the “flesh”), still gropes for influence in our lives; every day is a strenuous contest between the Spirit and the flesh. ...

As we approach the Christmas holiday and prepare to spend time with family, I’m mindful of just how many of you are planning on spending time with grown children who have chosen not to follow Christ. Here are five encouragements based on patterns I’ve observed as a pastor....

Generally, I’m not a sentimental person, but that kind of changes in the month of December. I love Christmas lights, Christmas movies, Christmas carols, and all the other kitschy Christmas traditions that feel old-timey and familiar. One of my favorite features of the Christmas season, however, isn’t sentimental at all....

There was a time—not long ago—when almost all Christians were committed to attending weekly worship every single Sunday unless providentially hindered or engaged in necessary work. This is no longer typical. Sports, travel, recreation, “family time,” and a whole host of other activities keep us from gathering with the church. I don’t think this shift has been hea...