A Word in Season: Messages by R.J. Rushdoony on the Faith for All of Life

This episode highlights Paul’s strong and often overlooked condemnation of covetousness, which he ranks alongside sexual immorality, idolatry, theft, and drunkenness, even instructing believers not to associate or eat with a professing Christian marked by this sin. Covetousness—envy in action—is widely tolerated today and even encouraged through politics, advertising, and social attitudes that punish the successful and legitimize resentment. Scripture, however, consistently views envy as a mark of a reprobate mind and a form of idolatry, because it places personal desire above God’s will. Paul regards it as a dangerous poison that breeds hatred, disturbs church u...

This episode reflects on our tendency to complain about everything—from the weather to the imperfections of others—while expecting perfection for ourselves. Paul counters this attitude by teaching that “godliness with contentment is great gain,” meaning that true richness lies not in getting our way but in cultivating a grateful, trusting heart. Yet the author stresses that contentment never means accepting evil; Scripture does not endorse moral passivity. Like Elijah and Joshua, believers must confront idolatry and compromise, acting in the fear of God rather than the fear of man. Genuine contentment is inseparable from righteousness and obedience, recogniz...

This episode emphasizes that when Scripture commands us to “hear,” “listen,” or “hearken,” it is calling for obedience, not mere attention. Drawing from Deuteronomy 18 and its repetition in Acts 3, the author notes that God will “require it” of anyone who refuses to obey the words of the coming Prophet, Jesus Christ. Just as a mother’s “Now listen to me” really meant “Obey,” the Bible uses the term in the same sense: hearing God’s Word is meant to produce action. Preaching, therefore, is not for passive reflection but for life-changing obedience. And if earthly parents discipline disobedient children, we should not imagine God wi...

This episode clarifies that when Jesus commands believers to “take up their cross” in Matthew 16:24, He is not referring to general suffering or persecution but to the rejection of self-centeredness and the submission of one’s will to God. Paul expresses the same truth in Galatians 5:22–24, teaching that those who belong to Christ have crucified their self-willed nature to live under the Spirit’s rule. The author notes that, by nature, people behave like spoiled children—expecting God to endorse their desires, treating worship and obedience lightly, and acting as though God owes them something. True cross-bearing, however, means denying ours...

This episode observes that Christianity has produced more—and more joyful—music than any other faith, with Christmas carols standing as its richest expression. Carols like the “January Carol” celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death, portraying Him as the one who ends strife, reconciles God and man, and brings life, righteousness, and peace. Their message is essentially “Joy to the World,” because the birth of Jesus inaugurates salvation and the coming glory. True joy, the author concludes, belongs only to those in whom Christ Himself has come to dwell.

This episode rejects the modern claim that all religions lead to the same destination, contrasting biblical faith with Hinduism through the insights of Hindu scholar A. Bharati. Hinduism, the author notes, emphasizes the impersonal and abstract, and its caste system denies universal human rights—revealing a profound gulf between it and Christianity. In contrast, the Christian faith centers on a personal God and a personal Savior who cares intimately for His people, having already demonstrated His love through Christ’s atoning work and continuing to meet their daily needs. Scripture assures believers that God will never leave or forsake them...

Why do so many elite foreign students return home angry and radicalized? In this episode, we explore California’s costly foreign aid education program and the surprising backlash from those it aims to help. What turns “the cream of the crop” into “soured cream”? And what does this tell us about secular aid vs. Christian missions? A thought-provoking look at cultural assumptions, gratitude, and the only foreign aid that truly transforms.

Are you feeding your soul—or just getting it tickled? This episode confronts the rise of “junk preaching”: crowd-pleasing sermons that entertain but fail to nourish. Drawing from 2 Timothy 4:3–4, we explore how modern churches often reject sound doctrine for feel-good fables. Just as junk food ruins the body, junk preaching can destroy the soul.

This episode highlights gossip as a neglected yet serious sin that Scripture equates with harming—or even “murdering”—a neighbor, drawing on Leviticus 19:16. Through vivid examples, the author shows how talebearing destroys lives: a pastor caring for his bedridden wife with the help of a young Christian girl loses his ministry after malicious rumors spread, while the true gossip remains unpunished; likewise, another pastor is falsely accused of financial misconduct yet forced out despite the accuser being exposed as a liar. These stories illustrate how gossip injures the innocent, damages reputations, and undermines justice. The author warns that although churches...

This episode urges believers to stop approaching God with small, timid requests, likening such prayer to a fable about a poor peddler who, when granted anything by heaven, asked only for a cup of coffee and a doughnut—revealing the smallness of his soul. Many Christians pray the same way, treating the Maker of heaven and earth as though He were a “cheap God” who provides only the bare minimum. John Newton’s hymn answers this mentality by reminding believers that they come before a King and should therefore bring “large petitions,” for God’s grace is abundant and no request is...

Are you walking in spiritual strength—or stumbling your way through the Christian life? This episode unpacks Jude 24’s assurance that Christ can keep us from stumbling. Yet many remain “spiritual stumblebums,” falling into the same sins because they refuse the discipline of God’s Word and Spirit. Growth is possible—but only if we stop using excuses and start submitting to Christ.

What role do laymen truly have in the church? This episode explores the biblical calling of laypeople—not as spectators or second-class members, but as active participants in Christ’s body. Scripture calls all believers to serve, sacrifice, and take responsibility. When pastors or laymen shirk this shared duty, the church suffers. In God’s eyes, there are no sidelines—and no excuses.

What does it mean to truly belong to the church? This episode explores Paul’s honest picture of the early Christian community—flawed, divided, and sinful, yet still the beloved body of Christ. Belonging to the church means being part of God’s appointed people, despite its messiness. It’s not problem-free, but it is a blessed reality. To walk away is to walk away from what God has joined together.

Is the church obsolete? For Christ, any church that abandons His Word, denies the faith, or promotes unbelief and revolution is not just outdated—it’s useless and marked for judgment. This episode explores what makes a church truly alive: faithful preaching, worship, and obedience to Christ. When churches become tools for political agendas, they serve not God, but His enemies. A church without Christ is worse than obsolete—it’s dangerous.

Are today’s churches filled with “mummy Christians”? This episode takes a hard look at faith without action, drawing on the blunt words of General William Booth and Charles Spurgeon. Many believers occupy space but do little to live out their faith—and Scripture calls that dead. Christ spoke more words of judgment than comfort, not to condemn but to awaken. Maybe it’s time we listened.

Is preaching meant to please people—or to please God? This episode reflects on Charles Spurgeon’s bold, unflinching ministry and the resistance he faced for preaching hard truths. Many want sermons that “uplift” without convicting, but true preaching must honor God, not man. The real test isn’t how it makes us feel—but whether it’s faithful to His Word.

Spiritual blindness is more dangerous than we think. This episode contrasts true faith with the self-deception of those blind to their own sin—like the pastor who delighted in his empty sermons. As Isaiah warns, a blind generation stumbles toward judgment. But while the blind have no future, those in Christ—though they may suffer—are “more than conquerors.” Sight begins with the light of God’s truth.

Why are godly pastors often underappreciated—and underpaid? This episode explores Paul’s command to give “double honor” to faithful ministers, exposing how stinginess toward pastors often reflects a deeper dishonor toward God. From withheld salaries to leftover generosity, many churches rob both God's servants and His glory. If we truly honor the Lord, we’ll honor those who labor in His Word.

What happens when a successful church loses its pastor—not to scandal or burnout, but to purpose? This episode tells the story of a pastor who left a thriving ministry because his church loved comfort more than calling. They wanted growth without sacrifice, preaching without application, and ministry without mission. His departure raises the hard question every church must ask: Are we here to serve ourselves—or to serve Jesus Christ?

Why do some Christians resent well-provided pastors? This episode tackles the envy and double standards often directed at ministers. Scripture says those who labor in the Word are worthy of “double honor,” yet many begrudge pastors fair compensation. The problem isn’t wealth—it’s the sinful attitude toward God’s servants. If we dishonor faithful leaders out of envy, we dishonor the Lord Himself.

Why is the church so often weakened from within? This episode confronts the destructive cowardice of gossip and backdoor complaints against pastors. Instead of showing grace or addressing concerns directly, some church members engage in tale-bearing—violating God’s law and harming the body of Christ. In a spiritual battle, we must stand with God's soldiers, not sabotage them. Cowardly complaints have no place in a faithful church.

True confession isn’t vague—it’s specific. This episode explores the difference between general regret and genuine repentance. Saying “I’m sorry” means little unless we name the sin and take responsibility. Scripture calls us to confess our actual transgressions—not just our humanity. Without specific confession, there can be no real repentance or healing.

Words can destroy—and Scripture doesn’t take that lightly. This episode explores James’s warning about the tongue, calling it a fire “set on fire by hell.” Gossip, slander, and careless speech are spiritual arson, often doing more harm than physical violence. Churches are meant to build, not burn. It’s time to tame our tongues and let our words be ruled by the Holy Spirit—not by hell.

Is “being nice” a Christian virtue—or a modern distortion? This episode challenges the myth of a soft-spoken Jesus and explores the biblical use of strong, righteous language. From the prophets to Christ Himself, Scripture is filled with blunt truth-telling against sin and hypocrisy. In an age where evil is renamed and excused, we need the courage to speak plainly, act boldly, and stand firmly for righteousness. God give us strong words—and stronger men.

Why did Jesus condemn the Pharisees so strongly—despite their outward piety and moral rigor? This episode examines how pride, self-righteousness, and spiritual blindness turned the most religious people into Christ’s fiercest opponents. Though close to the truth in doctrine, the Pharisees failed in humility and repentance. Their story is a sobering reminder: faith without self-examination can lead to rejecting the very Savior we claim to serve.

Christ’s birth was more than a quiet night in Bethlehem—it was the beginning of the world’s great overturning. This episode explores the prophetic power of Ezekiel, Mary’s Magnificat, and Simeon’s praise, revealing Jesus as Savior, Redeemer, and King. His coming meant the fall of earthly powers and the rise of His everlasting Kingdom. To truly celebrate Christmas is to rejoice in His victory and reign over all.

What does the way we tell time say about our view of the world? This episode looks at how ancient Rome measured hours by changing seasons, tailoring time to human convenience. Christianity introduced a radical shift: time—and life—ordered by an unchanging God. The sixty-minute hour reflects God's constancy, not human preference. In a world eager to rewrite truth, God's fixed standards remain our anchor.

Who really owns the land—God or the state? This episode explores the Bible’s teachings on property and taxation, revealing that land was never to be taxed, because it belongs to the Lord. The tithe was God’s rightful tax; civil government could only tax increase, not ownership. Modern property taxes deny God’s sovereignty and erode liberty. To reclaim freedom, we must first restore God's authority over property, wealth, and our lives. The path to true liberty begins with obedience.

Debt-free living isn’t just financial wisdom—it’s a biblical command. This episode unpacks Romans 13:8 and Deuteronomy 15, showing how long-term debt fosters inflation, feeds covetousness, and strays from godly contentment. True stewardship begins with obedience to God's Word—even in how we borrow, spend, and plan. God’s law has something to say about your money. Are you listening?

What does it really mean to “love your neighbor”? This episode examines Leviticus 19:18 in its full biblical context—not as a call for socialism or civil unrest, but as a mandate to honor God’s law. True love respects life, property, family, and truth. As Jesus and Paul taught, “love is the fulfilling of the law.” Misusing Scripture to justify lawlessness is not love—it’s rebellion against God’s order. Real love begins with obedience.

“Love conquers all”—or does it? This episode challenges the modern misuse of love as an excuse to tolerate sin and reward destructive behavior. In reality, such humanistic love often results in hate conquering all, punishing the faithful while indulging the disruptive. True love, as defined by Scripture, never condones evil but calls for repentance and righteousness. Only God's love, revealed in Christ, has the power to save and transform

True love cannot exist without righteous hate. This episode confronts today’s distorted view of love, showing that Scripture commends hating what God hates. To love good is to reject evil—whether in defense of faith, family, or nation. Those who demand love without boundaries are often asking for the toleration of sin. But real love stands firm: it protects what is holy by opposing what would destroy it.

Can we call it immoral to buy goods made under communism or slave labor? This episode unpacks a critical question: where Scripture is silent, so must we be. While personal convictions matter, binding others’ consciences without biblical authority is to place ourselves—or our nation—in God’s seat. True obedience begins with honoring God’s Word as the only standard for right and wrong: “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.”

When God is no longer King, anarchy takes His place. This episode explores the warning of the Book of Judges: “Every man did that which was right in his own eyes.” In our time, as in ancient Israel, the rejection of God’s rule leads to moral chaos, spiritual bondage, and national decline. True freedom and order come only under God's law. The urgent question remains: will we bring back the King—or fall into captivity?

Revolutionary movements throughout history—from ancient Rome to modern universities—share a common thread: the rejection of God’s law. This episode traces the roots of these subversive ideologies, showing how the denial of absolute truth leads to moral chaos and cultural collapse. Whether in Bacchanalia, nihilism, or today's academic activism, the message is the same: if there is no God, anything goes. But Scripture reminds us—God is not mocked. What we sow, we will reap.

We live in an age overflowing with faith—but not in Christ. This episode explores the difference between true and false faith, using the example of a prominent economist who placed unwavering trust in government control. Believing we can “eat our cake and have it too” requires more faith than Scripture ever demands. The real issue isn’t faith itself—it’s where that faith is placed. Only faith grounded in Christ and God's Word leads to truth, sanity, and lasting hope.

God allows troubles out of love, to shape us for His will—not ours. His chastening may feel painful, but it leads to righteousness. Just as discipline shows a parent’s care, God’s correction proves we are His. Trust His hand, even in hardship.

How we hear and speak reflects our faith. Those who belong to God hear His Word, while unbelief blocks understanding. Our speech reveals our hearts—either spreading grace or echoing the world’s bitterness. Jesus warns we’ll answer for every idle word. Listening and speaking are ultimately spiritual acts.

People often judge based on personal bias, not truth. When decisions serve self-interest rather than justice, they expose flawed moral foundations. Scripture warns against aligning with iniquity disguised as law. Our choices reveal what truly governs us—God’s Word or human preference. What are your foundations?

Snobbery, whether in wealth or appearance, stems from valuing human opinion over God's. When people reject God’s authority, they inevitably conform to shifting human standards, leading to pride and contempt for others. True worth is found in pleasing God, not in status or fashion. Without faith, snobbery is inescapable. Who rules your heart—God or man?

A talented young black pastor passionately denounced racism, gaining strong support. However, in private, he acknowledged deep moral and spiritual decay in his own community. While racism exists, the author argues the greater issue is personal and communal responsibility, especially a rejection of godly living. Blaming others for internal failures leads nowhere. True change begins with repentance and faith in Christ, not in demanding respect or blaming racism. The gospel—not social resentment—is the path to real transformation.

Many people today are full of moral outrage over political scandals and corruption, but much of it is hypocrisy. They reject biblical standards in their own lives while condemning others for lesser sins. This kind of selective outrage is what the author calls “immoral indignation.” It's not about justice—it’s often envy or deflection. Jesus called this hypocrisy: judging others while ignoring our own faults. True moral reform must start with personal repentance, not with self-righteous finger-pointing.

The author recounts overhearing leftist activists complain about theft from their newspaper racks, despite their paper promoting lawlessness and rejecting biblical morality. He compares their hypocrisy to others who once celebrated theft but now condemn it when victimized. The same pattern, he argues, is seen in Communist societies and in modern schools and churches that reject God's law, only to suffer the consequences of moral collapse. The solution, he concludes, is national repentance and a return to God’s standards—because thieves often reflect the very corruption of the culture that raised them.

The author criticizes TV weathermen for celebrating sunny days during droughts, showing ignorance of agriculture’s need for rain. He uses this as an example of modern foolishness—judging everything by personal comfort rather than truth or necessity. Proverbs warns that fools are dangerous and self-centered, unwilling to learn or listen, even to God. In short: there’s been a shortage of rain, but no shortage of fools.

Modern education wrongly assumes children are naturally good and just need encouragement. But Scripture teaches that children are born with foolishness in their hearts and need correction to grow in character (Prov. 22:15). When discipline is abandoned, immaturity and rebellion flourish. The result is a culture where childishness is idealized, maturity is despised, and rebellion spreads—against parents, faith, law, and order. True growth requires discipline, not indulgence.

Prejudice isn't always wrong—it simply means judging in advance. Wise people make godly prejudgments, like avoiding known evil. But unfair prejudice, judging by appearance, popularity, or wealth, is condemned in Scripture. Exodus warns against siding with the majority, the poor, or the rich out of bias. Instead, we’re called to judge righteously, based on truth, not appearances.

Equality sounds noble, but it's impossible to achieve by law. All laws create inequality by distinguishing between right and wrong, rewarding some and punishing others. Abolishing law would only lead to a new inequality—rule by brute force. Equality is often a political tool used to gain power, not promote justice. True wisdom starts with fearing God, not chasing illusions.

The story of the Good Samaritan reminds us that true character shows when we act beyond our duty. While many today give impersonally through charities or institutions, real mercy means personal involvement—like the Samaritan who helped a stranger in need. Simply giving money isn’t enough if we ignore suffering around us. Jesus calls us to “go and do likewise,” showing mercy with our actions, not just our wallets.

The old country church, though small and simple, grounded communities in faith and character—something modern wealth, education, and security systems cannot replace. Edwin Ford Piper saw its deep value: remove its roots, and no worldly gain can fill the void. Today, despite progress, we face greater fear, theft, and moral decline. True strength and safety come only from a people obedient to God. Only Christ’s church—not buildings or programs—can overcome the world.

Many people want quick fixes for deep problems—like a school to “fix” a troubled teen or a pill to stop bedwetting—without addressing root issues like sin, discipline, or personal responsibility. Our culture seeks change without repentance or effort. But God requires faith and obedience, not substitutes. Without them, we remain in bondage to our problems.

The pursuit of power—whether by individuals or groups—leads not to freedom, but to slavery. History shows that societies obsessed with power, like much of Africa’s past, produce tyranny and suffering. True progress comes from productive work, not power struggles. Scripture teaches that labor brings profit and wisdom (Prov. 6:6–11; 13:11). Today's obsession with group-based power—whether racial, sexual, or political—risks creating a society built on domination rather than cooperation and productivity.

Everyone has faith—but in what? Some place theirs in government, experts, or empty promises, like believing we can “eat our cake and have it too.” But true faith rests in Christ, not in man-made systems or wishful thinking. Real faith trusts that God rules the world with order and justice and rewards those who seek Him. False faith is not just foolish—it’s dangerous.

Thanksgiving, rooted in Old Testament harvest festivals, is meant to focus on God’s enduring mercy, not just His blessings. Psalm 136 repeats, “for his mercy endureth forever,” reminding us that gratitude should center on His mercy, not what we’ve received lately. Today, we often feel entitled to blessings and overlook mercy. But Scripture links mercy to truth, righteousness, and peace. In times of trouble, Thanksgiving calls us to shift our focus from problems to God’s steadfast mercy.

God gives help not when we demand it, but in His perfect timing—“in due season.” Like children, we often struggle with waiting. Yet Scripture reminds us that God's timing is best, and we are to seek His mercy and grace above all, not just answers to our wish lists.

John 1:12–13 tells us that to be a Christian is to be miraculously reborn by God—not by human effort—and to be given power as sons of God. True believers are marked by this power, not weakness. We are called to impact the world, not retreat from it, because God Himself empowers us for His purposes.

When Jesus taught us to pray “Our Father,” He reminded us that salvation is personal but never individualistic. We are saved into a community—God’s Kingdom—and made members of Christ’s family to serve one another. True Christians live not for themselves, but for God's purpose and people.

Joseph suffered betrayal, slavery, and false imprisonment, yet he trusted God and fulfilled his calling. His wrongs were never formally corrected, but God vindicated him in time. Many dwell on past injustices and let bitterness ruin their lives. Faith means trusting God to bring justice, while we focus on doing His will today. True strength comes from joy in the Lord, not from brooding over wrongs.

Many complain that the church or pastor hasn’t served them personally, but Scripture calls believers to serve—not to be served. The church is Christ’s army, not a spiritual hospital for the comfortable. If you're able-bodied, help others. Don't expect the pastor to cater to you. Join the church to serve Christ, not yourself.

We often forget to express gratitude, though it can deeply uplift others. The psalms repeatedly urge us to give thanks to God—for His mercy, His gifts, and His daily grace. Gratitude should be specific and regular, toward both God and people. Families and communities grow cold without it. One pastor, broken by constant complaints and little thanks, reminds us: delayed praise may come too late. Don’t withhold thanksgiving—it’s life-giving.

In Numbers 11, the Israelites whined about God’s provision, longing for the food of their slavery instead of giving thanks for their freedom. Like them, we often choose complaint over gratitude. An old farmer once said he felt ashamed comparing his wealth to his grandfather’s thankfulness in poverty. Gratitude costs nothing, yet we give it so rarely. Start small—thank a loved one, thank God. You’ll bless others and yourself. Don’t let ingratitude define you.

A faithful pastor resigned, not from failure, but from the weariness caused by gossip and criticism in his church. Scripture warns against such behavior and instead commands us to speak with “the law of kindness” (Prov. 31:26). This isn’t a suggestion—it’s God’s law. Whether at home, church, or anywhere else, our words should reflect grace, not judgment. Practicing kindness in our speech could heal more than we realize—and might just surprise those closest to us.

When God calls Himself “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” He shows us that He’s not just the God of kings or nations—but of ordinary, faithful people. This reminds us that He knows us personally and walks with us individually. It also means Abraham and the others are not dead, but alive with Him—just as our loved ones in Christ are. God’s name is a promise: He is our God, now and forever. That’s a reason to praise.

We often think big challenges are the hardest, but it's the small, daily struggles—like patience—that test us most. Scripture speaks to these little things, offering step-by-step guidance like a small lamp lighting our path, not a floodlight revealing everything at once. God’s Word helps us navigate life, one step at a time, shedding light on both great and small problems. Only by walking in that light can we truly find “the way of life.”

Paul urges us to “pray without ceasing” and give thanks in everything. This doesn’t mean nonstop formal prayer, but a constant openness to God—quick, honest prayers throughout the day, like spiritual breathing. Along with prayer, we must cultivate gratitude, not just complaints. God desires hearts that are thankful and continually turned toward Him.

In deep grief and despair, a woman once found healing—not through medicine, but through the comfort of Scripture and the arms of a pastor who reminded her of God's own: “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deut. 33:27). That truth changed her life. Like David, who declared, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee,” she learned to rest not in human strength, but in divine security. God’s everlasting arms never fail. They offer a peace deeper than any earthly comfort. Can you rest in them and say, “I dwell in safety”? Duration: 00:02:21

True love, Scripture tells us, comes from God—not from human feeling or sentiment. As 1 John 4:7 says, “Love is of God,” and real love is shown in Christ’s atonement for our sins. Seeking love apart from God leads only to a shallow, humanistic substitute. And God’s love isn’t soft or indifferent—it includes His wrath. Just as a loving parent corrects a child, God’s judgment is a sign of His care. “God is love,” but He is also “a consuming fire” (Heb. 12:29). To know His love rightly, we must accept both His mercy and His holiness—never one witho

James reminds us that trials produce patience—and patience leads to being “perfect and entire,” meaning whole and fully equipped to receive our inheritance from God (James 1:4). Without patience, we miss out on much of what God has for us. Impatience reveals immaturity and often makes us harsh, demanding perfection from others instead of trusting in God's timing and work. In earlier times, patience was so valued it was even given as a name—a crown for beauty. Today, it's a forgotten virtue, but still essential. God honors patience with blessing. So try it—you may find it brings more than...

Much of modern religion tries to solve deep, global problems with shallow solutions—what could be called peashooter religion. We face crises like lawlessness, anarchy, and moral collapse, but instead of turning to God's truth, many offer feel-good messages, legal tweaks, or vague niceness. But the Bible says the real issue is sin—and the only cure is regeneration through Jesus Christ and obedience to His Word. Weak religion can’t confront serious evil. If we’re trying to stop a charging elephant with a peashooter, failure is certain. It’s time to abandon powerless answers and return to the power...

The early church’s use of the word “gospel” wasn’t just spiritual—it was bold and revolutionary. Borrowed from Roman imperial language, evaggelian originally proclaimed Caesar as the source of joy and salvation. But Scripture declared a different truth: true good news comes only through Jesus Christ. By using Rome’s own word to announce Christ’s birth and reign, the early Christians were challenging every political claim to salvation and security. The gospel wasn’t just comfort—it was confrontation. Today, we must do the same: proclaim Christ alone as Savior in every area of life. There is no other gospel...

She was once financially secure, then lost it all during her husband's long illness. Quietly and with dignity, she worked as a maid—never complaining, never bitter. Always neatly dressed, always gracious, always faithful. Her life embodied Paul’s words: “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Tim. 6:6). In God’s eyes, she was rich. While many choose self-pity and discontent, she chose faith, grace, and quiet strength. She lived richly and died peacefully—a reminder that true wealth is found in contentment and godliness. Her life asks us: why not live the same way?

The family of Christ is far greater than our earthly relatives or even the saints we know. As James Saurin preached, it includes all the redeemed across time and nations, the angels in Heaven, and every soul who does the will of God. Jesus Himself said, “Whoever does the will of my Father… is my brother, sister, and mother” (Matt. 12:50). This vision of Christ’s family fueled compassion for the lost, care for the poor, and love within the church. The question isn’t just whether we see ourselves as part of His family—but whether He sees us as kin. Do w...

When God tells Abraham, “I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect” (Gen. 17:1), He isn’t demanding sinless perfection, but uprightness and maturity. In Scripture, “perfect” means whole, faithful, and righteous—not flawless. We often chase unrealistic ideals, whether in houses, people, or life itself, expecting perfection where it can’t exist. But only God is truly perfect and almighty. To walk before Him means living in faith and obedience, recognizing that perfection and fulfillment are found in Him alone—not in this world. Maturity begins when we stop expecting the impossible from creation and start trusting f...

The idea that "experience is the best teacher" is popular—but wrong. Experience alone doesn’t teach wisdom; it only reflects what’s already in the heart. An alcoholic doesn’t become wise by getting drunk, nor does someone become discerning by being hurt. Without faith and a godly heart, experience leads to bitterness, not insight. As Proverbs says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence,” because it’s the heart—not the experience—that shapes what we learn. True wisdom comes not from what we go through, but from how God’s Word and Spirit shape us in it. Experience isn’t the

Many people today indulge in fear for entertainment—horror movies, scary stories, and imaginary threats. But this craving for false fear often masks a deeper issue: a refusal to face real fear—the fear of the Lord. Scripture says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Prov. 1:7). Healthy fear keeps us grounded in reality and warns us of danger. But fearing monsters instead of God shows a rejection of wisdom. Fools avoid real accountability by choosing fake fears they can escape. But the fear of God confronts us with our sin—and calls us to repentance, truth, and...

True education must focus on life’s basics—or it becomes miseducation. First, it must teach about God, the source of life; ignoring Him is to train for ignorance. Second, it must uphold the family, our first and most vital institution. To neglect it is to deny our foundation. Third, it must teach core skills—reading, writing, reasoning—the tools for daily life. Without these, we send children into the world unarmed. Scripture calls us to educate the whole person in truth. If we neglect this, we are not just failing our children—we are helping a generation stumble toward des...

If you want to be a curse in your church, be quick to criticize, slow to listen, and convinced you alone know the truth. From coast to coast, pastors encounter such people—those who grill visitors, drive others away, and speak of “love” while showing none. Scripture calls us instead to submit to godly authority and be “ready to every good work” (Titus 3:1). A spirit of constant judgment tears down the body of Christ, while humble obedience and readiness to serve build it up. So ask yourself honestly: are you a blessing—or a burden—to the church?

One grieving husband learned, too late, that his wife had quietly praised him to others—but never to him. Her constant complaints left him feeling unappreciated, despite her true feelings. Paul reminds us in Ephesians 5:4 that thankfulness—not bitterness or foolish talk—is fitting for believers. Yet gratitude is often the gift we give least, though it blesses both giver and receiver. A thankful heart reflects contentment with God and brings peace to others. If you want to be a blessing, start with thankfulness—because a truly thankful person is a blessing.

In 1 Timothy 1:9, Paul includes “murderers of mothers” (metraloais) among the worst offenders—a shocking reminder of how deeply sin can corrupt. This word implies not only literal murder but any violent or dishonorable assault on a mother’s God-given role. Scripture commands us to honor father and mother, not because they are perfect, but because the family is God’s foundational institution. To attack or dishonor that structure is to strike at the root of social order. Paul’s warning is clear: when we allow the authority of parents—especially mothers—to be undermined, we invite societal collapse. His words are urgent...

In 1751, Americans protested Britain’s practice of sending criminals to the colonies, calling it a gift of contempt. They rightly asked: what good parent sends poison to their children? But the question cuts both ways. If we, as children of God, give Him only our leftovers—our spare time, energy, and money—aren’t we showing the same kind of contempt? Jesus said no good father gives a stone instead of bread. So what are we offering our heavenly Father? Our gifts reflect our hearts—and poor gifts may reveal a heart far from Him.

A wealthy Christian couple gives generously to ministries but shows deep personal inconsistency: they ignore their godly, struggling son while endlessly supporting their rebellious daughter. This kind of misplaced compassion reflects a broader problem—when even Christians excuse sin and enable folly, how can we expect the world to act differently? If the church is soft on unrepentant sinners, society will be too. True grace is never a license for sin, and real love holds people accountable. As Scripture says, judgment begins in the house of God. We must not try to sanctify what God calls folly.

Jesus warns that a hypocrite eagerly judges others while ignoring his own sin. He condemned this false judgment—not judgment itself, but judgment without integrity. A man who spoils his children, indulges his brother, and then blames his wife and criticizes society is not making righteous judgments—he’s deflecting blame and masking his failures. True judgment starts with personal accountability and is guided by God’s Word, not self-righteousness. We all judge—but are our judgments rooted in truth and obedience, or in hypocrisy? God will judge the difference—and He shows no mercy to the hypocrite.

The greatest threat to society isn’t just criminals or immoral acts—it’s those who tolerate evil, especially when it comes dressed in charm, wit, or sophistication. When style outweighs substance, and appearances matter more than faith or morality, society begins to decay. This misplaced value shows up even in churches, where image can matter more than spiritual integrity. Scripture warns us: “They that forsake the law praise the wicked.” True danger lies in admiring sin when it looks respectable. How we judge others—by faith or appearances—reveals how we’ll be judged ourselves.

We often hear, “He’s a good man, but…” as if goodness can excuse a spirit of constant criticism or complaint. Paul, who suffered much, gives us a different command: “Rejoice in the Lord always.” He reminds us that no matter our circumstances, God is on the throne and working all things for good. Complaining blinds us to this truth, while joy opens us to God’s peace. True faith looks beyond present troubles to eternal triumph. A joyful heart isn't naive—it’s rooted in trust. Rejoicing isn’t optional for the believer—it’s essential.

Today, we often think of "spiritual" as vague, gentle, or mystical—but Paul meant something far more powerful. In Romans 7:14, when he says “the law is spiritual,” the Greek word pneumatikos points to divine power—God-backed, heaven-filled authority. The spiritual man isn’t weak or detached; he’s empowered by God to act, overcome, and lead. In contrast, the “carnal” man (sarkikos) is not powerful, but weak—tied to the physical, ruled by sin. We've flipped this in our thinking, seeing the carnal as strong and the spiritual as soft. Paul says the opposite. True strength belongs to the spiritual man.

Some people speak of long-past sins—like swearing at age twelve—as signs of a sensitive conscience. But often, these "confessions" are more about self-righteousness than repentance. A truly tender conscience isn’t fixated on minor sins from childhood—it’s alert to today’s responsibilities, aware of current failings, and eager to obey God now. Scripture tells us that God tests our hearts and lives in the present, not the past. A good conscience isn’t haunted by old guilt—it’s shaped by grace and alive to God's will today. So, what is your conscience focused on: the past—or your p...

Idolatry isn’t just about ancient statues—it’s the ongoing sin of putting anything, especially ourselves, in God’s place. Scripture shows that whenever we live by our own word instead of God’s, we become idolaters. It’s not just false worship—it’s spiritual adultery, a betrayal of the living God. At its root, sin is man trying to be his own god, deciding good and evil for himself. That’s why the first commandment is so crucial: “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” True faith begins when we dethrone ourselves and live by God’s Word, not our ow

Many people today believe their personal opinions define truth—even about God. If He doesn't fit their preferences, they reshape Him in their minds. But Scripture reminds us that it’s not what we think about God that matters—it’s what God thinks about us. Our opinions don’t shape reality; only God's Word is truth. To insist otherwise is not just foolish—it’s arrogant. Real wisdom begins when we stop asking, “What do I think about God?” and start asking, “What does God say in His Word?”

The trouble with statistics is they often mislead. Divorce numbers may look alarming, but they don't tell the full story. As reporting became more inclusive—especially after World War II—numbers rose, not because marriage worsened, but because data improved. More importantly, statistics don’t measure strength. While weak marriages may collapse more quickly, strong, faith-rooted families are growing. Christian schooling is booming, and many families now care deeply for both children and elders. Despite cultural attacks, we’re witnessing a quiet resurgence of family life grounded in faith. The real story isn't decline—it's revival.

Discipline is not the same as punishment. A couple once lamented their daughter’s rebellious behavior, claiming they'd disciplined her—but they hadn’t. They had punished her often, but never taught her or required her to learn. True discipline means training, instruction, and forming habits of obedience and learning—rooted in the word “disciple.” Like math, it involves thought, structure, and effort. Without this, punishment is empty. Our culture has confused the two, both in the home and the church. But lasting change comes through real discipline—not just reacting to bad behavior, but shaping lives through consistent teaching and g

Some claim the family is outdated and must be radically redefined—but that’s a false conclusion. While the world has changed, the essential role of the family has not. As sociologist Carle Zimmerman argues, the family still educates, protects, disciplines, and shapes lives—often more than any other institution. Scripture affirms this: the family is God-ordained, older than church or state, and central to human life. It has survived every crisis in history and remains the foundation of society. The family isn’t finished—its critics are. When we lose the family, we lose touch with life itself.

In Shakespeare’s Othello, the line “Chaos is come again” reflects more than personal turmoil—it signals the collapse of the moral and social order. In Shakespeare’s time, rooted in biblical teaching, marriage was seen as a reflection of Christ and the Church, the very foundation of society. Adultery wasn’t just a private betrayal; it was an attack on the structure God ordained. That’s still true today. When we break the marriage covenant, we don’t just wound a spouse—we damage the order God intended. Our lives, especially our marriages, either uphold His order or invite chaos.

Modern thinking often treats the underdog as automatically innocent—but Scripture says otherwise. Leviticus 19:15 warns us not to show bias, whether for the poor or the powerful. Righteousness isn't determined by status, race, or discrimination—it comes from faith and obedience to God. Sin is universal, and all are accountable before Him. Justice must be based on God’s Word, not on appearances or social standing. As Jesus said, “Judge righteous judgment” (John 7:24).

Many today demand a cleaner world while living filthy lives—dropping trash, ignoring personal discipline, yet blaming others for pollution. Scripture speaks to this hypocrisy: “There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness” (Prov. 30:12). True uncleanness begins in the soul. When we reject God and live for ourselves, we become trashy people—regardless of our words or wealth. Adam's sin trashed Eden, and unless we repent and let God cleanse us, we too face judgment. Clean lives begin with clean hearts.

A professor recently shared how shockingly ignorant college students are about history and religion—some confusing Mohammed with the pope or Peter as a Jewish god. But worse than the ignorance was the indifference. Their only moral rule? “Don’t hurt people”—a vague, self-serving standard rooted in humanism, not truth. Scripture teaches that wisdom begins with fearing the Lord and learning His Word. Without that, knowledge and morality collapse into selfishness. Humanism may claim to love humanity, but it breeds arrogance and moral chaos. Real wisdom starts by turning back to God, His instruction, and His truth.

Across once-peaceful towns, crime and moral decay are growing—but stricter laws won’t solve it. The real problem lies in the hearts of people. Laws can’t stop theft or porn if sin is welcomed inwardly. What we need isn’t just legal reform but a spiritual transformation—a shift from humanism to true Christianity. Real change begins not in courts or capitols, but in our own hearts. The Bible, not flattery, shows us who we are—and who we’re called to be. Look there first. That’s where the needed change starts.

A nurse in a major city reported that, in two years of emergency cases, only once did she hear a patient pray before surgery—despite most being church members. Instead, there was only fear and profanity. This reveals a deeper issue: many live as though God doesn’t exist. Profanity isn’t just foul language—it’s living apart from God. When we treat life as secular, ignoring God's Word, we misuse our very purpose. Profane living is choosing separation from God—the source of life—and that leads only to death. It's time to root out the profane and live fully...

When power poles first brought electricity to farms, they were seen as symbols of progress and blessing. Today, many see them as eyesores—forgetting the light, water, and growth they represent. This shift reflects a deeper issue: a lack of gratitude. Ungrateful hearts see only flaws, never blessings. But Scripture calls us to thankfulness—to recognize all we’ve received from God and others. True conservation and progress begin with gratitude. Grateful people don’t tear down—they build up.

In Fairfax County, Virginia, you need a permit to cut down a tree—but not to abort an unborn child. This contradiction reveals a deeper issue: a culture that claims to love nature while legalizing the destruction of human life. Such thinking often masks a hatred of humanity and rebellion against God. Scripture warns that hypocrites use words to destroy, and today’s so-called love for trees and animals can be a cover for deeper hostility—toward people, godly order, and ultimately, God Himself. But it is God's will—not man’s—that will stand, and His justice will not be mocke

Some say this world is too dark to raise children in—but God didn’t think so. He sent His Son into a world far worse. Christ came as a child to begin a new humanity, a new creation. Children, Scripture says, are like arrows—meant to shape the world for God’s Kingdom. We’re not raising them for a hopeless world, but for Christ’s eternal reign. Because the Christ child has come, we raise our children with joy, purpose, and hope—in God’s world, under Christ our King.