Finding True Virtue in a World Full of Empty Virtues
I belong to an organization upholding virtue is a core value. But I bet it’s not a word any of hear all that often, let alone speak of it. So, it begs the question, what exactly is virtue? A simple definition of virtue from Dictionary.com points to strong moral...
Let’s Restore Charity Back to its Fruit-Filled Roots
Benevolence is a word for charity that we hear less often that we once did. It’s usually in the context of an organizational benevolence fund created to help people during distressed seasons of life. Today, though, I think we just commonly lump everything into...
The Lasting Impact of Having Role Models and Being One to Others
Role models are important. What’s also important to note, is that you are often a role model to others without realizing it. Think about the magnitude of that; every action and reaction you have is being observed. In addition to being watched by someone else,...
Heartfelt Words Don’t Have Dictionary Definitions
We hear the phrase “Heartfelt Words” or similar expressions from time-to-time. Most of the time, we say it in context of expressing sympathy or to show genuine care. However, angry words or words and phrases that are rooted in bitterness, jealousy, envy, or other...
Give Real Grace… Even When its Fake as Sh*t
How do you spot a fake? More importantly, how do you realize you’re being a fake? Or more challenging, how do you be true to who you are even when you must behave a certain way to be sensitive to others? I grapple with these questions more than most will ever...
In a Spiritual Rut? Explore What Ignited You Before Your Zeal Went Stale
This resolution speaks directly to being in a spiritual rut. Further, it points to our recurring need for revival of personal dedication and zeal. While reflecting on Edwards 42nd resolution, my own testimony came to mind. Something else that stands out about this...
When Developing Character, Seek to Be a “Faithful Man to be Found”
At its core, the Year of Listening Up is about developing character. It’s an annual project that’s an outgrowth of a book I wrote for my daughters, largely centered on the same ambition. Since Edwards made developing character a primary goal of his life, it made great...
Have Prayerful Confidence that God Works in You and in the World
When it comes to prayerful confidence, most think in the context of God’s willingness to answer. However, we must keep mindful of our own actions and intentions. To that end, I can’t count the times I’ve failed to make a prayer I told someone I would. Or the times...
Authentic Love – Reckless? Inefficient? Messy? It’s Simply Love.
What does authentic love look like? It’s a question I’m often pondering. Never really landed on an answer, until now. You know it when I see it. Every now and then, God sends a perfect illustration. It’s sometimes like the missing puzzle piece that’s key...
Why We Must Strive for a Healthy Perspective of Shame
I don’t know how it goes in other countries, but the U.S. culture certainly has an interesting relationship with the concept of shame. On the one hand, it seems that nobody has any shame. In addition, people are constantly thrusting themselves into attention seeking...