Be Still, and Know

KJV, NKJV, NIV, ESC, ASB, CSB - There are hundreds of English Bible translations. This is a great blessing, because people from different background and with different levels of understanding will always have a version that resonates with them, that talks to them. But it also is a problem, in the sense that it poses the question "Which one is the best?". Every translation is unique - be it the time it was written or the reason it was made. But all of them will generally lie in a spectrum. On one end of the spectrum we have the Word-for-word philosophy, where words or text are converted from one language to another. So it ends up being a literal equivalent of the original. On the other end is the Thought-for-thought philosophy, where the meaning of a text or passage is expressed using other words. Cultural references and idioms might be smoothed over, and it is worded such that a modern reader can easily understand. This side of the spectrum might be suitable for someone who ...

What one generation deems as an option, the next one deems unnecessary.  Have you prayed today? Is it just an option, or are you spending time every day on your knees? What about Church - Do you say, "I'll go to Church if I don't have anything else to do"? And when you go, do you carry your Bible? Or do you think you can just read out of one of your Bible apps in your phone? Is carrying the actual Bible just an option? Have you read the Bible today? Do you read it every day, or is it just an option to you? Do you say, "I'll read it if I find time", "I'll read it if I wake up early"? What you find as an option, your next generation could find it unnecessary. It could be your kids, grandkids, anyone who keeps you as a role model - they notice whatever you do. So, if you never gave these primary Christian behaviors a priority, you are sending a message that these are not obligations that they need to have. Matthew 6:33  But  seek first  the ki...

Understanding the ACTS of Prayer: A Simple Guide to Deeper Communion with God Did you know that many Christian prayers follow a rhythm that’s been recognized and used for generations? It’s a structure made up of four essential parts - Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. Together, they form the acronym ACTS , a helpful framework for deepening your prayer life. Let’s break it down. A – Adoration This is where prayer begins: by recognizing and praising God for who He is. Adoration is about worship. It’s not about what God has done for us, but simply about acknowledging His holiness, majesty, and love. Whether it's “Hallowed be Your name” or a quiet moment spent in awe, adoration is our heart looking up. Psalms 29:2 Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness. C – Confession Next comes confession - an honest admission of our sins before God. Scripture encourages us to confess so we can receive forgiveness and restor...