Author: twhyman

How do we identify sin? What goes into the reasoning process that helps us determine if there is something in our thinking, attitudes, or behavior that crosses the line between what is acceptable to God and what violates His standards? Is there a clear, scriptural means for gaining that discernment, and what does it entail? Does God ever make it...

What actually exemplifies worship? Is it simply a matter of attending what we call our Sunday morning “worship” service? We sing songs and hymns, we pray, we give offerings, and we proclaim the Word of God, all of which are, in and of themselves, acts of worship. Is that all that is necessary? The truth is, there are many who are...

Carnality is a word that we don’t use very often, even though the scripture has much to say about its impact on the lives of careless believers. Preachers often try to avoid it because of its negative connotation and potential to offend. No believer wants to be characterized as being “carnal.” Most Christians understand “carnality” to be a synonym of...

“Vanity of vanities… all is vanity.” So states Solomon, the wisest and wealthiest king the nation of Israel has ever known, in his second biblical book of wisdom, Ecclesiastes. This is the first of two significant conclusions he comes to in the book, the disheartening result of a series of experiments in which he sought unbridled pleasure and prosperity (chapter...

Many Politicians in our country have forgotten how to think for themselves. (Notice that I did not say they have “lost their minds,” only that they have forgotten how to use them.) They listen to the news media; seek the counsel of advisors, who are analyzing the impact of the news media, and then take a position according to what...

Promises only hold their value as long as there is a realistic expectation of fulfillment. Human wisdom insists that waiting indefinitely is not only unreasonable; it is unacceptable, especially if the promise is made by God. We are not questioning God’s integrity – we are far too spiritual to demonstrate such arrogance. We only yearn to be set free from...

What is truth? This short but probing question was addressed to Jesus by Pontius Pilate in John 18:38. The place was Pilate’s judgment hall. The occasion was the trial of the Son of God. There are many who believe that the question was asked in contempt. It came in response to a statement by Jesus that although he is a...

Every individual experiences fear. My first youth pastor was deathly afraid of spiders.  I know several individuals who will voluntarily provide an opening in the wall for a new door if they encounter a snake – any kind of snake – while indoors. Many panic when they find themselves in a confined space. I have a hard time with heights....

These are uncertain days. People wonder what tomorrow will bring. They are full of questions and anxiety. No one knows for certain if their lives are going to maintain a sense of normalcy or be interrupted by some tragedy or unexpected disappointment. Often, when tragedy or disappointment comes, the question follows; “Why?” I don’t have an answer for the question. The...

All of our children were born by C-section. The first two were born before Dr.’s allowed fathers to be present for the birth. While I was allowed in the room for our third son, I got sick and had to be ushered out before he arrived. I’m really not that big of a wimp. It was an emergency situation at...