Author: Gospel Folio Press

I know a young girl who has a strong Scottish accent. Her parents do not, and as far as I know the little girl has never been to Scotland before. Why does she speak in such a unique way? She loves to spend time with her grandparents—who are from Scotland! In that same way, the more time we spend with the Lord, the more we will become like Him. May those around us find only one explanation for the way we are—that we love to spend time with the Lord Jesus. —L. Shatford

There is nothing wrong with one, but two are better. There are many things that are good, but there are sometimes things that are better. David said, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee,” (Ps. 56:3). That is a good thing to do when we are afraid. But, Isaiah said, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD Jehovah is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation,” (Is. 12:2). This is better. Always choose the better instead of the good. —Harold G. Smith

Relationships amongst the Twelve were strained; a spirit of rivalry and disputing was evident. Observe how gently the Lord dealt with it. First, He “took a child” then a little later, He “took a towel” . By means of a well-chosen object lesson and by personal example, He taught powerful lessons about the nature of true greatness, and how to achieve it. May we exhibit the same grace. —George Hall

Why did the Creator introduce a restriction into paradise? The answer is that He required obedience from His creatures. His word was final and man, as a moral being with a free will, was now being tested. Not only were the circumstances created to test obedience but the consequences of disobedience were clearly stated. The choice to obey or disobey God’s call to salvation is just as real today as it was in Eden. It will either be eternal life or eternal death! What is your choice? —Drew Craig

Truth is easy to administer. Even someone with a cold heart can speak it and apply it. But it takes a changed heart to apply grace. Truth is utterly necessary to keep us from what is harmful, but it can turn people away if applied in a harsh manner. Christ is the only One who could apply both with perfect equanimity. May the Lord change our hearts that we may be like our Saviour and ever “speak the truth in love.” —B. Crawford

What will occupy your thoughts today? Will it be the uncertainty of the future, the crises in the financial and political realms or the wars in which nations are involved? Paul encourages Timothy, “Think on these things.” He also asserts that he should give himself wholly to them. What things does he have in mind for Timothy’s thoughts? Reading, exhortation, doctrine and the nurture of his God-given gift. Our thoughts should be on similar things—things that are pure, honest, lovely and of good report. We should fill our minds with Christ and as we think on Him and His things, we will find those thoughts reflected in our actions. —Roy Hill

Cruelly mocking Him, the passing crowd goaded the Lord Jesus to come down from the cross. Their unbelieving hearts demanded a sign. Lovingly He chose to stay and die for their sin and ours. Today we thankfully worship Him for the heavenly love that kept Him there and for the heavenly power that brought Him up out of the grave.
—George Ferrier

Why did these men tear their clothes? It was an expression of coming to the end of ones' self. Their situation was desperate. Then the king received this word from the Lord, “Do not be afraid of the words which you have heard,” (2 Kings 19:6). We all feel like rending our garments at times. When you do, call on the Lord and wait for His Word of hope. —Rex Trogdon

We might condemn Sarah for initially laughing at God’s promise, but we all have done the same when put into similar “impossible” situations. But, “because she judged him faithful who had promised” (Heb. 11:11), her eventual joy in the Lord was mingled with a blessedness that spread to all. God’s promises don’t depend upon our strength, but upon God Himself. —Tom Steere

The upper room was abuzz with joyful conversation. Peter, it was reported, had seen the Lord. The two from Emmaus told how they had walked with Him and entertained Him in their home. With excitement they told of Him breaking a loaf of bread and enjoying a meal with them! Suddenly, there was a hush when the risen Christ mysteriously appeared from nowhere saying, “Peace be unto you.” Seeing Him and hearing His voice was even more wonderful. Dear believer, the same thing could happen with you and me today. We could suddenly find ourselves in the presence of the Lord, who promised to return and take us to glory. —Arnot P. McIntee