Key Connections (June 1, 2018)

He Will Carry You Through the Fire (Marshall Segal, Desiring God)

We can’t simply tell our hearts to be strong or courageous, but God can. If you want to find strength when you feel weak, or courage when you feel ashamed or afraid, meditate on what God has said — and do whatever he says. Let his promises, his commands, his works, and his ways wash over your fears and insecurities.

Clarifying the Call of God (Jon Coombs, Rooted Ministry)

Understanding how the Bible teaches calling makes following Jesus tremendously freeing. We are free from expectation, from pressure, and from the fear of missing out. Instead, we are given freedom to follow Jesus through our passions, abilities, gifts, skills, and opportunities.

The Essence of a Gospel-Soaked, Faithful Teacher (Grayson Pope, Gospel Centered Discipleship)

Most of us have an overinflated sense of how strong we are. We think we can stand up to temptation and beat sin through sheer strength or willpower. But we can’t—that’s why Jesus had to die for us.

When Muslims Dream of Jesus (Darren Carlson, The Gospel Coalition)

Would Satan cast out Satan? Would he give dreams filled with Scripture, pointing to Jesus, that ultimately lead to conversion and purity? I doubt it. The Spirit is still on the move, saving his people from among the nations. Of course Satan tries to attack and muddle what is real, but this should cause us to be discerning, not dismissive.

9 Things to Know About a Widow’s Grief (Gaye Clark, True Women Blog)

So how does God love those suffering? In Isaiah, He says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (41:10, emphasis added). This infers a deep intimacy. While compassion walks beside the bereaved, pity stands off at a safe distance.

The Only Way You Can Do God’s Will (Kristen Wetherell, Unlocking the Bible)

Augustine once prayed, “Give what you command, and command what you will” (Confessions). We echo his prayer and know God will answer it because, in Christ Jesus, he gives us what we need to desire his way and fulfill his commands.

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