How Christian is Modern Self-Esteem?
The Times of London once asked leading British intellectuals to write an article that answered this simple question: “What is the biggest problem with …
growing in God's love
I’m Scared of God
The rising bubble of my New Year enthusiasm was burst last week when I read a prayer in the Imitation of Christ. It terrified me. Does it scare you …
Overcoming Chronic Sins
My twelve year old self had a violent temper. My fuse was short, and my blasts of anger detonated at insults as unexpectedly as bursts of laughter …
The Loss of Wonder
I often wonder if the greatest problem facing the modern world is the loss of wonder. When we were kids, every day brought awe and wonder. As …
Making a List of Our Sins
A few weeks ago, I spoke with someone who felt horrible about forgetting a commitment. She felt her accidental negligence caused unnecessary stress …
The Ecosystem of Grace
Several months ago I wrote an article about the joy of pausing in the moment of confession; telling God about my total unworthiness, acknowledging my …
Let’s Become Disappearing Leaders
A couple years ago, I witnessed a well-known, incredible worship leader. His guitar strum stirred my heart, and his baritone voice felt like honey to …
What’s Your Legacy?
Babysitting two grandsons Tuesday morning, I felt discouraged. Not with them; they were great. Not even with changing their diapers—although I’m a …
What If We Can’t Forgive Ourselves?
I know a man convicted of a violent crime against someone he loves. He acted in a momentary rage; he had never been violent before. It shocked him. …
The First Time I Ever Heard God’s Voice
I was ten years old the first time I ever heard God speak to me personally. The new school year had just begun, and a new fad spread among my …
I’m Not Okay—Neither Are You…And That’s Okay
Thomas Jefferson was a man of his time. His age of reason denied the possibility of miracles. So he took his old Bible and an old pair of scissors, …
The Self-Centeredness of Unselfishness
[Click here for an audio version of this post: The Self-Centeredness of Unselfishness.] Our romantic 30th anniversary trip to Italy began the same …