In Matthew 5:12, Jesus gives instruction for those who are hated, insulted, and rejected because they follow His example. His instructions may be difficult to understand because they run so counter to our natural emotions when we face such attacks. But Jesus is actually serious. This what He said: “Rejoice and be glad, because greatContinue reading “It’s Friday…Jump for Joy”
Author Archives: Vic Alvarado
It’s Friday…Be People God Can Bless
It’s Independence Day in America. A scholar from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences told a group of Westerners in 2002 that his group was “asked to look into . . . what accounted for the success, in fact, the pre-eminence of the West all over the world.” After dismissing views that our success wasContinue reading “It’s Friday…Be People God Can Bless”
It’s Friday…We Can’t Afford To Be
We’re seeing the heart of man on full display today. The lack of kindness is palpable in our local culture and global community. The Bible is clear in its assessment of the human heart; it is wicked. It seeks its own good above all else, it tries to hide its secrets from God, it harborsContinue reading “It’s Friday…We Can’t Afford To Be”
It’s Friday…Let It Consume You
We crave significance. In our seemingly never-ending search for it, we look to those who love us, the opinions of others, the satisfaction of our own accomplishments, our positions, our pleasures, and many other false measures. Billions of dollars are spent every year on counselors who will help us find this sense of importance. PeopleContinue reading “It’s Friday…Let It Consume You”
It’s Friday…We’re Already Captive
For many who pursue Jesus, the invitation to follow Him often overwhelms them. Perhaps that’s because they see His invitation as a demand. When Jesus calls for our complete obedience and undying allegiance, we frail creatures feel as though He is pointing out our obligations and telling us to do better. He is not. HeContinue reading “It’s Friday…We’re Already Captive”
It’s Friday…Let’s Consider The Long Term
Many ruins and relics testify that earthly empires do not last. Mausoleums and memorials reveal the brevity of life. The inability of governments to solve the world’s problems persuade us that politics is not the answer. Volatile markets and monthly statements show us the futility of wealth. Still, the tendency of mankind is to investContinue reading “It’s Friday…Let’s Consider The Long Term”
It’s Friday…But Motivation Is The Key
It is Memorial Day weekend in America. As Americans, we are reminded of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend our liberty and freedom. True sacrifice doesn’t happen without significant cost. I am truly grateful to those who gave their all so that we may live in peace. This weekend also reminds me ofContinue reading “It’s Friday…But Motivation Is The Key”
It’s Friday…Be Single Minded
Mission statements abound in this world. Few institutions or people who have them, however, really live up to them. They are ideals to strive for. Jesus had a mission statement: “I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave me to do.” (John 17:4) His declaration has become reality. He livedContinue reading “It’s Friday…Be Single Minded”
It’s Friday…Exactly Where He Wants Us
Do you ever get the impression that when something is impossible for us but necessary or fruitful for God’s Kingdom, He steps in and helps us out, perhaps a little reluctantly? Almost like He becomes our “God in the gaps” – He makes up the difference when we just don’t have the strength? But inContinue reading “It’s Friday…Exactly Where He Wants Us”
It’s Friday…Become One of Them
The greatest commandment of all, said Jesus, is to love God with everything we are and everything we have. We are to have a passion for The Almighty that exceeds all our other passions. It’s what we were created for. But in the context of fallen humanity Jesus lays down a principle about our love.Continue reading “It’s Friday…Become One of Them”
Vic Alvarado 