~Video Version~ ------------------------------------------ I’ve been reading through Exodus, and I find it fascinating the way God started His instructions for the building of the tabernacle. He starts in the most important place. He doesn’t bury the lead, He gets to the central space, the core of it all, the big idea. His first instruction was: “Have the people make an Ark of Acacia wood, a sacred chest…” (Exodus 25:10) Then they were told to put the tablets in there, the commandments, God…

~Video Version~ -------------------------- People have asked me why we don’t pass an offering plate in our worship services. We have a giving box. Why? One reason is expressed in this verse of Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 “You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." Giving is an act of worship, it’s about giving to God. What does it look like to give cheerfully? There is a great …

~Video Version~ --------------------------------- Matthew 13:31-32 Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches." I love the kingdom principle that just a small seed can become the most fruitful plant in the kingdom garden. Birds come and make nests to grow their families. In a family …

~Video Version~ ----------------------------------- I’m thinking about Psalm 11 today. In the Lord I take refuge. How then can you say to me: "Flee like a bird to your mountain.” (Psalm 11:1) As I approached the water on a great fishing pond, several flocks of geese perceived me to be a threat and took flight toward a distant field. I spooked them. They didn’t like the looks of me and they took flight. As I watched them and the peaceful sunset into which they were flying, I wondered w…

~Video Version~ ------------------------------ “When Moses heard what they were saying, he fell face down on the ground.” (Numbers 16:4) A conspired rebellion happened against Moses. Complaints, jealousies, accusations and grievances were expressed. What was the reaction of Moses? Face down. Humility. Prayer. Not defending himself but quiet prayer with a meek heart, trusting that God would be his defense, and that God would work His perfect will. What do you do when you feel like you need t…