There are stories in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, wherein God commanded that communities, even countries, be wiped out. I’m talking men, women, and children. Usually this was done through His chosen people; at the time, the army of Israel. But even within Israel itself, God caused some to be killed when they were disobedient. I’m thinking of the wilderness earthquake He caused that swallowed thousands; and of the two sons of Aaron struck down for using strange …

During Jesus’ earthly time, some thought Him to be a peacemaker. He wasn’t; and didn’t intend to be. He made that so clear in Matt. 10: 34-39, in which He made the point that He had to be placed first and foremost in the lives of His followers, even if that meant creating a division among family members. In fact, that was the purpose for Him bringing a sword [for spiritual warfare] instead of peace. That seems rather harsh; something …

Jeremiah 17: 5—Thus says the Lord, “Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind and makes flesh his strength, and whose heart turns away from the Lord.” Micah 7: 5—“Do not trust in a neighbor; do not have confidence in a friend. From her who lies in your bosom, guard your lips.”  Wow! It sounds like we should be suspicious of everyone, including ourselves. After all, Jeremiah does go on to say in vs. 9 that the heart is more …

As one who was un-churched, but had spiritual inclinations, I sometimes would pause my channel surfing on a Christian station to listen to what was being said about God. But especially would I take interest in the uplifted hands and the faces that displayed serenity and tearful joy. I remember wondering if it all was real. I sure wanted it to be. (And It is.) But then there were those professed Christians I knew personally, and those I read about …