Posts

Showing posts from October, 2024

Understanding a Productive Life: A Biblical Perspective

Image
  A   productive life is not defined solely by relentless work or the pursuit of personal goals. Rather, it is a harmonious balance of wisdom, diligence, and trust in God's providence. To live a productive life is to embrace a balance that allows for both effective work and healing rest, while maintaining a character that honors God. Wisdom in Work and Rest The Bible provides clear and profound understanding about the nature of productivity. The Book of Ecclesiastes gives perspective on the rhythms of life and the appropriate times for various activities. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (ESV) tells us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to

From Jealousy to Unity: Embracing Jesus' Call to Love

Image
New converts to Christianity often face significant discrimination both from within the church and from their own community of old faith. Their intense desire to serve and grow in their faith can lead to them being viewed as traitors by some established believers. This discrimination stems from the rapid spiritual and biblical growth they experience, which can incite jealousy and enmity, particularly among those who have been Christians from birth and view themselves as privileged. Their zeal for faith can lead to perceptions of traitorism among those who feel overshadowed by the new converts’ progress. This accelerated spiritual growth and increasing biblical knowledge can provoke jealousy among lifelong believers, who may feel threatened. The resulting jealousy can cause internal division and political maneuvering within churches, often targeting new believers who feel their status is being challenged. Such internal conflicts can escalate into mutual hatred and disrespect, ultimate