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Sometimes It’s Hard To See Around The Bend

It’s been a crazy few months for the Randleman family.

We moved over a thousand miles from everything familiar. We’ve started working with a new church, moved into a new neighborhood, met new people. My day off has changed to a different day of the week. We’ve had to make new friends. We’ve learned our way around a new city.

And frankly, it’s been tough.

Tunnel Vision

I’m not saying it’s been bad. It’s just been hard.

Our schedules have been severely disrupted, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing either.

As a result, my writing has taken a considerable hit. And so has my reading. I haven’t read more than about six or eight books since we moved.

For me, that borders on scandalous.

I have some ideas to help me overcome this:

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Memorize Scripture – Week 33

Sometimes, the message of the Gospel is overwhelmingly simple and reassuring.

For example, take a look at this week’s passage. It’s found in Romans 6:14:

Romans 6:14

This week has been full of tedious technical details with our church’s website and email list. It’s been rather frustrating. In fact, I’ve been tempted to call my computer a few choice names.

Thankfully, I resisted that temptation.

And then, in one of the New Testament’s most profound letters, we find this simple phrase.

It’s refreshing, really, knowing that in spite of my temptations, and my failings, I am still a recipient of God’s grace.

I know I need it.

How have you felt the release that comes from God’s grace? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

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Memorize Scripture – Week 32

I just spent the past week with over one hundred middle school students at church camp. It was an incredible week, perhaps one of the best I’ve ever experienced.

In light of that, this week’s passage feels especially meaningful. Look it up in Psalm 4:8:

Psalm 4:8

I’m pretty sure the psalmist didn’t have church camp in mind when he penned this passage, but it sure feels applicable right now.

After a week full of high energy, a full schedule of activities, late nights, early mornings and lots of heat, I feel completely drained.

Knowing that God is taking care of things while I rest provides a sense of peace and security.

That, in itself, is relaxing.

Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do is rest. What do you need to take a break from right now? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

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The Four P’s Of Dadhood – The Next Two P’s

This is part of the The Dad Toolbox series, providing tools and resources to be a great dad. Read more from the series!

Last week, we took a look at the first two P’s of dadhood. We saw that practice and patience are necessary elements to building a legacy as a great dad to your kids. The only way to get better at this dad thing is to do it over and over. But don’t get discouraged, be patient.

P Block - Credit: Jennifer Marr

There are two more aspects to be considered though. While the first two P’s were somewhat simple, these next two P’s take us deeper into our training as dads.

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Memorize Scripture – Week 31

Last week, we memorized the first half of a two part memorization series. This is one of my favorite passages in the Bible.

This week, we will memorize the rest. It’s found in Jeremiah 29:13-14:

Jeremiah 29:13-14

The first sentence is perhaps my favorite phrase in the entire Bible.

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

God’s promise here is clear: when we seek him whole-heartedly, we will find him. He goes on to promise: “I will be found by you.”

That is the very definition of Good News.

The latter part of this passage is more specifically directed to the original hearers, as they were facing exile to a foreign nation. But the principle underlying these words can apply to us as well. The only difference is that we are not taken captive by a foreign nation; we have been taken captive by sin.

God’s promise is one of rescue. And that is very good news!

What do you do to actively seek God? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.