How To Become A Christian

1) Believe that you are loved and accepted by God.

The good news of the Christian faith begins with the recognition that you are loved and accepted by the God who created and sustains the world.

Jesus taught us to call God "Father." While some people may lack the positive experience of a loving parent, most can imagine what the word "father" can mean at its very best. It suggests one who gives life, supplies love, provides care, protects, guides, watches over, enables growth, and gives freedom. This is what God is like. Even when we do not acknowledge God, God cares for us like a mother who cares for her children.

God knows us intimately and loves us totally. Nothing we have done or could do can make God love us less. This is vitally important, our deeds and efforts, though important, do not impact the love that God has for each one of us. That is why we cannot rely on our own efforts to obtain salvation and forgiveness - each one of us is a sinner and in need of a divine act to restore and enable us to have an relationship with God. 

Braves Win!!

 

Atlanta Braves win first post-season series since 2001!

God and His Role In Temptation

Given our weakness, would God ever “lead us . . . into temptation”?

First, we have to use as our anchor this scripture, "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, “God is tempting me.” God is never tempted to do wrong, and He never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death. So don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession." (James 1:12 - 18)

So how do we explain the meaning of the strange (to us) parallel passages in 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles in which God and Satan are both said to have incited David to number Israel: 

Again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he incited David against them, saying, “Go, number Israel and Judah.” (2 Sam. 24:1) 

Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to number Israel. (1 Chron. 21:1) 

So which was it? 

10 Ways Music Can Impact Your Life

When I was around 8 years old my parents were somehow convinced that my life would be enriched through taking piano lessons. After much discussion, (I vaguely remember this being absurdly one-sided), I was enrolled in this horrifying experiment. The deal was struck and the piano teacher was informed that if I had no talent in this area than I would be let out of this demonic deal and restored to playing with my friends in the great outdoors. However, I had to practice a minimum of 30 minutes a day or the deal was off. Thus with all the particulars decided this cultural manifesto promptly began. 

I will leave the details of what I haven't blocked out of my childhood for another blog but all kidding aside this was a huge blessing in my life. For over 50 years music has been a faithful companion, opened many a door, and provided countless hours of pleasure. (Mom and Dad if I neglected to thank you over the years, Thank You!!!) 

I think we can all agree that listening to music can be entertaining, and some research suggests that it might even make you healthier. Music can be a source of pleasure and contentment, but there are many other psychological benefits as well. Music can relax the mind, energize the body, and even help people better manage pain.

Let's take a quick look at ten ways that music can impact your life.