Topical References

The heart is a marvelous thing. It is created by God, for God. It has longings and desires and out of those, man responds. Our heart was designed to worship God. However, sin damages our hearts, deadens our conscience, darkens our understanding and mind and warps our desires. It enslaves the will, clouds our judgement and alienates us from God.Then there is cleansing. Through repentance, confession, acquaintance and...

The issue of whether written standards are a legitimate part of church life is not new, but the recent emergence of groups in various localities from a practice of having had written standards to having done away with written standards has brought the issue to the fore for many of us. Is their position right? Do written standards stifle spiritual life? Are they additions to the Word of God? Are they, as alleged, the...

Chronic pain is different from other kinds of physical pain because it doesn't stop. It is daily, unrelenting, soul-wearying pain for which there is no end in sight. Can you still experience God's grace and help even in the midst of never ending pain? Michael Emlet, physician and counselor, includes a brief overview of the physiological aspects of pain and then goes on to outline a God-shaped perspective on chronic...

Explores the subject of dowsing (water witching) from a scientific viewpoint, then looks at its supernatural involvements, and concludes with a Biblical perspective. Provides answers for the "it works" and "many Christians have done it" arguments. Clearly points out the dangers of dabbling in the supernatural.

What choice should I make? How do I know that my decision will fit with God's plan for me? "We tend to think that while God has a 'best' plan for our life, he also has 'cheaper' plans for people who miss the best," writes Petty. "But for those who are in Christ, there is only one plan." Petty explains that God's plan and our actions work in concert. With all the decisions we face and despite the mistakes we make,...