Some of the thoughtful blogging found this week:
4 Misconceptions About Spiritual Warfare, HT to Challies. “There is a short list of Christian beliefs that have as much mystery as spiritual warfare. While some things are really clear in the Bible regarding demons and demonic activity, there is a supernatural element to the unseen realm that humbles even the most educated theological student! At the same time, it seems that many people have a variety of opinions based on their experiences, which is not necessarily a negative thing, but it can lead to a lot of misconceptions”
The Throne Outranks the Ballot Box. “I know I need not remind you, but sometimes reminders are good: Whether you are still crying in the corner or celebrating your party’s victory, God is in control!”
Faith at Your Fingertips: How Devotional Books Enhance Spiritual Growth. “Without a doubt, Christians should read the Bible. But what about devotional books? Is it okay to read something written by someone other than God about His Word? Yes. In their proper context, I believe a biblically sound, well-written devotional book can help us grow spiritually.”
An Unexpected Glimpse of Grace and Mercy. “I’ve been feeling a bit untethered lately. Blessings abound, but so does uncertainty. I’m learning this is common among moms in my current stage of empty nest life, but common or not, it’s disconcerting. As much as I’d like God to show up in my living room and tell me exactly what to do and how everything is going to work out, the fact that He prompted me to think of my friend on her difficult day is concrete evidence that He still cares about the details of our lives. Even—or perhaps especially—when we’re feeling unsure or off balance when it comes to the big picture. No matter how unsettled we are, God is still at work around us. He’s still preparing the way for what comes next.”
5 Prayers for a Cancer Patient. “We had gotten into the routine of praying together on the way to the hospital. One morning, we called our mom to check in with her, and my brother told her clearly how he wanted people to pray for his treatment.”
The Most Fun I Ever Had, HT to Challies. “Because of videos and stories like this, many women are afraid to have children. I’m not advocating for lying about the difficulties of motherhood; I’m advocating that we don’t lose sight of the joys.”
How to Graciously Say No. “How do we keep our desire for approval from causing us to make hasty vows, and do so in a way that is loving and unselfish? Let me offer three tips for how to graciously say no.”
A Daring Suggestion for Netflix. “While there’s little doubt that Netflix will make it through this challenge, it may never regain the market dominance it once held. I have a daring suggestion for Netflix that I’d like to think could help it: make more shows that are clean and suitable for family viewing. To frame it another way, stop putting sex, nudity, and harsh profanity in nearly every show. There are many potential subscribers who are eager to be entertained, but not by shows they deem unsuitable or inappropriate.” Agreed!
This quote is from Rose from Brier by Amy Carmichael. She had received a line about being “laid aside” after the accident that left her an invalid, and it bothered her. She argued that God does not shelve His soldiers. They always have a part to play, even if they are not on the front lines. The full quote says:
I have been learning through these months, the soldier must let his Captain say where, and for what, He needs him most, and he must not cloud his mind with questions. A wise master never wastes his servant’s time, nor a commander his soldier’s–there is great comfort in remembering that.
