Building Spiritual Muscles in the Mundane

In the 1984 film “The Karate Kid,” an enthusiastic karate student is disappointed when his first lesson involves cleaning and waxing his master’s car. Day after day, Daniel questions the point of laborious tasks such as sanding a wood floor, refinishing a fence and painting Mr. Miyagi’s house. But when Mr. Miyagi finally begins to …

Why Does Growth Require Suffering?

Hebrews 2:10 “For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the founder of their salvation perfect through suffering.” The phrase, “perfect through suffering” stands out to me in this verse. Why did Jesus need to be made “perfect” and why did …

What is the Best Size for Your Church?

How tall are you? I’m six feet and ½ inch. Some of my life-long friends are taller and some are shorter. Yet, all of us have quit growing (at least in height). We all understand that height has nothing to do with maturity or competency. My doctor probably isn’t going to say, “you’re just three …