

The Rich Young Ruler
We ask a lot of questions when we read the story of the rich young ruler (Matt. 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23). What was his motivation? What kind of man was he? What was his background? We also want to critique. We say we would handle the situation differently. We would do whatever it would take to follow Jesus. But the more I study this passage, the more I empathize with this man because when I look at him, I see myself. May we not be so hard on him because we are


The Rivalry Between Siblings
A rivalry is defined as a “competition for the same objective or for superiority in the same field.” Sibling rivalry is real, and the Bible speaks of many siblings who harbored resentment, hostility, and jealousy against each other. A little friendly competition is OK amongst siblings. But it can turn ugly when it becomes a battle between siblings to win the love, acceptance, and approval of their parents. Siblings are a gift (Ps. 139:13-14): The family into which you were bo


Marriage: God's Way is the Right Way
Why did you marry the person you married? You noticed his or her strengths, and the weaknesses paled in comparison. Years later, though, how would you assess your marriage? Life is meant to be shared (Eccl. 9:9). God gives us the privilege of waking up every day, not only with Him — but with a spouse who we know God has given to us. Marriage is for life: God hates divorce because He knows the awful things that it does to the people who He loves (Mal. 2:16). The intent of God


Back to School Time!
Summer has gone by fast. Too fast, amirite? Back to school dominates the landscape this time of year — advertisements, social media, clothing stores, and office supply stores. As we begin another school year, it’s not just about back-to-school checklists. It’s time to rearrange sleeping schedules and adopt a more structured daily routine. It’s back to reality. So, along with textbooks, pens, pencils, and paper, here are three things all students — and for that matter, every o