We must be so committed to living for Christ that we "despise" our lives by comparison. This does not mean that we long to die or that we are careless or destructive with the life God has given, but that... security, and pleasure, we can serve God lovingly and freely. Releasing control of our lives and transferring control to Christ bring eternal life and genuine joy. This one is a hard one.

Simply attending worship services is not enough to secure God's peace. We must also actively remove anything that is offensive to God. Becoming more active in church attendance or doing good deeds will... or fellowship with others. So all those who think that church isn't required for your lives, realize that church is a time of thanksgiving that we should look forward to, not dread. That's all. ;)

Consider carefully the things you cherish. If you value anything more than God, it becomes your gold calf and will one day drag you down. Let go of anything that interferes with your relationship with God.

It's never too late to repent, even in the midst of punishment. Regardless of what we have done, God is willing to receive us back into fellowship. Are you struggling and alone because sin has broken your fellowship with God? Confession and humility will open the door to receiving God's mercy.

Jesus loved this family (Lazarus, Mary & Martha) and often stayed with them. He knew their pain but did not respond immediately. His delay had a specific purpose. God's timing, especially his delays, may make us think he is not answering or is not answering the way we want. But he will meet all our needs according to his perfect schedule and purpose. Patiently await his timing.

Four conditions for forgiveness: (1) Humble yourself by admitting your sins, (2) pray to God, asking for forgiveness, (3) seek God continually, and (4) turn from sinful behavior. True repentance is more than talk - it is changed behavior.

How often do we look for immediate answers to our prayers and, when nothing happens, wonder if God has heard us? God does hear and he will provide for us. We must trust that God will answer at the proper time.

Both standing and kneeling are acts of reverence. Acts of reverence make us feel more worshipful and they let others see that we are honoring God. When you stand or kneel in church or at prayer, make these actions more than mere forms prescribed by tradition. Let them indicate your love for God.

Although a simple chapel is an adequate place to pray and meet God, it is not wrong to want to make a beautiful place of worship.

We should try our best to build beautiful and helpful places of worship to be a testimony and credit to God. In so doing, however, we must remember that God cannot be contained in our building or beautiful setting. He is far greater than any building, so we must focus our praise on him and not merely on the place of worship.