Steadfastness, or patience, in the original Greek is an active verb, meaning that we don’t wait on the Lord by sitting idly by. Steadfastness is acted upon by working hard through whatever lays in our path, much like one would train for a marathon.
Author Archives: bamarinelli
Finding Joy in Life’s Trials
Joy is not a feeling, but rather a gift from God, given to us through the Holy Spirit. We must become intimate with God to learn how to utilize this gift, even when our life looks bleak.
The Christian Response to Controversy
How do we become a light for Christ in a world of sin? This is an especially difficult question when that sin is parading as light. I believe there are a few things Christian need to consider and hold closely to our hearts when interacting with non-Christians.
The Problem of Idolatry in America
We look to our church leaders and the leaders of our country to be role models, but are we taking their prominence in our lives too far?
God’s Gift of Perseverance
Perseverance is a gift from God. We just have to have the right perspective. Let’s take a look into Biblical examples of perseverance, and then think about how God directs us to persevere.
The Dangers of Joking About Mental Illness
Joking about mental illness minimizes the seriousness of the disorders, shames those who are suffering from them, and prevents people from getting the help that they need. Not to mention, the Bible clearly says that making fun of anyone in any way is a sin.
The Disobedience of the American Church
Lately I’ve been feeling convicted about my obedience to the Lord. It’s not that I’m being intentionally disobedient, but I am not being intentionally obedient either. I’m not stopping throughout my day to touch base with God to see if I’m on the track of righteousness. So, as I’ve started to make it a habitContinue reading “The Disobedience of the American Church”
How to Be Joyful When You Don’t Feel Joy
There have been many firsts of January when I couldn’t wait to say goodby to the previous year in hopes of a better tomorrow. For many, January first is a promise of a fresh start. We make resolutions and set goals. The problem is, just because we buy a new calendar doesn’t mean our problemsContinue reading “How to Be Joyful When You Don’t Feel Joy”
When Life Feels Hopeless, But God…
I woke up in the ICU trapped by tubes and wires coming out of my mouth and limbs. My arms were strapped down to the bed. I couldn’t process what was happening. Someone somewhere had my days old baby. Where was he? I struggled against the straps, but my husband leaned down over me toContinue reading “When Life Feels Hopeless, But God…”
Is it Okay to Ask, “Why God?”
“Why God?,” you cry out in anguish when your world seems like it’s crashing down around you. The question is one that I believe everyone has asked at least once in their life. Even those who don’t even have a relationship with God will look towards a greater being and ask, “Why?” I believe it’sContinue reading “Is it Okay to Ask, “Why God?””