Most of us have heard the phrase “turn the other cheek” at some point in our lives. Often, we are advised of this after a mishap with someone. Personally, I would always think about what that phrase meant and why it was so important to obey it.

There are two places in Scripture where Jesus tells us to turn the other cheek. The first occurrence is in the book of Matthew. Here we read these words. “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” The second occurrence of this verse is found in Luke 6:29. It states, “If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also.” So what do these verses mean, both for Jesus’ biblical audience, and for us today?

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Often when we think of missional work, our minds turn to other countries. But there are countless cities and people groups across the United States that need your prayer, love and support. One such is the mountain dwelling Appalachian people. They have a rich history and culture, and a unique set of needs. But below are four practical ways you can pray for citizens and believers in the mountains. 

Doxologies are an expression of praise to God. In the Christian church, we often hear them sung or chanted. They are a tradition that has meaning and importance for all Christians. Since the early church, doxologies have been a way for Christians to express their love and thankfulness for what God has done in their lives.

The Bible is full of powerful words that if we dig deep enough, the meanings could change your life. The power with which God clothed each word of His book is amazing. One such word is Ebenezer. This Hebrew word is rarely used in conversation but can be found in sermons and church names. If that is the case, then what is so powerful about it? What does it mean and how can we apply this word to our Christian walk?

Have you ever decided to start a business? Maybe, you have had to make an unexpected purchase. Whatever the case may be, there has been a cost. You may have decided that the cost is just too much and you will do without. You may have decided to pay the cost and sacrifice something else. Either way, the choice was made to purchase or not purchase.

Following God at all costs is difficult. It is a decision that doesn’t come lightly but can enrich your life beyond all you can imagine. But, what does it look like to follow God at all costs? What biblical examples are given?

Worship is a term used in every Christian’s walk of faith. It is often thought of as an act or something done one or twice a week, Sunday and Wednesday. The truth is that worship is a way of living that includes actions and thoughts of the heart.

As we walk through this life each day, we need to worship. But how? We find the answer located throughout the words of Scripture. Let’s explore the words of Scripture and learn what the Bible says about worship.  

What is wisdom and how do we receive it? Throughout antiquity, these have been the eternal questions on the lips of mankind. Adam and Eve were confronted with this question as they tried to resist the forbidden fruit. Israelite kings pleaded with God for wisdom during their reigns and Jesus proclaimed the answer as He climbed the mountain at Calvary.

God’s Holy Word gives us the book of Proverbs to answer these questions. This book is filled with beautiful words of instruction that lead to obtaining wisdom in every area of one’s life. If there is a question, Proverbs has the answer.

The words Jesus spoke in John 14:27 help us experience moments of peace, moments where peace is freely given. John 14:27 states “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled or fearful.”

In this passage we find Jesus speaking with his disciples before His crucifixion. We can only try to imagine the fear, doubt, and worry they must have been feeling. The last three years of their lives had been spent walking with this man. They had witnessed miracles and seen firsthand the saving grace of God. Now, Jesus was leaving them. They were going to be all alone, surrounded by people who hated Jesus.

Our world is not unlike the world Jesus’s disciples experienced. We live in a world that has trouble believing in the One True God. When we speak about Him, people become offended, and wars are started. There is no peace in our world except for the peace that comes from God.

Have you ever stepped outside while snow gently falls on the ground? Did you listen to the air as it is devoid of sound? I would often walk out on the porch of our home, which sat in the middle of a 60-acre farm, when the snow began falling. The peacefulness of those moments was carved into my soul. There were no sounds. The animals were not stirring, and birds were as still as statues.

While I watched the snow fall, I would always think about how peaceful everything was. It was as if nothing could bring harm to me.

But the peace Jesus experienced came only from the Father. He knew what was going to be needed during the days ahead for his disciples and He knows what is ahead for us.