Are there many paths to find God, or is there, as Jesus claims, just one way? And, if so, could it be that this seemingly exclusive belief system is actually more inclusive and freeing than any other?

Does tolerance mean accepting everything, no matter what? Or is there a better way? Is there a way to be both loving and challenging at the same time? Today we explore how Jesus dealt with that issue.

Why is God's grace a better way than "being good"? Listen to this week's podcast and find the secret to dealing with guilt, finding peace and discovering JOY!

If we are all good at heart, why is it taking so long for the world to evolve to a better place? The truth is the human heart is selfish, self-centered, and self-seeking. This was not God's original plan for us, but a result of Adam and Eve's trust in themselves rather than God and their temptation by Satan. If our hearts are truly focused only on ourselves, what hope do we have? Fortunately God had another plan. Through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit we are given a new heart. One which seeks to overcome the three "selfs" we are born with.

God's creation is awesome! Complex and simple. Powerful and gentile. Beautiful and fearful. Science has given us a peek into the workings of creation but only scratches the surface. Today's culture however would have us feel that believing beyond what we know from science, believing that God is author and creator of it all, is an irrational point of view. Science has indeed answered many questions, but the most important questions - why do we matter, why do we love, why would a Saviour die on a cross for us can only be answered from a Biblical perspective.

The way to learn how to lead responsibly is to follow. Elisha demonstrated this by faithfully following Elijah, eventually becoming Elijah's successor when Elijah was taken up to Heaven. We are to show that same faithfulness in following God, learning what He has to teach us and searching out His will. It is only from this foundation that we can become an effective leader for Him.

The Book of Genesis shows us that God made the world and everything in it, and He entrusted Adam, Eve, and their descendants to take care of it. He doesn't want it to take the place of Him, but that should never be our excuse in neglecting those things God made and called "good". Knowing this, we should respond with our ability to be the caretakers of His creation that He has called us to be.

If kind words are becoming a rarity in today's culture of individuality, and knowing our own sinfulness, how can we honor God by showing respect in our words? Like many Christian actions it requires a heart centered on God and practice. Practice in taming our mind, taming our tone, and training our tongue.

As Christians we are called to respect the governmental authorities established by God to keep order and carry out His will on earth. This can be especially challenging when we disagree with policies or when the authorities are self-serving, but we are still called to show respect. Turning our hearts to God through prayer can help us with this command. By praying for our officials, God's guidance in national affairs, and unity we not only prepare ourselves for that outward showing of respect, but honor God, the ultimate authority in all things, who has given us the command in the first place.

God's role as creator gives him authority over all creation and therefore He is due our respect. Rather than holding it over us and forcing the bending of our will to His however, God comes to us in love and forgiveness, wanting us to have a relationship with Him. How much greater then our desire to show Him respect in our actions, worship, and prayer!