Once we deny ourselves and take up our cross, the next course of action involves us becoming authentic (or real) to the world around us. Will we practice what we preach? Will we operate in grace and truth as Christ did?

What does it mean to be a Christian? Is that any different than being a follower of Jesus? Is it possible that the reason American Christianity seems to be losing its effectiveness in reaching our culture is due attempting to practice Christianity without the cross?

Obedience can only happen in the present. The past is done and the future are all but good intentions. What will you do with God today?

How do we become free of the chains of the past so our present and future are not harmed?

How will we open ourselves up to the Christmas Season this year? Will we allow the Holy Spirit to breathe fresh life into us, or will we allow the times and challenges to depress us and cause us to exclaim, "Bah-Humbug?"

When we think of Job, we don't often think of thanksgiving. But if we only dig a little deeper, we will find a man who exemplified thanksgiving regardless of what challenges came his way, and in turn, pleased God. What lessons can we learn from Job?

Physical actions can and will open the door to spiritual consequences. What open doors do we allow in our lives that battle with our spirit for supremacy of our soul?

It's not about me...it's not about us...it's all about Jesus!

Sexual sin is the elephant in the room. Sexual sin is extremely damaging. It is no secret that we are living in a sex-driven culture. How do we then remain pure and fight off temptation?

All of us have weaknesses or blind spots. As James 1 says, we are all "dragged away" by our own evil desires. We must be willing to confront our blind spots and allow the Holy Spirit to give us strength to overcome them.