Dr. David Swanson | Psalm 30

God transforms the hard things in David's life, his mourning, into dancing - not from happiness, but from joy.

Dr. David Swanson | Matthew 5:5

Meekness is an often misunderstood quality, one often associated with being a doormat. It is not that, but a quality of heart that is humble and other-centered. Like Jesus.

Dr. Jack Peebles | Acts 7:54-60, Matthew 5:10

As our culture becomes more and more hostile to Christian faith, the reality of persecution looms larger. 

Dr. David Swanson | Matthew 5:9

In a world of agitation and anger, which we are easily dragged into, how can we become people of peace?

Rev. Tanner Fox | Matthew 5:3

The blessing of being poor in spirit.

Rev. Tanner Fox | Matthew 5:4

We all live in the grief and mourning that comes with life. In the body, and through Christ, we are also comforted.

Dr. David Swanson | Acts 16:25-34

The Philippian jailer was one regularly inflicting pain and suffering on those under his charge, including putting Paul and Silas in stocks. We're not sure what role it played in their beatings, but it was likely significant. He was a calloused, cruel man, and yet he is transformed, his heart becoming filled with care and compassion.

Dr. David Swanson | Numbers 12:1-3, 9-15

Though Miriam had a huge role in the exodus, she becomes envious and gossips about Moses, likely envious of his standing with God. Her skin is made leprous, and she is left outside the camp for a week. 

Dr. David Swanson | Jonah 1:1-12

Jonah is famous for his disobedience, but more than that, we see that he did not love the Ninevites and remains angry even at the end. We are all works in progress - sometimes, God leaves the end of the story up in the air.

Dr. Case Thorp | Psalm 131:1-3

As a pilgrim coming to worship at the temple in Jerusalem, David reaches deep into his heart and discovers the still small voice of God, but in the same manner, the maturity to which Christ calls us all.