God invites us to seek the full power of the Holy Spirit by authentic worship, persistent thanksgiving and mutual submission.

“Become” imitators, not “be” imitators.  The point is that we’re not there yet.  This is describing what we should be striving for, but it also leaves room for grace as we realize that we’re not there yet, and the people we’re in church together with aren’t there yet either.

The second half of Ephesians is about practical application of theology. (39 of the 40 imperatives occur here…the other imperative is in 2:11 and just says “remember”). From the corresponding section 3:1-13: faith in Jesus gives us power to bend. Now Paul explains specifically how that is so and what such coming together accomplishes.

Opposition isn’t always from the Enemy. Sometimes, opposition is a red flag that we’ve made a mistake in understanding God’s will for us. But other times, opposition is actually good news, because it confirms that we’re on the right track. Hear what Craig has to teach us about waiting for God's timing. 

Craig takes us through the idea that gratitude for what has been done makes room for what God is going to do!

The reality of who God is, and our gratitude for Him, will help us to see His blessings. 

Courageous faith aligns us with God … and there is no better place to be. Nehemiah’s interest had deepened into concern which matured into a passion. But God often chooses to move in response to courageous faith.

This week Craig takes us into a new year with some thought provoking questions:

1. What interests is God leading you to allow to deepen into concern?
2. What concerns is God maturing into passions?
3. What positions are you in that are likely part of God’s provision to others
4. What is keeping you from embracing what God is looking to do through you?

The Various 'Ups' of Isaiah 40 // Isaiah’s prophecy concerning God’s people came at the most pivotal moment in their history. They were a divided nation, riddled with immorality and idolatry, and they needed someone to speak a message to them that was stern enough to dissuade them from the course they were on.