People experience downfall as the result of lack of self-control, because sin has consequences.

Goodness is hard to define. It's so close to kindness in interpretation. That which passes for goodness today has been diluted with today's definitions. When someone is having a hard time, we try to comfort them with the promise of future goodness. Some equate good with the lack of bad. Good has been misinterpreted to the point of people becoming alcoholics, drug addicts, greedy, etc. Where is the disconnect? It all hinges on the subjective, on what we do (or intend). The truth lies in God. We need a different point of reference. The Lord is good. No one is good except God himself. True goodness is rooted in God.

Isn't it disheartening how faithful people are taken advantage of? Yet faithfulness is rewarded in Heaven. God Himself is faithful, which is why faithfulness is admired by God. The Bible is a testament to God's faithfulness.

The gift of kindness to others can create ripples of love that reach far beyond the immediate circle of our lives.

Does one feel worn out from serving God? Does life feel like a meat grinder? When we push ourselves too far, we lose all enthusiasm. We all have great moments on the mountaintop, but then there are lows to follow. We all year for peace! Jesus' meaning of peace doesn't mean an absence of conflict, but rather an assurance of God's presence. He wanted if to receive His gift of peace. With peace we have balance and perspective.

Rejoice in the Lord always; it is a fruit of the Spirit. Paul wrote about joy we being chained to a Roman guard. He wasn't the only person in the Bible to go through hard times. After all here's been through, he still writes "Rejoice in the Lord!". His meaning of joy, however, is a different meaning of happiness. Joy (inside) is different from happiness (external).

A fruit tree is identified by the fruit it bears. In kind, a Christian is identified by the fruits they bear.

Our bodies change and age as we grow older, yet we don't want to age! Are we just aging or aging gracefully?

Words of encouragement are far more productive and uplifting to the world than words of discouragement. Barnabas' example was a great role model, especially for those who are not the outspoken, vocal leaders. One can still lead by encouragement.

It is in the worship of Jesus Christ where we should be certain of what we believe. We should be connected to God and know why we do certain sacraments in and out of worship. Examine yourselves and know what is in your hearts and minds before committing to those sacraments.