Scripture reflections

Working it Out with God

By Matt Erickson

Paul’s words in Philippians 2:12-13 capture my attention:

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed – not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence – continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good pleasure.

These two short verses provide what I see as the best description of the mysterious tension that exists in our lives between God’s power and our effort.

Compelling

By Matt Erickson

Frequently in our church we share stories of how God is at work in people’s lives. Stories like these are important because they put flesh and bone on the idea of God’s presence in our lives. The people themselves become pictures for us of what our own life with God can be like. They are compelling stories.

Brokenhearted for God

By Matt Erickson

I still remember the year that I did not make the cut for the little league baseball team when I tried out. I could catch, throw, and run, but, to be honest, my batting skills were not something to marvel at. I wanted so badly to be a part of that team with my friends but it didn’t happen that first year. I was brokenhearted.

From Distress to Peace

By Matt Erickson

Even in the depths of our distress, as we turn toward the Lord we will find true peace. 

Facing Overwhelming Odds

By Matt Erickson

In our own lives, we all face seasons of trouble that can feel overwhelming. People are facing economic worries, employment difficulties, and relational strife. What do you do when you face overwhelming odds? What would happen if we turned to the Lord as our first move?

Telling God Stories

By Matt Erickson

Everybody loves a good story. If you sit with a child to read a story to them, watch out! You may find yourself being asked to read it again and again and again. If you open your house for a movie night on Friday, you will likely have a big group of friends show up to hang out and watch a story unfold on the screen. When you visit family over the holidays, if one of the “older generation” starts to tell about times gone by, regardless of their age, many people will likely gather around to listen, ask questions, and find out more.

When We Feel Like Running Away

By Matt Erickson

There are times in our lives when we feel like running away. I still remember when I was an elementary school kid and one of the bullies came after me during a recess football game. I definitely felt like running away…and I did! As fast as I could go.

God Alone Does Marvelous Deeds (part 2)

By Matt Erickson

This final word in Psalm 72 highlights something else that is especially pertinent for those of us in leadership. It is a critical reminder with two parts. The first part is this: even with all of our efforts and plans, God “alone does marvelous deeds.”

I am not the source of the marvelous deeds that I may see in my life, ministry, or church. God is the source.

God Alone Does Marvelous Deeds (part 1)

By Matt Erickson

Psalm 72 is a psalm that builds walls to keep me out when I read it. I feel immediately disconnected from what it is saying. The words are all about the king: praising him and praying for him. When I read these words, I am unsure of what to do with them. How does this connect with my real life today?

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