THE IDLE AMERICAN

It shouldn’t happen to a dog, nor to a rodeo clown.Such an unlikely opening sentence warrants further explanation, which I trust in the next 650 words or so will shed more light than bolts across the sky in an April thunderstorm.

THE BIBLE SAYS

Run With EnduranceThe Hebrew writer said, “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1). The Christian life is not a short sprint; it is a race that requires endurance. We begin this race by obeying the gospel.

THE BIBLE SAYS

Jesus said, “I always do the things that are pleasing to Him” (John 8:29). Faithfulness is one of the most endearing qualities we can find in another person.

THE IDLE AMERICAN

Commentary by Dr. Don Newbury It wasn’t something he expected to find in his rural mail box. However, my Uncle Mort opened the envelope joyously; it was from his great nephew.He thought immediately about his kin’s spread deep in Arkansas.

THE IDLE AMERICAN

Advertising signs come and go, but few remain over the long haul. In the mid-20th century, for example, Burma-Shave limericks nailed to fence posts along highways, greatly outnumbering what we call billboards today.

THE BIBLE SAYS

Apostle Paul said, “This will take place on the day when God will judge our secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares” (Romans 2:16). There are things about every person that no one else knows.

JEANETTE’S VIGNETTES

I traveled to Dallas this past weekend to go homecoming dress shopping with Lillian. It is hard to believe that she is already a high school freshman. We were very lucky to find a dress at the first place we went. She is a quick shopper and not so difficult to please.

THE BIBLE SAYS

Abiding In ChristJesus said, “Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Jesus used a simple but powerful word to describe the relationship He wants us to have with Him: abide.

THE BIBLE SAYS

God Has No Favorites Apostle Paul said, “For God shows no partiality” (Romans 2:11). One of the beautiful truths about God is that He does not show favoritism. God does not judge people according to their wealth, social position, nationality, education, appearance, or reputation.

THE BIBLE SAYS

God’s Patient AppealApostle Peter said, “God is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). If God wanted to condemn humankind for sin, He could have done so the very moment sin entered the world.