Darkened Glass Reflections
Living today with an eye on eternity
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Christian Perfection vs. Perfectionism
“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48, ESV). This is one Bible verse that has gotten me into a lot of trouble over the years. It is not a problem with Scripture itself; God and His Word are perfect. Instead, it was my problem. Having a compulsive sort of…
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Set Free
“So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’” (John 8:31-32, ESV).
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Light of the World
The Gospel according to John highlights seven “I am” statements by Jesus, where He made bold declarations about His divine identity. In John 8:12, He tells us that He is “the light of the world.”
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Repentance: More than a Feeling
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no ‘root of bitterness’ springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; that no one is sexually immoral or unholy…
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Unity of the Spirit
What is truly important in the “unity of the Spirit” is the personal relationship with Christ. Through that relationship, we are bound to other Christians in the church. Scripture often very appropriately uses the language of family to describe the church: God is our Father, and we are brothers and sisters through our relationship with…
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Freedom in Christ
(Note: I published this article last year, around July 4, on michaelelynch.wordpress.com. I believe it is always worthwhile to reflect on the true meaning of freedom on this day of the year. May God pour out His grace and mercy upon our nation.) July begins with one of America’s favorite holidays. On July 4, most…
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Set Apart
The story of Joseph and his brothers is a rich source of spiritual lessons. Believers throughout the ages have learned great truths about faith, perseverance in hard times, overcoming injustice, forgiveness and reconciliation, and other issues. However, one lesson is often overlooked, even though it introduces a theme that has preserved the Jewish people’s ethnic…
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Stewardship III: Treasures
“[B]ut lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20-21).
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Stewardship II: Talents
One of the great dangers for Christians is to focus too much on whether a skill is a spiritual gift or a natural talent. While natural talents, shared by believers and unbelievers, can be used without any connection to God, they can be enhanced by the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives.
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Stewardship I: Time
Giving to God is always a priority item. We do not worship God as an afterthought or give Him our leftovers: We give Him the best we can offer.
Darkened Glass Reflections 