Posted by Michael There is a well-known story in the Bible about a man named Peter who was a close follower of Jesus. During the trial of Jesus just prior to his crucifixion, Peter, fearing for his life, denied even knowing him. This came after three years of close community with Jesus where he witnessed […]

Posted by Michael Thanks for all of the feedback on books that have impacted you. I can’t wait to read some of the books you’ve recommended! Keep the ideas coming! Another book that impacted me in my Christian life was “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard Foster. Foster was heavily influenced by the Quaker tradition, but […]

Posted by Michael For some time I have been trying to work out some blog posts about “Books Every Christian Should Read” or “The Most Important Spiritual Writings of the Past Century” but the more I work on it, the more ridiculous it sounds. I believe that you should read what interests you. That’s how […]

Posted by Michael I am constantly amazed by the creative ways that God uses to remind me of His love. Not long ago, I was flipping through magazines awaiting my annual eye exam.   I noticed with me in the waiting area what appeared to be a teenager with special needs and his grandfather. Many special […]

Posted by Michael I was driving through Asheville a while back, and was in need of a place to crash and work on some upcoming talks that I was going to be giving. I searched through a list of available coffee shops and landed at Filo. I am really glad I did. Filo is everything […]

Posted by Michael I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Rick and Kay Warren’s son. Their 27 year old son took his own life, after what appears to have been a prolonged battle with depression.  Rick Warren has pastored a sizable and influential church as well as written several books (The Purpose […]

Posted by Michael I can not imagine anything more awful than being imprisoned on death row. What would it be like to wake up every day and know that you are simply waiting to die? Pacing the six or seven steps across your cell and then back again has to feel claustrophobic and smothering. The […]

Posted by Michael I’ve spoken before of the devastating effects that a fear of failure can bring into our lives. It slows our decision making as we agonize over every possibility, dreading failure more than seeking success. It’s as if we spend our lives trudging through waist deep snow. Every step requires intense effort and […]

Posted by Michael It’s difficult to imagine a woman being placed in a worse relational situation than Leah had been (Genesis 29). Begin with her wedding day, which should have been a day of celebration, only those attending thought they were celebrating her sister Rachel instead of Leah. A day that for most women is […]

Posted by Michael For fans of the Lord of the Rings films, The Hobbit will offer another comforting dose of Middle Earth enjoyment. Peter Jackson brings the same elite level cinematography and attention to detail that garnered him the Best Picture Academy Award for the final movie in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. You’ll […]