sacrifice

The Hidden Things of the Heart

“For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.” – Luke 8:17 Yesterday, we talked about how it’s possible that the Roman Empire fell because everything in their culture centered around the external. Although what was visible was attended to with great care, what was hidden was practically overlooked. While this was a prevailing Gentile philosophy in those times, it stands in stark contrast to the Jews, who consistently prized the inner life over the outer. In fact, in looking at the ruins of the Hebrew temple, it’s been noted by archeologists that every single stone had an ornate carving on its exterior. While you would expect that only those that were apparent to the eye would be given such great time and attention, even the stones underground had intricate designs. You see, unlike the

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A Generous Spirit

“But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow.” – Philippians 2:25-27 At this special time of year, we hear a lot about generosity. However, more than just buying someone the perfect gift or making a charitable donation, true benevolence is a deeply-rooted state of heart — one that is always willing to go the extra mile. As a study in this manner of kindness, let’s look at a man named Epaphroditus, who was a companion of the Apostle Paul in the New

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