Practical Ways 

Virtues move from being mere abstractions when placed against the vices that Paul lists. Note the specific ways of behaving that Paul enjoins. Decide to practice them.

How could you make chapter 5 verse 19 for the day come alive for you as you literally speak to others in words of Scripture? Look at the agenda of your day. Ask the Lord to give you verses applied to the persons with whom you interact each day.

These are vital chapters for families. When reading about the submission of wives, remember that this applies only to those marriages where the husband loves his wife as Christ loves the church.

You would be well to memorize the elements of the whole armor of God in 6:14–17. Put them on as you would the clothes you wear.

Ephesians 5—6

Find out all about Bible Breaths Learn More…
Example: Living as a child of light 5:8

Thursdays are dedicated to the letters of Paul, other letters,
the Book of Acts, and the Book of Revelation.
In the season of Lent this year we read Ephesians and 1 Corinthians 11-12.

For all the Firestarters in the original version, I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these Firestarters with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.

Communion and Community

Listen to Pastor Nick read the Firestarter

Picture the Upper Room where Jesus is sharing the Passover with his apostles. This Last Supper becomes the First Supper of a New Creation. Something only from heaven is about to take place; divine communion and community is incarnated in our human flesh through the Sacrament of Bread and Wine.

Keep your awareness of communion and community central as you read these two chapters of Paul. They treat of both. Though we peer into the particular problems of the church in Corinth long ago, the essence of the issues of strife and competition rear their ugly faces in every time and place religious institution. May the power of Christ transform you by the radiant light of his love. Pray for the oneness of the world.

1 Corinthians 11—12

Find out all about Bible Breaths Learn More…
Example: “This is my body for you.” 11:24

Thursdays are dedicated to the letters of Paul, other letters,
the Book of Acts, and the Book of Revelation.
In the season of Lent this year we read Ephesians and 1 Corinthians 11-12.

For all the Firestarters in the original version, I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these Firestarters with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.

Images of the Enemy

Tap here for a video meditation on Psalm 124.

The final “Song of Ascents” for this year brings us near the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Jesus, Job, and the psalmist experience the onslaught of enemy power coming against them. Do you identify with them? Three images are uplifted that describe these enemies. Feel them. In what way do they serve to have you sense enemy power coming against you?

The final verse of the psalm has been used from earliest times in worship as a prelude to the final blessing. Meditate upon the blessings that will come to you when you know with your entire being that the one who is your defense is the One who made heaven and earth. Is there any power greater than this? Is there anyone more disposed to come to your aid than the Lord?

Psalm 124

What are Bible Breaths? Learn More
Example:The Lord ever beside me v. 1

During Lent this year we read Psalms 120-124.

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information