Author: jmarkfox

Go see “Courageous.” It’s the latest film from Sherwood Pictures (Fireproof) and their finest yet, in my nonprofessional opinion. The writing is excellent. The action is intense. The portrayal of family life is real. I was laughing out loud one minute and trying not to weep loudly and disturb those around me the next. There … Continue reading Go see ‘Courageous’

As we work our way through 1 Timothy at Antioch, a letter Paul wrote to a young pastor 2,000 years ago, I marvel at how timely it is … and how practical. Paul addresses men and women in Chapter 2, giving encouragement to both sexes for how they are to prepare themselves for public worship. … Continue reading Getting ready for church

The chorus of the old song said, “Talk about me as much as you please; I’ll talk about you down on my knees.” We need to talk to men about God and talk to God about men. Any fool can gossip; men and women of God are called to pray. I was reminded of those … Continue reading Prayer is a game changer

Why is church discipline necessary? Imagine this scenario. A team of doctors is operating on a critically ill patient whose life hangs in the balance. Cancer is threatening to kill the person, and the only help and the only hope for survival is in the hands of the skilled surgeons. The cancer must be removed. … Continue reading Church discipline is not for sissies

“One first-world baby stuck at the bottom of a well generates more heartfelt anxiety than the 100 million children trapped on the streets of the developing world ever will.” That’s a quote from Dr. Chi Huang, a founder of Kaya Children International, that I read in Cycling Home from Siberia by Rob Lilwall. Many of … Continue reading The children that live ‘down the well’