goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The Choice is Yours

By Linda Tancs

Joshua instructed the Israelites to choose whom they’d serve (Joshua 24:15). Today the same choice lay before us. As Jesus taught, you cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). As one theologian put it, Jesus and Barabbas (the prisoner set free in lieu of Jesus during Passover) cannot both live within us. Barabbas represents worldliness, greed and any other unhealthy attachment. In all things, you have a choice: restraint or abandon. You restrain your inner Barabbas or you abandon the Lord. To whom do you give the victory? The choice is yours.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Carry That Weight

By Linda Tancs

Part of a long, climactic melody, “Carry That Weight” is a Beatles song at the end of the Abbey Road album. It was one to which Paul McCartney has said he felt the most emotionally attached, owing to the band’s impending breakup at the time. From a biblical perspective, we know we don’t have to “carry that weight” (Psalm 55:22). Indeed, as another song goes, what a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear. Leave the weights at the gym.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The More You Know

By Linda Tancs

A longtime ad campaign promoting education is entitled “The More You Know.” Knowledge is fundamental. It’s also limitless. As Albert Einstein once said, “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.” The Bible’s Job felt the same way, reflecting on God’s limitless majesty in creation (Job 11:7-8). God’s understanding is infinite (Psalm 147:5). There’s much you don’t know, but enjoy the journey. Keep learning.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Guilt and Shame

By Linda Tancs

Do you confuse guilt with shame? Guilt and shame are not the same. Guilt is what you feel for what you’ve done. Shame is how you feel about an aspect of yourself. In other words, guilt is your “do”; shame is your “who.” The key to overcoming either one is to draw nearer to God (Hebrews 10:22; Isaiah 61:7). It starts with confession. Own it, as they say, and then give it to Him (1 John 1:9).

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

See and Say

By Linda Tancs

“If You See Something, Say Something” is a national campaign that raises public awareness of the signs of suspicious behavior. It’s a reminder of the biblical edict as well; if you see something untoward in the words or action of a believer, then you’re supposed to say something. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a step-by-step process for handling correction. It commands directly confronting the offender privately, then involving witnesses if needed, reporting to the church, and finally treating unrepentant individuals as unbelievers. Correction isn’t condemnation; it’s direction. See and say.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Hollow Willow

By Linda Tancs

A “hollow willow” is a Slovak expression used to describe someone who is safe to confide in. We all want a hollow willow, but we live in a fallen world full of opportunity to betray another’s confidence. In Proverbs we’re reminded of the value of an individual who displays discretion (Proverbs 11:13). How one handles information reveals character, and it takes maturity to keep secrets. Be a hollow willow. That’s the kind of righteous and truthful living that brings blessing and security.

.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Breakfast with Jesus

By Linda Tancs

It’s often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day: The way we fuel our body in the first instance affects the remainder of the day. So it is with seeking God. Think of time in God’s Word as spiritual nourishment to start the day. In Psalm 63, David described seeking God early. You can, too. (Psalm 5:3). Have breakfast with Jesus. You’ll be amazed at the results.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

The Attributes of God

By Linda Tancs

The Torah sets forth several attributes of God, among them that God is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger and abounding in kindness (Exodus 34:6-8). These attributes aren’t reserved for God. You are, after all, made in His image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). By emulating these very attributes, we also create the goodness which allows us to know God. Keep working on those attributes.

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Great Expectations

By Linda Tancs

Expectations shape our perception, profoundly influencing how we interpret the world. The best type of expectation you can foster is a biblical one. Biblical expectation is a confident, faith-based anticipation of God’s intervention, promises and goodness, rather than self-focused entitlement. It’s anchored in hope, waiting on God to act (Psalm 5:3) and expecting His goodness (Isaiah 30:18). How great are your expectations, biblically speaking?

goforwardinfaith Christianity, Religion, Theology

Golden Handcuffs

By Linda Tancs

Golden handcuffs are financial incentives—such as large bonuses, stock options, or deferred compensation—designed by companies to retain key employees by making it financially disadvantageous for them to leave. These perks keep employees “trapped” in high-paying jobs they may otherwise want to quit. But anyone can submit to golden handcuffs. We all have trappings, regardless of occupation. They can lead to idolatry, spiritual decay or harmful desire (Luke 12:15). Beware of your own snares.