Bad things happen to good people. When they do, we have a difficult time understanding why. People live their lives the right way, do good in their communities, and one day everything goes to hell.

People with good intentions will say, “well, it’s just God’s will.” They are wrong. God doesn’t want bad things to happen, and he certainly doesn’t will it. In fact, he can’t. Doing something bad would cause God to go against his nature.

What is true is this: God allows it. Did you realize that every awful thing that happens must be okayed by God? That’s right. He doesn’t give the demons free rein because that would mean that God wasn’t in control.

There’s some good news! Only God can bring good from evil. In fact, God alone has this power.

No matter what you are going through, trust God to bring you through it. He will. Just stay in faith and believe…

You might not believe that God has a great purpose for your life. Or you may believe it’s too late to fulfill said purpose. Let’s consider the disciples.

In Jesus’s time, Jewish boys would go to school beginning at five years old. They studied and memorized the Torah, the first five books of the Bible. After this time, the brightest students would continue their rabbinical studies while the kids who weren’t chosen would go off to study a trade. None of the disciples had been chosen to be rabbis.

Jesus chose the twelve and, for three years, taught them by example. He was preparing them to begin the church. The religious leaders of the time were puzzled by Jesus because he hadn’t continued rabbinical studies, yet he knew everything. Jesus taught with compassion and kindness which was different from the teachings of many others.

It’s interesting that Jesus chose the men he chose rather than men who were religious leaders. He saw what he needed in the twelve.

It’s not too late. Say yes to God’s call on your life. If you are still here, God isn’t through with you. Allow yourself to be used. Start now…

One of the most important things we can do is to protect those who are weak. It’s no doubt that God cares about widows and orphans. He told us to look out for them and their needs.

When my sons were in high school, there was a young man who barely stood five feet tall. Adding to his height challenge was the fact that he was gay. My sons, who were strong and athletic, took him under their wing and protected him. They made sure he had a good experience in school, not one filled with fear of getting picked on. I’m proud of my children for this.

In Austin where I live, there are beggars on practically every street corner. Some have children with them. It’s heartbreaking to see little kids sitting in the blazing sun while their parents ask for help. I don’t give them any money, but when I am able I hand out food and water to them. I’m leery of the motives of people on the street, but I’m hopeful that food doesn’t get wasted.

Remember those in need. No one sets out in life to be homeless. And remember to pray for them. God listens…

The media lies. People gossip. Memes rule the internet. Some memes are funny as hell, but many are there to mislead. So where can we find truth?

The Bible is the only reliable source for truth. It is a comprehensive self-help book. Everything we need to know about how to live our lives on this side of eternity is in there. Health, prosperity, forgiveness and healing? They’re all there.

Reading the Bible can be challenging. There are parts I don’t understand. Yet there are some fascinating stories, too. Daniel sleeping with the lions, Peter walking on water, the sun standing still…there’s even a talking donkey!

When you are looking for guidance or hope, I encourage you to check the source that will give you reliable information. It won’t turn you into some religious nut, but it will tell you the truth…