New England Perspectives
A regularly updated collection of articles written by New England leaders and thinkers. Looking for news articles? Click here.
Overcoming the Spirit of Offense: Lessons from 1 Samuel 25
Nabal was a wealthy man living in Carmel, known for his riches—but also for his harshness and evil behavior. His name literally meant 'fool,' and sadly, he lived up to it. Despite having everything a person might desire—a successful business, a beautiful and intelligent wife named Abigail, and protection provided by David’s men—Nabal was bitter and disrespectful.
Finding Hope and Joy Again
I was sitting in church on Easter morning, my second Easter since my beloved wife of thirty-five years, Kay, passed away from pancreatic cancer almost two years ago. I was thinking of the hope I continue to find in Christ since her passing.
Finding Peace in Christ
In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress have become increasingly common. Sadly, some people seek relief through unhealthy habits and behaviors. Others seek relief through therapy, medication, or self-help strategies, all of which can be beneficial. However, as Christians, we know that faith in Jesus Christ offers a unique and profound source of healing and peace that surpasses human understanding (Philippians 4:7).
Spiritual Speeders
When my two older children were in college, my wife and I took a road trip from New England to South Carolina to visit them. Somehow we managed to avoid all the typical road construction and rush hour traffic. We made great time and it was an enjoyable road trip, with one frightening exception. As we neared Charlotte, North Carolina, we came up on a lengthy line of traffic due to a major accident involving a tractor trailer.
Happiness Versus Contentment
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about the difference between happiness and contentment. Several online dictionaries define happiness as “the state of being happy”. I didn’t actually find that very helpful. But another dictionary defined it as “a sense of well-being, joy, or contentment.” Though I think that is a better definition, I actually think contentment is deeper than happiness.