HomeWord, with Jim Burns

Many Christians struggle to understand and apply the commandment to love God with all their mind, but this devotion explores how embracing intellectual honesty and biblical truth can deepen one's faith and lead to a more purposeful life. By examining the importance of objective truth and relational living, readers will discover practical ways to cultivate a deeper love for God that goes beyond emotional feelings.

In a world overwhelmed by constant noise, finding quiet is essential for connecting with God and growing spiritually. By intentionally creating silence in our lives, we can hear the voice of God more clearly and experience profound spiritual growth, even in small moments of stillness.

As a Christian, standing firm against peer pressure and compromising one's values can be a daunting task, but it is essential to remember that pleasing God is more important than pleasing others. By applying three key principles - choosing wise friends, embracing your uniqueness in God's eyes, and seeking first the kingdom of God - individuals can navigate the challenges of everyday life with integrity and righteousness.

The spread of gossip can have devastating consequences, causing irreparable harm to relationships and leaving a trail of damage that cannot be fully undone. By understanding the power of our words and the wisdom needed to resist the urge to gossip, Christians can learn valuable lessons from ancient proverbs and apply them to their daily lives.

As the devil seeks to catch us napping, many of us have become desensitized to the dangers that surround us, living in a state of spiritual numbness. By recognizing the warning signs and taking steps to stay alert, we can avoid falling prey to the devil's sneak attack and remain vigilant as people of God.

As a new creation in Christ, you have the power to redefine yourself and your life, embracing fresh starts and new opportunities. Through Scripture's promise of God's grace, you can break free from past limitations and discover a renewed sense of purpose and identity.

As technology increasingly dominates our lives, many of us struggle to stay connected to God's power and guidance. By recognizing the spiritual parallels between our daily struggles with battery life and our need for divine empowerment, we can discover the simple yet profound truth that prayer, His Word, and His people are always available to recharge our spiritual batteries.

A busy day can quickly turn into a desperate cry for help, as the author of "Running on Empty" shares their personal experience of running out of gas and realizing they had neglected to fill up their spiritual tank. Through Psalm 42:1-2, Kelly McFadden reflects on the importance of prioritizing God in our lives, just as we would prioritize fuel for our physical bodies, to avoid feeling drained and helpless.

Francis of Assisi's profound encounter with a leper transformed his life, inspiring him to dedicate himself as an instrument of God's peace and love. This devotional explores the powerful prayer that Francis wrote, offering guidance on how to sow love, pardon, faith, hope, light, and joy in a world filled with darkness and despair.

A poor widow's selfless gift to the temple treasury is contrasted with the more ostentatious offerings of wealthy donors, highlighting the true nature of generosity and gratitude. By shifting our perspective from material wealth to spiritual abundance, we can discover a deeper sense of giving that brings joy and fulfillment to both ourselves and others.

Moses, a reluctant leader, was chosen by God to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, despite his own fears and doubts. This powerful story reveals that our lives are not defined by monotony or safety, but by purpose and significance, and invites readers to consider their own calling from God.

The concept of a soul as the most valuable possession is central to understanding one's eternal significance, and Jesus' teachings emphasize that connecting with God is essential for investing in our souls and preparing for eternity. By prioritizing our spiritual well-being and feeding our souls through regular connection with God, we can stave off the reality of death and secure a place in His presence forever.

As the harvest season arrives, a powerful metaphor emerges in Kelly McFadden's devotional on being God's pumpkin, highlighting the transformative union with Christ Jesus that frees us from sin and empowers us to shine His light. By embracing our unique design as vessels of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome shame and reliance on our own strength, becoming beacons of hope for all to see.

This devotional explores the concept of authenticity in Christianity, drawing inspiration from A.A. Milne's classic tale "The Velveteen Rabbit." By examining the wisdom of the Skin Horse and applying its timeless advice to modern life, readers will discover a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly real and vulnerable about one's love for God.

Bach's habit of including prayers in his music serves as a powerful reminder to be intentional about seeking God's help and giving thanks, a practice that can bring much-needed perspective and humility to our daily lives. By embracing this mindset, we can cultivate a deeper dependence on the Lord and experience the transformative power of gratitude.