How well do we know each other? There are some friends whose sentences I can finish. I have been known to freak some people out by the way in which I get inside their heads and seem to know what they are thinking.
Maybe we met at a conference I gave in your local church. Perhaps we have worshipped at the same congregation. Whether we have met only once, or have been on a road trip together, I would like to think you have gotten to know me a little better through this blog.
Transparency and authenticity have been markers for the stories I share. So, in honor of my birthday, I am going to ask a few questions to see how well you know me. But, stay tuned through the end... there will be a spiritual application with an introduction to this month’s blog theme.

I forgot my belt at home the other day. And I was not wearing a pair of pants that made that okay. I spent the whole day distracted by my sagging pants. I couldn’t walk as quickly and had to take extra time to take care of my clothes.
My mild annoyance does not compare with the necessity of a belt as reflected in Ephesians 6:14.
In Bible times, a belt was an even more vital part of the wardrobe. The belt, sash, or girdle, was wrapped around the waist, and held the wearer’s clothes in place. It allowed the person to move around, walk, and even run, freely. Imagine trying to cook, walk, or carry something while also holding up your robes.

Truth is an elusive concept. It is treated as a fluid and relative term, catering to the needs of some or the popularity of many. As an abstract idea, the concrete nature of Christ as the embodiment of truth can be difficult to grasp—especially if His truth clashes with my opinion.
But I can’t have both. I must relinquish the right to my opinion in order to embrace truth and accept the abundant life Jesus offers.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10).
The father of lies is practiced at distorting truth and distracting us from the unrelenting, merciful truths found in Scripture.