Since I was relatively new to the Bible, I was surprised by the Old Testament God. He's wrathful, but at other times, He's incredibly compassionate. He's not a one-dimensional figure at all.

Jealousy is a useless, time-wasting emotion that's eating me alive.

I've rarely said the word "Lord," unless it's followed by "of the Rings.

In trying to avoid one sin I've committed another.

Probably 90 percent of our life decisions are powered by the twin engines of inertia and laziness.

I don't believe that prayers actually change God's mind - if there is a God - but I liked praying for people in need. It was like moral weightlifting. I tend to be self-obsessed, and it was nice to get out of my brain once in a while.

The key to making healthy decisions is to respect your future self. Honor him or her. Treat him or her like you would treat a friend or a loved one.