Sociologists have a theory of the looking-glass self: You become what the most important person in your life (wife, father, boss, etc.) thinks you are. How would my life change if I truly believed the Bible's astounding words about God's love for me, if I looked in the mirror and saw what God sees?

I would far rather convey grace than explain it.

The Bible never belittles human disappointment ... but it does add one key word: temporary.

Some who attempt prayer never have the sense of anyone listening on the other end. They blame themselves for doing it wrong.... Prayer requires the faith to believe that God listens.

No one ever converted to Christianity because they lost the argument.

When I am tempted to complain about God's lack of presence, I remind myself that God has much more reason to complain about my lack of presence.

At the heart of the gospel is a God who deliberately surrenders to the wild, irresistable power of love.