Matthew 6:19-24 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Mark 9:24 “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief”
There are times in life when it is difficult to fully trust God. In Mark 9, a father is desperate because of a need in his family. While encountering Jesus, he asks if Jesus can heal his son. Jesus responds that “everything is possible for those who believe.” This man gives an honest response that I have thought many times. “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.”
Matthew 5:43-44 “You have heard that it was said, ‘love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
One of the most popular bible verses in the world is John 3:16. People hold up this verse at ball games, put it on bumper stickers, and have committed it to memory. But what about Matthew 5:44? I have yet to see anyone hold up that verse at a game: “LOVE YOUR ENEMIES!” (Especially at a Browns-Steelers Game!)
Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”
A few months ago, I discovered in a painful way that my core was not that strong. When, after a day of moving some boxes and materials as my local church, I couldn’t get off the couch because a disc in my spine herniated and pinched a nerve. Ouch! A surgery and months of PT later I now know the importance of core strength!