Identity Security

A reflection on God’s economy of relationship Psychology experts are offering a sober reminder as AI companions gain traction: these tools function more like mirrors than actual companions. They reflect back our words, our emotions, our preferences. They can sound affirming, attentive, even caring. But they do not share life with us. They do not bring themselves to the relationship—because there is no “self” to bring. And that distinction matters…

“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” — Matthew 6:3 (ESV) For decades, the passing of the offering plate was as much a part of Sunday morning as hymns and handshakes. As a kid, I remember the thrill of dropping a shiny quarter in the plate—roughly ten percent of my allowance—because that’s what I was taught good Christians did. A minimum standard. A religious formula. A number tied…

Most of us are familiar with the Bible's reference to the “12 tribes of Israel.” What’s surprising is that Scripture actually contains 14 tribal names—yet only 12 appear at any given time. The lists change depending on the season: land inheritance, military service, priesthood, or prophecy. Jacob’s 12 sons formed the original tribes, but when he adopts Joseph’s sons—Ephraim and Manasseh—as full heirs, the family expands.…

How curiosity, risk-taking, creativity, and even my failures were rewritten into a calling far bigger than myself. “God weaves every thread—strong and frayed—into a story He’s been writing since before we knew our own.” I’ve been reflecting on the strange, beautiful mix of gifts God embedded in me long before I understood who they were ultimately for. When I trace the thread back—through early days of self-taught programming at an MS…

The movie Gladiator is one of my favorites because it’s packed with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and identity. Maximus is a Roman general and trusted leader under Emperor Marcus Aurelius. But after the emperor’s death, his son, Commodus, seized power. Insecure and threatened by Maximus’s influence, Commodus orders him executed—and even has his wife and son killed. Maximus survives, but stripped of everything, he is sold into slavery. Once a man of…

Years ago, I watched a remarkable moment unfold at a ministry conference.The event had drawn thousands, and one young man gave a powerful testimony about how he’d come to Christ. He described the moment with emotion and detail, but never once mentioned the name of the person who led him to Jesus. Later, during a break, I overheard someone ask him, “Who was it that prayed with you?”He smiled and said, “Honestly, I don’t remember his name. He…

From Prison to Purpose: My Conversation with David Garlock There are moments in ministry when I find myself humbled by the raw power of God’s redemption. Sitting down with David Garlock for our latest Embracing Brokenness podcast was one of those moments. David’s story is not an easy one to hear—but it’s one we need to. It’s a story of unimaginable trauma, personal failure, and the relentless pursuit of grace that only Jesus can offer. As he…

In a world that often separates the sacred from the secular, we are called to recognize that our work, no matter how ordinary it may seem, has eternal significance. Through the lives of five remarkable individuals, we discover profound lessons on how to glorify God in our everyday pursuits and embrace our role as "mere Christians" in a complex world. The Power of Presence and Unhurried Love Imagine a man so committed to being present with others that time seemed…

A friend of mine just listed a property for sale at nearly $2 million. Over 8,000 square feet with acres of land and a beautiful built-in pool and deck, it’s an impressive home. I looked at the size, the majestic architecture, the circular driveway and entrance with all the upscale accoutrements. I remembered a day when I would have lusted after such opulence. Honestly, this home would not have been big enough for me. I accumulated some pretty cool stuff. Oceanfront,…