Joe Barnett

Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin.                   —Matthew 18:7 St. Bernard of Clairvaux resolved that his actions must pass three tests: Is it lawful? Can I do it and not sin? Is it becoming in me as a Christian? Can […]

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.                            —Psalm 106:1 If only my spouse was more understanding. If only my child was more respectful. If only I didn’t have to deal with such jerks. If only I had more money. Does

The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.                               —Psalm 103:8 The world puts the rich, charismatic, articulate, and connected on a pedestal. But Jesus seemed partial to the marginalized, outcasts, and nobodies. See him

The devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.                 —1 Peter 5:8 Raymond Brown was a postman. One day, he had a letter to deliver to a new resident on his route. When he started up the walk, he was confronted by the

Listen to advice and accept discipline.                   —Proverbs 19:20 (concluded) Be thankful for the blessings you have, and for the problems you don’t have. Tell the truth, and you don’t have to remember what you said. Be careful how you use time and words. You can’t get

The ear of the wise seeks knowledge.                       —Proverbs 18:15 (continued) Nothing can control your attitude without your consent. Problems are inevitable. Gratitude is optional. You don’t have to be successful to start, but you have to start to be successful Measure what God thinks

Wisdom is found in those who take advice.                             —Proverbs 13:10 (continued) Today is a new day. Yesterday died last night. You never finish what you never start. Peace comes from inside out, not outside in. Don’t let your attitude, words, and

The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.         —Proverbs 12:15 (continued) See opportunities where others see obstacles. Think progress, not perfection. Ask yourself, “Is this necessary?” Lighten up. Focus on what you can control. “What would Jesus do?” If you wouldn’t want it known who

Blessed are those who find wisdom.                    —Proverbs 3:13 Based on things I’ve read, advice I’ve received, and personal experience, I’ve cataloged more than a thousand aphorisms through the years. May I share some of them with you this week? Maybe you’ll find one to put in

The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.     —Matthew 20:28 If you need a mission statement, you couldn’t do better than adopt and adapt Jesus’ words. Put it this way: I am not in this world to be served; I am in this world to serve. Today, you