Jan 25, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 25, 2012 | 7 comments
“For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”” – 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 (ESV)
God doesn’t restrict His calling to deliver the gospel message to those of stature; the scholarly, the wise or the influential. For the Lord knows our hearts, and joyfully shines through all those who seek to glorify Him, and not themselves.
Jan 23, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 23, 2012 | 5 comments
“Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” – Ephesians 6:13-17 (ESV)
Each and every day, our hearts and minds are tempted and assaulted by the broken nature of the world we live in. To combat this onslaught, it’s vital that we “armor up” in the resources that God has Blessed us with; firmly defending that which we’ve given over to Christ.
Jan 20, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 20, 2012 | 3 comments
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.
And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24-25 (NLT)
As members of the Body of Christ, one of our most important responsibilities is to join with other believers; to worship together, to encourage one another, and to reach out in unity and share the ministry and message of our Savior.
Jan 19, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 19, 2012 | 4 comments
“Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.
Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.” – 1 Peter 4:12-13 (NLT)
When people first come to Christ, it’s a common misconception that their lives will somehow become easier, or that at least their fears, anxieties and struggles would dissipate to some extent. In effect however, that’s rarely the case. With that Blessed renewal of our spirit, in some respects our lives can actually become more complicated as we strive to follow in Jesus’ footsteps. The important thing to remember however is that trials in His name are in fact Blessings unto themselves; drawing us closer to His path, and bringing joy in the knowledge that He shares our struggles with us.
Jan 18, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 18, 2012 | 4 comments
“And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father.”
Now you are no longer a slave but God’s own child. And since you are his child, God has made you his heir.” – Galatians 4:6-7 (NLT)
Too often, we see our own worth and identity in terms of this world; what job we hold, what social status we’ve attained, or how much wealth we’ve amassed. It’s important to remember however, that all of those things are temporary, and in the end don’t truly define who we are. Through Christ Jesus, we’ve been “adopted” into God’s family and infused with His divine Spirit; we are His Beloved Children, we are loved, and in that permanent relationship we find our true identity.
Hi, I’m Phil Malmstrom, a.k.a. Phather Phil. I’m self-employed, father of two wonderful young men, an ordained minister who delights in spreading Jesus’ Message of Hope and Love, a science-fiction junkie, an aspiring photographer and above all that one of God’s Children who rejoices in His Blessings each day. 
