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.
Jan 16, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 16, 2012 | 8 comments
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)
Our fears, doubts and anxieties can weigh heavily on our hearts, and keep us from the abundant lives God desires us to have. In this transformational promise, Jesus reminds us that when we place our faith in Him and release our burdens to His care, our souls can truly find peace.
Jan 13, 2012
Posted by PhatherPhil on Jan 13, 2012 | 4 comments
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.” – 1 John 4:7 (ESV)
Jesus came to us with a completely radical perspective; He told us to love one another. In this bold statement from his first Epistle, John reminds us that when we allow love for others to flow from our hearts, we connect with our Heavenly Father in a very powerful way.
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. 
