Dale Cresap's blog

Are you familiar with identity theft? This is a modern type of crime in which one person uses the identity of another person to steal their money. Yet this concept is not new. You have an identity centered in me.

Do you give generously to my work? This is a biblical principle. Do you want to give in such a way that your donation will be well managed and effectively used? 

If you are sick you can call for the elders to pray for you and if you are afflicted you can sing Psalms. You are free to seek sympathy and comfort from others if you are sick, but what if you are afflicted by another person?

I tell you not to judge by appearances. What is the easiest judgment to make? Are you quick to judge those who are overweight to be lacking in character? The results are obvious and you can discern this from a distance, even before they speak a word.

How often do you make a transaction with a clerk, cashier, or server? They represent the businesses they work for, and most transactions of this type are brief and to the point. Yet everyone you meet is made in my image. 

Do you think of my death on the cross as a tragic misfortune? That would make me a hapless victim. I made it clear that this was my mission from the first. I told my disciples in advance how I would die. I said that for this cause I came into the world.

What is the worst insult that can be made? To say that someone else is stupid is considered pretty extreme. This accusation is regarded as more severe than those of moral failings.

Do you hear criticism of my workers who take up an offering or have a book to sell for profit? Everyone needs to eat, including my servants and those who criticize them. Do they work for free?

Do you find that one result of hard work is more opportunities for hard work? This is something to beware of if your goal in life is to minimize effort. But that is not a plan for an abundant life.

I command children to obey their parents and all to be subject to the authority of government. Do you claim to be exempt if those in authority over you are not believers? Yet my word does not allow this excuse.