Devotional by Stephen Estock April 21, 2014 Whether the root cause is busyness or faithless anxiety, sometimes the mind races with the thoughts of the day. Emotions swirl between excitement and dread, happiness and depression. There is a longing for the presence of God. The psalmist pictures such mental and emotional churning with the image of [...]

Devotional by Stephen Estock April 28, 2014 Recently, I read a review of a book critiquing the theology and methodology of a very popular pastor in the PCA. The review appeared in the magazine of a sister denomination. As I read, I wondered, “With all of the unbiblical ideas and behavior that exist in the world, [...]

Devotional by Stephen Estock May 5, 2014 Recently, I have been arriving to work early in the morning. I enter a parking lot that is almost completely empty, and I have my pick of the empty spaces. Yet, the decision is difficult – what does the choice say about me? I could pick the spot closest [...]

Devotional by Stephen Estock May 12, 2014 “... but Mary remained seated in the house.” (John 11:20 ESV) I recently heard a pastor read the account of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, and this statement grabbed me. It may have been the way he read the text, or more likely, because of what I had [...]

Devotional by Stephen Estock May 19, 2014 Sometimes God uses images to communicate truth that are as shocking as they are earthy. About 600 years before Christ, God’s people had fallen into self-centered worship. There was religious activity, yet evil was everywhere. The prophet Jeremiah complained, “Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do [...]

Devotional by Stephen Estock May 26, 2014 “But [Peter] said emphatically, ‘If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.” (Mk 14:31 ESV). In the words of Peter, I see myself. I would have joined with the rest of them in making a bold commitment. In my struggle [...]