Rylisms...

Olympic Champions in Life (Part 1)

"If anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules." (2 Timothy 2:5). With the Summer Olympics moving fast towards the Closing Ceremonies, and our minds reeling with the stunning achievements of all those who have competed according to the rules and been given the victor's crown -- a thought occurred to me that much of this parallels our Faith journey with Jesus. And just like the remarkable athletes who astound us with their discipline, dedication, and determination -- we also..."

Go the Distance!

"Blessed is the man who endures temptation, who perseveres under trial" (James 1:12). By definition, endurance means to sustain one's capacity and integrity throughout the duration of any kind of ordeal. It means to withstand hardship, adversity, or stress; to remain firm under difficulty without yielding. It means that even though you may bend, you will not break. This indefatigable spirit was illustrated in the life of one man in particular, who aspired for greatness despite many difficulties. Here is a brief review of his uphill... "

Words of Wisdom?

"Words of wisdom make good sense; but the thoughts of a fool make no sense at all." (Proverbs 15:7). We all know that Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived. And he's the one who said, "Words of wisdom make good sense." So in light of that insight, take a look at these twelve tidbits, and see if they "make sense" to you.... If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that you tried. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it. For every action, there is an equal and opposite criticism. He who hesitates is... "

The Lord is Thinking About You Right Now

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you." (Jeremiah 29:11) Have you ever prayed something like this: "Lord, I know what you must be thinking about me right now," and then began to tell Him what you were actually thinking about yourself? We all do this. We condemn ourselves for the mistakes we have made and resolve within ourselves that it must be what the Lord thinks of us. But, this is a wrong thing to do! We have got to stop "putting our words in the Lord's mouth." We must come to know the Lord as He is, and not as we assume Him to..."

Have You Seen God Lately?

"Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God" (Matt. 5:8). Did you know that our eyes are connected to our hearts? It's true. Whatever your heart is set upon, your eyes will search out and find. Whatever your heart dismisses as meaningless will always be passed over by your gaze. For example -- have you ever noticed when you buy a new car and start driving it around, you then start seeing it each time someone else is driving the same model? Why? Because it matters to you; and because your heart is set upon it, your eyes will seek it..."