Psalm 73 deals with a theme that is common to those who seek a godly existence. Throughout all of history God’s people have wondered, “Why do the wicked prosper and the servants of God suffer?” The psalmist understands the struggle that the faithful have in finding God’s presence in situations where wickedness seems to prevail. … Read More Those Far From God — Johnny O. Trail
Most people who know the Bible are familiar with the 23rd Psalm. It is one of the most widely quoted Old Testament passages in the Christian religious world. Many preachers read or quote this Psalm in funeral settings. Sadly, that is where the text of this passage is most remembered—at the grave of a deceased… Read More Words of Encouragement — Johnny O. Trail
The Proverbs contain general truths about common situations in life. It is not always possible to take a specific set of circumstances and apply them to what one reads in Proverbs. Proverbs gives general suggestions about various situations that God’s people will face in life. Still, there are many passages that God’s people would do… Read More Proverbs: The Problem of Adultery — Johnny O. Trail, LMFT
Micah was a wicked Judge who served over the Israelites prior to the establishment of a king. Micah’s name means “Who is like Yahweh?” This seems ironic given his evil behaviors, his idolatry, and the characteristics that are revealed about him in Judges chapters seventeen and eighteen. When one examines the biblical text linked with… Read More Judges: Learning From Micah — Johnny Trail
Much of what is seen in today’s world underscores the very problem that existed among the Israelites who lived during Old Testament times. Namely, they did not revere God in the manner that He wanted them to in His covenant relationship. If one does not respect God, God will not be honored and obeyed in an acceptable manner.… Read More Holding God In Reverence — Johnny O. Trail
Just recently the state of Texas passed a law, Senate Bill 8,1 that would ban most abortions after six weeks. Legal scholars believe that this law could signal an overturn of Roe v. Wade since challenges to the law were not granted writ of certiorari by the Supreme Court. In the one paragraph majority ruling,… Read More Satanists and the “Sacrament” of Abortion — Johnny O. Trail
As the Psalmist speaks of the seven abominations, it is interesting to note how many of these are associated with how one chooses to use his tongue. Among these sins are “a lying tongue…A false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren.” Proverbs 6:16-19 says,“These six things the Lord hates, yes,… Read More Abominable Uses of the Tongue — Johnny O. Trail
As she sat in the oncology waiting room, she spied a nurse that greeted her with a smile and escorted her husband back to the area where he would shortly receive Benadryl and his chemotherapy treatment. As the nurse came by to give the wife a status update, the wife motioned for the nurse to… Read More Loving And Serving Chronically Ill People — Johnny O. Trail
What keeps you away from the assembly of the saints? I honestly believe that there are potentially valid reasons for one to miss church. We should all be thankful for emergency responders, hospital workers, and others who provide vital services during Sunday assembly. No person would want to arrive at the emergency room and see a “closed” sign hanging up… Read More Some Observations On Church Attendance — Johnny O. Trail
Carolina Messenger 