Greg Stories
A collection of Greg's written stories and teachings
for learning, leadership, and personal growth.
![God Works In Mysterious Ways?](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1718532255975-MWJQ6EN1ZL9NL9SZKLGC/20240616+God+Works+In+Mysterious+Ways.jpeg)
God Works In Mysterious Ways?
"God works in mysterious ways." Jesus never said it, and it's not in the Bible. How do we use this phrase to avoid personal responsibility and as a spiritual pacifier in times of tragedy? Explore its deeper implications and discover why we hide behind these words during tough times. Unpack the true message of faith in God from Isaiah 55:8-9 and understand the fundamental role of faith in challenging times in this insightful article/video.
![I Just Want You To Be Happy](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1717263450924-FPZ436IIJGU81BN91RQN/20240602+I+Just+Want+You+To+Be+Happy.jpeg)
I Just Want You To Be Happy
In American vernacular, "happy" refers to that fleeting feeling based on current circumstances. Itβs the chase after that chemical dump: Ice Cream, wins, influxes of wealth, sexual escapades, promotions, and entertainment, just to name a few. In the Bible, however, happiness is deeper, aligning with being "blessed" or experiencing lasting "joy" that isn't dependent on external factors. John 16:16-24
![Generational Faith](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1716640034945-7RB9M0Z2IDVNM6HOS4J8/20240526+Generational+Faith.jpeg)
Generational Faith
There is an insidious notion in our secular culture that says, "If you teach your kids your beliefs and encourage them to adopt them, you are indoctrinating them and hindering their ability to discover their own truth.β We want our faith in Jesus to be lived out by our children, yet this cultural narrative is constantly warning us against influencing our children with our Christian beliefs. We find ourselves navigating these waters, wanting to share our faith without alienating those around us or being perceived as religious zealots. How can we lovingly and effectively guide our children without falling into the trap of a culture that seeks to indoctrinate them to reject God, redefine morality, and deconstruct all truth?
![Generational Generosity](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1716035478772-TJH253A9X9MR2YPV64P8/20240519+Generational+Generosity+Thumbnail.jpeg)
Generational Generosity
Discover the profound transformation from spiritual neglect to divine favor in this gripping exploration of God's unconditional love. Uncover how the raw imagery of abandonment in Ezekiel 16 contrasts dramatically with the lavish adoption narrative in Ephesians 1. This article reveals the truth behind the oft-misquoted "God helps those who help themselves." Perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of God's boundless love.
![God helps those who help themselves](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1713059250126-YONFJ0DVFTOVKT2JJ16P/I+Never+Said+That.jpeg)
God helps those who help themselves
Discover the profound transformation from spiritual neglect to divine favor in this gripping exploration of God's unconditional love. Uncover how the raw imagery of abandonment in Ezekiel 16 contrasts dramatically with the lavish adoption narrative in Ephesians 1. This article reveals the truth behind the oft-misquoted "God helps those who help themselves." Perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of God's boundless love.
![Create Your Reality](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1712447383017-5S1S2LEA03NOKEUQS3P1/Jesus+Never+Said.png)
Create Your Reality
Dive into the fascinating journey of debunking popular sayings that Jesus never said, starting with 'Create Your Reality.' This article explores stark differences between modern self-help mantras and Jesus' authentic teachings. Discover how such phrases may mislead us from true Christian joy. Perfect for believers seeking to deepen their faith, this series promises to transform your understanding of biblical truths in today's context.
![Lasting Satisfaction](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1710089566236-TXFW9A4U22MZZZYA8KJ6/20240310+Lasting+Satisfaction+1.jpeg)
Lasting Satisfaction
This insightful video explores the profound journey from immediate gratification to lasting satisfaction. Learn from King Solomon's ancient wisdom on the emptiness of pleasure-seeking and the true fulfillment that comes from serving others and living for God. This is a compelling reflection on finding real satisfaction beyond the temporary joys of today's fast-paced world.
![Beyond The Miracles: Compassion Plus The Gospel](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1709470011952-V5VAPAXVCYWB7U6YXONF/Sunday+ThumbNails.jpg)
Beyond The Miracles: Compassion Plus The Gospel
When Jesus says, "Go in peace," he's not politely dismissing her to have a good day so He can get on with his. He's recognizing that He has restored her completelyβnot just physically, but in every aspect of her life. This includes her social standing, spiritual wellness, and emotional health, enabling her to rejoin her community fully with dignity and wholeness. Tracing that thread again, the miracle of Jesus in her life is not just a momentary act of compassion. It is also a restoration to wholeness.
![Tears and perfume](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1708868926470-TF61OT5UL2UMWG3RQQPI/20240225+Tears+And+Perfume.jpeg)
Tears and perfume
Ever wondered how a single act of faith can redefine your life? Discover the story of the woman with the alabaster jar in Luke 7:36-50. Can you find redemption and peace in your journey? Click to explore her transformative encounter with Jesus and how it speaks to us today.
![Donβt judge me!](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1708262464127-I4DOHXBK9KJ7M3L7V8B3/20240218+Don%27t+Judge+Me%21.jpeg)
Donβt judge me!
Even the most unchurched atheist will quote Jesus on one thing: "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged." It's their way of saying that Christians shouldn't be making any moral judgments about anyoneβs behavior.
Then you've got some Christians who pull out Jesus' words, "Do not judge," like a free pass against any accountability or correction. They argue that everyone sins, so nobody's in a position to call out or confront someone else's actions.
βDo not judge others, and you will not be judgedβ taken out of context is laced with subtext: Youβre not my moral authority. Donβt think less of me for what I am doing. Youβre not better than me. Itβs not your place to criticize my choices or behavior.
Jesusβ words have been misused by many as a βshieldβ for destructive behavior and attitudes.
Are these people making a strong point? Or is their application of Jesusβ words out of context?
![Rings of Decision-Making](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1707595104907-YEH7MBTX3XCQYUQUS22G/016+How+Does+Newstart+Make+Decisions%3F.jpeg)
Rings of Decision-Making
Common frustrations voiced within hierarchical church structures include feeling out of the loop, undervalued, and craving a more participative approach. Discover how embracing a fractal structure can transform your church into a more agile, inclusive, and effective body of Christ.
![Love My Enemies?](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1706990166751-Z8MNME53WQ03I9L0VY8L/20240204+Love+Your+Enemies.jpeg)
Love My Enemies?
Love your enemies? I get that if you're talking about Russians, Ukrainians, Gazans, and Israelis. But I don't have any enemies. I just have some people I don't like.
That's precisely how we often read Jesus teaching on loving our enemies. We love to read ourselves into Jesus' teachings about blessings. But, we excel at reading ourselves out of Jesus' commands - like loving our enemies.
In this article, weβll explore the practical applications for those of us who conveniently exclude ourselves from the directives found under the pretext that we don't categorize others as enemies. We will uncover how our approach to those we merely "dislike" is a powerful reflection of our spiritual maturity and where we have room for growth.
![Why do you eat with such scum?](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1705083987272-JT7E6ISNQKH541GJBQJO/20240114+Thumbnail+Why+Eat+with+Scum.jpeg)
Why do you eat with such scum?
What do we learn from Levi's transformation under Jesus' guidance from a tax collector to a chronicler of Jesus' life? This article dives into Jesus' mission for the lost and marginalized, challenging us to be "a friend of sinners." We discover how tax collectors in First Century Capernaum used their local knowledge for exploitation, symbolizing Roman oppression.
![Echoes from the Wilderness: The Uncompromising Message of John the Baptist, Luke 3:2-20](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1703991295322-SWABL5F35BOT10TNU88H/20231231+Thumbnail+1.jpeg)
Echoes from the Wilderness: The Uncompromising Message of John the Baptist, Luke 3:2-20
In this article, we delve into the confrontational message of John the Baptist, as presented in Luke 3. We journey to the banks of the Jordan River, where John's voice resounded with a call to repentance and a new way of life, and hear the echoes of the Exodus. We examine John's profound call to repentance, his challenge to societal norms, and his emphasis on spiritual transformation. Discover the relevance of John's teachings in modern life. Join us on a spiritual journey that echoes through centuries, inspiring genuine change and a closer walk with God.
![The Thrill of God's Perspective](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1702753908317-MHYJ9Y2TRLZAMWLE0POY/Greg+and+kids.jpeg)
![What If Ancient Rome Had ChatGPT?](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1700414937988-ENS70GZ0YJZDJF3UB68S/20231119+What+If+Ancient+Rome+Had+ChatGPT.jpeg)
What If Ancient Rome Had ChatGPT?
Imagine if Ancient Rome had the power of modern AI through ChatGPT and how it would have impacted First Century Followers of Jesus. Discover how this blend of ancient politics and cutting-edge technology could have transformed Roman society, from governance and propaganda to the daily lives of Jesus's followers. Unpack the philosophical and ethical implications of such a technological twist in a historical context. It is ideal for those fascinated by the potential impacts of AI on our society. Dive into a unique exploration of AI's role in ancient power dynamics, the manipulation of truth, and the enduring relevance of these themes today.
![ChatGPT and the Bible](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1699787553276-TAC56GYGMEIFGBVWPC5M/Social+Greg+Cat.png)
ChatGPT and the Bible
Explore the role large language models like ChatGPT play in our lives and the importance of biblical wisdom in the age of AI. This article delves into how LLMs like ChatGPT change our information access, the challenge of hallucinations in AI, and the crucial role of Scripture in guiding us through moral and spiritual queries in a tech-driven world. Proverbs 2:6-7
![Unmasking Faith in the Era of Deepfakes](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1699123099734-NAUZXTDI5VDIJE3SEHHA/20231105+Thumbnail+deepfakes.jpeg)
Unmasking Faith in the Era of Deepfakes
π€In a world where deepfakes are becoming indistinguishable from reality π, it's time to ask ourselves if our Christian walk is as authentic as we profess. π‘ Dive into an eye-opening article and video on spiritual integrity in the age of deepfakes. Click to see how real faith can shine through in a world obsessed with facades. βοΈ Matthew 23:27-28, James 2:14-17
![When Jesus Calls Your Name: A Life-Altering Encounter](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1698593693977-H3QJL70SCKHQRKH3DEMH/20231029+YouTube.jpeg)
When Jesus Calls Your Name: A Life-Altering Encounter
In this captivating video, we delve into the powerful and transformative story of Mary Magdalen, as told in John 20:11-18. Discover how an encounter with Jesus can change the course of your life. Like Mary, you, too, can experience the call of Jesus, leading to a profound journey of faith and transformation.
![Finding Your Internal Compass: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Modern Faith](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6390c42e0f68ec6fa9bcf925/1697304186736-7YS0ZHYHAZ8KCWIN8JIJ/20231015+Social+Graphic.png)
Finding Your Internal Compass: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Modern Faith
Explore the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the Christian journey, as contrasted with the disciples' experience with Jesus. Learn how the Holy Spirit is an omnipresent guide and internal compass in times of serenity and storm. Reflection questions are included for a deeper, empowered faith. John 14 and John 16