All Resources

Our perceptions—much more than our circumstances—are the building blocks with which we construct our lives. No matter what the circumstances and stress, our view of life determines our level of joy and contentment.

We recommend Jinger Vuolo’s book Becoming Free Indeed. She explains the problematic legalistic teachings, and also mentions Gothard’s moral failings.

The presence of God is the essence of Heaven. John Milton put it, “Thy presence makes our Paradise, and where Thou art is Heaven.” Heaven will be a physical extension of God’s goodness.

The more famous someone becomes, the harder it is to cultivate and retain virtue. The bigger your image, the more it tends to eclipse your character. In today’s social media world, instead of building character, many people just build image.

Randy will be speaking on the happy-making nature of giving at his home church, Good Shepherd Community Church, on November 15-16, 2025: Saturday, November 15, 5 p.m. Sunday, November 16,  9 a.m. Sunday, November 16, 10:45 a.m.  GSCC Main Campus, 28986 SE Haley Rd Boring, OR 97009   For more information, visit the Good Shepherd website.

Someone can certainly say it has worked fine for them, and sometimes it does, but it doesn't change my conviction that “most of the time” it’s not a wise financial decision.

Today is the 33rd anniversary of the death of my childhood best friend, Jerry. In God’s providence, earlier this summer I ran across my 2007 blog about him. I’m reposting it in honor of my friend, and in the hope that readers will find this tribute to friendship to be encouraging. 

We can’t know what responses people will give to our offer of God’s abundant life, though we can (and it sounds like you do) spend time praying for the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts and to give us the right words and opportunities.

This Wednesday, October 8, is the 44th anniversary of the death of my precious mother, Lucille Vivian Tovrea Alcorn. Hardly a day goes by where I don’t think of her and thank God for her.

Your relationship with Jesus will only grow as you spend time with Him—not only as you talk to God, but also as you listen to Him.

Indeed, all three members of the trinity are present in those last two chapters of Revelation. Scripture is clear: one day, no longer will there be any separation between Heaven and Earth.

“Find yourself” is common advice. But in the end, people who follow it find only ugliness, brokenness, and unhappiness. They pursue dreams, and find nightmares.

I’m reposting this blog in honor of the 10-year anniversary of my friend John’s homegoing. I love (not just loved, he is more alive than ever) this brother very much. Some of you knew John; others knew of him. His life and story are worth knowing.

Anne Farrens writes, “Abortion doesn't undo the trauma of rape—it brings more sorrow and suffering. Grace can come from brokenness; my life is the ultimate example.”