Orchard Hill Church Blog
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Your Kingdom Come: A Prayer in Everything
Discover how the phrase "Your Kingdom Come" from the Lord's Prayer can transform your prayer life. By focusing on God's promises, revealing His Kingdom in daily life, and reshaping your character, you'll deepen your spiritual connection and start meaningful conversations with God.
Dwell with God: 5 Powerful Ways to Deepen Your Relationship with Him
Looking to strengthen your walk with God? Emily DeAngelo unpacks the powerful DWELL framework - a practical approach to growing in faith. From understanding the role of God's Word to experiencing a meaningful church community, this heartfelt guide offers clear steps for anyone seeking a more intimate relationship with their Creator.
Colossians 4:2-18 Devotional (Part 8)
There are 21 epistles, or letters, in the New Testament. While they are all personal messages, often written by the Apostle Paul, to various early churches, they all have different emphases and focuses.
The New Mind
New year, new you! Or is it? As we get ready to turn over a new calendar, a common tradition is for many to set their sights on a brighter future through the process of setting New Year’s Resolutions. Yet, it seems as if many today have become disillusioned by the idea of seeing progress through resolutions.
Are We Allies or Co-Belligerents of the Lord?
It is common for people to align themselves with others based on a shared goal, but a shared goal is not the same thing as a shared motivation. This is the difference between an ally and a co-belligerent. Allies are united by their cause and goal, while co-belligerents are united by their goal alone. So, which one are we in our relationship with God?
Quiet Acts of Obedience (Part 3): Praised
After reading the book Risen Motherhood, I was encouraged by the sentence, “All our quiet acts of obedience will be seen, rewarded, and praised for the glory of God.” In the final part of this series, we will explore the “praised” aspect and how this is demonstrated throughout scripture.
Quiet Acts of Obedience (Part 2): Rewarded
In part one of this series, we looked at how the God who created us is omnipresent and omniscient. In part two of this series, we will further examine how God will reward those who are obedient to Him, giving us hope for both today and for the future.
What Does it Mean to be a Humble Christian?
Webster’s definition of “humble”: “is having or showing a modest or low estimate of one’s importance”. A humble man or woman is one who, through the Holy Spirit, realizes that they are a sinner, and no number of good deeds can erase our sins.
Why Does the Bible say to “Fear God?”
I think we all tend to view fear as a flaw to correct. That somehow, the goal in life is to be unafraid and to have complete confidence in every situation. Yet, I’m starting to see that fear is not so much a flaw to correct, but a gift to be harnessed.
Quiet Acts of Obedience (Part 1): Seen
As part of my moms’ study group, we decided to read a book over the summer called Risen Motherhood. While reading, a quote that stayed with me is “All our quiet acts of obedience will be seen, rewarded, and praised for the glory of God.”
Church Words 101 - Agape
I did not understand the word “agape” until I did some research, reading, and soul-searching for this blog; but now I believe I have a better understanding. What do I understand a little better about agape love?
Being Vulnerable in a Small Group
One of the tests of a healthy small group is the willingness of members to be vulnerable with each other. Being vulnerable is putting yourself in a position to experience pain and rejection. This is the only way others get to know the real you.
The Importance of Preaching God’s Truth to Yourself and Others
I am not a preacher, but I am preaching truth to myself these days! I’m not preaching carefully crafted sermons with three solid points and illustrated stories. Rather the message to myself is a simple truth about who God is and what that means for me today.
Why Every Christian (and Non-Believer) Should Join a Group
One of the best places to experience this mission being lived out at Orchard Hill is through Groups. In fact, the reason the ministry of Groups exists at Orchard Hill is to help people (both Christians and non-Christians) grow in community with God and others.
Biblical Wisdom that Comes from Age
In the book of Job, Job mocked his aged “counselors” for being older but not wise. “Is not wisdom found among the aged? "Does not life bring understanding?” Job asked. He then told them: “True wisdom and real power belong to God; from him we learn how to live, and also what to live for.”
Speaking the Truth in Love
In his letter to the Ephesians, the Apostle Paul commands his fellow Christians to lovingly speak truth to their fellow church members. So why does this matter and what might speaking the truth in love look like in a post-truth world where truth has become relative?
Tips for Daily Devotionals in 2023
My own personal time with God has ebbed and flowed over the years as I’ve experienced everything from deep intimacy with God to dryness and boredom. Rather than adding one more thing to your “to-do” list, I want to share some helpful tips for getting the most out of your daily time with God.
Jesus Loves Yinz
One of the things most endearing to me about Pittsburgh is its unique language of Pittsburghese. By merely hearing it, you are part of Pittsburgh’s family of shared secrets, and a bond is formed. The love of God isn’t bound by the language you speak, even Pittsburghese!
Considerations and Encouragement for 2023
A new year can bring a mixed bag of emotions. Some view it as an opportunity to make some needed changes. Others may not feel as optimistic. Whichever of these categories you find yourself in, I want to provide you with some encouragement and a few things to consider as we come into a new year.
A Tunnel, a Waterfall, and a Bug Bring Clarity
There are times in life when we go through darkness and fear, losing our vision and bearings. We suffer pain, sometimes feeling like we are getting nowhere, even feeling like we will never get out of it. During these times, where do you turn to find direction and clarity?