Orchard Hill Church Blog
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Faith Through Fiction: Analyzing Stories Through a Biblical Lens
Discover a powerful four-phase framework that transforms how Christians engage with movies, books, and media through a Biblical lens. This practical guide equips you to identify worldview elements in stories, compare them with Scripture, and use popular culture as a meaningful gateway for spiritual conversations and Great Commission opportunities.
The Power of Forgiveness: Stories of Lives Changed by Jesus
Forgiveness stands as one of humanity's most challenging yet liberating acts. This exploration delves into transformative stories—both ancient and modern—to uncover the profound healing that occurs when we choose forgiveness and how it isn't just something we give to others; but gift we give ourselves.
Humble Like a Child: Seeing Humility as a Strength
When was the last time you spent time with a child? Their unfiltered joy, awe, and honesty set them apart from adults. But what if we could learn from them? In this post, we’ll explore Jesus’ call to childlike humility and how it frees us from comparison, empowers us to uplift others, and deepens our dependence on God. Are you ready to see humility as a strength? Let’s dive in.
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.