Christianity

In each of the listings of the 12 disciples, Philip's name appears fifth. Scripture indicates that Philip was one of the first to follow Jesus Christ, and he wasted no time calling others, like Nathanael, to do the same.

The name Philip is Greek and means "lover of horses." Although little is known about him after the ascension of Christ, Bible historians believe Philip preached the gospel in Phrygia, in Asia Minor, and died a martyr there at Hierapolis.

Learn how Philip's search for the truth led him to the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ.

• Profile: Philip the Apostle

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This week's post is called A Graduate's Prayer, an original Christian poem for graduates based on the Word of God.

Image: © Davide Guglielmo
A Graduate's Prayer

Dear Lord,

As I look toward the future
Bright hope conducts this prayer,
For I know the plans you have for me
Were wrought with divine care.

Holy Spirit, lead me.
Let me run at your command,
Yet be still and know that You are God
When trouble's close at hand.

Your Word will be a lamp for me,
A guide to light my way,
A solid place to set my feet,
A compass when I stray.
Read more ... A Graduate's Prayer.

Do you have an original Christian prayer that would encourage or benefit a fellow believer? Perhaps you've written a unique poem you'd like to share with others. We are looking for Christian prayers and poems to encourage our readers in their communication with God. To submit your original prayer or poem, please fill out this Submission Form.

More for Graduates:

• Bible Verses for Graduates
• Biblical Decision Making Steps
• A Prayer for Knowing God's Will

It's no secret that Jesus taught his followers in parables. As a matter of fact, 35 percent of his recorded words were spoken in parables. So, why did he use this method of teaching when doing so kept the underlying meaning of his message hidden from many of his listeners?

A basic comprehension of parables is essential to understanding the teachings of Jesus Christ. Discover the biblical definition of a parable and why Jesus was a master of this once popular form of communication.

• What is a Parable?

Today's Christian testimony is a dramatic before and after story of salvation about a young women who endured a childhood of physical, mental, and sexual abuse at the hands of her father. Tammy's memories include the time her dad pointed a gun at her head for waking up her brother. Even worse for Tammy was watching the ill-treatment her brother suffered. The pain of abuse took its toll on Tammy. She realized she needed a Savior. Tammy's faith in God has made all the difference in her life.

Read: My Life Was Miserable

Submit a Testimony:

• Testimony Submission Form
• Share a Before & After Story of Salvation
• Sign Up for eTestimonies

Last Mother's Day I was introduced to a great gift book, Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mothers of Today by Kathi Macias (Compare Prices). The author highlights 15 women from the Scriptures, presenting biblical and practical wisdom that each of their journeys through motherhood bring to us today.

For instance, first-time mothers will gain insight and confidence to overcome their insecurities through the example of Eve, who, without a single role model or mentor, paved the maternal way to gain the title "Mother of All the Living." Sarah teaches us that it's better to wait on the Lord's perfect plan than give in to the temptation of taking matters into our own hands and "helping" God out. Read More...

This week's post is a collection of Christian Mother's Day Poems. Bless your mom on Mother's Day with one of these poems, chosen especially with godly mothers in mind.

Image: © Davide Guglielmo
Mother's Day Poem - God's Helpers

God could not be in every place
With loving hands to help erase
The teardrops from each baby's face,
And so He thought of mother.

He could not send us here alone
And leave us to a fate unknown;
Without providing for His own,
The outstretched arms of mother.
Read more ... Mother's Day Poems.

Do you have an original Christian prayer that would encourage or benefit a fellow believer? Perhaps you've written a unique poem you'd like to share with others. We are looking for Christian prayers and poems to encourage our readers in their communication with God. To submit your original prayer or poem, please fill out this Submission Form.

More Mother's Day Poems & Verses:

• Mother's Day Prayer
• A Blessing in Disguise
• A Part of Me
• Bible Verses for Mother's Day

The stoning death of Stephen in Acts 7 was a defining moment in the early Christian church. Stephen, one of the original deacons in the newly organizing group of believers, became the first recorded Christian martyr. His angry mob of accusers sought to wipe out the spread of Christianity, but instead achieved the opposite result.

Escalating persecution forced many disciples to flee Jerusalem, dispersing the church and launching the gospel into Europe and beyond. The stoning of Stephen also set in motion the dramatic conversion of the Apostle Paul, one of the most influential voices in the history of Christianity and the gospel's most ardent messenger.

Learn how the stoning death of Stephen sparked explosive growth for the early Christian movement:

• Death of Stephen - Bible Story Summary

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Last Mother's Day, Karen Wolff of Christian-Books-for-Women.com launched an ebook called A Change of Heart, filled with tips to help women learn how to channel their God-given gifts toward positive and lasting life changes. I asked Karen to share some of those tips with us, and together we compiled them into this beautiful collection of affirming quotes, Bible verses, and words of wisdom for women. So, as an early Mother's Day gift to readers, I wish you a wise and happy Mother's Day with these 10 Words of Wisdom for Women.

• 10 Words of Wisdom for Women

More Inspirations for Women:
• Coping With Loss on Mother's Day
• Bible Verses for Mother's Day
• Mother's Day Poems

_{Image Composition by Sue Chastain using Paesaggio Elements by Darleen Araujo.}

Beginning in infancy, Anne experienced severe abuse by family members while being used in satanic rituals. When creative attempts to escape reality failed to ease her pain, Anne decided on suicide. But a kind stranger on a crisis hotline introduced her to a ministry that eventually led to a relationship with Jesus. Anne found the answers to her abuse in the healing power of God's love.

Read: Anne's Answer to Abuse

Submit a Testimony:

• Testimony Submission Form
• Share a Before & After Story of Salvation
• Sign Up for eTestimonies

Mother's Day is sneaking up on us with just over a week to go. If you're trying to decide what to give her, consider blessing Mom with one of these great new books for women on Mother's Day. These Christian books can help her relax and enjoy a few quiet moments, learn how to look and feel younger, or challenge herself to joyfully embrace God's calling.

• Great New Books for Christian Moms
• Daily Devotionals for Women

More Mother's Day Gift Ideas:

• Gifts to Bless Mom on Mother's Day
• Mother's Day Gifts for Traveling Moms
• Top Gifts for Mothers-to-Be

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