Mike Emlet

Mike Emlet

Slot Machine Christianity

“Too often we approach the Christian life, relationships, and ministry with the expectation that if we put in enough time, effort, and faithful service—in the end it will turn out well for us. The payoff will come—and even in this life. But surely, we don’t think that way, do we? We who are heirs of the Reformation and its recovery of the doctrines of grace? Don’t be so sure. Consider, in your most honest moments, whether you’ve ever thought this…

An Open Letter to a Discouraged Saint

“I know you are discouraged and distressed this morning. The trials and temptations you’ve faced this past week have brought you low. Suffering clouds your vision. Sin’s hangover—guilt, shame, and doubt—still pounds in your soul. The hardships you face and the failures you recounted to me loom large in your life. They seem to be what is most true, most real, and most compelling about your experience as a Christian right now. I know you have prayed about these things.…

The Monotony of the Wilderness: Are You Just Marking Time?

“What is God’s calling for you on this ordinary day? Perhaps it’s unbegrudgingly making breakfast for your kids. Or patiently dealing with an interruption as you try to work from home. Or confessing your sin when you were impatient in the midst of that interruption. Or spending hours on the phone trying to secure unemployment benefits. Or video chatting over dinner with a single friend who is home alone. Or walking the dog. Or doing the dishes. Or struggling through…

Why We Give in to Temptation

“Why do we give in to temptation? This question often arises in the context of counselling for repetitive struggles such as pornography use, masturbation, substance abuse, and overeating. There are many biblical ways to answer this question, but I want to focus on just one: we give in to temptation because we get tired of fighting the battle.” Read more…

Just-Around-the-Corner Spirituality

“Have you ever thought, “If only I didn’t have this pressing deadline, I could spend more time in prayer”? Or, “Once I recover from this illness, then I’ll be able to concentrate and study God’s Word”? Or, “If I could just line up a retreat day (or better yet, a week of vacation) then my walk with Christ could be renewed and refreshed”? Or, “If only the kids were out of diapers, I would have more time to pursue God”?…