Author Archives: Steve Simms

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About Steve Simms

I like to look and think outside the box. In college I encountered Jesus Christ and I have been passionate about trying to get to know Him better ever since. My wife and I long to see the power and passion of the first Christ-followers come to life in our time. I have written a book about our experiences in non-traditional church, called, "Beyond Church: An Invitation To Experience The Lost Word Of The Bible--Ekklesia." If you need encouragement, search for: Elephants Encouraging The Room and/or check out my Amazon author page. Thank you!

Why I Write Differently

I’ve spent 5 1/2 decades devouring the Bible and storing up God’s words within me. I’ve diligently sought to absorb and obey His words. They’ve been the apple of my eye. I’ve read them almost every day, as a living … Continue reading

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Guilt and Shame Be Gone!

If I had a freeway billboard it would say: “Guilt and Shame Be Gone!” Underneath that it would direct people to my blog: hopethoughts.com so that they could find out how to experience ongoing freedom from guilt and shame. All … Continue reading

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Hope Beyond the Past, Present, and Future

I find hope by looking beyond the past, the present, and the future. The discipline of God the Holy Spirit gives life and hope. Jesus calls the Spirit’s discipline discipleship. (Proverbs 5:23) Jesus said to go and make disciples. (Matthew … Continue reading

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The Gift of No

The gift of being told no to harmful things is great and wonderful. So much pain in our lives could be avoided if we were simply willing to follow the warnings of the gift of no. When your conscience says … Continue reading

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Beyond Liberal and Conservative

A Republican and a Democrat A Republican and a Democrat were sitting on nearby park benches looking at a beautiful view. The Republican began to pray: “God, thank You that I’m not like that Democrat who wants the government to … Continue reading

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Heeeer’s More Than Play

We live in a time of much deception. We need a wise and discerning mentality to help us avoid deception reception. Superficial, play religion is leading multitudes astray. God’s chosen way for you to know about what Jesus said and … Continue reading

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The Challenges of Having a Happy and Wise New Year

Happy New Year! I woke up with these thoughts being poured out to me and streaming through my mind and heart this beautiful New Year’s morning. My biggest challenge is to daily and actively apply the wisdom of God in … Continue reading

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No Room for Nostalgia

There’s no room for nostalgia when every day is thrilling, healing, and joy revealing. How can you live every day like that? Recognize Christ in You (Jesus Himself) You can know many thingsThat Jesus said and didBut knowing about themIsn’t … Continue reading

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A Relationship with God the Holy Spirit is Heavenly

How to Wake Up to Christ’s Presence Where Christ’s presence is being ignored, God the Holy Spirit is being quenched. (Luke 10:38-42) Both individuals and churches can quench the Spirit. However, the Bible plainly says not to quench the Spirit … Continue reading

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Team Jesus (“That Whosoever Believes in Him”)

Those words from the world-famous John 3:16 Bible verse are an open invitation for any human being to trust in, rely on, depend on, have confidence in, and keep their faith in the living resurrected Jesus Christ. The belief in … Continue reading

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