I’ve heard an awful lot over the past few years about tithing, or the lack thereof. There has been a push by many to say that Jesus never taught tithing, and even that the New Testament as a whole does not teach one to tithe as we see throughout the Old Testament. It’s not a new argument, it’s been around for years, but the no-tithe bandwagon has certainly become a popular one as of late. And of course it has. Who wouldn’t want to believe we aren’t required to give God 10% of everything? Especially in our me-first, money-first society. Continue Reading →

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DISCIPLESHIP INK!

Just a few days ago Discipleship Ink turned one! After blogging for a year I must say I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. And as I do with every birthday (that’s a lie), I now pause to reflect on what I’ve learned over the past year.  (Actually, most birthdays I just eat cake, watch TV, and check my bald spot in the mirror. True reflection is rare.) So without further ado, let the reflecting (of more than just my bald spot) begin. Continue Reading →

In the process of finding a publisher for my book, I’ve learned a lot about the current state of the business. I’m still a rookie in the whole scheme of things, but here’s a few things I’ve learned in my short stint in trying to get published. More specifically, here’s what NOT to do when trying to get published.

5) Avoid Facebook, Twitter, and all blogging sites like the plague. Believe social media is just a passing fad and that it could never help you sell your book.

Continue Reading →

“I appreciate struggle and doubt–I think they’re essential to thoughtful faith. So, I was encouraged by Darren Schalk’s honesty and transparency. His doubts, and ultimate faith in God’s grace and goodness, will be an encouragement to you on your spiritual journey.”

“This is the best book ever written in the history of mankind, second only to the Bible. You should immediately buy ten and give it to all your friends.”

—Karin Schalk Watson, Darren’s Mom

I’ve recently been signed as an author with Passio, an imprint from Charisma House publishers. My book will be released March 4th. You can already pre-order it here on Amazon as well as several other major book retailers, including Barnes & Noble.

BOOK SUMMARY:

Do you ever really think about God and your faith? Darren Schalk was raised in a pastor’s home. He heard all the teaching, all the Sunday morning Bible stories, and could recite more verses than he cared to count. But, as he grew, he actually started to think about what he’d been taught, and it raised a few questions. Continue Reading →

After my son’s first seizure, in the midst of fervent prayer, I heard God’s voice. He said Jake was, and I quote “ALREADY” healed.  I had the audacity to believe God, particularly when He confirmed it only moments later. But here we are,  4 seizures and one 4-day-ICU-stay later, and my son’s sickness remains. So, the obvious question is, “Did God lie to me?”

This is the question I’ve had to ask myself. Deep down I couldn’t possibly believe this to be true, but the question remained Continue Reading →

I read an article today from christianpost.com that quoted a Fox reporter who was discussing the Connecticut shooting and the possible cultural influences at work:

Brit Hume, Fox News senior political analyst, also raised concerns about violence in games and movies. “We also need to try to find out, as best we can, what influences within the culture … may have helped to create this wave of violence,” he said on “Fox News Sunday.” “Perhaps there has been a desensitization to violence.”

The word that jumped out at me was “perhaps.”

Perhaps there has been a desensitization to violence?

Perhaps???

PERHAPS????

PERHAPS?????? Continue Reading →

My post today is being shared at a great new site, getsaoked.org. Head there if you’re interested by clicking here!

Godspeed!

Darren