As we go through life, we face many challenges and struggles that can leave us feeling hopeless and alone.
However, as believers, we have access to a hope that goes beyond our circumstances. Romans 15:13 reminds us that as we trust in God, He can fill us with joy, peace, and hope.
This hope is not something that we generate on our own, but rather it comes from the power of the Holy Spirit working in us.
When we allow ourselves to trust in God and His promises, we open ourselves up to receive the hope that He offers.
This hope is not a fleeting feeling, but rather it is a deep-seated assurance that God is with us and will never leave us.
As we cultivate this hope in our lives, we can experience the freedom and joy that comes from living in the light of God’s love.
This hope can sustain us through difficult times and give us the strength we need to keep going, even when we feel like giving up. It is a hope that is rooted in the character of God, and it is available to us at all times.
So, as you go through your day, I encourage you to take hold of the hope that is offered to you through Christ. Trust in God, and allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with His power and presence.
As you do so, you will find that you are able to overflow with hope, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Remember, the God of hope is with you, and He will never leave you or forsake you.
The Bible verse we’re focusing on today is about accepting those whose faith is weaker than ours; an important reminder for all of us to show love and grace to others, regardless of whether we agree with them or not.
When we encounter people whose beliefs are different from our own, it can be tempting to argue with them and try to convince them to see things our way. But this verse reminds us to take a different approach.
Instead of getting into arguments over disputable matters, we should simply accept those who believe differently than we do.
This doesn’t mean that we should abandon our own beliefs or compromise on our convictions. Rather, it means that we should show respect and understanding to those whose beliefs differ from ours.
We should strive to create an atmosphere of love and acceptance, rather than one of division and disagreement.
At the same time, we should also be careful not to get bogged down in disputes over minor issues that are not central to our faith.
Instead, we should focus on the core principles of the Bible, such as love, forgiveness, and grace. These are the things that truly matter and that can bring us closer to God and to each other.
Romans 14:1 is a powerful reminder to accept those whose faith is weaker than ours and to avoid quarreling over disputable matters. Let us strive to show love and grace to all those we encounter, regardless of our differences.
Through our words and actions, may we build a more compassionate and understanding world.
As we reflect on the message of Revelation 22:17, we are reminded that God invites everyone to come and receive the free gift of eternal life.
This invitation is open to all, and it is not based on our merits or achievements. It is a gift that is freely given to anyone who is thirsty for it.
One of the key themes in this passage is the idea of thirst.
Just as physical thirst is a powerful motivator that drives us to seek out water, spiritual thirst is a deep longing within us that compels us to seek out God.
We are reminded that only God can truly satisfy our thirst and bring us the abundant life we desire.
Another important aspect of this passage is the role of the Spirit and the bride. The Spirit is the one who prompts us to come to God, while the bride (which represents the Church) is the community of believers who welcomes us and supports us as we embark on our spiritual journey.
We are not meant to navigate this journey alone, but rather to find strength and encouragement in the company of other believers.
Finally, we are reminded that this invitation is not just for us, but for everyone around us. As we hear the call to come and receive the water of life, we are called to share that message with others and invite them to join us on this journey.
We are all called to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing the good news of the Gospel with those around us and inviting them to experience the same transformative power that we have experienced.
In conclusion, the message of Revelation 22:17 is a powerful reminder of the universal invitation that God extends to us all.
Let’s embrace this invitation with open hearts and minds, and may we continue to thirst for the water of life that only God can provide.
As we read Revelation 22:12, we are reminded of the incredible promise that Jesus made to us. He said that He is coming soon and that He will bring with Him a reward for each person according to what they have done.
This is a truth that should fill us with both hope and conviction.
When Jesus says that he will give to each person according to what they have done, He is not talking about earning our salvation through good works. We know that salvation is a free gift that we receive through faith in Christ.
However, our works do matter, not for our salvation, but as evidence of it. Our deeds are a reflection of our faith and our love for God.
As we think about the reward that Jesus promises, we should be motivated to live lives that are pleasing to Him. We should seek to do good and to serve others, not to earn our salvation, but out of gratitude for what Christ has done for us.
Our works should be a natural response to the love and grace that we have received from Him.
At the same time, the promise of reward should also fill us with a healthy sense of fear and awe. We know that Jesus is coming soon, and we do not know the day or the hour.
We must be ready at all times, living in a way that honors Him and reflects His love to the world.
Finally, as we meditate on this verse, we are reminded that our ultimate reward is not in this life, but in the next.
The promise that Jesus makes is not for material wealth or earthly success, but for a share in His kingdom. We long for the day when we will be with Him forever, and we live each day with that hope in our hearts.
Be faithful to Him in all that you do, knowing that your reward is secure in Him.
Revelation 5:9 declares . . . And they sang a new song, saying:
“You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.
We are reminded of the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. Through his death and resurrection, he paid the price for our sins and made it possible for us to be reconciled with God.
This is a truth that we should never take for granted, and it should lead us to praise and worship him with our whole hearts.
When the apostle John wrote this passage, he was describing a vision of heaven. In this vision, he saw a great multitude of people from every tribe, language, people, and nation gathered around the throne of God.
They were singing a new song of praise to Jesus, recognizing him as the one who had purchased them with his blood. This is a beautiful picture of the diversity and unity of the body of Christ.
As we think about what it means to be purchased by the blood of Jesus, we are reminded of our incredible worth and value to God. He loves us so much that he was willing to give his only son for us.
This is a truth that should fill us with awe and wonder. It should also lead us to live lives that are fully devoted to him, seeking to honor him in all that we do.
Finally, as we meditate on this verse, we are reminded of our mission as followers of Christ. We are called to be ambassadors of his love and grace, sharing the good news of the gospel with everyone we meet.
We have been purchased by his blood so that we can bring others into his kingdom. May we be faithful to this calling, always seeking to serve and love others as he has loved us.
Reflecting on the verse from Revelation 4:11, we are reminded that God is the creator of all things. As we go about our daily lives, it can be easy to forget just how incredible and powerful our God truly is.
This verse reminds us that everything we see around us, from the smallest bug to the largest mountain, was created by God and is under His control.
When we consider the fact that God created all things, it becomes clear that He is truly worthy of all glory, honor, and power.
As we meditate on this truth, we are called to worship Him and give Him the praise He deserves. Whether we are at church, at home, or out in nature, we can offer our praise and thanksgiving to God for who He is and all that He has done.
But this verse also reminds us that God’s sovereignty extends beyond just the things we can see with our eyes. It was by His will that everything was created and continues to exist.
This means that every moment of our lives is under His control and that we can trust Him to guide us through whatever challenges we may face.
When we remember that God is in control, we can find peace and comfort even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
He is the creator of all things, the one who deserves all glory, honor, and power.
As we worship Him and trust in His sovereignty, we can find hope and peace in knowing that He is with us always.
As we reflect on the verse from Psalm 127:3, we are reminded of the incredible gift that children are to us. They are not just the result of biological processes or a societal expectation; they are a reward from the Lord.
As parents, we are given the awesome responsibility of caring for, nurturing, and guiding these precious gifts.
As we consider the significance of this verse, it’s important to remember that children are not just a reward for us to enjoy. They are also a responsibility for us to take seriously.
It’s our job to create a safe and loving environment where they can grow and thrive. We must teach them about God’s love and show them how to live a life that honors Him.
One of the most important things we can do for our children is to pray for them. As we lift them up to God, we invite Him to work in their lives in ways that we never could. We can pray for their physical, emotional, and spiritual health, as well as for their relationships and future endeavors.
When we pray for our children, we are acknowledging that they ultimately belong to God, and we trust Him to guide them throughout their lives.
Finally, we should never underestimate the impact that our own lives and actions have on our children. They learn from us not only through our words, but also through our example.
We should strive to model the kind of behavior and character that we hope to see in our children. We should also be intentional about spending time with them, listening to them, and showing them love in tangible ways.
In doing so, we demonstrate God’s love to them and help them to understand what it means to be a part of His family.
As we reflect on Psalm 127:3, we are reminded of the incredible gift and responsibility that children are.
As parents, we are called to create a safe and loving environment for them, teach them about God’s love, pray for them, and model the kind of behavior and character that we hope to see in them.
Remember always, that our children are a reward from the Lord, and may we be faithful stewards of this precious gift.
As you read through Psalms 19:7, you may find yourself struck by the beauty of the language and the wisdom it conveys.
The verse speaks of the law of the Lord, which is perfect and refreshing to the soul. It also describes the statutes of the Lord as trustworthy and capable of making the simple wise.
One way to think about this passage is to consider the law of the Lord as a kind of roadmap or guide for our lives. When we follow this guide, we are refreshed and renewed in spirit.
We feel more in tune with our true selves and with the divine purpose that animates us. This is why the law of the Lord is perfect – it leads us toward the very best version of ourselves.
But the law of the Lord is not just perfect – it is also trustworthy. This means that we can rely on it to guide us through life’s many challenges and uncertainties.
When we are faced with difficult decisions or complex problems, we can turn to the statutes of the Lord for guidance and wisdom.
In this way, the law of the Lord makes the simple wise, giving us the insight we need to navigate life’s twists and turns.
Ultimately, then, Psalms 19:7 reminds us of the importance of staying grounded in our faith and in the teachings the Word of God. When we do so, we are better equipped to face life’s challenges with courage and wisdom.
We can draw on the strength of our faith to guide us through even the darkest of times, knowing that the law of the Lord is perfect and trustworthy, and that it will never lead us astray.
So as you meditate on Psalms 19:7, take comfort in the knowledge that the law of the Lord is always there to guide and support you, no matter what challenges you may face.
Let the wisdom of God’s Law refresh your soul and make you wise in all your ways.
As you study the Word of God, it’s important to keep in mind the wisdom of Proverbs 30:5, which tells us that every word of God is flawless.
This means that we can trust in God’s word completely, and find safety and protection when we take refuge in Him.
Think about the different ways in which you can take refuge in God. For some, it might be through prayer and meditation, while for others it might be through worship or fellowship with other believers.
Whatever it is that brings you closer to God, make sure you take the time to prioritize it in your life.
One way to ensure that you are taking refuge in God is by studying His word. When we take the time to read and meditate on the Bible, we allow God’s truth to penetrate our hearts and minds, providing us with guidance and wisdom for our daily lives.
It’s also important to remember that God’s word is not just a set of rules or guidelines, but rather a living and active force that has the power to transform our lives.
As you read and reflect on Scripture, ask God to reveal Himself to you in new and meaningful ways, so that you can experience the fullness of His love and grace.
Let the wisdom of Proverbs 30:5 guide you, reminding you of the flawless nature of God’s word and the refuge He provides to those who trust in Him.
Take the time to study and meditate on Scripture, allowing it to transform your life and draw you closer to God.
Remember that His word is not just a set of rules, but a powerful force that has the ability to bring about real and lasting change in your life.
Reflecting on Philippians 3:12, we are reminded that our journey with Christ is not a one-time event but a lifelong process.
Like Paul, we are not perfect, but we continue to strive towards our goal of Christlikeness. This verse calls us to press on and pursue the calling that Christ has placed on our lives; a reminder that we must continually work towards becoming more like Christ.
In our pursuit of Christ, we must be intentional and purposeful.
We cannot become complacent or satisfied with where we are in our faith journey. Instead, we must constantly seek to grow and develop our relationship with Christ.
This requires a level of discipline and commitment. We must prioritize our relationship with Christ and make it a priority in our daily lives.
As we continue to press on towards our goal, we must remember that we are not alone. Christ has taken hold of us, and he will continue to guide and direct us on our journey.
We can take comfort in knowing that he is always with us, providing us with the strength and guidance we need to continue moving forward.
We must also rely on our brothers and sisters in Christ, leaning on their support and encouragement as we press on towards our goal.
Philippians 3:12 is a powerful reminder of the ongoing nature of our faith journey. We must continually press on towards our goal of Christlikeness, remaining intentional and purposeful in our pursuit of Christ.
As we continue on this journey, we can take comfort in knowing that Christ is with us, guiding and directing us every step of the way.
Let us press on towards the goal that Christ has set before us, striving to become more like him each day.
Have you ever thought about the fleeting nature of this world? Everything around us seems to be temporary and transient, from the beauty of nature to the accomplishments of humanity.
However, in the midst of all this transience, there is one thing that remains unchanging and constant: the Word of God.
Matthew 24:35, Jesus declares that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
These words offer us comfort and assurance in a world that is constantly changing. The Word of God remains true and relevant no matter what circumstances we face in our lives.
As we reflect on this verse, we are reminded of the importance of investing in things that will last.
Our time and resources are valuable, and we should use them wisely, focusing on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures.
This means seeking to align our lives with the truth of God’s Word, which offers us guidance and direction for every aspect of our lives.
Furthermore, this verse highlights the reliability of God’s promises. In a world where people often make promises they can’t keep, we can be confident that God’s Word is always true.
This should give us hope and encouragement, knowing that we can trust in God’s promises even when everything around us seems uncertain.
As we meditate on Matthew 24:35, we are reminded of the timeless and unchanging nature of God’s Word. This should inspire us to invest our time and resources in things that will last and to trust in God’s promises even when everything else around us is uncertain.
Align yourself today, with the truth of God’s Word and find comfort and assurance in the unchanging nature of our faithful God.
In the midst of uncertainty and chaos, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and helpless. We often turn to worldly comforts and distractions to ease our anxieties.
However, as Christians, we must remember that our hope and trust should be placed in God, who is always in control.
In Matthew 24:29, Jesus describes a time of great distress and turmoil, but He also promises: “the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.”
This description may sound frightening, but it’s important to understand that it is part of God’s plan. It’s a reminder that everything we see and experience on this earth is temporary, and our true home is in heaven.
As we navigate through difficult times, we should cling to the promise of God’s love and protection. We may not know what the future holds, but we can trust that God is with us every step of the way.
We must continue to pray and seek God’s guidance, knowing that He has a plan for each of our lives.
May we find comfort in the knowledge that God is in control and that His plan for us is perfect. Let’s continue to trust in Him, even when the world seems to be falling apart.
Have you ever been wronged by someone? Of course you have!
Have you held onto anger and resentment towards them, even when they asked for forgiveness? We have a tendency to hold onto hurt feelings; however as Christians, we are called to a higher standard of forgiveness.
In Matthew 6:14, Jesus tells us that if we forgive others when they sin against us, our heavenly Father will also forgive us.
This is a powerful reminder that forgiveness is not just about letting go of our anger and hurt, but it’s also about receiving forgiveness from God.
When we hold onto bitterness and resentment towards someone who has wronged us, we are only hurting ourselves. We carry around that burden of anger and it can consume us, affecting our relationships with others and with God.
However, when we choose to forgive, we release that burden and allow God’s grace and mercy to flow into our lives.
Forgiveness is not easy, especially when we feel that the person who wronged us doesn’t deserve it. But we must remember that we too are imperfect and in need of forgiveness.
If we want to receive forgiveness from God, we must be willing to extend it to others.
As we reflect on Matthew 6:14, let us ask ourselves, “Who do I need to forgive?” It could be a family member, a friend, a coworker, or even ourselves.
Choose to release the burden of anger and resentment and allow God’s grace and mercy to flow into your lives through the act of forgiveness today!
Have you ever felt like you were holding something back from God? Maybe you know deep down that you should be giving more of yourself, your time, your resources, or your money, but for some reason, you’re just not doing it.
If you can relate, you’re not alone. In the book of Malachi, God’s people were guilty of holding back their tithes and offerings, and God called them out on it.
God’s question in Malachi 3:8, “Will a mere mortal rob God?” is a powerful reminder that we are not just dealing with another person or entity when it comes to our relationship with God. We are dealing with the Creator of the universe, the One who has given us everything we have.
It’s humbling to think that we could rob God of anything, but when we hold back from giving to Him, that’s exactly what we’re doing.
But why does God care about our tithes and offerings?
It’s not because He needs our money or resources, but rather because our giving is a reflection of our heart.
When we freely and generously give to God, we are acknowledging that everything we have comes from Him and that we trust Him to provide for us. It’s a way of expressing our gratitude and worship to Him.
Reflecting
So if you find yourself holding back from giving to God, take a moment to reflect on your heart.
Are you truly trusting God with everything you have, or are you holding back out of fear or selfishness?
Remember that God has promised to provide for our needs when we seek first His kingdom, so let’s be faithful in giving to Him and trusting in His provision.
Have you ever looked up at the sky on a clear night, marveling at the beauty of the stars? The vastness and complexity of the universe is truly awe-inspiring.
Yet, as we read in Luke 21:25, these celestial wonders are not just for our enjoyment, but also for the purpose of conveying signs and messages to us.
There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars, signaling a time of great trouble and chaos on earth. We see this happening all around us today, with nations in turmoil, and people living in fear and uncertainty.
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless in the face of such daunting challenges, but it is important to remember that God is still in control.
The roaring and tossing of the sea mentioned in the verse can also be a metaphor for the tumultuous events that we witness every day.
The storms of life can be frightening and leave us feeling helpless. However, just as Jesus calmed the stormy sea in Mark 4:39, He is able to bring peace and order to the chaos in our lives. We can trust in Him to guide us through the storms and lead us to safety.
God is with us, and He has promised to be our refuge and strength in times of trouble. We can take comfort in knowing that He is in control, and that He will never leave us or forsake us.
As we navigate the challenges of this world, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, and trust in His unfailing love and grace.
Have you ever found yourself striving for more and more possessions, thinking that they will bring you happiness and fulfillment? I know I have.
However, this verse from Luke 12:15 reminds us to be on guard against greed and the belief that life consists of an abundance of possessions.
It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of material possessions, especially in our culture where success is often measured by what we own.
The reality is that no matter how much we accumulate, it will never be enough. There will always be something else that we think we need in order to be happy.
Instead of chasing after material wealth and “things”, let’s focus on what truly matters. Let’s cultivate relationships with our loved ones, invest in our spiritual growth, and seek to make a positive impact in the world around us. These are the things that will truly bring us joy and fulfillment.
Furthermore, when we prioritize our relationships and spiritual growth, we begin to see that we already have everything we need. We realize that true wealth lies not in what we own, but in the love and connection we share with others, and the peace that comes from a deep sense of purpose and belonging.
So today, let’s heed the warning in Luke 12:15 and be on our guard against the seduction of material possessions. Instead, let us focus on the things that really matter, and find joy in the richness of the relationships and experiences that make life worth living.
As you reflect on the verse from John 15:9, it’s clear that Jesus is reminding us of the depth of God’s love for us. He tells us that just as the Father has loved Him, He has loved us.
And what an incredible love that is! It’s a love that is self-sacrificing and unconditional. It’s a love that pursues us even when we turn away from it.
So how do we remain in this love?
Jesus tells us that it’s by obeying His commands (John 15:10). This may sound like a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that Jesus isn’t asking us to obey Him in our own strength.
He promises to send us the Holy Spirit, who will guide us into all truth and enable us to do what He asks (John 14:26).
One way we can obey Jesus is by loving others as He has loved us (John 15:12). This means showing sacrificial love to those around us, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient.
It means forgiving those who have wronged us and extending grace to those who don’t deserve it. It means being willing to lay down our own interests and desires for the sake of others.
As we strive to obey Jesus and love others in this way, we can be confident that we are remaining in His love.
What a beautiful place to be! To know that we are loved by the Creator of the universe, and to experience that love in tangible ways through our relationships with others, is truly a gift beyond measure.
So today, let’s make it our aim to remain in Jesus’ love by obeying His commands and loving others as He has loved us.
Be filled with gratitude and awe as you contemplate the depth of God’s love for you, and the privilege you have to abide in it.
The words of Jesus in John 15:4 remind us of our need to abide in Him in order to bear fruit. The analogy of the vine and branches is a powerful one, illustrating that our connection to Jesus is vital for our spiritual growth and productivity.
As we remain in Him, we draw life and nourishment from Him, enabling us to bear fruit that glorifies God and blesses others.
Remaining in Jesus means staying close to Him, seeking Him through prayer and studying His Word.
It means depending on Him for strength and guidance, trusting in His love and faithfulness. It also means obeying His commands, living in a way that honors Him and reflects His character.
As we abide in Christ, we experience the joy and peace that comes from a deepening relationship with Him. We are filled with His love and grace, and our lives are transformed by His power.
We become more like Him, and we are able to love others as He loves us.
So let us take to heart the words of Jesus in John 15:4, and make it our aim to remain in Him, trusting in His goodness and seeking to bear fruit for His glory.
We can be confident that He will work in and through us, accomplishing His purposes and bringing forth abundant blessings, not only for ourselves, but for others!
There are moments that require us to take a stand and make difficult choices. In such times, it can be challenging to discern the right course of action amidst the chaos and confusion.
This is where faith in Christ comes in, and the verse from John 12:31 reminds us that there is a time for judgment and that the prince of this world will be driven out!
As believers, we must recognize that we are engaged in a spiritual battle against the forces of darkness.
The world we live in is broken, and evil is pervasive. But as we trust in Christ, we can take comfort in the fact that he has already overcome the world and that his victory is our victory.
Therefore, we can stand firm in the face of adversity and confidently face the challenges that come our way.
The verse from John 12:31 is a reminder that our hope is not in this world, but in the One who has already triumphed over it.
We must not be afraid of judgment, for in Christ, we have been redeemed and made new.
As we read in John 10:9, Jesus declares that He is the gate and whoever enters through Him will be saved.
This passage reminds us that Jesus is the ONLY WAY to find true salvation and to enter into a life of abundance.The image of a gate is a powerful one.
A gate serves as both an entrance and an exit, and in the same way, Jesus provides us with a way to come into the kingdom of God and to go out and share the love of Christ with others.
Jesus promises that those who enter through Him will find pasture. This is a beautiful image that speaks to the abundance that we have in Christ.
He also promises to provide for our needs, to be with us in every season of life, and to guide us on the path of righteousness. It is only through Jesus that we can truly find fulfillment and satisfaction in life.
When we believe in Jesus, we are promised something truly remarkable. John 7:38 states that “whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
This verse speaks of the transformative power of faith and how it can not only impact our own lives, but those around us too.
The imagery of “rivers of living water” is powerful. It suggests a source of sustenance and life that is continually flowing and refreshing.
As believers, we have access to this living water, which can sustain us through the ups and downs of life.
This living water also has the power to impact those around us, as we become vessels through which God’s love and grace can flow.
Believing in Jesus is not just about accepting a set of beliefs or doctrines; it is about experiencing a transformation of the heart.
When we truly believe, we become conduits of God’s love and grace, and our lives become a testimony to his goodness; allowing the rivers of living water to flow from within us, impacting the world in powerful ways.
May we continually be filled with this living water, and may it overflow from us, bringing life and refreshment to all those we encounter.
We often find ourselves waiting for something – waiting for a job offer, waiting for healing, waiting for a loved one to come to know Jesus. It’s easy to get discouraged and lose hope when things don’t happen as quickly as we want them to. But the Bible encourages us to be patient and trust in the Lord’s timing.
James 5:7, reminds us of the patience of farmers as they wait for their crops to grow.
Just as the farmer trusts in the process and patiently waits for the rains to come, we too must trust in God’s timing and have patience as we wait for His plans to unfold in our lives.
We may not see the results of our efforts right away, but we can have faith that God is working behind the scenes.
As we wait, it’s important to remember that our faith is not in our own abilities or timelines, but in God’s sovereignty.
He sees the bigger picture and knows what is best for us. So let us trust in Him and be patient, knowing that His timing is always perfect.
Remember, patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). As we seek to cultivate this fruit in our lives, we can draw on the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit to help us persevere through difficult seasons of waiting.
So let’s be patient, knowing that the Lord is with us and that His plans for our lives are good.
I am frequently reminded of the encounter that would forever change the direction of my life. It was an encounter I did not seek; it was one I tried extremely hard to avoid. I was a broken man, hell-bent on destruction, consuming alcohol like water, neglecting my wife and children, and I was consumed with ME!
Say what you will about religion and religious people, but it was those religious types that began nosing around in my life, and it began very early.
My Grandmother loved a man called Jesus and spoke of Him often, frequently sharing my need for Him in my life. I had no clue who He was or why I should follow Him.
My parents did their best to bring me up in the context of a religious church. I remember little of it other than pretty people in robes stood up front and sang songs I did not understand, then a man in a robe would drone on and on about more things I could not understand; I quickly fell asleep every time he began to talk.
As I grew older, I became more resistant to this message about Jesus. I mean, who needs Him in their life? God and the stuff religious people talked about seemed to be the opposite of what I was all about!
The further I devolved into a life contrary to everything my grandma and parents tried to teach me, there was a persistent gnawing at my heart and soul, something I could not quite shake. There were those times I would want to know the God my Grandma talked about, but I was so far away from Whoever or Whatever God was that I was convinced He would have nothing to do with me other than crush me!
Then one hot July night, at a religious meeting I did not want to be at, it happened!
The summer of 1990, nearly 33 years ago, me and my wife Sherri encountered this Jesus in a very real and life-altering way!
We had been invited to a Christian Camp by some good “religious” folks; we had no clue where it was other than someplace near Kane, Pa.
Earlier in the day, I sent my wife Sherri to get me 2 cases of beer; she put gas in our van and came back with food instead! 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗪𝗔𝗦 𝗦𝗛𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚!
I was upset and frustrated on that hot July night. I got our two kids and Sherri, and we started driving aimlessly because “𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗽𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴.”
We drove to St. Marys, then to Johnsonburg, and on past Wilcox; then I saw a sign that said Kane! 𝗢𝗵 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗽! That church thing was over there somewhere; time to turn around! I took the next road to the right and started down. We approached a few twists and turns and the van started to chug and acted like is would stall out . . . 𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗜𝗡 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣! Nooooooo!!! Not here, not now!
It was too late; people recognized us and started calling us to go in; we did, and we got there just as the service was starting.
As the pastor speaking that night was giving his final “Come to Jesus Plea” I was looking for an escape; panic anxiety was at level red, and 𝗜 𝗛𝗔𝗗 𝗧𝗢 𝗚𝗘𝗧 𝗢𝗨𝗧!
Sherri was already down at the altar, and I got up and was going to go out the back; but as soon as I got to the aisle, I felt a gentle touch on my shoulder, yet no one was there.
The next thing I knew, I was kneeling at that old altar rail. I recall saying; “𝗜 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘁; 𝗜 𝗱𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗻 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁, 𝗶𝗳 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀; 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜 𝗮𝗺 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲.” Then I said; “𝗜 𝗴𝗼𝘁 𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂”
The I heard the words of Jesus to me . . . “𝗜’𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁!” Tears began to flow, and I wept for 25 minutes as wave after wave of grace flooded over me! The encounter that day changed me—or rather, the Person of Jesus, who met me there, changed me!
I would later go on to become a pastor and now an evangelist, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus to any and all who care to listen.
After 32 years of serving Jesus, I have a few takeaways. I won’t get religious with you; just the truth.
Everyone is broken, but not everyone knows this.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.” In other words, the one who knows they don’t have it altogether is in a very good place; they are ready to meet Him. Those unwilling to recognize their need WILL NOT meet Him.
Jesus forgives those who break God’s rules.
We tend to place heavier weight on certain rules broken than on others; from God’s perspective, every broken rule of God carries an eternal death penalty! Now that’s heavy, and we are all guilty of breaking these rules. Jesus alone had provided the forgiveness needed, and He is reliable!
God loves everyone.
God created you; as a matter of fact, He declares that you have been created in the image of God. How awesome is that!
His love for you does not change and is not contingent on your station in life; rich, poor, criminal, gay, straight, gender status, educational achievements; it does not matter, He loves you! He also knows you are broken and in need of a Savior, His Name is Jesus.
God has an enemy; his name is satan.
The devil, or satan, was once an anointed cherub, one of God’s most powerful angels. He took issue with what God was planning, and he broke fellowship with God and was cast out. The devil has a malicious hatred for God and all God created and stands for, especially humans!
The devil hates all humanity, not just those who are aligned with Christ; he does, however, have a special hatred for that particular group.
Since my encounter with Jesus, I have had many attacks on my character and have had long-standing friends mock and ridicule me for my beliefs. One of the greatest honors ever bestowed upon me is to be mocked on account of Jesus!
The current world situation is pretty bleak, strangely lining up with what Jesus predicted it would be like just prior to His certain return.
Are you ready?
Do you know that you are spiritually poor?
Would you like to know Jesus in a real, tangible, and personal way?
Call out to Him; tell Him you are ready and that YOU NEED HIM!
While reading the book of James, you will come across a verse that may really jump out at you! James 4:17 says, “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
This verse really got me thinking about my own life and the times when I knew what the right thing to do was, but didn’t do it.
I think this verse is a reminder that our faith is not just about believing in God, but it’s also about living out our beliefs in our daily lives.
We have to be willing to take action and do what we know is right, even if it’s not the easy thing to do.
This can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that our actions are a direct reflection of our faith.
It’s also important to recognize that not doing the good we ought to do is considered sin. This means that when we choose to ignore the needs of others or turn a blind eye to injustice, we are actively sinning against God.
It’s a heavy responsibility, but also a powerful reminder that our actions have real consequences, both for ourselves and for others.
Let’s strive to live a life of action, always seeking to do the good we know we ought to do.
James 2:17 is a powerful reminder that our faith must be accompanied by action. It’s not enough to simply believe in God; our faith must also be demonstrated through our words and deeds.
As followers of Christ, we are called to live out our faith in tangible ways that bring glory to God and serve others.
One way we can put our faith into action is by serving those in need. Jesus Himself taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to care for the least among us. This includes feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting the sick and imprisoned.
When we serve others in this way, we demonstrate the love of Christ and bring hope and healing to those who are hurting.
Another way we can put our faith into action is by sharing the Gospel with those around us. This involves not only telling people about Jesus but also living out our faith in front of them.
When we model the love, grace, and forgiveness of Christ, others are drawn to Him and may come to faith as a result.
We must be intentional about sharing the good news of the Gospel with those around us, both through our words and our actions.
James challenges us to put our faith into action. We must not only believe in God but also demonstrate our faith through our words and deeds. This involves serving those in need, sharing the Gospel with others, and living out our faith in front of those around us.
May you be inspired to live out your faith in tangible ways that bring glory to God and bless those around you.
As we consider Hebrews 6:1, we are reminded that our spiritual journey is not meant to be stagnant. We are called to move beyond the basics and strive for spiritual maturity.
It’s easy to get comfortable with what we know, but the Christian life is meant to be a journey of growth and transformation.
Moving beyond elementary teachings about Christ requires us to deepen our understanding of the Gospel and the Person of Jesus Christ. It involves not only studying the Scriptures but also cultivating a deeper relationship with God through prayer, worship, and fellowship with other believers.
As we grow in our understanding of who God is and what He has done for us, we will be better equipped to share the good news of the Gospel with others.
At the same time, moving beyond elementary teachings also means leaving behind patterns of sin and disobedience. Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual turning away from sin and towards God.
As we strive for spiritual maturity, we must be willing to confront our sinful patterns and habits and seek God’s help to overcome them. This requires humility, vulnerability, and a willingness to be held accountable by others.
The Christian life is not a static experience but a dynamic journey of growth and transformation.
As we seek to move beyond elementary teachings about Christ, we must deepen our understanding of the Gospel, cultivate a deeper relationship with God, and confront our patterns of sin and disobedience. May we all strive towards spiritual maturity and be a shining light for Christ in the world.
As we read Amos 8:11, we are reminded that there will come a time when people will experience a spiritual famine, where they will not be able to hear the words of the Lord. This is a reminder that we should cherish the opportunity we have to hear and study His word while we have it. We should be diligent in our efforts to learn from it, and to share it with others.
One way we can avoid this spiritual famine is by seeking God’s word in our daily lives. As we study the Bible and spend time in prayer, we will become more attuned to His voice and better equipped to recognize His guidance in our lives.
Finally, we should recognize that this spiritual famine is not something that we can overcome on our own. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that we can truly understand and apply the word of God to our lives. Let us pray for His guidance and direction as we seek to grow in our faith and share it with others.
Amos 8:11 reminds us of the importance of hearing and studying the word of God. Let us seek His guidance and direction in our daily lives, and be diligent in our efforts to share His message with others.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can avoid the spiritual famine that is to come and live lives that honor and glorify Him.
As we reflect on the wisdom of 1 Samuel 16:7, we are reminded that God’s perspective is different from ours. Often, we may judge others based on their external appearance or achievements, but God looks at their hearts. As we seek to live a life pleasing to Him, we should strive to cultivate a heart that honors Him and loves others.
One way to cultivate a heart that honors God is through prayer and meditation on His word. As we spend time in prayer and study, we are transformed from the inside out. Our thoughts and attitudes begin to align with His will, and we become more loving, patient, and kind. Through this transformation, we begin to see others as He sees them, with love and compassion.
Finally, we should strive to live a life of humility and service. As we focus on serving others, we put their needs before our own and reflect the love of Christ.
This kind of life is pleasing to God and demonstrates the heart of a true disciple. Let us strive to cultivate a heart that honors God and reflects His love to those around us.
God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. To cultivate a heart that honors Him, we should spend time in prayer and meditation on His word, strive to live a life of humility and service, and see others through the lens of His love and compassion.
As believers in Christ, we know that our faith in Him leads to the ultimate result: the salvation of our souls. In 1 Peter 1:9, we are reminded that our faith in Christ is not in vain, but rather it leads to eternal life with Him.
The salvation of our souls is not something that we can earn or achieve on our own. It is a gift from God that we receive through our faith in Jesus Christ. We cannot save ourselves, but we can put our faith in Jesus who has already paid the price for our sins.
As we continue to grow in our faith, we can have confidence that we will receive the end result of our faith: eternal life with Christ. This hope and assurance can bring great comfort and peace to our hearts, especially in times of difficulty and uncertainty.
Peter reminds us in this Scripture, that the end result of our faith is the salvation of our souls. It is not something that we can earn or achieve on our own, but rather it is a gift from God that we receive through our faith in Jesus Christ. As we continue to grow in our faith, let us have confidence in the hope and assurance of eternal life with Christ.
God’s love is truly amazing. As we read in 1 John 4:10, we see that God loved us first, even before we loved Him. It was out of His great love for us that He sent His Son Jesus to be an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
God’s love is not like the love that we often see in the world. His love is pure, selfless, and unconditional. It is not based on what we do or how we behave, but rather it is a gift freely given to us.
The fact that God sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins shows us just how much He loves us. He was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we could have a relationship with Him. Let us never forget the amazing love that God has for us and let us strive to love others with the same selfless love that God has shown us.
1 John 4:10 reminds us that God’s love is selfless and unconditional. He loved us first and sent His Son Jesus as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Let us remember this amazing love and strive to love others with the same selfless love that God has shown us.
As we read in 1 Corinthians 2:14, the things of the Spirit of God are foolishness to those who do not have the Spirit. This verse reminds us that without the Spirit of God, we cannot fully understand or discern the things of God. We must have a relationship with God in order to receive the guidance and wisdom that only comes from Him.
As we go about our daily lives, it’s important to remember that the wisdom of the world is not the same as the wisdom of God.
The world’s wisdom may seem logical and practical, but it seldom aligns with God’s will. Therefore, it’s important to seek God’s guidance and discernment in all that we do.
When we have the Spirit of God within us, we have access to a higher level of understanding and wisdom. We can discern God’s will and receive His guidance in our lives. This allows us to make decisions that compliment His plan for us and brings glory to His name. Let’s strive to seek the Spirit of God and allow Him to guide us in all that we do.
1 Corinthians 2:14 reminds us that the Spirit of God is necessary for us to fully understand and discern His will. We should seek God’s guidance in all that we do and strive to align ourselves with His plan. Let us remember that the wisdom of the world is not the same as the wisdom of God and seek to live our lives in accordance with His will.
