Month: March 2024

31
Mar
2024
Hatred vs Rabies

Hatred vs Rabies

Rabies is a life-threatening condition that causes about 60,000 deaths annually worldwide. It is caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system.

The virus is transmitted via bites and scratches from infected animals. History reveals the gruesome fate of those infected; they literally go mad; insanity sets in; and without treatment, it is almost always fatal!

Hate begins and ends in much the same way. It usually starts with nips and bites from infected people, and if left untreated, ultimately it will destroy the host, leading to frothing of the mouth and death of the heart.

There seems to be an awful lot of frothing-at-the-mouth going on these days; a clear indication that the disease of hate is spreading; I pray it does not affect you; the outcome is fatal, if not caught early.

Symptoms:

  • Rabid hatred (hostility, loathing, resentment, revenge) toward a certain person, group or idea
  • Reluctance or inability to consider alternate viewpoints on certain subjects
  • Cutting off lifetime friendships, due to opposing opinions or world views
  • Uncivilized dialogue and demeaning talk toward persons with whom you disagree

The Cure

The only cure for hate is love; and true love is only found in one spot, and that is in the heart of the Man we call Jesus. The day of this post, is the Day many celebrate His resurrection from the dead. He was crucified three days earlier by a crowd that was infected by the very disease I am describing.

If you think you may have been infected by this awful disease, there is a cure, but the time to receive that cure is very short, so don’t hesitate. Seek out this Jesus and He will administer the Cure and you will be set free and filled with love.

You will see clearly, and the very people you thought you hated; you will see through a different set of eyes; the eyes of Jesus. You will have compassion instead of animosity, empathy instead of indifference.

Jesus said concerning this generation . . . “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.”

Let it not be said of you!

Pastor Rock

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
31
Mar
2024
Shining Brightly in a Dark World

Shining Brightly in a Dark World

“Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.” (Daniel 12:3, NIV)

Darkness Around Us

In our world, darkness often seems to prevail.

We see injustice, corruption, and a lack of moral clarity all around us. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged by the weight of the darkness.

Call to Shine

In this verse, the prophet Daniel offers a powerful reminder that God’s people are called to be a light in the midst of the darkness.

Through our wisdom, our righteousness, and our commitment to leading others to the truth, we can shine brightly like the stars in the night sky.

Path to Wisdom

To shine brightly, we must first seek wisdom.

This means diving into God’s Word, studying his teachings, and allowing his truth to transform our minds and hearts.

As we grow in wisdom, we become more equipped to discern right from wrong and to make choices that honor God and bring light to those around us.

Leading Others

Our calling goes beyond personal growth and transformation.

We are also called to lead others to righteousness, to be beacons of hope and truth in a world that often settles for darkness.

This involves sharing your faith, living out your values, and serving others with compassion and humility.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
30
Mar
2024
Affirming Your Calling

Affirming Your Calling

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10, NIV)

Calling of God

God has a plan and purpose for each of our lives.

He calls us to be his children, to walk in his ways, and to participate in his redemptive work in the world.

This calling is not based on our merit or achievements, but solely on his grace and love.

Assurance of Election

Along with this calling comes the assurance of our election – the knowledge that we have been chosen by God to be his own.

This election is not a matter of favoritism or partiality, but a reflection of God’s sovereign will and his desire to redeem a people for himself.

Responsibility of Confirmation

While our calling and election are gifts from God, we have a responsibility to confirm them through our actions and our lives.

The apostle Peter urges us to “make every effort” to affirm our faith and walk in a manner that reflects our identity as God’s chosen ones.

Promise of Stability

When we take this responsibility seriously and confirm our calling and election through our words and deeds, we are promised a life of stability and steadfastness.

The path of obedience and faithfulness will lead us away from stumbling and falling into sin, and will enable us to stand firm in our faith.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Trust
29
Mar
2024
Embracing God’s Perfect Timing

Embracing God’s Perfect Timing

“For he says, ‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2, NIV)

Importance of Timing

In life, timing is everything. Whether it’s catching a flight, meeting a deadline, or taking advantage of an opportunity, the right timing can make all the difference.

The same is true in our spiritual lives. God’s timing is perfect, and he invites us to embrace it.

Time of God’s Favor

The apostle Paul reminds us that there is a specific time when God’s favor is poured out. It’s not a constant or indefinite period, but a specific moment when God’s grace and salvation are available in abundance.

This “time of favor” is a window of opportunity that we must recognize and seize.

Urgency of the Present

Paul’s message is clear: now is the time of God’s favor.

The day of salvation is upon us, and we must respond with a sense of urgency. Too often, we postpone or delay our response to God’s call, thinking that there will always be more time.

But the truth is, we don’t know how long this window of opportunity will remain open.

Embracing the Present

Rather than postponing or delaying, we must embrace the present moment and respond to God’s invitation of grace and salvation.

This means putting aside our excuses, our hesitations, and our distractions, and focusing our hearts and minds on the One who loves us and desires our eternal well-being.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
28
Mar
2024
Power of Prayerful Hands

Power of Prayerful Hands

“I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.” (1 Timothy 2:8, NIV)

Importance of Prayer

Prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. It is the means by which we communicate with our heavenly Father, express our gratitude, make our requests known, and seek his guidance.

In his wisdom, God has chosen to involve us in his work through prayer, inviting us to participate in the unfolding of his plan.

Posture of Prayer

The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of lifting up “holy hands” when we pray. This is not a literal instruction but a metaphor for the attitude and disposition of our hearts.

We are to approach God with reverence, humility, and a desire for reconciliation with him and with others.

Anger and Disputing

Paul warns against praying with anger or disputing in our hearts.

Anger and conflict cloud our judgment and distort our perspective, making it difficult to discern God’s will.

When we harbor resentment or bitterness towards others, it can hinder our ability to pray effectively.

Power of Unity

Instead, Paul encourages us to pray in a spirit of unity and harmony.

When we come together as a community of believers, lifting our voices in prayer, there is a power and effectiveness that transcends our individual efforts.

As we lay aside our differences and focus on our common purpose, God is pleased to work through our collective prayers.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Prayer