Faith

18
Mar
2024
Keeping Calm in Chaos

Keeping Calm in Chaos

Unavoidable Turmoil

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” – Matthew 24:6 (NIV)

In this verse, Jesus warns His disciples about the inevitable turmoil and chaos that will come upon the world. Wars, conflicts, and upheaval are an unavoidable part of the human experience.

Temptation to Fear

When confronted with such distressing news and events, our natural response is often one of fear and anxiety.

We may feel overwhelmed by the chaos, uncertain of what the future holds, and tempted to give in to panic or despair.

Call to Trust

Yet, Jesus offers a profound and comforting message: “See to it that you are not alarmed.”

He urges us not to be consumed by fear, but to trust in the sovereignty and control of God, even in the midst of turmoil.

Source of Peace

By anchoring our hearts in the knowledge that God is still in charge, we can find a deep and abiding peace that transcends our circumstances.

We can choose to focus not on the temporary upheavals of this world, but on the eternal promises of our Heavenly Father.

As we navigate times of chaos and uncertainty, cling to the truth that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. (Psalm 46:1)

In Him, we can find the courage to face whatever comes our way, and the peace that surpasses all understanding.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith, Prayer, Trust
17
Mar
2024
Overflow of the Heart: Guarding Our Speech

Overflow of the Heart: Guarding Our Speech

Revealing Words

“You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Matthew 12:34 (NIV)

In this verse, Jesus addresses the root of our speech – the condition of our hearts.

He reminds us that our words are a reflection of what truly fills us, whether good or evil.

Heart’s Condition

Our words have the power to build up or tear down, to bring life or to inflict harm. But they are merely symptoms of a deeper reality – the state of our inner being.

If our hearts are filled with bitterness, envy, or selfishness, our speech will inevitably reflect those qualities.

The Need for Transformation

As followers of Christ, we are called to cultivate hearts that are aligned with the love and compassion of our Savior.

We must allow God’s truth to penetrate the deepest parts of our being, transforming us from the inside out.

Guarded Tongue

When our hearts are renewed by the power of the Holy Spirit, our speech will naturally follow suit.

We will find ourselves speaking words of encouragement, grace, and truth, as we reflect the character of Christ to those around us.

But this process requires vigilance. We must guard our hearts and minds against the influences that would corrupt them, and be intentional about filling ourselves with the Word of God and the things that are pure, noble, and praiseworthy.

May your speech be a testimony to the transformative work of Christ within you, as you strive to let your words flow from a heart that is fully devoted to Him.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline, Holiness, Humility
16
Mar
2024
Empowered Witnesses

Empowered Witnesses

Commission and Promise

“Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.” – Mark 16:20 (NIV)

In this verse, we see the disciples fulfilling the Great Commission given by Jesus, going out and preaching the gospel to the world.

But they did not go alone – the Lord Himself accompanied them, confirming His word with signs and wonders.

Empowering Presence

The disciples were not left to their own devices, relying solely on their own strength and abilities.

Instead, they were empowered by the presence of the Lord, who worked alongside them, validating their message with supernatural signs.

Confirming Signs

These signs were not mere spectacles or displays of power for their own sake. They served a specific purpose – to confirm the truth of the gospel message being preached.

They were tangible evidence that the words the disciples spoke were not their own, but those of the living God.

Ongoing Testimony

Even today, as we continue to spread the Good News of Christ, we can trust that the Lord is still at work, confirming His word through the transformative power of His Spirit in the lives of those who believe.

While the specific signs may differ, the principle remains the same – God continues to bear witness to the truth of the gospel through the changed lives of His followers.

As you go forth in obedience to the Great Commission, do so with confidence, knowing that the Lord Himself is with you, empowering you and confirming His word through the signs and wonders He performs in and through you.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith, Ministries, Trust
15
Mar
2024
Embracing Accountability

Embracing Accountability

Measure of Knowledge

“The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” – Luke 12:47-48 (NIV)

In these verses, Jesus introduces a principle that emphasizes the importance of responsibility and accountability.

Weight of Understanding

Knowledge and understanding come with a certain level of responsibility.

Those who have been given insight into the will and character of God are held to a higher standard of obedience and faithfulness.

Consequence of Neglect

Jesus warns that those who have a clear understanding of what is expected of them, yet fail to act accordingly, will face greater consequences.

Neglecting the responsibilities that come with knowledge is a serious matter, one that will be met with “many blows.”

Call to Stewardship

However, this principle is not meant to be a source of fear or condemnation. Rather, it is a call to embrace our role as stewards of the knowledge and resources entrusted to us by God.

We are called to use our understanding wisely, to faithfully carry out the tasks set before us, and to honor the trust placed in us.

As you reflect on this principle, do not shrink back from the responsibilities placed upon you. Instead, embrace them with humility, diligence, and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities you have been given.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline, Trust
14
Mar
2024
Facing Fear with Faith

Facing Fear with Faith

Call to Courage

“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” – Luke 12:4-5 (NIV)

In these verses, Jesus addresses the very real fears that his disciples faced, encouraging them to have courage in the face of danger and even death.

Perspective Shift

Fear is a natural human response, but Jesus challenges us to shift our perspective.

Instead of fearing those who can only harm the body, we are called to fear God, who has authority over our eternal destiny.

Basis of True Courage

This may seem counterintuitive at first, but when we understand God’s character as a loving Father, this fear becomes the foundation for true courage.

We can face earthly threats with boldness, knowing that our lives are in the hands of a God who loves us deeply and desires our ultimate good.

Promise of Protection

Moreover, Jesus assures us that even in the face of physical harm or death, our lives are not ultimately at risk.

God’s protection extends beyond this life, and we can trust that He will keep us safe in His care, both now and for eternity.

As we confront the fears and challenges of this world, cling to the courage that comes from knowing and trusting in our Heavenly Father.

With His strength and protection, we can face even the most daunting circumstances with faith and boldness.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith, Trust