Have you been tempted to do something you knew was wrong? Maybe it was lying to get out of trouble, cheating on a test, or gossiping about someone. James 1:14 says:
Temptation doesn’t just happen to us out of nowhere; it starts with our own desires and then becomes a trap that we can fall into if we’re not careful.
The next time you’re faced with a temptation, remember that it starts with your own desires. Pray and ask God to help you resist it, and look for the way out that he promises to provide.
With God’s help, you can overcome any temptation that comes your way and live a life that is pleasing to him.
In Isaiah 65:17, we find a beautiful promise from God, He says:
These words remind us that God is in the business of making all things new.
But this promise is not just about a future reality. It also has implications for our lives today. It reminds us that God is in the business of transformation.
He can take our brokenness and turn it into something beautiful. He can bring healing to our wounds and restore what has been lost.
Embrace the promise of Isaiah 65:17 and allow it to fill you with hope and anticipation. Trust in God’s faithfulness to bring about newness in your life.
As you experience His transformative work, be sure to extend His love and grace to others, becoming an agent of renewal in the broken world around you.
Ever felt like your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling and going unheard? It’s a common experience for many.
Isaiah 59:1, assures us that God is attentive to our prayers and fully capable of intervening in our lives.
Imagine standing in a crowded room filled with all kinds of noise and chatter. It will be difficult to hear a single voice amidst all the clamor.
The Good News is that God has provided a solution through Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice on the cross, our sins can be forgiven, and we can be reconciled to God.
Take comfort in knowing that God’s hand is not too short to save and His ear is not too dull to hear. He is ready and willing to respond to your prayers.
Examine your heart, confess your sins, and seek His forgiveness. Approach Him with humility and sincerity, and have confidence that He hears you and will extend His grace and mercy to you today!
Sometimes, we find ourselves searching for something. It could be a sense of purpose, peace, or answers to our questions. In Isaiah 55:6, we are urged to seek the Lord while He may be found.
God is still accessible and ready to meet us where we are, offering us the very things we long for.
The invitation to seek God is not a suggestion, rather a divine invitation to encounter Him in a personal and transformative way.
It’s an opportunity to draw closer to Him, to deepen our relationship with Him, and to experience the abundant life He offers.
Heed the call to seek the Lord while He may be found. Approach Him with openness, humility, and a genuine desire to know Him more. Set aside distractions and busyness to create space for intentional seeking.
Today we encounter a beautiful promise from God revealing His desire to guide and lead us in the right path, Isaiah 48:17
God is the Holy One of Israel, our Creator and Redeemer, and He teaches us what is best for us and leads us in the way we should go.
Imagine you’re hiking through an unfamiliar forest. You come across a fork in the road, and you’re unsure which path to take. Suddenly, a knowledgeable guide appears and offers to lead you.
You gladly accept their help because you know they have a deeper understanding of the terrain and the safest route to your destination. In a similar way, God is your divine guide, who knows the path that leads to blessings and fulfillment.
When we lean on God’s wisdom and seek His guidance through prayer and reading His Word, we position ourselves to receive His direction and follow the path He has prepared for us.
Open your heart to God’s guidance and trust in His leading. Seek His wisdom and submit to His instruction, knowing that He has your best interests at heart.
Here is a powerful verse that reminds us of the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice, Hebrews 9:14
This verse reveals the depth of God’s love and His desire to free us from the burden of guilt and sin.
However, these sacrifices were temporary and could not bring true forgiveness and freedom. They were merely a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus would make on our behalf.
Through His sacrifice, Jesus cleanses our consciences from the guilt and shame that weighed us down. He provides us with a fresh start and a renewed relationship with God.
Today, remember the incredible gift of grace that you have received through Jesus’ sacrifice. Allow His cleansing power to transform your heart and mind, releasing you from the burden of guilt.
Reading through the Bible, we come across verses that are difficult to understand and apply to our lives. Hebrews 2:1 reminds us of the importance of paying attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it.
This verse challenges us to not just read the Bible for knowledge, but to truly listen and take it to heart. We must actively engage with the Word of God, meditate on it, and let it shape our life!
We also face challenges in our daily lives that can cause us to drift away from God. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and neglect our spiritual growth. But Hebrews 2:1 encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God and make intentional efforts to stay connected to Him.
As you apply this verse to your life, ask yourself some questions:
Am I consistently spending time in prayer and reading the Bible?
Am I actively seeking to understand and apply God’s Word to my life?
Am I surrounding myself with other believers who can encourage and challenge me in my faith?
Be intentional in your pursuit of Jesus and not allow yourself to drift away from Him.
In the book of Hebrews, the author speaks about the superiority of Christ, describing Him as the one who holds the Scepter of Righteousness, Hebrews 1:8
This imagery paints a picture of Jesus as the ultimate King, ruling with justice and authority.
Think about the concept of a scepter. In ancient times, a scepter was a symbol of power and authority. It represented the ruler’s sovereignty and the laws they upheld.
This truth has profound implications for our lives. Knowing that Jesus is the ultimate King should bring us comfort, for we can trust in His righteous rule.
Today, consider the authority and righteousness of Jesus. Submit to His authority and live in accordance with all His teachings.
Have you ever felt disheartened on your spiritual journey? The apostle Paul addresses the believers who were facing challenges and distractions. He encourages them with these words, Galatians 5:7
These words remind us that the Christian life is like a race, and we must stay focused on the path set before us.
But as you continue, you notice some runners veering off course, chasing after shortcuts or getting entangled in obstacles. In the same way, our spiritual journey can be filled with distractions and temptations that hinder us from obeying the truth.
It may be the pressure to conform to societal craziness, the allure of sinful desires, or the influence of false teachings. To stay on track, we need to continually fix our eyes on Jesus.
Are there areas where you have been swayed by the opinions and values of the world? Refocus your attention on Christ and His teachings.
Rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance as you run the race of faith. Never lose sight of the ultimate prize: the eternal fellowship with our loving Heavenly Father.
Do you ever feet trapped in old patterns of thinking and behaving? The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, speaks to this struggle and encourages believers to put off their old self, which is corrupted by deceitful desires, Ephesians 4:22
Paul is reminding us that as followers of Christ, we are called to live transformed lives.
Old ways of thinking and behaving no longer line up with our new identity in Christ. We are called to let go of the old self and embrace the new, which is created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
As we immerse ourselves in God’s truth, His Spirit works within us, shaping our thoughts, desires, and actions. We let go of unhealthy habits, negative attitudes, and selfish behaviors, and instead, put on the new self that reflects the character of Christ.
Ask the Holy Spirit to transform you from the inside out, to align your thoughts and actions with God’s truth.
Remember that this journey of transformation is not a solo endeavor but a communal one. Walk alongside fellow believers, encouraging and challenging one another, as you seek to live out your new identity in Christ.
Life is full of choices, some small and insignificant, and others that have significant and lasting consequences.
In Deuteronomy 30:19, Moses presented the Israelites with a critical choice between life and death, blessings and curses.
Today, we are still faced with similar choices, choices that will determine our direction and destiny. Each day, we must choose between good and evil, between obedience and disobedience, between faith and unbelief.
God has given you free will to make choices, but you must remember that you are accountable for those choices. In making decisions, you must seek guidance from God, and when you make mistakes, confess them and seek forgiveness.
Ultimately, you alone must choose to follow God’s ways, which lead to blessings and life, rather than the ways of the world, which lead to destruction and death.
Ever feel like you don’t belong? Maybe you’ve struggled to fit in with a particular group of people, or you feel like an outsider in your own community.
It’s easy to feel isolated and alone in such situations, but as the apostle Peter wrote, “you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” (1 Peter 2:5)
What does it mean to be a living stone in God’s spiritual house?
It means that we are all part of something much bigger than ourselves. We are part of God’s family, and we form a community of believers who are built on the foundation of Jesus Christ.
Just as individual stones are carefully placed to create a strong and stable structure, so God is placing each one of us in just the right place in His Spiritual House.
Embrace your role as a living stone
Remember, you have a vital part to play in God’s plan. Each one of us has unique gifts and talents that can be used to build up the body of Christ. Use those gifts to serve one another in love and to bring glory to God. In doing so, you will discover the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of God’s House.
In the Book of Romans, we are reminded of the transformative power of Christ’s death and resurrection.
Paul writes that our old self was crucified with Christ so that the power of sin would be broken in our lives. This means that we are no longer slaves to sin but have been set free to live a new life in Christ.
When we come to faith in Jesus, something remarkable happens. Our old self, characterized by sin and brokenness, is put to death on the cross with Christ.
This is a symbolic representation of the fact that our sins are forgiven and that we are no longer defined by our past mistakes and shortcomings. We are given a fresh start, a new beginning in Christ.
We are no longer bound by the power of sin, but we have the power to resist temptation and live according to God’s will.
Through the work of the Holy Spirit, we are being transformed day by day into the image of Christ.
So, as you reflect on Romans 6:6, embrace the truth that your old self has been crucified with Christ. Walk in the freedom and newness of life that He has given you.
May your life be a testimony to the power of God’s grace and the transformation that is possible through faith in Jesus Christ.
In Matthew 24:24, Jesus warns us about the presence of false prophets and false messiahs who will arise and deceive many.
This verse reminds us of the importance of discernment and being rooted in the truth of God’s Word. Jesus wants us to be aware of the potential for deception and to stay vigilant in our faith.
That’s why it is crucial for us to cultivate a deep knowledge of God’s Word and to develop a discerning spirit through prayer and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Jesus’ warning also highlights the need for us to seek the truth in Him alone. He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
Anchor yourself in the unchanging truth of God’s Word, so that you can navigate through the currents of deception and remain steadfast in your relationship with Him.
Be vigilant and discerning, seeking the truth in God’s Word and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Guard your heart against deception and stay rooted in the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ. By doing so, you can avoid being led astray and continue to grow in your faith and relationship with Him.
In Matthew 19:14, Jesus teaches a profound lesson about the Kingdom of Heaven. He says:
This verse reminds us of the importance of childlike faith and innocence in our relationship with God.
Jesus wants us to approach Him with a childlike faith, trusting Him wholeheartedly and relying on His guidance.
This verse challenges us to examine our own hearts and attitudes. Jesus warns against hindering children from coming to Him, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where they can experience God’s love and grace.
As you reflect on this verse, embrace the simplicity and innocence of children in your relationship with God. Approach Him with a humble and trusting heart, believing that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who have childlike faith.
Seek to create an environment where children can encounter God’s love and experience His presence; learning from their example and be transformed by the childlike faith that Jesus invites us to embrace.
In Matthew 17:20, Jesus speaks to his disciples about the importance of faith. He tells them that even if their faith is as small as a mustard seed, they can move mountains.
Jesus used this interesting image to illustrate the power of faith. When we have faith in God, we are able to do incredible things that may seem impossible to others.
When we believe that God is able to do the impossible, we are willing to step out in faith and trust Him to provide for our needs.
As we face challenges in our lives, we can find confidence in the fact that we serve a God who is able to do the impossible.
Like the mustard seed that grows into a large tree, our faith may start small, but it has the potential to grow and produce great things in our lives.
Never underestimate the power of faith and always trust in God’s ability to do the impossible.
In Matthew 11:25, Jesus offers a prayer of thanksgiving to God, acknowledging that the mysteries of the kingdom are revealed to those who have a childlike heart.
This verse reminds us of the importance of humility and simplicity in our approach to God and His teachings. It challenges us to let go of our intellectual pride and embrace a posture of openness and receptivity, like that of a child.
This is a comforting reminder for us because it means that we don’t need to have all the answers or possess great knowledge to experience the fullness of God’s love and grace. Instead, we are invited to approach Him with a childlike faith, trusting in His wisdom and guidance.
Come to Him with the simplicity and trust of a child, knowing that in His presence, You can find rest for your soul and discover the deep truths of His kingdom.
In Matthew 5:22, Jesus teaches us that anger can have serious consequences. This passage tells us that being angry with someone can lead to insulting them, which can then escalate to a more serious problems.
This is a reminder that we must be careful with our words and actions, and that we should strive to control our emotions and not allow anger to take over.
This is not always an easy task, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can learn to respond to situations with love and patience.
Jesus’ words in this passage remind us that our words and actions have consequences. We should be mindful of how we interact with others; our words matter!
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you control your emotions and to respond with grace and kindness to those who may anger you.
May your life be a reflection of Christ’s love, and may you seek to bring peace to a world that often seems so full of anger and hostility.
Sometimes as believers, we struggle with feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a sense of not belonging.
We may feel that no one truly understands us or that we are the only ones going through a particular experience.
John 17:11, Jesus says, “Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one.”
In times of difficulty, we can turn to God and know that He is always with us. We can also lean on our brothers and sisters in Christ and ask for their support and encouragement.
We have a Savior who cares deeply for us and who is constantly interceding on our behalf. Remember also, we have a community of believers around us; seek to build deeper connections with them.
Together, we can encourage each other, bear one another’s burdens, and bring glory to God through our unity.
In John 12:24, Jesus declares, “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.”
A powerful reminder that death and new life are inseparably linked in the Christian faith.
As Christians, we are called to die to our own desires and put our trust in God. This means surrendering our own will and submitting to God’s plan for our lives.
Ultimately, Jesus’ words in John 12:24 remind us that death is not the end. When we die to ourselves, we can experience the new life that God has promised us.
This new life is not just a distant hope for the future, but a reality that we can experience in the here and now.
Be willing to let go of your old self and embrace the new life that God has in store for you today!
In the Book of Isaiah 55:11, we encounter a powerful promise from God regarding the effectiveness and reliability of His Word. The verse states:
This verse reassures us that God’s Word is not merely empty rhetoric or idle chit-chat; it carries divine authority and has the power to accomplish His intended purposes.
God’s Word is not subject to human limitations or circumstances. We can trust that when God speaks, He fulfills His promises and brings about His plans, even if we do not fully comprehend or see the immediate results.
As we read, meditate on, and apply His Word in our lives, we can have confidence that it will bring about transformation and bear fruit.
Therefore, approach the Bible with reverence and a readiness to receive the life-giving truths that God desires to communicate to you today!
A serious warning and a call to accountability for believers.
While this verse may sound stern, it reminds us of the significance of our choices and the need for sincere repentance and obedience in our Christian walk.
The verse emphasizes the importance of our response to the knowledge of the truth. When we receive the gospel, we are entrusted with the knowledge of God’s grace and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
The author’s intention is to steer believers away from complacency or a casual approach to sin and to encourage a wholehearted commitment to holy living.
Rather than taking God’s grace for granted, we are called to live in reverence and awe, knowing that our choices have spiritual consequences.
Embrace the responsibility of your faith and walk in obedience, allowing the knowledge of the truth to shape every aspect of your life.
This verse in Ephesians 4:25 reminds us of the importance of honesty and integrity in all our relationships. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in truth and authenticity, both in our words and actions.
Being truthful in our interactions with others is not always easy.
Scripture reminds us that true Christian community is built on trust and transparency. When we speak truthfully, we foster an environment of honesty and openness, where genuine connections can flourish.
Embracing truthfulness also extends to our relationship with God. He knows us intimately and desires for us to come before Him with honesty and vulnerability.
Make a commitment to speak truthfully to one another, knowing that it not only strengthens our relationships but also honors God and reflects His character of truth and love.
The book of Daniel gives us a vivid image of God’s majesty and power. Daniel has this vision where he sees “thrones set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze” (Daniel 7:9).
Our God, Who is the Ancient of Days is not an impersonal deity who is distant from us; rather, He is actively involved in the affairs of this world. He reigns with authority and power, and nothing is beyond His control.
The imagery of God’s clothing being white as snow and His hair white like wool signifies His purity and wisdom. As the Ancient of Days, He is timeless and eternal, existing before all things and beyond our comprehension. His wisdom is beyond measure, and His ways are higher than our ways.
In your journey of faith, trust in His perfect wisdom, even when you don’t understand His plans or the circumstances you may face.
Let the image of the Ancient of Days in Daniel’s vision remind you of the greatness and sovereignty of your God. Take comfort in the fact that He is on His throne, ruling with power and wisdom.
Trust in Him, knowing that He is in control of every situation, and His plans for your life are good.
Do you get impatient while waiting for something to happen or do you wonder why God is taking so long to answer your prayers?
The Bible reminds us that God’s timing is different from our timing, and in 2 Peter 3:8
God’s perspective of time is much different than ours. We want things to happen quickly, but God sees the bigger picture and knows what is best for us in the long run.
Instead of getting impatient or frustrated; trust that God is faithful to His promises and that His timing is perfect.
Use this time to grow in our faith and trust Him more, knowing that His plans are for your good and His glory. Hold fast to your faith, knowing that God’s timing is never late, and seldom early!
Have you ever heard the saying, “You reap what you sow”? This phrase is based on the biblical principle found in 2 Corinthians 9:6
“Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
This verse speaks to the importance of giving generously and sacrificially, knowing that it will result in a bountiful harvest.
This verse was written to encourage the Corinthian church to give generously to help other believers in need.
As you live a life that honors God, remember the principle of sowing and reaping; be intentional about sowing seeds of generosity, kindness, and love, trusting that God will bless you with a bountiful harvest.
Be motivated, not by a desire for personal gain, but by a desire to bring glory to God and make a difference in the lives of those around you.
It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons and self-doubt, but Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 8:9 that our worth and value do not come from what we have or accomplish, but from the grace of God.
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”
Jesus, who had everything, gave it all up to become a human and live a humble life. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many.
This selfless act of Jesus is a powerful reminder that true greatness is found in humility and service to others.
We don’t have to have it all together or be the best at everything to make a difference in the world.
As you seek to live a life that reflects the love of Christ, focus on serving and giving to others rather than striving for success or recognition.
When you take our eyes off yourself and your own limitations and focus on the needs of others, you are able to make a real impact in the world around you.
Follow the example of Christ and use what you have to serve and bless others, knowing that your worth and value come from Him alone.
Are you were constantly striving for more? Are you working hard to achieve success, acquire possessions, or gain recognition, but still feel like something is missing.
The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy
It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of worldly success and forget that ultimately, we can’t take any of it with us. We don’t want to waste our lives striving for things that won’t last or that don’t have eternal value.
Seek to live a life of purpose and meaning, remembering that your worth and identity do not come from what you have or achieve, but from your identity as a Child of God.
You don’t have to constantly strive for more, to prove our value or worth; rest in the knowledge that you are loved and accepted by God, and let that fuel your actions and priorities.
Have you ever felt like you were nothing special? Maybe you’ve struggled with feelings of insignificance or low self-worth. It’s easy to compare yourself to others and feel like you don’t measure up.
Hannah prayed as she dedicated her child Samuel to the Lord
“Do not keep talking so proudly or let your mouth speak such arrogance, for the Lord is a God who knows, and by Him deeds are weighed.”
What does it mean to have our deeds weighed by God?
It means that we are not defined by what others think of us or even what we think of ourselves. Rather, our worth comes from our relationship with God and the way we live our lives in response to Him.
As you seek to live your life for Christ, remember that He is the one who gives you your value and worth. You don’t have to strive to impress others or earn their approval because you are already accepted and loved by God.
Focus on living a life that honors Him, and trust that He will use you for His purposes in ways that you may not even understand.
Have you ever faced a difficult situation that made you feel like giving up? Maybe you’ve struggled with an addiction, a broken relationship, or financial hardship.
It’s easy to feel defeated in such situations and wonder if there’s any hope for a better tomorrow. But as the apostle John wrote, “everyone born of God overcomes the world.” (1 John 5:4)
What does it mean to overcome the world?
It doesn’t mean that we will never face challenges or difficulties. Rather, it means that we can have victory over them because of our faith in Jesus Christ.
As you face the struggles of life, remember that you are not alone. God is with you, and He has promised to never leave you or forsake you.
Put your trust in Him and rely on His strength, and you can overcome the world and experience the peace and joy that only He can give. Take heart and press on, knowing that victory is yours through Christ who strengthens you!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 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!
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.
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.
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 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.