God’s plan

Witnessing God’s Greatness Beyond Our Borders

Witnessing God’s Greatness Beyond Our Borders

We often look for signs of God’s work in our lives, hoping to see His hand in our circumstances. But sometimes, God’s greatness is displayed in ways that go beyond our immediate surroundings.

In Malachi 1:5, we’re reminded that God’s power and glory extend far beyond our borders, showing us the vastness of His reach and the certainty of His promises.

“You will see it with your own eyes and say, ‘Great is the LORD—even beyond the borders of Israel!’”

Malachi 1:5

Seeing God’s Greatness

In this verse, the people of Israel are being assured that they will witness God’s greatness with their own eyes.

This is a powerful reminder that God’s actions are not hidden or obscure—they are visible and evident to those who are paying attention.

Sometimes, we might feel like God is distant or inactive, but verses like this one remind us that God is always at work, and His greatness is something we can see and experience.

Beyond Our Borders

One of the most striking aspects of this verse is the mention of God’s greatness extending beyond the borders of Israel. This tells us that God’s power is not confined to one place or one people.

His influence and authority are supreme, reaching across all nations and all situations.

It’s a reminder that God is not limited by our human boundaries—He is the God of the whole world, and His plans encompass more than we can imagine.

The Certainty of God’s Promises

When God says that we will see His greatness, it’s not a vague hope—it’s a promise.

God’s promises are sure and reliable, and this verse assures us that we will see them fulfilled.

Whether it’s in our personal lives or in the world around us, God’s hand is at work, and His greatness will be revealed.

It’s an encouragement to trust in His timing and His plan, even when we can’t see the full picture yet.

Recognizing God’s Hand

Sometimes, recognizing God’s greatness requires us to look beyond our immediate circumstances. It’s easy to get caught up in what’s happening right in front of us, but Malachi 1:5 challenges us to look further.

Where do we see God’s hand at work beyond our own “borders”? This could be in the lives of others, in different communities, or even in the broader world.

By paying attention to these signs, we can deepen our understanding of God’s power and His ability to work in all situations.

Celebrating God’s Majesty

When we recognize God’s greatness, it’s natural to respond with praise. The people of Israel were called to acknowledge God’s majesty, and we are called to do the same.

Celebrating God’s greatness helps us to keep our focus on Him, especially when life gets challenging. It reminds us that no matter what happens, God is in control, and His greatness is something we can always rely on.

Malachi 1:5 is a powerful reminder of God’s greatness and His ability to work beyond our borders. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate circumstances and recognize the vastness of God’s power and the certainty of His promises.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
Is there a Purpose Behind Our Trials?

Is there a Purpose Behind Our Trials?

Facing trials and challenges is something we all experience. It’s never easy, and often, we wonder why we have to go through tough times.

However, James 1:3 offers a different perspective, reminding us that there’s a purpose behind our trials—they test our faith and produce perseverance.

“Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

James 1:3

Test of Faith

James doesn’t shy away from the fact that our faith will be tested.

Trials are not just random events; they are opportunities for our faith to be put to the test. When we go through difficult situations, it reveals the strength of our faith and our trust in God.

It’s like refining gold—the heat of the fire brings out the impurities, leaving something stronger and purer.

Producing Perseverance

The testing of our faith produces perseverance. Perseverance is the ability to keep going, even when things are tough.

It’s about enduring through the trials, holding on to our faith, and trusting that God is at work.

This perseverance doesn’t happen overnight—it’s something that develops over time as we continue to rely on God, especially when life is hard.

Importance of Perseverance:

Perseverance is essential for our spiritual growth. It’s what helps us to stand firm in our faith, even when circumstances are against us.

Without perseverance, we might be tempted to give up or lose heart.

But when we allow our faith to be tested and grow through the trials, we develop a deeper, more resilient faith that can withstand anything.

Trusting God Through Trials

It’s natural to question why we have to face trials. But James 1:3 encourages us to trust that there’s a bigger picture.

God uses these challenges to build our character and deepen our faith.

When we trust that God is in control and that He has a purpose for our trials, we can face them with a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that we’re not alone.

Embracing the Process

Embracing the process of growth through trials isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.

Each challenge we face is an opportunity to draw closer to God, to depend on Him more fully, and to grow in our perseverance.

As we go through this process, we become stronger, more mature in our faith, and better equipped to handle whatever life throws our way.

James 1:3 reminds us that the trials we face are not without purpose. They are tests that produce perseverance, strengthening our faith and preparing us for the journey ahead.

Instead of dreading trials, you can embrace them, trusting that God is using them to make you stronger and more steadfast in your faith.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
God’s Wisdom Displayed Through the Church

God’s Wisdom Displayed Through the Church

The church isn’t just a building or a group of people gathering each week; it’s part of God’s grand design to display His wisdom to the world, and beyond!

“His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.”

Ephesians 3:10

The Church as God’s Masterpiece

Paul, the author of Ephesians, paints a picture of the church as more than just a community of believers.

It’s a masterpiece, a living display of God’s multifaceted wisdom. The word “manifold” suggests something complex and varied, like a beautiful tapestry woven with many threads.

Each believer, each local church, plays a part in revealing the depth and richness of God’s wisdom.

Revealing God’s Wisdom

But what exactly does it mean for the church to reveal God’s wisdom? It means that through our unity, love, and faithfulness, we show the world—and even the spiritual realms—who God is.

When the church lives out its calling, it becomes a beacon of light, showing the way to God’s truth.

This wisdom isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about living in a way that reflects God’s character and purpose.

The Role of Every Believer

You might wonder, “How can I contribute to such a grand plan?”

The beauty of God’s design is that every believer has a role to play. Whether you’re teaching, serving, encouraging, or simply living out your faith in your daily life, you are part of this divine display.

Your actions, no matter how small they seem, contribute to the bigger picture of God’s wisdom being revealed through the church.

Impact Beyond Earthly Boundaries

Ephesians 3:10 also mentions that this wisdom is being made known “to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms.” This means that what we do as a church has implications beyond what we can see.

Our faithfulness and unity are a testimony not only to the world but also to the spiritual forces that are watching.

It’s a reminder that our actions have eternal significance.

Living Out This Calling

So, how can we live out this calling to display God’s wisdom? Here are a few practical steps:

  1. Pursue Unity: Work towards unity in your local church. Be quick to forgive, eager to understand, and committed to love. Unity within the church is one of the clearest displays of God’s wisdom.
  2. Serve Faithfully: Whether in your church or your community, serve with a heart that reflects Christ. Your service, no matter how big or small, is part of God’s plan.
  3. Share the Gospel: God’s wisdom is also displayed when we share the good news of Jesus with others. Be bold in your faith, knowing that you are part of God’s mission.
  4. Live with Purpose: Remember that your life is part of a bigger story. Live intentionally, knowing that your actions contribute to God’s grand design.

Conclusion

Ephesians 3:10 reminds us that the church is central to God’s plan for the world.

Through us, His manifold wisdom is displayed, not just on earth, but in the heavenly realms as well.

As we live out our faith, pursue unity, and serve others, we participate in something far greater than ourselves.

Pray Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration