god’s sovereignty

One True God: Finding Security in God’s Uniqueness

One True God: Finding Security in God’s Uniqueness

“I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior.”

Isaiah 43:11

God’s Exclusive Claim

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the many voices claiming to have the answer to your problems?

In today’s world, it seems like everyone has a solution to sell or a path to promise you happiness.

Social media influencers, self-help books, and countless spiritual guides all compete for your attention.

But here’s the thing – God makes a powerful statement in Isaiah 43:11 that cuts through all the noise.

He doesn’t just suggest He’s one option among many. He clearly states that He alone is the Lord, and salvation can’t be found anywhere else.

What This Means for You

Think about this for a moment.

When God says He’s the only savior, He’s not being exclusive to keep you away – He’s being exclusive to keep you safe.

It’s like having a reliable GPS that you know will always guide you home, versus trying to follow multiple conflicting directions at once.

Let me share a personal perspective. When I was young, my mom would tell me:

“Don’t believe anything you hear, and only half of what you see.”

She was looking out for me; knowing there was so much falsehood in this world; she loved me and wanted to protect me.

God’s exclusive claim as our only savior comes from the same place of love and protection.

Finding Rest in His Truth

You might be wondering, “How does this apply to my daily life?”

Well, consider this – when you truly understand that God is your ONLY Savior, it takes an enormous weight off your shoulders. You no longer need to:

  • Chase every new trend promising fulfillment
  • Worry about missing out on the “next big thing”
  • Try to piece together salvation from multiple sources

Making It Personal

Here’s a practical way to embrace this truth today.

When you face a challenge or need guidance, instead of frantically searching for answers everywhere, take a moment to remember: God is your savior. Period.

There’s incredible peace in knowing you don’t need a backup plan.

Moving Forward

Start your day by acknowledging God as your only savior. When decisions come up, big or small, remember you have direct access to the one true source of salvation.

You don’t need to spread your trust thin across multiple solutions – God’s got you covered.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for being my one and only Savior. Help me remember that I don’t need to look elsewhere for salvation. Give me the wisdom to trust in You completely, and the peace that comes from knowing You are all I need. Amen.

Reflection

When was the last time you caught yourself looking for answers everywhere except God?

How might your approach to challenges change if you truly believed He is your only savior?

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
Thunderous Reign: God’s Ultimate Authority

Thunderous Reign: God’s Ultimate Authority

Have you ever wondered what heaven sounds like?

Well, the Bible gives us an amazing sneak peek! In Revelation 19:6, we get to eavesdrop on a heavenly celebration that’s unlike anything we’ve ever heard. The verse says:

“Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: ‘Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.”

Revelation 19:6

Wow! Can you imagine that sound? It’s not just a quiet little choir or a polite round of applause. This is a thunderous, earth-shaking proclamation of an incredible truth. Let’s see what it means for you today.

Sound of the Multitude

First, notice that John (the writer of Revelation) hears “a great multitude.” This isn’t just a few people – it’s a massive crowd.

Think about the loudest concert or sporting event you’ve ever been to, and then multiply that by a thousand. That’s the kind of volume we’re talking about here!

This multitude represents believers from every nation, tribe, and tongue. It’s a reminder that you’re part of something much bigger than yourself.

Your faith connects you to a worldwide family that stretches across time and space.

Roar of Rushing Waters

Next, John compares the sound to “the roar of rushing waters.” Have you ever stood next to a powerful waterfall; Niagara Falls, perhaps?

The sound is constant, unstoppable, and awe-inspiring. That’s the kind of praise being described here.

This imagery reminds us of God’s power and constancy. Just like a mighty river doesn’t stop flowing, God’s authority never ceases.

No matter what’s happening in your life or in the world, God’s power remains undiminished.

Loud Peals of Thunder

The sound is also compared to “loud peals of thunder.” Thunder demands attention. You can’t ignore it or pretend it’s not happening.

In the same way, the reality of God’s reign isn’t something that can be brushed aside or overlooked.

This thunderous quality speaks to the undeniable nature of God’s authority. It’s not a quiet suggestion or a mild-mannered proposal. It’s a bold declaration of an unchangeable fact.

Heart of the Message

So what’s got everyone so excited? What’s the message that’s being proclaimed with such enthusiasm? It’s simple yet profound:

“Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns.”

Hallelujah

This word means “Praise the Lord!” It’s an expression of joy, gratitude, and worship. The heavenly multitude isn’t grudgingly acknowledging God’s reign – they’re celebrating it!

Our Lord God Almighty

This title emphasizes God’s power and authority.

He’s not just powerful – He’s all-powerful. Nothing is beyond His control or outside His authority.

Reigns

This is the key word. God doesn’t just exist or observe – He actively rules. His reign is current, ongoing, and eternal.

What This Means for You Today

Now, you might be thinking, “That’s a pretty amazing scene, but what does it have to do with my everyday life?”

Great question! This heavenly vision has some very practical implications for you right now.

1. You Can Find Peace in God’s Control

When the world seems chaotic or your life feels out of control, remember this verse. God reigns. Period.

No matter what you’re facing, you can find peace in knowing that the all-powerful God is in charge.

2. Your Worship Matters

Your praise joins with the thunderous chorus of heaven. When you choose to worship God, even in difficult circumstances, you’re aligning yourself with this heavenly reality.

Your “Hallelujah” echoes the praise of the great multitude.

3. You’re on the Winning Side

This verse is a spoiler alert for how the story ends. No matter what setbacks or struggles you face, you can be confident that God’s reign will ultimately be recognized by all.

You’re not just hanging on – you’re part of the victory celebration!

4. You Can Live with Confidence

Knowing that God reigns gives you a foundation for confident living. You don’t have to be shaken by every news headline or personal challenge.

The One who controls the universe is on your side.

Putting It Into Practice

So how can you live in light of this thunderous truth? Here are some practical steps:

1. Start your day with a “Hallelujah.” Acknowledge God’s reign over your life each morning.

2. When you feel anxious or overwhelmed, picture the heavenly scene from this verse. Let it remind you of God’s ultimate authority.

3. Look for evidence of God’s reign in your daily life. Where do you see His power and control at work?

4. Join in corporate worship regularly. It’s a taste of the heavenly chorus you’ll one day be part of.

5. Share this encouraging truth with someone who’s struggling. Your words could be the thunder that reminds them of God’s power.

Remember, you’re not just living for today. You’re part of an eternal story that ends with a thunderous celebration of God’s reign.

So lift your voice, trust in His authority, and live with the confidence that comes from knowing the Lord God Almighty reigns!

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
Victory Assured: The Lamb’s Triumph

Victory Assured: The Lamb’s Triumph

Have you ever wondered how the story of our world will end?

In the midst of life’s challenges, it’s easy to feel discouraged or even defeated. But the Bible offers us a sneak peek at the final outcome, and it’s better than anything we could imagine!

Let’s take a look at a powerful verse from the book of Revelation 17:14

“They will wage war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”

Revelation 17:14

This verse is loaded with encouragement and hope. Let’s take a look and see how it applies to your life today.

Understanding the Players

Before we jump in, let’s clarify who’s who in this verse:

  • The Lamb: This is Jesus Christ. In the Bible, Jesus is often referred to as the Lamb of God because He was the perfect sacrifice for our sins.
  • “They”: This refers to the forces of evil in the world that oppose God and His people.
  • His followers: That’s us – people who have put their faith in Jesus.

Reality of Spiritual Warfare

The first part of the verse mentions a war against the Lamb. This might sound scary, but it’s actually confirming something you might already feel – life in Christ can be a battle sometimes.

When you’re trying to live a life that honors God, you might face:

  • Temptations to compromise your values
  • Doubts about your faith
  • Challenges from others who don’t understand your beliefs
  • Personal struggles that test your trust in God

These aren’t just random difficulties. They’re part of a bigger spiritual battle. But here’s the good news – you’re not fighting alone, and the outcome is already decided!

The Assurance of Victory

The verse doesn’t leave us hanging. It quickly moves to the most important part: “the Lamb will triumph over them.” This is huge! No matter how tough things get, we know who wins in the end.

Why can we be so sure? The verse gives us two powerful reasons:

  1. “He is Lord of lords and King of kings”: This title emphasizes Jesus’ supreme authority. No power in heaven or on earth can match Him.
  2. “With him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers”: That’s you! If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you’re on the winning team.

What This Means for You Today

Now, you might be thinking, “That’s great for the future, but what about my struggles right now?” Great question!

This verse isn’t just about some far-off event. It has real implications for your daily life.

1. You Can Face Challenges with Confidence

Knowing the final outcome gives you strength for today’s battles. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you’re on the side of the ultimate Victor.

This can give you the courage to face your fears and keep going when things get tough.

2. Your Faithfulness Matters

Notice that the verse mentions “faithful followers.” Your daily choices to follow Jesus aren’t insignificant. They’re part of the bigger picture of God’s victory.

This motivates you to stay true to your faith, even when it’s difficult.

3. You’re Part of Something Bigger

Sometimes life can feel lonely, especially when you’re trying to live out your faith. But this verse reminds you that you’re part of a bigger community – those who are “called” and “chosen” by God. You’re not alone in this journey.

4. There’s Hope Beyond Your Current Situation

Whatever you’re going through right now, it’s not the end of the story. The promised victory of the Lamb gives you a reason to hope.

It reminds you to lift your eyes beyond your current circumstances and see the bigger picture.

Living in Light of the Victory

So, how can you apply this truth to your life today? Here are some practical steps:

  • Start your day with a victory mindset. Remind yourself that, in Christ, you’re on the winning side.
  • When facing temptation or discouragement, picture yourself standing with Jesus, the King of kings.
  • Connect with other believers who can encourage you and remind you of these truths.
  • Look for ways to share this hope with others who might be struggling.
  • Keep an eternal perspective. When things get tough, remember that what you see now isn’t the whole story.

Remember, you’re not just barely making it through. As a follower of Jesus, you’re part of the greatest victory story ever told.

So stand tall, keep the faith, and look forward to the day when the Lamb’s triumph will be fully revealed!

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
Finding Refuge in the Sovereign Lord

Finding Refuge in the Sovereign Lord

Uncertainty of Life

In a world that seems to be constantly shifting and changing, it can be easy to feel unsettled and uncertain.

From global crises to personal struggles, we often find ourselves grasping for something solid and dependable to anchor our lives.

Sovereign Refuge

In the midst of life’s storms, the prophet Isaiah offers a powerful reminder of where we can find true refuge. In Isaiah 33:22 (NIV), we read, “For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.”

Our Judge

The Lord is our Judge, the ultimate arbiter of justice and righteousness.

In a world where injustice and evil seem to prevail, we can take comfort in knowing that our God is a just and righteous Judge who will ultimately set all things right.

Our Lawgiver

The Lord is our Lawgiver, the source of all moral and ethical truth.

We live in a world where values and morals are constantly shifting, we can find stability and guidance in the unchanging laws and principles of God’s Word.

Our King

The Lord is our King, the sovereign ruler over all creation.

While earthly powers rise and fall, we can place our trust in the one true King whose reign is eternal and whose authority is unrivaled.

Trusting in God’s Sovereignty

To trust in God’s sovereignty is to acknowledge His ultimate control and authority over every aspect of our lives and the world around us.

It is to surrender our fears, doubts, and uncertainties to the One who holds all things in His hands.

Finding Peace in Uncertainty

When we understand that God is truly sovereign, we can find peace even in the midst of uncertainty.

We can rest assured that nothing happens outside of His knowledge and control, and that He is working all things together for our good and His glory.

Gaining Strength in Weakness

In our moments of weakness and vulnerability, we can draw strength from the truth that our God is sovereign. He is not limited by our limitations or bound by our circumstances. His power is limitless, and His presence is ever-near.

Living with Confidence

When we embrace God’s sovereignty, we can live with confidence, knowing that our lives are secure in His hands.

We can face each day with courage and boldness, trusting that the One who is our Judge, Lawgiver, and King is always with us, leading and guiding our steps.

A Present and Faithful God

The beauty of God’s sovereignty is that it is not merely a distant, abstract concept but a present and tangible reality in our lives.

As we journey through this life, we can take comfort in the fact that our sovereign God is ever-present, ever-faithful, and ever-powerful.

In moments of joy, He rejoices with us. In times of sorrow, He comforts us. In seasons of uncertainty, He guides us. And in the face of adversity, He strengthens us.

For He is our Judge, our Lawgiver, and our King – the one true source of refuge, hope, and salvation.

When you trust in the One who is sovereign over all, you can face whatever life brings with a peace that surpasses all understanding, secure in the knowledge that your life is in the hands of the One who rules and reigns forevermore.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Trust
Secret Things Belong to the Lord

Secret Things Belong to the Lord

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law.” (Deuteronomy 29:29, NIV)

Context

This verse comes from a book that records the words and deeds of Moses, the leader and lawgiver of Israel. In this book, he reviews the history and the covenant of God with His people, as they prepare to enter the promised land.

He reminds them of the blessings and curses that will follow their obedience or disobedience to God’s commands.

In chapter 29, he renews the covenant with them, and warns them of the consequences of breaking it. He also acknowledges that there are some things that only God knows, and some things that He has revealed to them.

The Message

What can we learn from this verse and its context? First, we can learn that God is sovereign and mysterious. He has the secret things, meaning that He has the knowledge and the power that are hidden from us.

He knows the end from the beginning, and He controls all things according to His will. He is the one who makes and keeps the covenant, and He is the one who judges and saves.

He is the one who reveals and conceals, and He is the one who speaks and acts.

Second, we can learn that God is gracious and faithful. He has the things revealed, meaning that He has the knowledge and the power that are given to us.

He has revealed Himself to us, and He has revealed His will to us. He has given us His law, His promises, His warnings, and His instructions. He has given us His presence, His guidance, His protection, and His provision.

He has given us His Son, His Spirit, His Word, and His Church.

Third, we can learn that God is holy and righteous. He has the words of this law, meaning that He has the standard and the expectation that are required of us.

He has given us His commands, His statutes, His decrees, and His ordinances. He has shown us His ways, His works, His wonders, and His signs.

He has called us to love Him, to obey Him, to trust Him, and to serve Him.

How can we apply this verse and its message to our lives? Here are some suggestions:

Revere God

Acknowledge that God is sovereign and mysterious, and that He deserves our awe and respect.

Do not try to manipulate God, but accept His wisdom and authority. Do not doubt or question God, but worship and praise Him.

Do not ignore or neglect God, but seek and honor Him.

Receive God

Recognize that God is gracious and faithful, and that He offers us His love and mercy.

Do not reject or resist God, but welcome His revelation and gift. Do not take for granted or abuse God, but appreciate and cherish Him.

Do not forget or betray God, but remember and thank Him.

Respond to God

Realize that God is holy and righteous, and that He expects us to be His obedient and faithful people.

Do not disobey or rebel against God, but follow His commands and instructions. Do not disregard or compromise with God, but heed His warnings and promises.

Do not disappoint or dishonor God, but please and glorify Him.

The secret things belong to the Lord, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children. This is the message of Deuteronomy 29:29, and this is the message of the covenant. Let us heed it and live by it.


~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration