Surrounded by idyllic portrayals of winter wonderlands and an overweight, jolly bearded man, with a magical sleigh, pulled by reindeer; we are flooded with countless enticements to overspend, as we try and fulfill the gift-giving requirements of this imaginary friend.
So caught up in the “𝗝𝗼𝗹𝗹𝘆” madness of the season; many well-meaning parents foist upon their unsuspecting children, the idea that this mythical character is actually real!
To be sure; there is 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗬 𝗢𝗡𝗘 who actually knows when you’ve been sleeping, and knows when you are awake; who truly knows if you have been bad or good, and it is 𝗡𝗢𝗧 the chubby guy in the red suit!
Is it any wonder that children have a hard time believing in Jesus, later in life, after having been spoofed, regarding the fat man in the red suit, and his com-padre, the Easter Bunny.
Now, don’t get me wrong; we all have traditions regarding many things; they are not all inherently wrong or evil. There are a host of traditions that we get caught up in; holidays, sports games, hunting and fishing seasons, hobbies, and a host of other things.
When it comes to Christmas, take a moment and tell your kids about the real reason for the celebration; it is 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀.
Do your best to tell them that 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗺𝘆𝘁𝗵, and if you are courageous enough, let them in on the whole Santa and Easter Bunny thing; in the end, you 𝗔𝗡𝗗 them, will be glad!
Have you ever thought about the word “jealous” when it comes to God? It might seem strange at first.
After all, we usually think of jealousy as something negative – that uncomfortable feeling when someone has something we want.
But God’s jealousy is completely different.
A Different Kind of Jealousy
Think about a parent watching their child run toward a busy street. The parent’s protective response isn’t controlling – it’s love in action.
God’s jealousy works like that. He’s not insecure or needy; He’s protective and passionate about your well-being.
Why It Matters Today
In your world, there are countless things competing for your attention.
Your phone buzzes with notifications. Your calendar fills with commitments. Advertisements promise fulfillment through purchases.
But God says, “I want your whole heart” – not because He’s demanding, but because He knows what’s best for you.
The Heart of the Matter
Consider these truths about God’s jealous love:
He wants your best, not just your leftovers
His love is active, not passive
He sees when other things steal your heart
His jealousy protects you from harmful substitutes
Making It Real
Imagine you created something incredibly beautiful – perhaps a piece of art or music.
How would you feel if someone tried to give credit for your work to someone else? God created you, knows you, and loves you.
His jealousy means He won’t stand by while anything else claims the place in your heart that belongs to Him.
Practical Ways to Respond
Take a moment to think about what captures most of your attention and affection.
Your career?
Social media?
Relationships?
None of these things are necessarily bad, but they can easily become substitute gods if we’re not careful.
Your Daily Choice
Start your morning by acknowledging God’s rightful place in your life. Before checking your phone or reading the news, spend a few moments focusing on His love for you.
Let His jealous love remind you that you’re incredibly precious to Him.
Something to Think About
You might be wondering if you’ve disappointed God by placing other things before Him. Remember – His jealous love isn’t about condemnation. It’s about restoration and protection. He wants you back, not to scold you, but to shower you with true love.
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank you for loving me enough to be jealous for my heart. Help me recognize anything that’s taking Your rightful place in my life. Draw me back to You, knowing that Your jealous love protects and provides what I truly need. Amen.
Reflection Questions
What areas of your life might God be jealous for today?
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!
In a world filled with love songs, romantic movies, and countless declarations of affection, it can sometimes be difficult to discern what true love really is. The apostle John provides a powerful test for love.
but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.
According to John, everyone who is born of God recognizes him, and everyone who loves God recognizes the one who was born of God.
This verse implies that true love is a distinguishing characteristic of those who are born of God.
So, how can we use this verse to test the authenticity of love? Here are a few key points to consider:
Love for God: Those who are born of God have a deep and abiding love for God. This love is not merely an emotion; it is a commitment to following God’s ways and seeking to do His will.
Love for Others: True love extends beyond our own personal desires and interests. It includes a genuine concern for the well-being of others, especially those who are marginalized or in need.
Love that Does Not Sin: The Bible tells us that love does not sin (1 John 3:15). Those who truly love God and others will seek to live a life that is free from sin.
Contrast with Counterfeit Love
In contrast to true love, counterfeit love is characterized by selfishness, jealousy, and a lack of concern for others. It may appear loving on the surface, but it ultimately leads to harm and destruction.
The world is full of counterfeit love, and it can be tempting to be deceived by it. But by applying the test of love found in 1 John 4:3, we can discern between true and false love.
Fruit of the Spirit
Another helpful way to recognize true love is to look for the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
These qualities are all hallmarks of genuine love.
Take a moment to examine your own life; are you exhibiting these qualities? Do you have love for God and love for others? If not; perhaps it is time for you to talk to Jesus about these things; and work it out; after all, lack of these qualities in your life indicates that you may not be the Christian person you thought you were!
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!
Jeremiah, like many of us, felt inadequate for the task ahead. He doubted his abilities, feeling too young and inexperienced. Yet, God’s response is clear and direct: step out in faith, regardless of how you feel.
Overcoming Your Doubts
Jeremiah’s experience mirrors our own struggles.
We often doubt our abilities, feeling unqualified for the challenges life presents. However, this verse offers a powerful message:
God Calls the Unqualified: He often chooses those who feel inadequate to accomplish His purposes.
God Equips His People: He provides the necessary strength, wisdom, and guidance.
Obedience is Key: Our response to God’s call is more important than our feelings of inadequacy.
The life of a Christian isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. There will be times when you encounter difficult people, disagreements arise, and frustration sets in.
The apostle Paul, in his second letter to Timothy, offers guidance on navigating these situations effectively. In 2 Timothy 2:24, he instructs:
“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, patient with difficult people.”
This verse highlights the importance of gentleness and patience, especially when dealing with challenging situations.
It’s tempting to respond with anger or defensiveness when faced with opposition. However, Paul encourages a different approach – one rooted in kindness and understanding.
Imagine this: You’re discussing your faith with a friend who has different beliefs. The conversation gets heated, and your friend starts criticizing your views.
Instead of getting defensive and arguing back, what if you responded with gentleness and patience? This approach creates a more open and receptive environment for meaningful conversation.
Developing the Fruit of the Spirit
Gentleness and patience are part of the “fruit of the Spirit” mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. By cultivating these qualities, we become more Christ-like in our interactions with others.
Here are some ways to develop patience and gentleness:
Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance: Ask God to help you cultivate these qualities in your life.
Practice active listening: Pay close attention to what others are saying, and try to understand their perspective.
Respond with empathy: Put yourself in other people’s shoes and try to see things from their point of view.
Take a deep breath before reacting: Give yourself a moment to calm down before responding in a heated situation.
Effective Communication for Spiritual Growth
By developing patience and gentleness, you become a more effective communicator of your faith. People are more likely to be receptive to your message when they feel respected and understood.
Remember, patience is not weakness; it’s strength under control. As you cultivate these qualities, you’ll not only navigate difficult situations more effectively but also grow closer to Christ and encourage the spiritual growth of others.
