Love

21
Feb
2024
Unshackled Grace

Unshackled Grace

“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” – Acts 13:38 (NIV)

In the bustling marketplace of life, we carry burdens—hidden chains that weigh down our souls. Guilt, shame, regrets—they cling to us like shadows.

But here, in the heart of Acts, a clarion call resounds: forgiveness. Not a mere pardon, but a sweeping liberation—an unshackling of our deepest wounds.

Prisoner Set Free

“Through Jesus…”

Imagine the scene: a weary traveler, stumbling under the weight of guilt. His past, a prison cell; his sins, iron bars. Yet, the proclamation echoes through the ages: forgiveness.

Not earned, not deserved, but freely given. The shackles fall, and the prisoner stands—redeemed, restored. The cross, once an instrument of death, becomes the gateway to life.

The tomb, empty; the grave clothes, discarded. The risen Christ extends nail-scarred hands—inviting us into the dawn of grace.

Whisper of Mercy

“The forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.”

Grace whispers in the quiet corners of our hearts. It speaks of second chances, of redemption woven into our brokenness.

The tax collector, the adulteress, the doubter—all find solace at the foot of the cross. The slate wiped clean, the ledger erased. The Pharisee’s judgment silenced; the sinner’s tears embraced.

The Gospel, not a legal transaction, but a love story—a divine romance. Forgiveness, not a distant concept, but a living reality. The proclamation echoes still: You are forgiven.

Unshackled Life

“Through Jesus…”

As pilgrims on this grace-soaked journey, we walk unshackled. Our souls, once imprisoned, now dance in the light of forgiveness. We extend grace to others, for we know the cost—the crimson price paid on Calvary.

Our words, seasoned with mercy; our actions, dripping with compassion. We bear witness to the proclamation: forgiveness. It’s not a theological abstraction; it’s our heartbeat.

We live as liberated souls, marked by grace, pointing others to the One who sets captives free.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Forgiveness
17
Feb
2024
Power of Humility, Gentleness, and Patience

Power of Humility, Gentleness, and Patience

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

When we think of the word “power,” we often associate it with strength, might, and dominance. However, the Bible teaches us that true power lies in humility, gentleness, and patience.

In Ephesians 4:2, we are called to be “completely humble and gentle” and to “be patient, bearing with one another in love.” These three virtues are not only essential to our spiritual growth but also to our relationships with others.

In this devotional, we will explore the power of humility, gentleness, and patience and how they can transform our lives.

Power of Humility

Humility is often misunderstood as weakness or lack of confidence. However, true humility is the opposite of pride and arrogance. It is recognizing that we are not perfect and that we need God’s grace and mercy.

When we are humble, we are free from the burden of trying to prove ourselves to others. Instead, we can focus on serving others and putting their needs before our own.

Humility allows us to learn from our mistakes and grow in our faith. It also helps us to be more compassionate and understanding towards others.

Power of Gentleness

Gentleness is often associated with being soft or passive. However, gentleness is a powerful virtue that requires great strength and self-control. When we are gentle, we are able to control our emotions and respond to others with kindness and compassion.

Gentleness allows us to be peacemakers and to resolve conflicts in a peaceful manner. It also helps us to build trust and deepen our relationships with others.

When we are gentle, we are able to see the good in others and to encourage them to be their best selves.

Power of Patience

Patience is often described as waiting without complaining. However, true patience is much more than that. It is the ability to endure difficult circumstances without losing hope or faith.

When we are patient, we are able to trust in God’s timing and to wait for His plans to unfold. Patience allows us to persevere through trials and to grow in our faith.

It also helps us to be more understanding and forgiving towards others. When we are patient, we are able to see the bigger picture and to trust that God is working all things together for our good.

Essentials

The power of humility, gentleness, and patience cannot be overstated. These three virtues are essential to our spiritual growth and to our relationships with others.

When we are humble, gentle, and patient, we are able to reflect the love of Christ to those around us. We are able to build deeper relationships and to make a positive impact in the world.

Strive to cultivate these virtues in our lives and to be a shining light to those around us.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
09
Feb
2024
Future Glory with the Father

Future Glory with the Father

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” John 17:24

Everlasting Joy in His Presence

What an incredible promise we have in this verse! Jesus prays to the Father that those who believe in Him will one day be with Him in glory.

Not only will we be in His presence, but we will behold His glory – the very glory that the Father has given Him. Just imagine what it will be like to see our Savior face-to-face and witness His majesty and splendor.

The joy will be beyond anything we can experience on this earth. His glory will be staggering, breathtaking, and astounding. And even more astonishing is that He wants us there with Him!

He longs for us to be united with Him in paradise. What an honor to be desired by the King of kings! Let this truth fill you with hope and excitement for the future.

Our pain, tears, and struggles will vanish, replaced by everlasting joy in His wonderful presence.

A Love Before Time

This verse also reveals the eternal nature of Christ’s love for us. He speaks of the Father loving Him “before the creation of the world.” And because of this love, the Father gave Him glory which He now desires to share with us. Isn’t that remarkable?

Before time even began, before we were formed in our mothers’ wombs, Christ’s love for us already existed. This magnificent, unconditional love transcends space, time, and circumstance. It will never fade or falter.

Meditate on the depth and constancy of His love. Let it overwhelm you and transform you. No matter what happens in this life, nothing can separate you from it. You are adored with an everlasting love!

Certainty of Eternity with Him

As Jesus prays these words on the eve of His crucifixion, He speaks with complete certainty about the future glory that awaits all believers. He doesn’t say “if” or “maybe” we will be with Him in paradise.

No, He says definitively that we WILL be there by His side, beholding His glory! We can be absolutely sure of this. It’s a promise etched in stone. One day we will enjoy intimate fellowship with Him in a place of indescribable beauty and joy.

With this hope secure, press on; your trials are temporary but your reward is eternal. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith.

The splendor of heaven infinitely outweighs the suffering of earth. Just imagine – soon we will be home with our Savior!

Our Certain Hope

As you go through your day, remember that you have an incredible hope ahead.

Jesus guarantees that if you have put your faith in Him, you will one day be united with Him in eternal paradise.

Let this promise give you strength and perspective when trials come your way. The pain is only temporary, but the glory is eternal.

Stay focused on Him, your loving Redeemer who desires your presence with Him. You are deeply loved, now and forevermore!

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
03
Feb
2024
Spring Cleaning for the Soul

Spring Cleaning for the Soul

Mark 11:15 On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple courts and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves

When Jesus entered the temple courts, he found merchants selling animals and exchanging money. Filled with righteous anger, he drove them out, declaring “My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.”

Out with the Old

Have you ever felt God nudging you to do some spiritual “spring cleaning” in your life? Just as Jesus drove out the money changers from the temple courts, there are attitudes, habits, and mindsets in our hearts that prevent us from fully experiencing God’s presence.

Like a good spring cleaning, it may feel uncomfortable at first to finally address and remove things weighing us down.

But as Jesus demonstrated in the temple courts, he wants our lives to be filled with his vibrant, living presence – not crowded out by lesser things.

Sweeping Away the Clutter

Once the merchants were gone, Jesus powerfully taught the crowds daily in the temple courts. Similarly, as we make room for God by removing anything that distracts us from pursuing him wholeheartedly, we open ourselves to hear from him more clearly.

Spring cleaning takes effort, but the reward is a cleaner, less cluttered home.

Likewise, intentionally removing distractions and obstacles in our spiritual lives takes work, but enables us to experience more of God’s presence and peace.

As the warmer weather arrives, consider what needs “cleaning out” in your heart to make more room for God this season.

A Place Set Apart

After teaching in the temple courts, Jesus and his disciples returned to Bethany each evening. Though he devoted himself to ministering in Jerusalem by day, he prioritized time away in a quiet place by night.

Likewise, we need both: serving God in our everyday lives, and setting apart time to be alone with him. If we’re only active, we’ll burn out. If we only retreat, we’ll miss opportunities to bless others.

Rhythms of work and rest, community and solitude, keep our souls in balance. Daily we need space to pray, reflect, and realign ourselves with God away from the rush and noise.

When our souls are nourished by time with God, we’re empowered to serve and share his love generously.

Take time to sweep away distractions, open your heart to God, and discover the new life he desires to grow within you.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
24
Jan
2024
Moved with Compassion

Moved with Compassion

Matthew 9:36 – When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Eyes that See the Hurting

Surrounded by crowds, Jesus chose to really see them. Behind the noise He discerned their aimless wandering through life, lacking meaning and direction. His heart broke with compassion.

We easily overlook people’s inner pain. Engulfed by our own concerns, their helplessness goes unnoticed. But Christ calls us to see through His eyes of empathy.

Harassed. Helpless. Hopeless.

The lost often mask distress behind a facade. But Christ sees the despair in each face – the fragmented families, addictions, depression, poverty. Their suffering deeply moves Him.

Who in your circles is wearing a mask but internally cries out? Ask God to break your heart with what breaks His. Let compassion propel you to act.

Lord, Give Me Your Heart

Jesus, help me see people as you see them, until it profoundly moves me. Open my eyes to see people and their pain as You do. Instill grace that compels me to enter in, listen, help, and offer hope found only in You.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration