Exhortation on 1 Corinthians Chapter 13 : The way of Love

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1 If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8 Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. 13 So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Exhortation on 1 Corinthians 13

Hello everyone,

Today, we are going to talk about a very special chapter in the Bible: 1 Corinthians 13. This chapter is often called the “Love Chapter” because it beautifully describes what true love is and why it is so important. Let’s dive into what each part of this chapter means for us.

The Importance of Love (Verses 1-3)

1 Corinthians 13 starts by telling us that no matter how talented or powerful we are, if we don’t have love, it’s all meaningless. Imagine being able to speak many languages, or even the language of angels, but without love, it would be like a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal—just noise without any meaning.

Even if we have great gifts like prophecy, understanding all mysteries, all knowledge, and faith that can move mountains, without love, we are nothing. And even if we give away everything we have or sacrifice ourselves, if we do it without love, we gain nothing.

This shows us that love is the most important thing. All our abilities and actions mean nothing if they are not done with love.

What Love Is (Verses 4-7)

The next part of the chapter tells us what love looks like. Love is patient and kind. Think about the times when you’ve been patient with a friend who was having a hard day or kind to someone who needed help. That’s love in action.

Love does not envy or boast. It’s not jealous of others or bragging about itself. It is not arrogant or rude. Instead, love is humble and treats others with respect.

Love does not insist on its own way. It’s not selfish or demanding. It is not irritable or resentful. Love keeps a cool head and doesn’t hold grudges.

Love does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. It means that love is happy when things are done the right way and when people are honest and true.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. This means that love is strong and supportive. It believes in the best, hopes for the best, and never gives up.

The Everlasting Nature of Love (Verses 8-13)

The chapter continues by saying that love never ends. Other things like prophecies, speaking in tongues, and knowledge will pass away, but love will last forever. Right now, we only know part of the picture, like seeing a dim reflection in a mirror. But one day, we will see everything clearly, face to face.

When we grow up, we put away childish ways. In the same way, as we grow in our faith, we learn to love more deeply. Now we know only a part of the full picture, but when we are with God, we will understand everything fully, just as God fully understands us.

The chapter ends by saying that three things remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love. This shows us that love is the most important thing we can have and give.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 13 teaches us that love is the most important gift we can have. It’s not just about having special abilities or doing great things, but about doing everything with love. Love is patient, kind, humble, and never gives up. It is something that lasts forever and is the greatest gift we can share with others.

Whenever you face challenges or are unsure of what to do, remember to choose love. Let’s practice being patient, kind, and supportive to those around us. Let’s make sure our actions are always done with love, because that’s what truly matters.

A Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for teaching us about the importance of love. Help us to be patient, kind, and humble in all that we do. Show us how to love others the way You love us. Guide us to live our lives with love, making a positive impact on everyone we meet.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I hope you enjoyed learning about 1 Corinthians 13. Remember, the greatest gift we can have and share is love. Let’s strive to live our lives with love every day.

Exhortation on Psalms Chapter 139 : Fearfully and Wonderfully made

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Psalms 139

1 You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. 5 You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” 12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.

13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. 17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! 18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you.

19 If only you, God, would slay the wicked! Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! 20 They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? 22 I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Hello everyone,

Today, we are going to dive deep into a very special chapter in the Bible: Psalms 139. This chapter, written by King David, is like a beautiful poem that reveals how much God knows and cares about each one of us. Let’s explore what each part of this Psalm means for us.

God Knows Everything About You (Verses 1-6)

The Psalm begins by telling us that God has searched us and knows us. Imagine your best friend who knows everything about you—your favorite food, your hobbies, and even what makes you happy or sad. Now, think about God knowing you even more deeply than that. He knows when you sit down and when you stand up. He even knows what you are thinking about right now and what you’re going to say before you say it. This shows us that God is very close to us and pays attention to every detail of our lives.

David says this knowledge is too wonderful and too lofty for him to attain. It means that understanding how deeply God knows us is beyond our imagination. It’s comforting to know that God understands us completely, even when we don’t understand ourselves.

God is Always With You (Verses 7-12)

Next, the Psalm tells us that we can never be away from God. Whether we are at home, at school, or even somewhere far away, God is with us. David asks, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” The answer is nowhere. If we go up to the heavens, God is there. If we go down to the depths, God is there too. If we travel to the far side of the sea, God’s hand will guide us and hold us fast.

Sometimes, we might feel alone or think that we can hide from God, especially when we’ve done something wrong. But this Psalm reminds us that even in the darkest places, God is there, and darkness is not dark to Him. The night shines like the day to God because He is light. Knowing that God is always with us can give us courage and comfort in every situation.

God Made You Special (Verses 13-16)

One of the most beautiful parts of Psalms 139 is when it says we are fearfully and wonderfully made. This means God created us in a very special way. David says that God knit us together in our mother’s womb. Just like a skilled artist carefully crafts a beautiful painting, God carefully made each one of us. He knows every part of our bodies and souls.

David praises God because His works are wonderful, and that includes us! We are not accidents; we are wonderfully made by God. He saw us before we were born and had plans for us even then. Every day of our lives was written in God’s book before one of them came to be. This shows us how precious we are to God and how much He values each one of us.

God’s Thoughts About You (Verses 17-18)

David tells us that God’s thoughts about us are precious and too many to count. Have you ever tried to count the stars in the sky or the grains of sand on a beach? It’s impossible! That’s how many loving thoughts God has about you. He is always thinking about you and caring for you. When you wake up each morning, God is still with you, ready to guide and protect you throughout the day.

A Prayer for Guidance (Verses 19-24)

Towards the end of Psalms 139, David prays to God, asking Him to search his heart and know his anxious thoughts. He asks God to see if there is any offensive way in him and to lead him in the way everlasting. This is a great reminder that we can always ask God for help and guidance in our lives. When we’re unsure about what to do, we can pray and trust that God will show us the right path.

David also expresses his strong feelings against those who are wicked and who speak evil against God. While we might not fully understand these intense emotions, it shows us that David was passionate about God’s holiness and justice.

Conclusion

Psalms 139 is a powerful reminder that God knows us, loves us, and is always with us. He made us special and has wonderful plans for our lives. Whenever you feel alone or unsure, remember that God is right there, thinking about you and guiding you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made by a loving God

who cares deeply for you. He understands you completely, is present in every moment of your life, and has countless precious thoughts about you.

Let’s take a moment to thank God for His amazing love and care. We can pray, asking Him to continue guiding us, helping us to understand His plans for us, and reminding us of our special place in His heart.

A Prayer

Dear God,

Thank You for knowing us so well and for being with us always. Thank You for making us in such a wonderful and special way. Help us to remember that You are always near, even when we feel alone or afraid. Guide us in all we do and help us to follow the path You have set for us. Show us how to live in a way that pleases You, and remind us every day of Your incredible love.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

I hope you enjoyed learning about Psalms 139. Remember, you are fearfully and wonderfully made! God is always with you, loving you, and guiding you. So, whenever you face challenges or feel uncertain, trust in God’s presence and His endless love for you.

Quiet Time

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! Before I started having quiet time, my life was chaotic. I felt overwhelmed and stressed every day. But when I began setting aside time each day to be alone with God, everything changed. I found peace in my heart and my mind became clearer. I started reflecting on my actions and thanking God for His guidance. My life went from chaos to calmness. This quiet time wasn’t just about prayer; it was a time of reflection, gratitude, and feeling God’s presence. It made me realize that God was always there, making my paths straight.

Diving in

Every day, we have a special opportunity to spend quiet time with God. This time can be known by many names: Devotion Time, Daily Devotions, Prayer Time, Alone Time, and more. It’s a moment in our day when we set aside everything else and focus on being with God. This quiet time is very important and can help us in many ways. Let’s explore why quiet time is special and how it can change our lives.

Why Quiet Time is Important

  1. Connecting with God: Spending time in God’s presence helps us to feel closer to Him. It’s a moment to listen and feel His love. When we set aside time just for God, we open our hearts to His voice and His guidance. This connection deepens our relationship with Him and helps us to trust Him more.
    • Scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
    • Explanation: Being still means putting aside our worries and distractions to focus solely on God. In this quietness, we can truly know and experience His presence.
  2. Finding Peace: In our busy lives, quiet time helps us find peace and calmness. When everything around us is rushing and chaotic, spending time with God brings a sense of tranquility and rest. It’s a moment to breathe deeply and let go of our stresses.
    • Scripture: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
    • Explanation: Jesus invites us to come to Him when we are tired and overwhelmed. In His presence, we find the rest and peace that our hearts long for.
  3. Reflecting on Our Lives: Quiet time allows us to think about our actions and decisions and seek God’s guidance. It’s a time to examine our hearts and minds, asking God to show us areas where we need to grow and change.
    • Scripture: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23)
    • Explanation: By inviting God to search our hearts, we open ourselves to His transforming work. Reflection helps us become more like Jesus in our thoughts and actions.
  4. Showing Gratitude: It’s a time to thank God for all His blessings and the paths He has made straight for us. Recognizing and appreciating His goodness fills our hearts with joy and contentment.
    • Scripture: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (1 Chronicles 16:34)
    • Explanation: Gratitude helps us remember God’s faithfulness and goodness. When we thank Him, we acknowledge His presence in our lives and His unending love.
  5. Finding Strength: We can find strength and courage in God during our quiet time. When we feel weak or afraid, spending time with God renews our spirit and gives us the power to face challenges.
    • Scripture: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” (Psalm 28:7)
    • Explanation: God is our protector and helper. Trusting in Him provides us with the strength we need to overcome obstacles and live confidently.

How Quiet Time Helps Us

  1. Reduces Stress: Spending time with God helps reduce our worries and stress. When we pause to be with God, we can cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). This release of worries into God’s hands brings a sense of relief and calmness, knowing that we are not alone in our struggles.
  2. Guides Our Path: We receive guidance on making good decisions and following the right path. During quiet time, we can seek God’s wisdom and direction for our lives. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This assurance helps us make choices that align with God’s will.
  3. Improves Our Mood: Quiet time with God can lift our spirits and make us feel happier. Spending time in God’s presence fills us with joy and peace. Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” This joy strengthens us and helps us face our day with a positive attitude.
  4. Strengthens Our Faith: It helps us grow stronger in our faith and trust in God. As we spend time reading the Bible and reflecting on God’s promises, our faith deepens. Romans 10:17 says, “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Regular quiet time nurtures our faith and helps us trust God more fully.
  5. Fosters Gratitude: We become more thankful for the small and big blessings in our lives. Quiet time gives us the space to recognize and appreciate all that God has done for us. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” This practice of gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundant blessings we have received.

Quiet Time vs. Prayer Time

While prayer time is a part of our quiet time, they are not the same. Prayer time is when we talk to God, asking for help, seeking forgiveness, and praying for others. Quiet time, on the other hand, is more about listening to God, reflecting on His word, and being thankful for His blessings. It’s a time to be still and feel His presence.

Wrapping up

Quiet time is a precious part of our day that helps us connect with God, find peace, reflect on our lives, show gratitude, and find strength. It’s a moment to step away from the chaos and feel God’s calming presence. By making quiet time a daily practice, we can transform our lives from chaos to calmness, just like I did. Let’s take this time every day to be still, reflect, and thank God for all He has done for us.

The Ten Commandments

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! I am trying to write my understandings on the topic of Old Covenant and New Covenant. Though many might say new covenant is made easy

Diving in

Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, made a profound statement about His relationship to the Mosaic Law. In His Sermon on the Mount, He declared, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them” (Matthew 5:17). This declaration was pivotal, as it underscored His respect for the existing Jewish laws and the continuity of God’s covenant with Israel. Jesus’ purpose was not to discard the law but to complete its intended purpose and deepen its meaning. By fulfilling the law, Jesus aimed to reveal its true spiritual and moral essence, thus guiding believers to a higher standard of righteousness rooted in love, grace, and inner transformation.

  1. You shall have no other gods before Me.
    • Exodus 20:3: “You shall have no other gods before me.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind as the greatest commandment.
      • Matthew 22:37-38: “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.’”
  2. You shall not make for yourself a carved image.
    • Exodus 20:4-6: “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized worshiping God in spirit and truth, without reliance on physical representations.
      • John 4:24: “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”
  3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
    • Exodus 20:7: “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized reverence and respect in how we speak and live.
      • Matthew 6:9: “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.’”
  4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.
    • Exodus 20:8-11: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus taught that the Sabbath was made for man, emphasizing mercy and the spirit of rest rather than legalistic observance.
      • Mark 2:27: “Then he said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.’”
  5. Honor your father and your mother.
    • Exodus 20:12: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized honoring and caring for parents, highlighting the spirit of the commandment.
      • Matthew 15:4-6: “For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses their father or mother is to be put to death.’ But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother is ‘devoted to God,’ they are not to ‘honor their father or mother’ with it. Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.”
  6. You shall not murder.
    • Exodus 20:13: “You shall not murder.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus expanded this to include anger and hatred, teaching that these attitudes are the root of murder.
      • Matthew 5:21-22: “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
  7. You shall not commit adultery.
    • Exodus 20:14: “You shall not commit adultery.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus extended this commandment to include lustful thoughts, emphasizing purity of heart.
      • Matthew 5:27-28: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
  8. You shall not steal.
    • Exodus 20:15: “You shall not steal.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized integrity and generosity, teaching that one should go beyond avoiding theft to actively giving and helping others.
      • Matthew 5:40-42: “And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.”
  9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
    • Exodus 20:16: “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus emphasized truthfulness in all communication and integrity in one’s words.
      • Matthew 5:33-37: “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.’ But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all… All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.”
  10. You shall not covet.
    • Exodus 20:17: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”
    • Amplification by Jesus: Jesus taught contentment and trust in God’s provision, addressing the heart’s desires and motivations.
      • Luke 12:15: “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”

Summary

Jesus amplified the Ten Commandments by shifting the focus from mere external adherence to the deeper attitudes and intentions of the heart. He taught that true righteousness surpasses outward compliance and involves inward transformation, rooted in love for God and others.

Wrapping up

In fulfilling the law, Jesus raised the standards of the commandments, moving beyond mere external compliance to addressing the deeper issues of the heart. He amplified the commandments by emphasizing attitudes and intentions, teaching that anger is akin to murder and lust is equivalent to adultery. This elevation of moral expectations might seem daunting, but Jesus also provided the means to achieve this higher standard through the new covenant. By His life, death, and resurrection, He offered grace and the indwelling Holy Spirit to empower believers to live out these higher standards. Thus, while the bar was raised, Jesus ensured that adherence to the commandments was achievable not by human effort alone, but through a transformed heart and a relationship with Him. This new covenant enables believers to fulfill the law in its truest sense, embodying the love and righteousness that God desires.

Exhortation on James Chapter 5: Living with Patience, Prayer, and Care

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James chapter 5 provides insights into various aspects of Christian living, including patience, prayer, and the importance of caring for one another. Here’s an

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In James chapter 5, we find wisdom and encouragement for navigating the challenges of life with faith and perseverance. James reminds us of the power of prayer, the importance of patience, and the need to care for one another within the community of believers.

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. (James 5:7-8)

Patience is a virtue often tested in the trials and tribulations of life. James draws our attention to the example of the farmer, who patiently waits for the harvest. In the same way, we are called to patiently endure, trusting in God’s timing and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. Let us stand firm in our faith, knowing that the Lord’s coming is near, and He will reward our perseverance.

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. (James 5:13-14)

James underscores the power of prayer as a means of seeking God’s intervention in times of trouble and rejoicing in times of joy. He encourages us to lift our voices in praise and thanksgiving, acknowledging God’s goodness and faithfulness. Moreover, James highlights the importance of seeking the prayers of the elders within the church community for healing and restoration. Let us not underestimate the effectiveness of fervent prayer in bringing about God’s healing and provision in our lives.

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (James 5:16)

James emphasizes the importance of confession and mutual prayer within the body of believers. As we humbly confess our sins and weaknesses to one another, we create an environment of vulnerability and accountability, where healing and restoration can take place. Let us bear one another’s burdens in love, lifting each other up in prayer and interceding for one another’s needs.

As we meditate on the teachings of James chapter 5, let us embrace patience in times of trial, fervency in prayer, and compassion in caring for one another. May our lives be characterized by faithfulness, hope, and love, as we await the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to live out these truths, bringing glory to God and blessings to those around us.

Amen.

Exhortation on James Chapter 4: Drawing Near to God with Humility

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Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In James chapter 4, we are called to examine our hearts and attitudes, recognizing the destructive nature of pride and the transformative power of humility. James challenges us to humble ourselves before God, resisting the temptations of selfish ambition and worldly desires.

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. (James 4:1-2)

James identifies the root cause of conflicts and quarrels as the desires that wage war within us. When we allow our selfish desires to dictate our actions, we become consumed by envy, jealousy, and strife. Instead of seeking fulfillment in worldly pursuits, James admonishes us to turn to God in prayer, trusting in His provision and sovereignty.

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (James 4:7-8)

True humility begins with submission to God. As we humble ourselves before Him, acknowledging our need for His grace and guidance, we find strength to resist the temptations of the enemy. James urges us to draw near to God, recognizing that He is faithful to draw near to us in return. Let us cleanse our hearts from sin and purify our motives, surrendering our will to His perfect plan.

Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. (James 4:11)

James also addresses the dangers of slander and judgmental attitudes within the community of believers. Let us guard our tongues and refrain from speaking evil against one another. Instead, let our words be characterized by love, grace, and edification, reflecting the mercy and forgiveness we have received from God.

As we reflect on the teachings of James chapter 4, let us humble ourselves before God, submitting to His will and resisting the temptations of the enemy. May our lives be marked by a spirit of humility, love, and reconciliation, as we seek to honor God in all that we do.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to walk in humility and obedience, bringing glory to God and shining as lights in a dark and broken world.

Amen.

Exhortation on James Chapter 3: Harnessing the Power of the Tongue

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Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In James chapter 3, we are confronted with the sobering reality of the immense power wielded by the tongue. James compares the tongue to a small spark that can set an entire forest ablaze. Indeed, our words have the power to build up or tear down, to bring life or to cause destruction.

Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. (James 3:5-6)

James warns us of the dangers of uncontrolled speech, urging us to be slow to speak and quick to listen. He emphasizes the importance of exercising wisdom and self-control in our communication, recognizing that the words we speak have far-reaching consequences.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (James 3:19-20)

As followers of Christ, we are called to be mindful of the impact of our words on others. Let us speak words of encouragement, kindness, and truth, lifting others up and pointing them towards the love of God. May our speech be seasoned with grace, bringing healing and reconciliation to those around us.

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. (James 3:17)

James contrasts worldly wisdom, characterized by selfish ambition and envy, with heavenly wisdom, marked by purity, peace, and humility. Let us seek after the wisdom that comes from above, allowing it to guide our thoughts, words, and actions.

In our pursuit of godly wisdom, let us also remember to guard our hearts, for out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks. May we cultivate hearts that are filled with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

As we reflect on the teachings of James chapter 3, let us commit ourselves to harnessing the power of the tongue for good. May our words bring glory to God and blessings to those around us, shining as lights in a world darkened by harsh words and unkindness.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to speak life, truth, and love into the lives of others, reflecting the character of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Exhortation on James Chapter 2: Living Out Faith Through Works

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Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As followers of Christ, we are called not only to profess our faith but also to demonstrate it through our actions. In James chapter 2, we are reminded of the profound truth that faith without works is dead.

James begins by addressing the sin of favoritism, warning against showing partiality based on someone’s wealth or status. He challenges us to treat everyone with equal respect and dignity, remembering that God shows no favoritism. Let us, therefore, love our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of their social standing or background.

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. (James 2:1)

James presents a powerful illustration of faith in action by highlighting the example of Abraham and Rahab. Abraham’s faith was demonstrated through his obedience to God, culminating in his willingness to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. Rahab, a prostitute, demonstrated her faith by hiding the spies and helping them escape. Both Abraham and Rahab’s actions aligned with their faith, proving that faith without works is indeed dead.

In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. (James 2:25-26)

James challenges us to examine our own lives and ask ourselves: Are we merely hearers of the word, or are we also doers? Genuine faith produces fruit in the form of good works and acts of kindness towards others. Let us not deceive ourselves by claiming to have faith while neglecting to live it out in our daily lives.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? (James 2:14)

As we meditate on the teachings of James chapter 2, let us be inspired to live out our faith through acts of love, mercy, and compassion. Let our lives be a reflection of the transformative power of the gospel, demonstrating God’s love to a world in need. May our faith be vibrant and alive, bearing witness to the grace and goodness of our Lord Jesus Christ.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to be doers of the word, bringing glory to God through our actions.

Amen.

Exhortation on James Chapter 1: Facing Trials with Faith

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Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As we journey through life, we are bound to encounter trials of various kinds. Yet, in the midst of these trials, we find assurance and wisdom in the words of James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.

James begins his letter by exhorting us to consider it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds. This may seem counterintuitive at first, but James reminds us that these trials produce perseverance. They refine us, strengthen our faith, and mold us into the people God intends us to be. Therefore, let us rejoice in the knowledge that our faith is being tested, knowing that this testing produces perseverance.

But let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:4)

In times of trial, when we feel weak or uncertain, we are encouraged to seek wisdom from God. James assures us that if we lack wisdom, we need only to ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault. God’s wisdom transcends our understanding, guiding us through the challenges we face and illuminating the path ahead.

The brother or sister in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wildflower. (James 1:9-10)

James reminds us that our circumstances do not define our worth in God’s eyes. Whether we are rich or poor, we are called to find our identity and security in Christ alone. The rich are reminded of the fleeting nature of their wealth, while the humble are reminded of their exalted position in God’s kingdom.

When we are tempted to stray from the path of righteousness, James warns us not to be deceived. Every good and perfect gift comes from above, from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. Let us fix our eyes on the unchanging character of God, resisting the lure of temptation and remaining steadfast in our faith.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (James 1:19-20)

In our interactions with others, let us be quick to listen and slow to speak. Let us show grace and patience, knowing that human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Instead, let our words be seasoned with love and our actions reflect the mercy and compassion of our Savior.

As we reflect on the wisdom found in James chapter 1, let us approach trials with joy, seek wisdom from God, find our identity in Christ, resist temptation, and demonstrate love and patience towards others. May we be doers of the word, and not hearers only, living out our faith in every aspect of our lives.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Amen.

Jesus : Humane Human

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! I am writing about The Humanity of Christ. Usually I write and wait two or three days to post it live. This is the first time I wrote it without revising it.

Diving in

During my teenage years, I had many questions about God and Jesus. While my faith journey initially focused on understanding the divinity of Christ, life experiences gradually shifted my curiosity towards His humanity. The struggles, challenges, and pain I faced as a human being made me question how Jesus, as God, could truly understand my plight. However, a profound dream I had on May 22, 2024, dispelled my doubts about the humanity of Christ. This dream revealed to me the purpose and depth of Jesus’ humanity, helping me to see Him as the first person of the Trinity we encounter in our lives. It is this humanity that allows for an intimate connection with God, making Jesus not only relatable but also a perfect example of living a sinless life amidst human suffering.

The Struggle with Understanding Christ’s Humanity

As humans, we often grapple with the concept of divinity mingling with humanity. How could Jesus, being God, also be fully human? This question haunted me for years, especially when facing personal pain and challenges. It seemed impossible that a divine being could truly empathize with the human condition. However, my dream provided clarity that I had been seeking for so long.

In my dream, Jesus appeared as the most humane person I have ever encountered. His eyes radiated grace, but everything else about Him was strikingly human. He exhibited pain, helplessness, and desperation—emotions that are profoundly human. This experience was a turning point for me, affirming the humanity of Christ in a way that intellectual arguments and theological debates never could.

Jesus: The First Person of the Trinity We Experience

Jesus is often the first person of the Trinity that believers encounter in their faith journey. This makes sense because His humanity bridges the gap between us and the divine. As Hebrews 4:15 states, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.” Jesus’ life on earth was marked by the same temptations, struggles, and pains that we experience, yet He remained sinless.

This connection is essential for fostering an intimate relationship with God. Knowing that Jesus experienced the full spectrum of human emotions and suffering reassures us that He understands our plight. His humanity makes Him approachable and relatable, allowing us to confide in Him with our deepest struggles.

The Purpose of Jesus’ Humanity

Jesus’ humanity serves a profound purpose in God’s redemptive plan. By becoming human, He demonstrated that it is possible to live a sinless life despite the challenges we face. Philippians 2:6-8 explains, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

Through His life and death, Jesus provided a perfect example for us to follow. He showed us that reliance on God, even in the face of immense suffering, is possible and fruitful. His humanity is a testament to God’s immense love for us—so much so that He was willing to endure human pain and suffering to save us.

Scriptural Affirmation of Christ’s Humanity

The Bible is replete with references to Jesus’ humanity. In John 1:14, we read, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” This verse underscores the incarnation—God becoming flesh and living among us.

Moreover, Jesus’ experiences on earth reflect His humanity. He felt hunger (Matthew 4:2), thirst (John 19:28), fatigue (John 4:6), sorrow (John 11:35), and even agony (Luke 22:44). These instances reveal a Saviour who fully embraced human nature, sharing in our experiences and emotions.

Wrapping up

My journey from questioning the divinity of Christ to understanding His humanity has been transformative. The dream I had on May 22, 2024, played a pivotal role in resolving my doubts and deepening my faith. It revealed Jesus as the most humane human I have ever seen, a being who, despite His divinity, embraced humanity in its entirety. His eyes, filled with grace, reflected His divine nature, but His pain, helplessness, and desperation were profoundly human.

Jesus is the first person of the Trinity we experience because His humanity makes Him relatable and approachable. His life on earth serves as a model for us, demonstrating that living a sinless life is possible even amidst suffering. By understanding and embracing the humanity of Christ, we draw closer to Him, fostering a more intimate relationship with God. Jesus, in His humanity, proved that He can understand our struggles and walk with us through them. As Hebrews 2:17-18 reminds us, “For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Through His humanity, Jesus not only empathizes with our suffering but also guides us towards a life of righteousness and closeness with God.