Have you ever heard of Huldah? She’s not one of the most well-known figures in the Bible, but her story is a powerful reminder that God can use anyone, even in unexpected ways, to accomplish His purposes. Huldah was a prophetess during a time when the people of Israel had strayed far from God. Her role might seem small, but the impact of her faithfulness was huge.
Huldah lived during the reign of King Josiah, a young king who wanted to lead his people back to God. One day, workers in the temple discovered a long-lost scroll of the Law, the very words of God given to Moses. When King Josiah heard the words of the Law, he was deeply troubled, realizing how far the nation had drifted from God’s commands. He needed guidance, and that’s where Huldah comes in.
King Josiah sent his officials to seek God’s will, and they went to Huldah, the prophetess. It’s significant that in a time when prophets like Jeremiah and Zephaniah were active, the king’s men sought out Huldah. She wasn’t the most famous prophet, but she was known for her faithfulness and wisdom.
Huldah didn’t hold back. She delivered God’s message with courage and clarity. She confirmed that the nation had indeed strayed and that judgment was coming, but she also brought a word of hope for King Josiah. Because of his humility and desire to follow God, Josiah was promised that the disaster wouldn’t happen during his lifetime. Huldah’s words helped spark a revival, leading Josiah to renew the covenant with God and initiate reforms that brought the people back to worshipping Him.
What makes Huldah’s story so powerful is that she was willing to be used by God, even if her role seemed small compared to others. She wasn’t seeking fame or recognition; she was simply faithful in the role God had given her. And because of that faithfulness, she played a crucial part in one of the greatest spiritual revivals in Israel’s history.
Huldah’s story reminds us that in God’s kingdom, there are no insignificant roles. Whether we’re in the spotlight or working quietly behind the scenes, God can use our faithfulness to accomplish great things. Huldah didn’t need to be a household name to make a difference—she just needed to be obedient to God’s call.
In a world that often values fame and recognition, Huldah’s example challenges us to focus on being faithful where we are. We might not see the full impact of our actions, but we can trust that God is at work, using our obedience to bring about His purposes. Just like Huldah, we can make a difference by being willing to listen to God’s voice and speak His truth, no matter how small or unnoticed our role might seem.
Huldah’s story is a powerful reminder that God sees and values every act of faithfulness. Whether we’re delivering a message, offering a word of encouragement, or simply living out our faith day by day, we can trust that God is using us in ways we might never fully understand.
Have you ever heard of Lois and Eunice? They might not be the most famous characters in the Bible, but their influence is far-reaching. These two women were instrumental in shaping the faith of Timothy, one of the key leaders in the early Christian church. Their story shows us how powerful a legacy of faith can be, even if it doesn’t involve grand gestures or public recognition.
Lois was Timothy’s grandmother, and Eunice was his mother. We don’t know much about their lives, but what we do know speaks volumes. They were women of sincere faith, and they passed that faith down to Timothy from a young age. In 2 Timothy 1:5, the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, saying, “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” This simple statement highlights the quiet but profound impact these women had on Timothy’s life.
Lois and Eunice didn’t perform miracles, lead armies, or preach to thousands. Instead, they nurtured Timothy’s faith in their home. They taught him the Scriptures, shared their love for God, and lived out their beliefs day by day. Through their everyday actions, they planted seeds of faith that would grow into something much greater than they could have imagined.
Timothy went on to become a close companion of Paul, spreading the Gospel and strengthening the early church. His faith and leadership were rooted in the teachings and example of Lois and Eunice. What they did might seem small—teaching a child, sharing stories of God’s goodness—but it was these small acts of faithfulness that helped shape a leader who would influence countless others.
The story of Lois and Eunice reminds us that the things we do in our daily lives, even the seemingly insignificant ones, can have a lasting impact. Whether it’s sharing a kind word, teaching a child, or simply living out our faith quietly, God can use these moments to build something far greater than we can see.
In a world that often celebrates the big and the bold, Lois and Eunice show us the power of quiet faithfulness. They didn’t need to be in the spotlight to make a difference; they simply needed to be faithful where they were. And God used their faithfulness to help shape a young man who would go on to play a crucial role in the early church.
Their story encourages us to trust that God sees and values the small, everyday acts of faith. Even when we feel like our contributions are insignificant, we can be assured that God is at work in and through us. Just like Lois and Eunice, we can leave a legacy of faith that reaches far beyond what we can imagine.
“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 Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! As Christians, we often grapple with the ebb and flow of our faith. There are seasons when our trust in God seems unshakeable, and others when doubt creeps in, leaving us feeling guilty and ashamed. Today, I want to address a misconception that has caused unnecessary pain for many believers: the idea that lack of faith is a sin.
Let’s begin by acknowledging a simple truth: doubt is a common human experience, even for the most devout followers of Christ. The Bible is filled with examples of people who struggled with their faith, yet were still used mightily by God.
Consider Thomas, one of Jesus’ disciples. After the resurrection, Thomas famously declared, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe” (John 20:25). Did Jesus condemn Thomas for his doubt? No. Instead, He graciously appeared to Thomas, inviting him to touch His wounds and believe (John 20:27-28).
Or think about John the Baptist, who sent his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” (Matthew 11:3). This was the same John who had earlier proclaimed Jesus as the Lamb of God (John 1:29). Yet, in his moment of doubt, Jesus didn’t rebuke him. Instead, He sent back evidence of His ministry, affirming John’s faith (Matthew 11:4-6).
Even in the Old Testament, we see great heroes of faith struggling with doubt. David, a man after God’s own heart, cried out, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?” (Psalm 13:1). Jeremiah, known as the weeping prophet, lamented, “Why is my pain unending and my wound grievous and incurable? You are to me like a deceptive brook, like a spring that fails” (Jeremiah 15:18).
These examples remind us that experiencing doubt doesn’t make us “bad Christians.” It makes us human.
So why do we often feel such intense guilt and shame when our faith wavers? Perhaps it’s because we’ve misunderstood verses like Hebrews 11:6, which states, “And without faith it is impossible to please God.” However, this verse isn’t a condemnation of those struggling with doubt. Rather, it’s an affirmation of the importance of faith in our relationship with God.
The truth is, God understands our struggles. Psalm 103:14 reminds us, “For he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust.” Our Heavenly Father is not distant or angry when we doubt. Instead, He draws near to us in our weakness.
Consider the father in Mark 9 who brought his demon-possessed son to Jesus. When Jesus said, “Everything is possible for one who believes,” the father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:23-24). This honest cry resonates with many of us. And how did Jesus respond? With compassion and healing.
The apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, gives us a beautiful assurance: “If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). God’s faithfulness to us is not dependent on our perfect faith in Him. His love and grace persist even when our faith falters.
In fact, our times of doubt can actually strengthen our faith in the long run. James 1:2-4 encourages us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
So how should we respond when we find ourselves doubting? First, we should be honest with God about our struggles. The Psalms are full of raw, honest expressions of doubt and fear. God can handle our questions and uncertainties.
Second, we should remember God’s faithfulness in the past. The Israelites were often instructed to recall God’s mighty deeds (Deuteronomy 7:18-19). Similarly, we can look back on how God has worked in our lives and in the lives of others to bolster our faith.
Third, we should surround ourselves with a supportive community of believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us of the importance of meeting together and encouraging one another.
Finally, we should continue to engage with God’s Word. Romans 10:17 tells us that “faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Even when we don’t feel like it, immersing ourselves in Scripture can reignite our faith.
Remember, dear friends, that God’s grace is sufficient for us, and His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). When you find yourself in a season of doubt, don’t let guilt and shame overwhelm you. Instead, rest in the knowledge that God’s love for you is unchanging.
As Isaiah 40:31 promises, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
May we all find comfort in God’s unfailing love and grace, even in our moments of deepest doubt. For it is often in these very moments that God draws us closer to Himself, proving His faithfulness and deepening our trust in Him.
“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 Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! My heart aches as I write these words, but I feel compelled to share my story. For years, I thought I was being a good Christian husband, pouring everything I had into my marriage. Little did I realize that in my quest for marital perfection, I had created an idol that was slowly pushing God out of His rightful place in my life.
The Bible warns us in Exodus 20:3, “You shall have no other gods before me.” Yet, how easily we can turn even good things into idols! My marriage, a beautiful gift from God, had become my ultimate source of identity, purpose, and fulfilment. I had forgotten the words of Jesus in Matthew 22:37-38, “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.”
Don’t misunderstand me – loving your spouse is not a sin. In fact, it’s commanded (Ephesians 5:25). But when that love surpasses our love for God, we’ve crossed a dangerous line. I found myself obsessed with being the perfect husband, taking pride in my abilities to fulfil my duties. I built my sense of identity, belonging, and purpose around my role as a spouse rather than as a child of God. Proverbs 16:18 warns, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” And fall I did. Despite my best efforts, I failed miserably. My marriage began to crumble, and I was left feeling utterly hopeless and helpless.
For six long months, I prayed fervently for God to fix my breaking marriage. But in His infinite wisdom, God was more interested in fixing me. He wanted to address the root of the problem – my misplaced worship and reliance on my own strength instead of His. As I wrestled with God, I was reminded of Jeremiah 17:5,7: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord… But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.” I realized that I had been trying to do everything in my own strength, forgetting that apart from Christ, I can do nothing (John 15:5). My sense of failure was overwhelming, but it drove me to my knees in repentance.
Today, I stand before you, humbled and broken, yet filled with hope. I’m learning to surrender my marriage, my identity, and my purpose to God. I’m repenting for replacing Him with something He ordained but never intended to take His place. If you find yourself in a similar situation, take heart. Our God is the God of the impossible (Luke 1:37). He can restore what seems irreparably broken – not just our marriages, but our hearts and our relationship with Him. Let us remember the words of Psalm 73:25-26: “Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
As I continue on this journey of restoration, I cling to these truths. I invite you to join me in examining your heart. Have you, like me, allowed your marriage or any other good thing to become an idol? Let’s turn back to our first love, allowing God to take His rightful place on the throne of our hearts. In our helplessness, we find His strength. In our brokenness, we find His healing. And in surrendering our idols, we find true fulfilment in Him alone.
“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 Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! Have you ever felt so overwhelmed with emotion that you couldn’t even pinpoint the reason behind your tears? I found myself in that place once, where everything around me seemed to trigger a deep, unexplainable sadness. The weight of the world pressed down on me, and I felt utterly alone. I started believing the lies of the enemy—that I was unworthy, that I was too far gone, and worst of all, that even Jesus had abandoned me.
In my desperation, I tried to fill the void with anything I could find. I watched countless motivational videos, hoping to find something that would lift me out of my despair. But nothing could touch the depth of my pain. I felt like I was drifting farther and farther away from God, and I began to wonder if I could ever make my way back to Him.
One day, I stumbled upon a sermon by Pastor Gersson Edinbaro. His words pierced through the fog that had clouded my mind. He said something that struck me deeply: “Jesus never walks away. Jesus walks behind you, no matter how far you feel you’ve walked away from Him.” Those words were like a beacon of hope in my darkness, and I found myself sobbing uncontrollably, overwhelmed by the realization that Jesus had never left my side.
As I reflected on this truth, I was reminded of the story of Peter—a man who knew what it was like to fall, to fail, and to feel unworthy of Jesus’ love. Peter was one of Jesus’ closest disciples, yet in the moment of greatest pressure, he denied knowing Jesus three times. In Luke 22:61-62, after Peter’s third denial, “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.” Peter was devastated by his failure. He had walked with Jesus, seen His miracles, and yet, in his weakest moment, he denied even knowing Him.
Peter’s story could have ended in that bitter weeping, in the overwhelming guilt and shame. But Jesus didn’t walk away from Peter. After His resurrection, Jesus sought Peter out. In John 21:15-17, we see a beautiful moment of restoration. Jesus asked Peter three times, “Do you love me?” Each time, Peter affirmed his love, and Jesus responded, “Feed my sheep.” Through this, Jesus not only forgave Peter but also reinstated him, showing that His love and purpose for Peter were never dependent on Peter’s perfection.
This story resonated with me so deeply because, like Peter, I have failed. I’ve denied Jesus, not in words but in actions, in turning away from Him when I should have clung to Him. I’ve listened to the enemy’s lies that told me I was unworthy, that I was too far gone. But Jesus, in His infinite mercy, never walked away from me. Just as He sought out Peter, He sought me out, walking behind me, waiting for me to turn back to Him.
In Deuteronomy 31:8, we are reminded, “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” This verse became a lifeline for me. It reminded me that Jesus is always there, even when I feel lost, even when I feel like I’ve walked too far away. His love is steadfast, His commitment to us unshakable.
When Pastor Gersson Edinbaro said, “Jesus walks behind you, no matter how far you felt you walked away from Him,” it was like a light switched on in my heart. Jesus is not just with us in our moments of strength or when we’re walking closely with Him. He is with us in our brokenness, in our failures, in our moments of deepest despair. Just as He did not abandon Peter, He does not abandon us.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39). Nothing—not our sins, not our failures, not our wandering—can separate us from Jesus’ love. He is always there, walking beside us, ready to welcome us back with open arms.
Peter’s story is a powerful reminder that Jesus never gives up on us. Even when we stumble, even when we fall, He is there, ready to restore us. His question to Peter, “Do you love me?” is the same question He asks us. And like Peter, our answer doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be honest. Jesus doesn’t need us to be flawless; He just wants our hearts.
If you find yourself in a place where you feel distant from God, where you’ve believed the lies that you’re too far gone, remember Peter’s story. Remember that Jesus never walks away. He is walking behind you, waiting for you to turn back to Him. His love is relentless, His grace unending, and His arms are always open.
When I look back on those dark days, I realize that Jesus was with me all along. He was waiting for me to stop running, to stop listening to the enemy’s lies, and to turn back to Him. And when I did, I found not judgment, but mercy; not rejection, but love.
So, if you’re struggling today, if you feel like you’ve walked too far away, know this: Jesus will never walk away from you. Like the Good Shepherd, He will leave the ninety-nine to find you. He will walk behind you, patiently waiting for the moment when you turn around and fall into His arms. And when you do, you will find a love that never fails, a grace that is greater than all your sin, and a Saviour who will never let you go.
“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 Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Hi there my Brothers and Sisters in Christ! When I reflect on who I am, I see nothing but a wretched sinner. I can’t escape the overwhelming sense that everyone around me, no matter their flaws or mistakes, is somehow better than me. Their sins seem so small, so trivial, compared to the mountain of guilt and shame I carry. I have sinned, over and over again, falling into the same traps, repeating the same mistakes. Each time, I feel the crushing weight of my failure, the despair of knowing that I have once again fallen short of what God has called me to be. The shame is unbearable, and yet, in the depths of my despair, I find myself doing the only thing I know how to do—I run back to God, like a beggar who has nothing left, desperate for even a crumb of His mercy.
I think of the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:4-7, where Jesus describes the shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the one that is lost. I am that lost sheep. I have wandered so far from the safety of His fold, strayed into dangerous and sinful places, yet He comes looking for me, again and again. The shepherd doesn’t scold or punish the lost sheep; instead, He rejoices when He finds it and carries it home on His shoulders. This is how God treats me. Despite my repeated failures, He doesn’t turn His back on me. Instead, He seeks me out, He finds me in my lostness, and He brings me back into His embrace. Not because I deserve it—oh, I know how little I deserve it—but because His love is far greater than my sin.
Paul’s words in Romans 7:24-25 speak directly to my heart: “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” I am acutely aware of my wretchedness. I know that no amount of good deeds, no amount of striving on my part, can ever make me worthy. It is only through Jesus Christ that I am delivered, only through His sacrifice that I am saved.
I am totally undeserving of His grace. If I lived a million years, and did every good work imaginable, it would never be enough to earn His favor. But that’s the beauty of grace—it’s not something I can earn. It’s not something I deserve. It’s a gift, freely given, from a God who loves me more than I can comprehend. Like a beggar who knows he has no right to ask for anything, I grasp onto this grace with everything I have, knowing that without it, I have nothing. It is my only hope, my only lifeline.
I often find myself drawn to the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. Like the prodigal, I have squandered the gifts that God has given me. I have turned away from Him, choosing my own path, chasing after things that only led to emptiness and despair. I have hit rock bottom, found myself in the mire of my own making, and realized that the only place I could turn was back to the Father I had rejected. And just like the prodigal, when I finally come to my senses and return to Him, I don’t find anger or condemnation. Instead, I find a Father who has been waiting for me all along, who runs to meet me, who embraces me, and who restores me. This is the nature of God’s love—undeserved, unearned, and yet, freely given.
But I know that this journey of returning to God, of being transformed by His grace, is a process. It doesn’t happen overnight. I am not instantly made perfect. I struggle, I fall, and I get up again. I sin, I repent, and I seek His forgiveness. And each time, God washes me clean, reminding me that my identity is not found in my sin, but in Him. It’s a daily battle, a daily choice to come back to Him, to allow Him to shape me into who He has called me to be.
When I say I am a Christian, I am not claiming to be righteous or blameless on my own. In fact, I know that I have no righteousness of my own. The accuser may point out my many sins, but he has no power over me because my sins have been taken up by Christ. Isaiah 1:18 speaks to this amazing truth: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.” This is the reality of what Christ has done for me. I am blameless not because of anything I have done, but because Christ took my place, bore my sins, and washed me clean with His blood.
And though He has every reason to cast me aside, He does not. Instead, He holds me close, He calls me His own, and He reminds me that I am loved. This is the miracle of grace—that God would look at someone as wretched as me and call me His child.
So when I declare that I am a Christian, I am not boasting of my own worthiness or goodness. I am simply acknowledging that without Christ, I am nothing. My identity, my hope, my very life is bound up in Him. I am a sinner saved by grace, a lost sheep found by a loving Shepherd, a prodigal welcomed home by a Father who never stopped loving me.
CHRISTIAN means “Without Christ, I Am Nothing.” This is who I am. This is my identity in Christ. I am not perfect, I am not sinless, but I am His, and that is enough.
“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! In our spiritual journey, we often experience moments of profound grace and divine intervention. Yet, amidst these blessings, we may find ourselves slipping into ungratefulness, failing to acknowledge the hand of God in our lives. The story of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude and the dangers of taking God’s blessings for granted.
The Miracle of Healing
As Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee, He encountered ten men who had leprosy. They stood at a distance and cried out, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:13). Leprosy was a devastating disease, causing physical disfigurement and social isolation. These men were desperate for healing.
Jesus, full of compassion, responded to their cries. He instructed them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” (Luke 17:14). As the ten lepers obeyed Jesus’ command, they were miraculously healed on their way to the priests.
The Response to Healing
The healing of the ten lepers was a moment of incredible grace and divine power. Yet, out of the ten, only one returned to express gratitude. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked Him, and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” (Luke 17:17-18).
This response from Jesus highlights a troubling reality: the majority of those who received this miraculous healing failed to return and give thanks. This story challenges us to reflect on our own attitudes and behaviors as children of God. How often do we receive God’s blessings without offering our gratitude in return?
The Heart of Gratitude
Gratitude is more than a polite response; it is a posture of the heart. It acknowledges our dependence on God and our recognition of His sovereignty in our lives. The one leper who returned to thank Jesus exemplified this heart of gratitude. He recognized that his healing was not just a physical restoration but a divine act of mercy.
When we cultivate a heart of gratitude, we align ourselves with God’s will and open our eyes to His continual presence and blessings in our lives. Colossians 3:15-17 encourages us to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts and to be thankful. This thankfulness should permeate every aspect of our lives, from our prayers to our daily interactions.
The Consequences of Ungratefulness
Ungratefulness can have severe spiritual consequences. It can lead to a hardened heart, spiritual complacency, and a diminished relationship with God. When we fail to acknowledge God’s blessings, we distance ourselves from Him and miss out on the deeper joy and peace that comes from a grateful heart.
Romans 1:21 warns us of this danger: “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Ungratefulness can darken our hearts and minds, leading us away from the light of God’s truth and love.
Cultivating a Grateful Heart
So how do we combat ungratefulness? Here are a few practical steps to cultivate a heart of gratitude:
Daily Reflection: Take time each day to reflect on God’s blessings. Write them down in a gratitude journal and thank God for each one.
Prayer of Thanksgiving: Incorporate prayers of thanksgiving into your daily routine. Thank God for the big miracles and the small, everyday blessings.
Acts of Gratitude: Express your gratitude through acts of kindness. Serve others as a way of showing your thankfulness to God.
Remembering Past Blessings: Recall past instances of God’s faithfulness and provision. Let these memories fuel your gratitude in the present.
Scripture Meditation: Meditate on scriptures that emphasize gratitude, such as Psalm 100:4, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
Wrapping Up
The story of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude in our lives. As children of God, we are called to recognize and acknowledge His blessings continually. Let us not fall into the trap of entitlement or spiritual blindness but instead cultivate a heart of gratitude that draws us closer to our Heavenly Father.
May we be like the one leper who returned to give thanks, recognizing that every blessing we receive is a gift of God’s grace. And in our gratitude, may we find joy, peace, and a deeper connection with the One who loves us beyond measure.
“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! In the life of a Christian, few practices are as profound and sacred as the breaking of bread. This simple act, rooted in deep tradition and commanded by Christ Himself, carries immense spiritual significance.
BUT DO WE REALLY UNDERSTAND THE GRAVITY OF WHAT WE ARE DOING?
The Institution of the Lord’s Supper
The breaking of bread, or the Lord’s Supper, was instituted by Jesus on the night He was betrayed. In Matthew 26:26-28, we read, “While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.’”
In this moment, Jesus was establishing a new covenant, signified by His body and blood. The breaking of bread and sharing of the cup are not mere rituals but are deeply symbolic acts that remind us of Christ’s sacrifice and our redemption through His blood.
The Early Church and Breaking Bread
The early Christians continued this practice with great reverence. Acts 2:42 tells us, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” The breaking of bread was central to their worship and fellowship, a constant reminder of Christ’s presence among them and His sacrificial love.
In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Paul reiterates the importance of this practice: “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.’ For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
The Gravity of Breaking Bread
Breaking bread is a profound act of remembrance and proclamation. When we participate in the Lord’s Supper, we are not only recalling Christ’s sacrifice but also proclaiming His death and resurrection until He returns. This act binds us together as a community of believers, unified in our faith and our commitment to Christ.
Paul warns the Corinthians about the seriousness of this act in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29: “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.”
This passage underscores the gravity of breaking bread. It is not something to be taken lightly or done out of routine. It calls for self-examination, repentance, and a deep understanding of what the bread and cup represent.
The Spiritual Nourishment
Breaking bread also serves as spiritual nourishment for believers. In John 6:53-56, Jesus says, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.”
Through this spiritual meal, we receive life and strength from Christ Himself. It is a means of grace, a way through which Christ imparts His life to us, sustaining us in our spiritual journey.
A Call to Unity
Breaking bread also symbolizes our unity as the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, Paul writes, “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.”
This act calls us to unity, reminding us that we are all part of the same body, the church, and that we share in the same grace and salvation. It challenges us to live in harmony, love, and mutual respect.
Wrapping up
As we break bread and share the cup, let us remember the profound significance of this act. It is a time of remembrance, proclamation, spiritual nourishment, and unity. Let us approach it with reverence, self-examination, and a deep sense of gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice.
DO WE REALLY UNDERSTAND THE GRAVITY OF WHAT WE ARE DOING?
May we continually seek to grasp the depth of this sacred practice and allow it to draw us closer to our Lord and to one another.
“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! There are moments in life when the weight of our burdens becomes overwhelming, and we find ourselves crying without any clear reason. Every little thing seems to trigger the tears, and even those tears feel minuscule compared to the unrecognizable pain residing deep within us. It’s in these moments of intense emotional turmoil that we may feel utterly alone, as if no one truly understands the depth of our suffering. However, there’s a profound comfort in knowing that Jesus, our Savior, understands our pain and sorrow intimately. The shortest verse in the Bible, John 11:35, encapsulates this powerful truth: “Jesus wept.”
The Depth of Jesus’ Compassion
The story behind this verse is deeply moving. Jesus arrived in Bethany to find that His dear friend Lazarus had died. Martha and Mary, Lazarus’s sisters, were heartbroken, and their grief was palpable. When Jesus saw Mary weeping, and the mourners with her, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. It was in this moment that Jesus wept. Despite knowing that He would soon raise Lazarus from the dead, Jesus still shared in their sorrow and pain.
This act of weeping reveals the profound depth of Jesus’ compassion and empathy. He wasn’t distant or detached from human suffering. Instead, He entered into it fully. Isaiah 53:3 describes Jesus as “a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.” He bore our griefs and carried our sorrows, sharing in our pain and heartache. His tears were not just a response to the loss of His friend but also an expression of His profound love for humanity and the suffering we endure.
Our Tears Matter to God
When we are overwhelmed by our own sorrows, it’s comforting to know that our tears matter to God. Psalm 56:8 tells us, “You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.” Every tear we shed is noticed by our Heavenly Father. They are precious to Him, and He holds them close, understanding the depth of our pain.
In a season of my life, I found myself crying uncontrollably, often without any clear reason. The pain inside was immense, and I couldn’t understand why I was so overwhelmed. During this difficult time, I came across the song “He Knows” by Jeremy Camp. The lyrics resonated deeply with me, and I found myself crying even more as I listened. But these were not just tears of sorrow; they were also tears of release and surrender.
A Bold Prayer of Surrender
The song led me to pray a bold prayer, one that I had been hesitant to pray for a long time. I decided to give up everything that was weighing me down, to lay all my burdens at the feet of Jesus. I realized that I didn’t have to carry the weight of my pain alone. Jesus invites us to come to Him with our burdens. In Matthew 11:28-30, He says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
This invitation is an incredible promise. When we bring our sorrows and burdens to Jesus, He promises to give us rest. He doesn’t minimize our pain or dismiss our tears. Instead, He offers us His presence and His peace, reassuring us that we are not alone.
The Transformative Power of Surrender
In my own journey, surrendering my pain to Jesus was a transformative experience. It didn’t mean that all my problems were instantly solved or that my pain disappeared overnight. But it did mean that I no longer carried the burden alone. 1 Peter 5:7 encourages us to “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” When we surrender our burdens to Jesus, we experience a profound shift. We move from trying to manage our pain on our own to trusting that God is with us, carrying our load and giving us strength.
Through this process, I found comfort in the fact that Jesus understands my tears and my pain. Hebrews 4:15-16 reminds us, “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. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Jesus, our High Priest, empathizes with our weaknesses and invites us to come to Him with confidence, knowing that we will receive mercy and grace.
A New Perspective on Tears
As I continued to pray and surrender my pain to God, I began to see my tears in a new light. They were no longer just a sign of my suffering but also a symbol of my trust in God. Psalm 30:5 tells us, “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” While our weeping may last for a season, God promises that joy will come. Our tears are temporary, but His joy is eternal.
Moreover, our tears can also be a testimony to others. They show that we are human, that we feel deeply, and that we rely on God in our moments of weakness. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 says, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” When we experience God’s comfort in our pain, we are equipped to comfort others who are going through similar struggles.
Finding Strength in Weakness
Ultimately, the experience of crying uncontrollably and feeling overwhelmed by pain led me to a deeper dependence on God. I realized that in my weakness, His strength is made perfect. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 states, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
This paradoxical truth is at the heart of the Christian faith. In our moments of deepest sorrow and greatest weakness, we encounter the transformative power of God’s grace. We find that His strength sustains us, His love surrounds us, and His peace comforts us.
Wrapping up
If you find yourself in a season of unexplainable tears and overwhelming pain, remember that Jesus wept. He understands your sorrow and invites you to bring your burdens to Him. Allow yourself to cry, to feel, and to grieve, knowing that your tears are precious to God. And as you surrender your pain to Him, trust that He will give you rest and comfort. Your tears may last for the night, but joy will come in the morning. Jesus, the man of sorrows, walks with you in your suffering and promises to transform your pain into joy. Trust in Him, for He knows your pain and loves you deeply.
“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! The question of whether a Christian can lose their salvation is one that has stirred hearts and minds for centuries. It’s a deeply emotional and personal question, rooted in our desire for assurance and the fear of falling away from the grace we’ve come to cherish. To navigate this complex issue, we turn to the Scriptures, the ultimate source of truth and guidance.
Understanding Salvation
Salvation is a gift from God, freely given through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 declares, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” This foundational truth reminds us that salvation is not something we can earn or achieve through our efforts; it is a precious gift, offered out of God’s immense love for us.
The Assurance of Salvation
The Bible provides numerous assurances about the security of our salvation. One of the most comforting passages is found in John 10:27-29, where Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” This powerful promise underscores the idea that our salvation is secure in the hands of Jesus and the Father.
Similarly, Romans 8:38-39 offers profound reassurance: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This passage beautifully captures the unbreakable bond between the believer and God, emphasizing that nothing in the universe can sever this divine connection.
The Role of Perseverance
While the Bible provides strong assurances of our security in Christ, it also speaks to the importance of perseverance in the faith. Hebrews 10:23 encourages us, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” This verse calls believers to maintain a steadfast grip on their faith, trusting in God’s faithfulness.
The parable of the sower in Matthew 13:3-9 and 18-23 illustrates different responses to the gospel message. Some seeds fall on rocky ground, where they initially spring up but wither away because they have no root. This parable serves as a sobering reminder that not all who hear the gospel will persevere. True faith is demonstrated through enduring commitment to Christ.
Warnings Against Falling Away
The New Testament contains warnings about the dangers of falling away from the faith. Hebrews 6:4-6 is one such passage: “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age and who have fallen away, to be brought back to repentance. To their loss, they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.”
These verses have sparked much debate among theologians. Some interpret them as hypothetical, meant to warn believers against complacency. Others see them as a real possibility for those who, despite experiencing God’s blessings, choose to reject Him ultimately.
The Balance of Assurance and Warning
To navigate these complexities, it’s essential to balance the assurances of security with the warnings about falling away. Philippians 2:12-13 provides valuable insight: “Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfil his good purpose.” This passage highlights the cooperative nature of our spiritual journey. We are called to actively pursue our faith, while recognizing that it is ultimately God who empowers us to do so.
The Nature of True Faith
True saving faith is marked by ongoing trust in and obedience to Jesus Christ. In John 15:5-6, Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and the branches to describe the believer’s relationship with Him: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” Genuine faith is evidenced by a life that remains connected to Christ and bears spiritual fruit.
James 2:17-18 reinforces this idea, stating, “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” This passage underscores that true faith manifests in a transformed life, characterized by actions that reflect our commitment to Christ.
Resting in God’s Grace
Amidst the call to persevere and the warnings against falling away, we must never lose sight of God’s grace. Romans 8:1 assures us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Our salvation is secured not by our flawless performance, but by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Titus 3:4-7 beautifully encapsulates this truth: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Saviour, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”
Wrapping up
The question of whether we can lose our salvation is complex, touching on the deepest aspects of our faith and relationship with God. Scripture provides powerful assurances of our security in Christ, alongside sober warnings to remain vigilant in our faith. True salvation is marked by a life transformed by grace, evidenced by perseverance and ongoing trust in Jesus.
As we navigate this journey, let us hold firmly to the promises of God, trusting in His unfailing love and faithfulness. Let us also take seriously the call to live out our faith with commitment and integrity, knowing that it is God who works in us to will and to act according to His good purpose.
In the end, our confidence rests not in our own ability to remain faithful, but in the One who has promised, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). In Him, we find our true security and the assurance of our eternal home.
