When Jesus said "You're the salt of the Earth," He wasn't talking about this kind of salt.

Last week, we looked at why Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed. But this week, we're examining the few people who escaped.

The whole story is found in Genesis 18-19. It's honestly a wild ride. It starts with the LORD shown as three visitors coming to meet with Abraham and Sarah, and ends with a story of Lot—Abraham's nephew who lived in Sodom—fathering his daughters' children. "Wild" might be mild.

As with any Scripture, there's a lot to digest and wrestle with. There's also a lot more than the surface reading reveals.

Let's take a few of these elements and dive in, starting with those who had the opportunity to escape Sodom but were subjected to wrath like the rest.

The Warning 
God told Abraham what He was about to do, and Abraham begged God to look first for 10 righteous people—and if He could find them, to spare the whole community.

So God sent two individuals to go and search out Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham should have kept bartering to a smaller number. When these individuals looked over all of the town, the only one righteous they found was Lot. His family was questionable, but these individuals were willing to save Lot and his family—as long as they were willing to get out of Sodom.

Genesis 19:12-13 The two men said to Lot, “Do you have anyone else here—sons-in-law, sons or daughters, or anyone else in the city who belongs to you? Get them out of here, because we are going to destroy this place. The outcry to the Lord against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.”

So Lot obeyed them. He ran to the two men who were engaged to be his sons-in-law, but they laughed and ignored him. So he gathered his two daughters and wife, and they fled the city. The two sons-in-law-to-be died in the destruction of the city.

Heed the Warning—Never belittle God's wrath and judgment. You don't have as much time as you think. Young men and women often think they can put off God's radical call to holy living until another day. They get so busy with plans, ideas, and ambitions that they fail to grasp what's most urgent. What if that warning is for you right now? When God gives you a warning, it might be your last. Don't ignore it—embrace it. Jesus said salt can lose its saltiness; it's a warning not to lose your purpose by pushing away God's call.

Heeding the warning is an act of mercy that demands trust.

God's Mercy
Lot and his family almost didn't make it either. They were leaving their home, and they had nowhere else to go. Honestly, they didn't know anyone else. It was comfortable. It was all they had and all they knew.

So rather than running right away, Lot hesitated—he got stuck—for a moment.

Genesis 19:16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them.

Lot hated the wickedness of Sodom. His hesitation was not longing or belittling God's wrath—it was fear and uncertainty about the future. The Lord is merciful. This grasp of mercy isn't just rescue—it's God's keeping us "salty," preserving our purpose even when fear makes us falter.

Embrace God's Grasp—When you have doubts and uncertainty about the future, don't hide them; let it be known. Your honesty about your weaknesses, insecurities, fears, and the unknown puts you in the grasp of God so He can lead you into the future. His power is made perfect in your weakness. Where in your life do you need to let God take your hand today—to keep your saltiness from being stuck in doubt?

We've seen warnings ignored and mercy extended in hesitation, but now comes the ultimate test: What happens when we can't let go of the past?

Don't Look Back
After being led to safety, they were given one last direction. Well, truly, it was a firm warning of God's judgment.

Genesis 19:17 “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!"

Hesitating because of doubt is one thing; longing for what God hates is another. This was the contrast of verses 16 and 17. This is how God always talks about sin—from the beginning of the Bible to the end. The message is the same: Flee from it and don't look back.

When Jesus calls His disciples "the salt of the earth," He was telling them to be those who are filled with purpose, heal wounds, preserve what's holy and sacred. Following Jesus is bringing out the flavor and joy of life that comes from Christ flowing through us. Why long for what the world has, when Christ makes everything better. "But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

When we're longing for more of what God hates, we exchange our purpose and effectiveness, for a destiny of destruction. I can't help but think Jesus was echoing back to this story. In Sodom, Lot was the salt preserving the city. When he left, there was nothing left to preserve.

The charge was: Don't look back; don't long for the old things. I honestly expected one of Lot's daughters to look back, longing for their fiancés.

Genesis 19:26 "But Lot’s wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt."

She looked back, longing for a home of wickedness rather than a family of righteousness. This is wild. Sometimes we belittle God's wrath, but God is pretty clear about how important holiness and obedience are to Him. When Lot's wife looked back, her heart was revealed, and the words Jesus spoke became her description: "It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

Harsh? But it was the reality of things.

Flee From Old Cravings—When we crave things God hates more than God Himself, we become someone God can't use. If you want to be useful to God, pursue Him in obedience, run after Him, and don't look back. What's one "Sodom" in your life you're tempted to glance at— and how can fleeing it restore your saltiness for God's kingdom?

Even after fleeing Sodom's fire, the embers of its influence lingered—showing how deeply sin can root itself, even in the saved. Buckle up this is a wild ride...

Wild 'n Out
The last part of this story is by far the most detestable. Lot, overwhelmed by everything that just happened, decides to drink—a lot. His daughters, spurred by fear and a lack of trust, got their dad so drunk he didn't know what was happening and became pregnant by him. It's one of those stories you don't expect to be in the Bible, but the Bible is full of truth—and often the truth reveals how wicked we can really be.

These daughters each give birth to a son: Moab and Ammon. These two become nations who fight with Israel, worship other gods, practice child sacrifice, and commit every abomination that Sodom was destroyed for. You can take the girls out of Sodom, but you can't take Sodom out of the girls, I guess. Fear without faith makes you salt without taste. Fear of the Lord without faith in Him and His character will cause you to fill the God sized hole in your heart with whatever seems right for the moment.

Yet in all of this, God was still working things for good. The book of Ruth shows us a young Moabite woman who left her home, her country, and her gods to follow Naomi to Israel. Ruth told Naomi, "Your people will be my people and your God my God" (Ruth 1:16). Ruth, unlike her nation for centuries, learned to Fear and put her faith in God; she left the former things, didn't look back, pursued righteousness, and found God's mercy. She became the type of salt that could preserve generations.

This young lady, who came from a nation made in sin—leading others to sin, full of wickedness and every form of evil—rejected what she knew was evil to pursue what she knew was good. Not only is she honored in Scripture, but she becomes the great-grandmother of David and is listed in the lineage of Jesus.

There's Still Time to Turn—It doesn't matter how far you've gone or how long you've been there. It doesn't matter how normal what God hates has been to your family and your way of life. As long as you have breath, there's still time to turn from death and live. Like Ruth, turning to God right now, can change the heritage of generations to come.

You are the salt of the earth
Preserve the earth through prayer, righteous living, and faithful obedience.
Don't lose the joy of your salvation; don't lose your power and purpose. Be the example to the world of people who understand God's judgment is righteous, His commands are not impossible, and His way is the best way. Call upon the Lord, and ask Him to lead you into righteousness and to empower you to lead the world into His righteousness.

Are You Settling for a Holy Mess?

There's something oddly comforting about worn-out things. That favorite pair of socks with holes in the toes. The jeans with the frayed hems. We hold onto them because they're comfortable, familiar. We tell ourselves they still work, even when they clearly don't serve us anymore.

But what happens when we treat our spiritual lives the same way?

What if the very things we think are bringing us peace are actually keeping us from the true fulfillment God has for us? What if we've been calling something "holy" simply because it's familiar, when God is calling us to something genuinely transformative?

The Danger of Spiritual Comfort

Second Peter chapter 3 addresses a specific type of person: the scoffer. These aren't just skeptics or doubters—they're people who have grown so comfortable with their version of faith that they belittle, question, and reject what God actually calls holy.

Peter writes: "Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle, in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder, that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before the holy prophets and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior, knowing this first, that scoffers will come in the last days."

The contrast is striking. Peter addresses his audience as "beloved"—divinely loved by God. This is the primary identity of every believer. Not just forgiven, not just redeemed, but deeply, personally loved. Everything we do should flow from this reality: God loves me, therefore I live for Him.

But scoffers operate differently. They embrace what's comfortable rather than what's holy. They question God's promises, belittle His patience, and redefine His grace as permission to continue in sin rather than power to be free from it.

Three Ways Scoffers Embrace a Holy Mess

1. They Reject God's Power

Scoffers question whether God's Word actually carries weight. "Where is the promise of His coming?" they ask. They see circumstances continuing as they always have and conclude that God either isn't powerful enough to act or doesn't care enough to intervene.

This attitude discounts the very foundation of faith. From Genesis onward, we see that God spoke and everything came into existence. Christ upholds all things by the word of His power. Numbers 23:19 reminds us: "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should need to repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?"

When we belittle healing, when we dismiss miracles, when we reduce God's promises to metaphors that make us comfortable, we reject His power. We settle for a theology riddled with holes rather than trusting in the God who created everything.

2. They Reject God's Judgment

Perhaps nothing makes modern believers more uncomfortable than the reality of God's judgment. We prefer to focus on His love while ignoring His holiness. But Scripture is clear: the same God who flooded the earth, who destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, who struck Egypt with plagues, is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

When we ignore God's judgment, we actually discard His mercy. Think about it: if there's no real judgment, no real consequence for sin, then the cross becomes meaningless. Why would God need to pour out His wrath on Jesus if sin wasn't that serious?

The truth is that God poured out all His judgment on Christ so He could pour out mercy on us. The law being upheld, judgment being real—these things reveal our brokenness and show us why we desperately need forgiveness. You can't have mercy without justice. You can't receive forgiveness for something that doesn't matter.

3. They Reject God's Patience

Scoffers look at the fact that judgment hasn't come yet and assume God doesn't care. They treat His patience as permission. "I'll get serious about faith later," they think. "I'll start living for God when I'm older, when I have kids, when things settle down."

But Scripture tells us that God's patience is meant to lead us to repentance, not to give us license to continue in sin. Second Peter 3:9 explains: "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."

God's patience is actually His kindness—giving us another day, another opportunity to turn to Him. But that patience won't last forever.

Living as the Beloved

The contrast to being a scoffer is being beloved—someone who embraces God's holiness rather than settling for a holy mess.

Believers focus on eternal truth, knowing it can transform present realities. They don't look at their circumstances and question God's love or power. Instead, they trust His Word, embrace His judgment as righteous, and respond to His patience with urgency.

When God says something is sin, believers don't redefine it to be more comfortable. When God calls us to holiness, we don't make excuses. When God commands us to share the gospel, we don't let awkwardness hold us back.

Consider the words of Penn Jillette, the magician and devout atheist, who said: "I don't respect people who don't proselytize. If you believe that there is a heaven and a hell and that people could be going to hell or not getting eternal life, and you think that it's not really worth telling them this because it would make it socially awkward—how much do you have to hate somebody to not proselytize?"

Even an atheist recognizes the inconsistency of claiming to believe in eternal consequences while living as though they don't matter.

Ripping Up What Needs to Go

Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is completely destroy what's holding us back. Not just set it aside, but rip it up so we can't go back to it.

What comforts have you been embracing that need to be rejected? What excuses have you been making that need to end? Where have you been settling for "holy enough" instead of pursuing true holiness?

The call isn't to try harder or be perfect. The call is to trust God's power to transform you, to take His judgment seriously, and to respond to His patience with gratitude and urgency.

You are beloved. Deeply, personally, eternally loved by God. Everything you have is His, and everything He has is yours. Live from that identity. Don't waste another day settling for a holy mess when God is calling you to His perfect holiness.

Today is the day of salvation. Not tomorrow. Today.

We Need a Miracle

I bet you're not the only one to have prayed that. I know I have. I've uttered these words in the not-so-life-or-death moments of a football game, as well as when praying over those I love for healing.

Miracles defy logic, go beyond the bounds of human intervention, and shift our understanding of possibilities. They wake us up from hopelessness, carelessness, and monotonous lives to see truths we don't know how to comprehend. Miracles are the divine work of God, pushing beyond all logic in both acts of judgment and acts of grace. When we get on our knees to pray for a miracle, we're often asking for the miracle of divine grace that lifts the feeble out of distress.

The story of Sodom and Gomorrah features one of these prayers for God's grace—even when it's obvious His judgment is needed.

God speaks to Abraham and tells him about the wickedness of Sodom and Gomorrah. Because of it, God's plan was to pour out divine judgment—a miracle that would stand throughout history as a warning of God's power and His hatred for sin.

Abraham started praying for a miracle of grace. The miracle of grace was given, but it came by way of escape: The few righteous people in this wicked city were given a way to escape. We'll look at this miracle next week. But today, we're focused on the miracle of God's divine judgment.

When we read the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 18:16–19:29 (here), we're seeing the culmination of their sin. Genesis shows us the people of Sodom fully given over to their lust—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, the lust of their urges. We see people who view others as objects of their impulses, who treat outsiders as expendable, who belittle the foreigner among them, who commit all kinds of sexual immorality, and who care only for their own pleasures.

It's a vile depiction of mass evil: young and old from every corner of the city. It seems hard to wrap our heads around.

But how did they get here? What led them to this point? The prophet Ezekiel gives a glimpse into where it all began: "...this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy..." (See Ezekiel 16:48-50)

What started with pride, gluttony, laziness, and neglect of others grew and grew and grew. These often start small: a little rest, a little slumber, a little snack here and there—until we've gone full couch potato. It seems innocent enough, laughable at the beginning. They're a little overconfident, but it seems cool. They're just enjoying all the mix of flavors God has created. They're not late; they're fashionably late. They're not lazy; they're working in a way that preserves self-care. They want to help others, but—I mean—they need to take care of themselves too!

All of these start small. But over time, they reinforce an idea that God isn't present, active, or—more honestly—isn't wanted. In this state, people need a miracle to wake up, because their whole lives are built around themselves. They see themselves as their provider, supplier, and definer of what is good, right, and true.

It starts out understandable, but its end is tragic. Yet it all could have changed with a miracle—at least, according to Jesus: "And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day." Matthew 11:23

To me, this is one of the craziest scriptures in the Bible. God knows that if Sodom had seen a miracle, they would have repented of their selfish indulgence. It raises a lot of questions for me that I can't really explore in a blog. The biggest answer to those questions is for us to realize that God is a just judge: When He issues a judgment, it's not irrational. Rather, He knows the details and the end from the beginning. Trust Him enough to work things out.

Back to the Needed Miracle

Sodom needed a miracle; they got one, just not the one they expected. But it is the one we needed. The miracle poured out on Sodom wasn't one that woke up the inhabitants to repentance, but it is one that can wake us up to repentance.

When we read the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis, when we read Jesus' own words about them, and when we read the start of their fall in Ezekiel, this miracle serves as a warning to lead us to repentance.

We might pray for a miracle—and God still works them today—but we've also received every miracle we need to truly repent and trust Him. God's judgment over Sodom came because they had rejected Him for their own devices until they forgot about Him. They didn't even recognize their miracle, performed by the angels, and instead kept pursuing their own lust (Genesis 19:10–11).

The Charge for You? 
Repent before you're so blind to your own indulgence that it becomes too late. God has worked miracle after miracle; in fact, if He never did another, we'd have more than enough already to be condemned for not repenting. Don't wait another day. Let the miracle of God's wrath be the reminder of the miracle of His grace. Like Lot, escape from the place you've been living in comfort. Escape from a life of revelry and self-indulgence. Come out from there—live while there's still time. Trust in God's power; trust in His ability to provide. Because the same God who worked miracles then is still working miracles today.

Because I said so!

Have you ever said that to someone? I know my parents used to say it to me, and now that I'm a parent, I find myself saying the same thing.

When I tell my son to do something, he turns and looks at me and asks, "Why?" "Because I said so!" is a more than sufficient answer. I didn't invite him into a debate. I didn't invite him into a discussion. I'm his parent, and I've lovingly asked him to do something.

This can be a hard thing for us to grasp at any age. But it's what sets apart those who trust God and can be someone whom God trusts from those who don't trust God, nor does God trust them.

In 2 Peter 2:3-9, Peter highlights four ways God's righteous judgment was poured out. This blog post deals with the second one. The contrast is obvious: men who thought they were great versus Noah, who had found favor with God.

Noah's full story is shared in Genesis 6-9. You can read it there. There is so much rich context to dive into, and there are theological and archaeological truths that expand on the great story of the flood.

But for our purposes, I want to narrow down to one verse and a phrase that echoes throughout.

"This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God." Genesis 6:9 NIV

Noah was righteous, blameless, and walked faithfully with God. No, that is not a low standard at all.

Honestly, when I read that, I just ask, "How?" Noah is living at a time when God says He looked out on the earth and saw that the heart of man was only evil continually. It wasn't like the world was really good and full of good people, and Noah was just outshining them all. The world was wicked, but they were great in their own eyes. The world had defined good on their own terms, and they defined good by what God hated. The world was evil. Noah was in the middle of it. But Noah wasn't like the world.

There was one big difference between Noah and the world. It's found throughout his story, and we first see it in Genesis 6:22, when it says:

"Noah did everything just as God commanded him."

This was the crux. This was why God called Noah righteous and blameless—not because Noah was without failure, but because everything God told Noah to do, he did. Even when it didn't make sense. Even when it was different than what everyone else did. Even when it wasn't popular. Even when he was mocked and ridiculed. Noah just did what God commanded.

When Abraham believed God—a Hebrew phrase meaning he listened and obeyed—God counted it to him as righteousness. When Moses heard the words of God and obeyed them exactly, God called him "My servant," "faithful," and allowed Moses to see His glory. There is an echo all throughout Scripture that God's greatest desire is not your sacrifice but obedience. See 1 Samuel 15:22.

The story of Noah is that when no one else would obey God, Noah did. And not just with easy things. God asked Noah to build a boat where it never rained, to prepare for a flood in a dry land. Genesis tells us that Noah built what God told him to build. 2 Peter references that Noah preached to the people while people mocked him. For 100 years, Noah built a boat in a place without rain, doing just as God had told him.

Noah didn't push back. Noah didn't ask, "How?" Noah trusted that if God told him to do something, God would equip him and empower him to do it. Noah trusted that whatever God said was true, even though he hadn't seen it as a possibility before.

What about you? How do you respond when God tells you what to do? Do you sit around and wait for a sign and ask God why? Or do you trust Him?

There is much to learn from the story of Noah, but the takeaway for today is that God's judgment was poured out on a world that would rather question God than trust Him.
Learn from the story of the flood, from the example of Noah, Abraham, Moses, and the life of Jesus, to do exactly as the Lord has commanded.

Hear Him. Trust Him. Obey Him.

It's not all about you!

You've probably wanted to tell someone that at some point. Well, you probably didn't just want to tell them—you probably wanted to yell it at them. I know I've felt this way.

As I was reflecting and talking with leaders this week, I realized something that we often forget: Not only is it not all about me, but not everyone has my experience and history. As we dove into 2 Peter chapter 2:3–9, Peter highlighted four ways God's righteous judgment was poured out upon sin, and he used two key stories to do it. The stories he shared from the Old Testament—that his audience would have been extremely familiar with—were ones I grew up with as well. But it hit me that just because I've known them doesn't mean you have! Peter didn't just use stories they knew; he made reference to a common book, the book of Enoch, which it appears these false teachers were using to continue teaching their heresy—and his audience would have known it.

Context is so important. So over the next couple of weeks, I want to share some of that context with you! We're going to learn this weekend what the first part of Peter's story is meant to tell us: "It's not all about you."

2 Peter 2:4 For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment..."

Now, I can't possibly cover this in an blog. Try an 8-week graduate-level course, but here is the email version.

At some point, there were angels who sinned, leaving their positions of dominion to indulge in their lust. The lust they had was a lust for worship. There is much to go into here throughout the entirety of Scripture. Jude, the half-brother of Jesus, references this same thing from 2 Peter here; Ezekiel parallels the fall of the King of Tyre with the fall of Satan here; similarly, Isaiah prophesies about Babylon, giving another glimpse with a parallel here; and Jesus says he saw Satan fall here.

These give us a glimpse into the sin being a lust for worship, but the story Peter references is from Genesis 6, happening right before the flood—which helps to make Peter's point abundantly clear:

Genesis 6:1-4 "1 Now it came to pass, when men began to multiply on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, 2 that the sons of God saw the daughters of men, that they were beautiful; and they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose. 3 And the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, for he is indeed flesh; yet his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.” 4 There were giants on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, men of renown."

Again, this would be an 8-week course to break down what all of this means. But how crazy is it that these things are in Scripture? One thing I hope you get from reading all of this is that the Bible has tons and tons of amazing, wild, crazy, incomprehensible, sweet, awful, NSFW, and wonderful stories all throughout it. It's the most raw, real, authentic book in history—probably why it's an all-time bestseller—and it happens to be true.

So what is the short version of what we need to know? Well, false teachers, quoting from this moment in Genesis 6, were puffing themselves up by belittling the angels. Through all the available context, we can see that part of these false teachers' messages involved combining Genesis with the Book of Enoch—all to prove that they were amazing, and that even if they had a shortcoming or failure (especially one of sexual sin), well, God forgives. Peter's point? 

If God didn't spare the angels, he's not going to spare people who claim God's grace but live in a way that spits in His face.

Peter's letter was one big "IT'S NOT ALL ABOUT YOU" to these false teachers who wanted everything to be all about them, because they wanted worship and adoration rather than to give worship and adoration to God.

In fact, we see more of this as Peter describes their character in verses 10–13, which is exactly what I taught on here. I hope this helps you gain some context on the first part of some amazing stories. I'm looking forward to sharing the rest of the stories in the post to come.

Decibels don't dictate democracy—the noisiest aren't always the chorus.

Dr. Sam Chand says every church has 10% devils. Every time I've heard him say it in a large room, there are a lot of laughs. Maybe it's funny because it's true. It's not just true of churches either; if you're a teacher, I imagine there are around 10% of your kids who take up 90% of your time. If you're a business owner, there are probably those customers that are never happy and seem to be a drag on your entire business. A few rotten apples can spoil the whole bunch.

I think what tends to be hardest about it is that 10% tends to be loudest. For Jesus it was Judas and Peter. Judas was the first one to speak up anytime they were going to use the money in a way he didn't agree with. Peter was the one just as likely to say something great as he was to put his foot in his mouth. The hardest to listen to is not the 10% that are yelling, but those 90% who can't seem to get a word in. Sadly, it's that 90% that we probably most need to hear.

I don't know if you increase the numbers if the percentage goes down, but I do know it's often the wrong voice that is the loudest.

I was reading again a story I've read so many times and was shocked by how quickly a few loud voices can lead millions astray.

While Moses was on the mountain receiving instructions about the proper way to worship the LORD, his brother Aaron was bending to the will crafting an idol for them to worship.

Aaron was Moses' mouthpiece before Pharaoh, holding a front-row seat to God's wonders on display against the gods of Egypt. Aaron crossed the sea on dry land and watched Pharaoh's army be swept away. Aaron had tasted the manna God provided every morning and the quail when they wanted meat. Yet Moses comes down the mountain to find Aaron overwhelmed by the people he was called to lead.

“What did this people do to you,” Moses asked Aaron, “that you have led them into so great a sin?” “Do not be enraged, my Lord,” Aaron replied. “You yourself know that the people are intent on evil. They told me, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this Moses who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has happened to him!’ So I said to them, ‘Whoever has gold, let him take it off,’ and they gave it to me. And when I threw it into the fire, out came this calf!” Moses saw that the people were out of control, for Aaron had let them run wild and become a laughingstock to their enemies. So Moses stood at the entrance to the camp and said, “Whoever is for the Lord, come to me.” And all the Levites gathered around him. He told them, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Each of you men is to fasten his sword to his side, go back and forth through the camp from gate to gate, and slay his brother, his friend, and his neighbor.’” The Levites did as Moses commanded, and that day about three thousand of the people fell dead. ‭‭Exodus‬ ‭32‬:‭21‬-‭28‬ ‭BSB‬‬

Ok, let's ignore the obvious lie of "out came this calf" and skip to the part that will often throw people off the most. Moses told the Levites to strike down their own people, and about 3,000 people of Israel were killed. I'm not here to debate the ethics of this; there is a different standard of how God deals with sin the closer you are to His holiness. Like someone getting closer and closer to the sun, it's both more glorious and more dangerous the closer you get.

What I am trying to highlight is that it was only 3,000 people. That's a lot, for sure. But considering most scholars believe the nation of Israel was about 2.4 million people at this time, it wasn't even 10%, or 1%, but 0.125% of the whole.

Moses' concern was how to make the whole nation holy; Aaron was concerned with trying to keep a few people happy. As Aaron placated a few people, he brought God's wrath on all the people. Aaron was supposed to be part of the team leading Israel away from Egyptian captivity, but his desire to appease a few loud people led Israel back to worship the gods they were supposed to be free from.

When leaders lead to appease, we end up following the voice we’re most afraid of. We will compromise, placate, and lead many astray, ignoring the needs of all for the loud mouths of a few. It's a dangerous place to be, and it's an easy swamp to find yourself stuck in.

What was the remedy? A sword. In the New Testament we know the sword is the word of God. The job of pastors and leaders is to stand and boldly proclaim the word of God and allow the word of God to pierce hearts and slay the wicked, that all might be saved.

When pastors and leaders don’t proclaim the truth of God because of their fear of the people, they end up leading their people back to worship the gods they were supposed to be free from.

When leaders ignore the truth for the complaining of a few, we risk losing the whole thing.

There are people who are looking for someone to proclaim the truth and rally around. I know this because when Moses said, “Whoever is for the Lord, come to me,” all the Levites gathered around him. The Levites represented the majority yet didn't get credited with one word in the story.

Are you a leader? Be encouraged; there are more people with you than against you.

Are you a disciple maker? Be encouraged: the truth is powerful and effective, piercing between joint and marrow, dividing soul and spirit; it slays the wicked so that they can be renewed by Christ.

Are you a disciple, a follower? Don't be silent: stand for truth, loudly celebrate what is good, speak out against unrighteousness.

Are you a Levite? Well, obviously not, but are you a man who loves Jesus and wants to lead others to him? Boldly defend and proclaim the truth, rally around leaders who do, be quick to take a stand, and let "the sword" do the work.

I don't know if there's ever been a time in our world more prone to heresy and Bible teachings based on opinion and half-truths than right now.

Here's one thing I do know: As believers, you love Jesus and trust Scripture. A recent survey from Ligonier Ministries and Lifeway Research of evangelicals confirmed this. These evangelicals were defined as those who agreed with these four statements:

• The Bible is the highest authority for what I believe.
• It is very important for me personally to encourage non-Christians to trust Jesus Christ as their Savior.
• Jesus Christ’s death on the cross is the only sacrifice that could remove the penalty of my sin.
• Only those who trust in Jesus Christ alone as their Savior receive God’s free gift of eternal salvation.

These foundational truths are essential, regardless of denominational affiliation. However, the survey also shared some alarming statistics from these same evangelicals:

• 53% agreed with the statement, "Everyone sins a little, but most people are good by nature." Yet Jesus didn't agree, saying, "No one is good except God alone." See Mark 10:18.
• 47% agreed that "God accepts the worship of all religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam." Jesus said "no one can come to the Father except through me." See John 14:6.
• While upwards of 98% of evangelicals agreed that "God created marriage to be between one man and one woman," 32% of regular churchgoers believe people should be able to choose their gender identity regardless of their biological sex. But in the beginning, God created them "male and female" See Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 2:18-25, you can also see Jesus reaffirming this in Matthew 19:4-5.
• 35% agreed that "Christians should not allow their religious beliefs to influence their political decisions." This is a direct lie of the enemy. Your faith and belief in Christ should influence EVERY decision you make—I don't care what qualifier you put on it, "political" or otherwise. Jesus is not Lord of parts of your life; He is either Lord of all or not at all. If the Bible is the highest authority for what you believe, why would it not also be the highest authority for every aspect of your life? We should promote policies that promote righteousness, because "righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" See Proverbs 14:34. When you vote, you should be convinced in your mind and heart that your vote aligns with Scripture. If you'd like some Scriptures that address politics and governance, here is a good starting place. 
• 31% disagreed with the statement "Every Christian has an obligation to join a local church." Perhaps this was due to the wording of the question, but I think it points to the heart of so many believers who pursue faith in isolation and forsake biblical community. "Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit" See Hebrews 10:25.

Every book in the New Testament except one warns against false teachers and their heretical teachings. The only exception is Philemon, which is a charge to a slave owner to forgive and embrace his slave who had abandoned him—as an equal—because of their mutual faith in Christ. This was still a radical rebuke of the culturally accepted practices and teachings of the day.

As your pastor, I have a responsibility to charge you to know God's Word, to help you grow in what you know, and to equip you to apply it. My job is not to tell you what you want to hear, but to tell you the truth. I've jokingly said, "One day I'll preach heresy, and it's your job to catch it." In no way would I ever intentionally preach heresy—if I did and became aware of it, I would quickly admit it and correct it. But the point of my jest is that as believers, we must take every teaching, receive it, and then examine it: Does this actually align with God's Word?

We live in a time when you can find a preacher to tell you exactly what you want to hear. There's a "pastor" for any belief you'd like affirmed. Sincere people who hold "the Bible as the highest authority for what they believe" desire to live out their beliefs, but they often struggle to know what the Bible really says. This is why we're so committed to discipleship groups, emphasize weekly church attendance, and including a five-day devotional with every sermon we post. We want you to "Know His Word"—it's one of our core values as a church.

Across the nation and world, Gen Z (ages 13–28) is attending church at a higher rate than any other age group. These are young people without deep foundations, hungering for truth. The same stats that show Gen Z attending more than the rest also prove that those older than them are often not present to guide them, protect the church from false teaching, disciple them, encourage them, and spur them on to lead the church into an ever-changing world. See Christianity Today Study 

We need parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents—as well as young men, young women, and children—who know what they believe and why they believe it. We need to raise up pastors, discipleship group leaders, missionaries, and marketplace leaders who love Christ, have surrendered to Him as Lord of all, know the truth, and boldly proclaim it.

There has never been a time when the truth was more needed than now. Be someone who boldly proclaims what is true.

Exodus holds one of my favorite scriptures, found in the 14th verse of the 14th chapter: "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Some translations render this as "silent," "calm," or, as in the NIV I just quoted, "still." It's believed to be an axiom of the time that meant, "Sit down and shut up." It's a good reminder for me from time to time when chaos is at the door and I'm wondering what God is going to do about it. I then yell at God, and He reminds me of this verse: "Cam, sit down and shut up, I got this." Then I remember He's always had this.

How do you respond to moments of chaos?

Some see chaos and sit back, waiting for God to work it for good. I'd like to say I always do that, but I don't want to lie. Many of us see chaos in our lives and forget that God's got it handled. Some of us see chaos unfold and immediately start worrying. Have we angered God or disappointed Him? How can we make it right? What can we do to relinquish His wrath? Many of us try to start a relationship with God by bribing away His wrath. In fact, this is how the Exodus of Israel begins.

Let my people go!

You probably know the story or have seen the movies. The plagues start to come, and God's wrath is poured out, yet Pharaoh won't relent. Every plague that God brings to Egypt demolishes the idols and "gods" of Egypt, showing the king that there is no god like the LORD. It was humiliating for Pharaoh. He stiffened his neck, hardened his own heart, and remained stubborn. Scripture eventually says that Pharaoh became so hardened and stubborn that God gave him over to his hard heart.

But then something strange happens, a brokenness you don't expect as you're reading: "And Pharaoh sent and called for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, 'I have sinned this time. The LORD is righteous, and my people and I are wicked.'" (Exodus 9:27)

I've said something similar, and maybe you have too: "God, I have sinned. You are righteous. I am wicked." It sounds like repentance, but is it?

Repentance or Appeasement?

Pharaoh said all the right things: "I have sinned this time. The Lord is righteous, and my people and I are wicked." Then it seems he showed his cards: "Entreat the Lord, that there may be no more mighty thundering and hail, for it is enough. I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer." (Exodus 9:27-28)

Repentance is not simply an "I'm sorry," nor is it partial. Repentance has nothing to do with a fear of wrath. True repentance is realizing you are not God, you are not in control, and every blessing and good thing in your life comes from Him. You have been living in rebellion against the rightful King of the universe. So, you do the only logical thing: throw yourself at the mercy of the King in surrender, choosing to learn from Him, follow Him, and honor Him forever.

Pharaoh didn't do that. Instead, he tried to escape God's wrath by appeasement. "Okay, God, you win. What do you want me to do now so things don't get any worse? I've had enough of this." His heart had grown so hard that even in his sorrow, he cared nothing about knowing God; he just wanted everyone to view him as a god again.

Moses saw straight through it.

29 So Moses said to him, “As soon as I have gone out of the city, I will spread out my hands to the Lord; the thunder will cease, and there will be no more hail, that you may know that the earth is the Lord’s. 30 But as for you and your servants, I know that you will not yet fear the Lord God.”

Moses had learned something about fear, and it enabled him to see right through Pharaohs words: whatever you fear, you draw near.

Pharaoh didn't want to know God, talk with Him, or be right in His sight; he wanted God to leave him alone. Many of us want God's goodness without God Himself.

Pharaoh didn't want to surrender to God and draw near to Him; he wanted to surrender just enough to get God out of Egypt.

Pharaoh didn't want to worship God; he wanted God to stop destroying what he worshiped.

So he offered appeasement: "I'm bad, God, you're good. Now let me get back to my life."

Repentance is how we start the journey of faith, but has it drawn you near to Him, or has your "repentance" been an excuse to get back to your life, just this time with perks—freedom, no more frogs, gnats, or hail, or whatever hardship you're currently trying to escape?

Evaluate your fear

Pharaoh didn’t want to be with God or know God; he wanted to be rid of God.

Do we want to be rid of the wrath of God, or do we want to be in the presence of God?

Pharaoh didn’t want to know God better; he wanted God to make his life better.

Do we want God’s blessing and favor, or do we want God Himself?

Pharaoh didn’t want God’s will; he wanted relief from His wrath so he could return to being the most powerful god in his kingdom.

Do we want freedom and power to do our will, or His?

Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Do you fear God, or do you fear His wrath? Whichever you fear, you will draw near. When chaos is at the door, draw near to Him, because it's in drawing near to God in true repentance, true rest, true faith, we find His grace—a new beginning.

Last Wednesday was horrible. I received a text and immediately opened a social platform to be greeted by a video showing the assassination of Charlie Kirk. I was in shock, wishing this was some sort of AI trick, but knowing it wasn't. It's difficult for me to process that in America this could happen, yet, while all of this was unfolding, I learned of yet another school shooting, this time in Colorado. I honestly couldn't believe what was going on. A prominent figure gunned down in broad daylight on a college campus, another school full of young students terrorized by an act of violence and a 16 year old taking his own life. I was sick to my stomach, and began to tear up.

Whether you loved Charlie, or not, violence like this must be condemned. Many people have condemned it, but some have celebrated it. These two shootings are different, but share the same evil. We never celebrate evil.

When an active shooter, like this 16 year old, takes their life or gets taken out, many people are glad. But God says "I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked."

No one should ever celebrate the death of another. In some cases that death is a soul damned because they would not repent. In other cases they may be with the Lord but taken from us too soon. Either way, it's tragic, and there are loved ones left behind trying to pick up the pieces. As believers we must mourn with those who mourn, and we should grieve the loss of any life taken too soon.

This isn't the world I grew up in.

Our schools, colleges, and universities must be a place of safety for our students and teachers. Every day I send my wife and son to school and pray that I won't get one of those alerts. My wife gathers with 25 second graders and regularly does active shooter trainings as these 7 and 8 year olds hide in a corner, shaking, trying to remember it's just a drill. My son has done these since he was in pre-k. I never had to. I never had to suffer this kind of fear as a child.

I was hoping to shield the events of this past Wednesday from my son, but he's getting too old for that. Without prompting, he asked me in the car why someone shot Charlie Kirk in the neck and killed Him. I can only protect him from the real world for so long. In my case, luckily, my son only heard about it and then talked to me. But for some kids, just like I did, they heard about it opened up their phones and witnessed something they're too young to witness.

We have to do something.

As the people of God, as the church, we have a responsibility to share the love of Christ with others, and to lead our world to Jesus. We have a command to change this world by making disciples.

We have a responsibility to boldly proclaim our faith with the character and humility of Christ. Christ's sharpest, strongest, and fiercest words were always to the religious leaders. We must keep this in mind when we are dealing with people who are outside of the faith. We are called to storm the heights, to shout from the rooftops, and to proclaim the truth of God. How we do that matters. Where we do that matters. Why we do that matters. When we do it matters. And to whom we do that with matters.

The "How" "Where" "Why" "When" and "Whom" are difficult to address in an email. These take wisdom and discernment from the Holy Spirit, and a life of humility and surrender.

So here is my advice for those of you who desire to do something about the state of our world to make an impact for Christ.

Let all that you do be done in love -- Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Mourn with those who mourn -- Compassion is one of the attributes God uses to describe His character, and it is one of the greatest gifts that He gives to us. His compassion moves Him to action. It also allows Him to sit and weep with those to whom He was about to bring to rejoicing. We are empowered to do the same with and for others, to weep with them and to move them to rejoicing.

Continue to do good anyways -- We're told in the last days our world will get more chaotic. Jesus warned us about this ahead of time so we would be comforted in the chaos and know He is still in control even when our world isn't. Remember the worlds of Peter suffering under Nero from 1 Peter 4:12-19. As believers, when our world breaks out in chaos, we continue to make disciples and love well. When our world comes for us as believers, we continue to make disciples and love well.

Make Disciples -- many of us want to do big things for God, few of us are faithful to do what he asked. Let these hard times serve as a reminder that your responsibility as a believer is to make disciples. Make it your personal goal to share Christ with 1 person, and to keep pouring into them until the love of Christ is so shed abroad in their heart that they would lead someone else to love Christ as well.

Never Stop Praying -- We serve a God who says "ask". "Ask for wisdom" "Ask for what you need." "Ask for healing." We should be men and women of prayer, who realize the most powerful thing we can do is petition the most powerful force in existence, our God, Savior, and Lord. Spend more time praying than complaining. Spend more time praying than arguing. Spend more time praying than scrolling. The more time you spend praying, the less you'll stress, worry, fear, grumble, gripe, and stir up dissension.

Desire all to come to repentance -- The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. Be patient with others, consider their soul more than your emotion.

Stop before you post -- Before you post, share or comment, spend time in prayer. Seek wisdom. Ask yourself if you are representing Christ. Ask yourself will this help me: 1) act in love, 2) mourn with the hurting, 3) continue to do good, 4) make disciples, 5) pray with those who will see it, and 6) consider their soul with the same patience of Christ?

A move of God is needed—in good times and bad. A move of God is needed in me. A move of God is needed in us. A move of God is needed on our schools and campuses. A move of God is needed in our community, county, state, and country. If the spirit of God is within you, that move of God starts with you. Don't wait for a move of God, be the move of God by being obedient to Him and loving like Him, by His power and with His strength.

He Is Speaking—Are you listening?

This week, I’ve been so encouraged and challenged. I want to share a small glimpse of that with you.

While praying this week, I thanked God for how quickly I feel He has been speaking and responding to my prayers. As soon as I did, I felt Him say, “I speak to those who are listening.” I started to tear up.

Honestly, I feel very unworthy for God to speak to me, even if I am listening and wanting to hear His voice. But His word was so full of grace. I didn’t hear, “I speak to those who are worthy,” “I speak to pastors,” “I speak to certain people,” “I speak to super holy people,” “I speak to parents who don’t yell,” or “I speak to perfect people.” I just felt Him say, “I speak to those who are listening.”

My mind began to race through verses about His grace and mercy coming to the just and the unjust (see Matthew 5:43-45). God spoke to and even answered the prayers of a wicked King Ahab, as well as King Hezekiah, who desired to please the Lord. I was so encouraged because I realized my job is to listen—not to listen simply for what I want to hear, but to hear Him—to pray, believing that He is listening to me and desires to speak to me.

The grace of God doesn't give a qualification, simply an invitation.

This week I encouraged a friend through the verses God was using to encourage me. I pray they encourage you as well.

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call on Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6

“You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8

“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

“Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn away from evil. This will bring healing to your body and refreshment to your bones.” Proverbs 3:5-8

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." Revelation 3:20

"If anyone hears My voice." He is speaking, are you listening?

In the beginning, God spoke, and everything in the universe came into being. This is a marvelous thing to behold. God spoke, and with a bang, everything we know began. I say "began" because our universe is still expanding, still growing, with new things continually forming; this is one area of creation where the vast majority of theologians and scientists agree. Hebrews gives us a glimpse into this: "The word of God is alive and active." Paul tells us that God continues to uphold all things by the word of His power.

Scripture consistently portrays God's word as powerful, effective, profitable, formidable, active, moving, upholding, and creative, among other qualities. This is not something His word used to do—it is still doing. God is still creating, restoring, forming, mending, moving, shaping, tearing down, and building up. His word continues to echo throughout our world and universe.

This is marvelous to contemplate, but how is it practical? When Hebrews states, "For the word of God is alive and active," the author doesn’t focus on an ethereal concept but on a tangible truth. The same word that spoke creation into existence, that upholds all things and calls into being what does not exist, is "sharper than any double-edged sword." There is such power in God’s word that it must be handled with awe and reverence. When you fail to respect and cherish it, it can leave you and those around you in a mangled mess.

God’s word "penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow." It is so powerful that it seeps deep into your being, distinguishing what is mortal from what is immortal, cutting through the chaos of your life to reveal reality. It doesn’t merely help or support you—it reaches your very foundations. His word "judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart," cutting through what’s fake or dishonest to get to the core of truth. Here are some practical truths about God’s word when you handle it rightly:

His word holds all wisdom.

His word cuts through egotistical, narcissistic, "I’m-always-right" attitudes.

His word is the power to bring healing deep within your soul.

His word restores and renews parts of you that felt too broken to ever be whole again.

His word sets you free from addiction, people-pleasing, shame, insecurity, fear, and worry.

His word reorients the values and desires of your life.

His word creates new life with you.

His word provides fresh wisdom, clear vision, and renewed purpose.

His word brings peace into chaos.

I know this because His word is alive and active, still moving, creating, and renewing. So, the next time you pick up your Bible—whether it’s on your phone, bedside table, or covered in dust somewhere you’ve forgotten about—handle it with care. Know that you’re not just reading old stories hoping they might help you today. You’re holding something with truth so powerful and effective that it can change you, create anew, and bring peace through chaos. Hold it, ask the Lord, "Speak to me today," and then allow Him to speak. Let Him do something so powerful in your life that it echoes through eternity, continually expanding, growing, and forming you into the child of God He has designed you to be

Have you ever pondered what animal you'd choose to be if given the chance? As children, this question sparks imagination and excitement. But as adults, we might find ourselves more concerned with what we don't want to be. For many of us, the idea of being a mere "parrot" – someone who simply repeats what others say without original thought or input – is particularly unappealing.

Yet, there's a profound lesson hidden in the humble role of the parrot. Jesus Himself said, "I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me" (John 8:28). This challenges us to reconsider our perspective on leadership and following.

Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less. And if we're followers of Christ, we're all called to be leaders in some capacity – influencing the world around us and pointing others towards Him. Whether it's in our homes, workplaces, or communities, we all have spheres of influence where our leadership matters.

But here's the crux of the matter: Your leadership shapes your followers, and your following shapes your leadership.

The apostle Peter, in his first epistle, addresses both elders (leaders) and youngers (followers) with wisdom that resonates across generations. He reminds elders to shepherd God's flock with eagerness and humility, not out of greed or a desire to lord over others. This counsel carries several important reminders:

• These aren't your sheep. Everything and everyone belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). We're merely stewards of what He's entrusted to us.

• God trusts you. Leadership is a sacred calling and privilege, not a burden.

• Give, don't take. True leadership is about what you can contribute, not what you can gain.

• Lead by example. As Paul said, "Follow me as I follow Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1).

For those who aren't in formal leadership positions, Peter's words are equally powerful. He calls on youngers to submit to their elders, clothe themselves with humility, and remember that "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5).

This submission isn't about blind obedience or suppressing our thoughts and ideas. Rather, it's about recognizing the value of authority structures and honoring those placed in leadership roles. It's a challenging concept in a world that often prizes individual autonomy above all else.

But here's where the rubber meets the road: How we follow shapes how we lead. If we can't submit to authority, we'll struggle to lead others effectively. If we're constantly complaining about those above us, we'll foster a culture of criticism among those we influence.

The story of David and Saul provides a powerful illustration of this principle. Even when Saul was clearly in the wrong and actively trying to harm David, David refused to dishonor "the Lord's anointed." His respect for the office of kingship, even when its current occupant was failing, spoke volumes about David's character and prepared him for his own future leadership.

So what do we do when leadership is difficult? When we're frustrated with those above us or struggling with those we're meant to lead? Peter offers a simple yet profound solution: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).

This isn't a call to passivity or inaction. Instead, it's an invitation to bring our raw emotions, frustrations, and fears before God. The Psalms provide a beautiful template for this kind of honest, vulnerable prayer. They show us that it's okay to wrestle with God, to question, to express anger or sorrow – all while ultimately trusting in His care and provision.

In the end, effective leadership and following both stem from the same source: a deep trust in God's sovereignty and care. When we truly believe that He is in control, that He cares for us, and that He has placed us exactly where we are for a purpose, it transforms how we lead and how we follow.

Jesus put it this way: "Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well" (Matthew 6:33). When our primary focus is on God's kingdom rather than our own ambitions or frustrations, everything else falls into place.

So whether you find yourself in a position of leadership or in a season of following, remember these key truths:

• You are a steward, not an owner.
• God has trusted you with your current role and responsibilities.
• Your attitude and actions shape those around you.
• Humility is the key to both effective leadership and following.
• In moments of struggle, cast your cares on God.

Leadership is important. How you lead matters more. 
Who you follow matters. How you follow matters more.

May we all strive to lead and follow in ways that honor God and positively influence those around us, always remembering that our ultimate allegiance is to the Chief Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

As you go about your week, reflect on your spheres of influence. How can you lead more effectively? How can you follow more humbly? And in all things, how can you cast your cares on the One who cares for you infinitely more than you can imagine?

Have you ever experienced a moment in prayer where you felt the Lord put something on your heart and mind so clearly that it was undeniable? Whether it's a distinct voice or an impression that lingers with certainty, there are times when the Lord makes His presence known in our conversations with Him. It was during our recent prayer gathering that I experienced one such moment.

The Call to 'Ask'

As we wrapped up a session of prayer focused on the Next Generation, I felt the Lord simply say, "Ask!" Now, we had already been praying for nearly an hour, lifting various needs and desires to Him. But hearing this directive felt like both a confirmation and a renewed invitation from God—a reminder that our prayers were in alignment with His desires and that He was there with us, almost like a proud father eager to fulfill His children's requests.

Checking Our Motives

Although we often find ourselves praying for personal comforts—better jobs, more convenience, or even grand vacations—we must ask ourselves: Are our desires aligned with God's will? Are we seeking His glory above all else? Scripture reminds us to ensure our motives are pure when presenting our requests. As James 4:2-3 warns, we sometimes do not receive because we ask with wrong motives.

True prayer isn’t about getting everything we want; it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s purposes. When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He focused on God’s will being done and His kingdom coming. This shift in focus encourages us to trust that God knows our needs and will provide if we remain aligned with His intentions.

An Atmosphere of Faith

As our prayer session continued, something beautiful happened in the room. We moved beyond our selfish desires, allowing our prayers to reflect God’s desires for His world. We began asking for things that honor Him, like healing, salvation, community influence, resources for spreading the gospel, and unity among believers.

What followed was a restful assurance of God’s love and capability. When God invites us to 'ask,' He doesn’t only desire to give; He looks to transform us in the process. The atmosphere shifted in our hearts and amongst us, becoming one of expectancy and joy, expressing our faith in God’s goodness.

Pray Boldly & Expectantly

When you pray, remember you are engaging with a God who treasures you. Pray confidently, knowing He listens and desires to deepen His relationship with you. As a church, we are committed to praying for the needs of our community and world. Let’s continue to engage, expectantly praying not just for individual gains, but for His kingdom to manifest more deeply, starting with us.

Expect God to move in powerful ways. Pray for His presence to fill your heart, life, marriage, parenting, work place and our church. Pray for hearts to be changed by Christ. Pray for a tangible awareness of God's love and authority. Pray fervently, and be ready to witness His mighty acts.

It's March 14th, the second day of Purim, a joyous Jewish holiday that celebrates the miraculous events told in the Book of Esther. But before the miracle took place Esther had two options ahead of her: death or acceptance.

A decree had been sent out which would see the all the Jews in exile destroyed, Esther had been charged to use her influence to do something about it. Here's a glimpse into how she responded in Esther 4 & 5,

“Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!”” Esther 4:15-16

“Now it happened on the third day that Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the king’s palace, across from the king’s house, while the king sat on his royal throne in the royal house, facing the entrance of the house. So it was, when the king saw Queen Esther standing in the court, that she found favor in his sight, and the king held out to Esther the golden scepter that was in his hand. Then Esther went near and touched the top of the scepter. And the king said to her, “What do you wish, Queen Esther? What is your request? It shall be given to you—up to half the kingdom!” So Esther answered, “If it pleases the king, let the king and Haman come today to the banquet that I have prepared for him.” Then the king said, “Bring Haman quickly, that he may do as Esther has said.” So the king and Haman went to the banquet that Esther had prepared.” ‭‭Esther‬ ‭5:1-15

Esther fasted for three days, neither eating nor drinking, praying fervently for favor as she prepared to approach the king. A king known for his volatility and irrational decisions, whose actions were often guided by emotions rather than reason. Despite the risk, Esther demonstrated a remarkable act of faith—not by merely praying for favor but by taking deliberate actions:



When we face significant challenges, isolation is not the answer. The greater the adversity we face, the larger the community we need. We need community who can pray with us, who will be willing to fast with us, who will suffer for us. We need community who understands the weight and cost of failure.

For Esther, the cost was clear—her neck would be on the line. For her people, the Jews, if she didn't succeed it would their heads that would fall next. The stakes were high. It was tangible for Esther and the Jews. The "why" behind the fast and prayer was easy to grasp.

Sometimes our challenges are this tangible, a medical diagnosis, a letter in the mail, a hurting child or broken relationship. Other times, it feels more intangible like the salvation of a souls, assurance for a decision, or a looming fear and anxiety.

No matter how tangible it might be we need a community praying and believing with us.

Like Esther, we have to do these four things:

1. Lead with Vision: Clearly articulate why fasting and prayer are needed. What are the stakes, and what specifically are you asking from God and your community?

2. Prioritize the Closest: Engage those directly affected first. These individuals should understand the weight and share the burden alongside you.

3. Maintain High Standards: Do not ask others to contribute less than you spiritually. Invite your community to uphold a shared commitment, it takes all of us being all in.

4. Actively Prepare: Prayer is not passive. While praying for divine intervention, begin preparations for the outcome you are hoping for, demonstrating active faith.

Esther's actions exemplify how faith operates through leadership and community. She made the consequences clear, she established the fast that she and those under her care were going to do, she invited Mordecai and the rest of the Jews into the same fast as her and then she prepared the banquet. She led the way, led those she was over, maintained the standard and activated her faith.

She didn’t get lazy, she didn’t isolate, she didn’t pray and do nothing. She got to work. She led, she prayed, she acted on her faith.

You and I must do the same. The greater the adversity the greater our need for community.

Reflect on your current challenges: What do you need from God that only He can provide? Who is supporting you in prayer and preparation? Remember, the size of our community should match the magnitude of our adversity. If we wish for miracles, we must have faith in what God can do while preparing ourselves to act.

This type of faith aligns with and submits to God's will. It's the type of faith that says "either way, I trust you God." It's the faith Esther showed as she prepared a dinner believing for favor, then ran into the king’s court not knowing if she had obtained it.  It's type of faith Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego showed in the face of a fiery furnace, Noah showed building a boat in a desert, and Abraham showed leaving his home for an unknown land. It is the faith Christ modeled—asking for relief but submitting to the Father’s will. It’s faith the disciples showed spreading the gospel in the face of persecution. It's a faith in God’s eternal goodness amidst temporary trials and hardship. An active trust in His power to redeem and restore—a faith that prays, trust, and acts.

It's the type of faith that is forged in adversity while surrounded by community.

In a world where relationships often seem fragile and fleeting, the concept of marriage as a lifelong commitment can feel like a fairy tale or all together radical idea. Yet, when we look at marriage through the lens of faith and God's design, we see the lifelong commitment as extremely practical and realistic. Often our views of commitment are twisted by the pains we have felt through unmet expectations, failure, and brokenness. Yet, the gospel reveals a a profound truth: God's heart is always for reconciliation and restoration.

At its core, marriage is not just about romance or emotion – it's about mission. Romance and emotion are part of the what makes mission fun, but not the mission itself. In Genesis 2, we see that God created Eve as a "suitable helper" for Adam. This pairing wasn't merely for companionship, but for partnership in fulfilling God's calling. When two people come together in marriage, they have the potential to accomplish more for God's kingdom than they ever could alone.

This idea of marriage as mission challenges the cultural narrative that often portrays marriage as simply an outlet for personal fulfillment or happiness. While those elements can certainly be present, the biblical view of marriage goes much deeper. It's about two people coming together to refine each other, to grow in Christlikeness, and to serve God's purposes together.

Marriage is a gift of God which becomes a reflection of Christ's love for the church. See Ephesians 5:22-33. God uses marriage to be a living picture and reminder of what Christ has done. The more we see God's love for us through the symbolism of marriage, the greater our appreciation and gratitude should be towards our spouse. God's grace and marriage should crescendo into recognizing it as a gift from God rather than something we're entitled to.

What does that crescendo look like? How do we grow in appreciation? How do we show our gratitude and God's grace through marriage? Here are a few ways...

1. Make divorce a non-negotiable: By removing divorce as an option, couples create a safe space to work through conflicts without the fear of the relationship ending.

2. Don't go to bed angry: Address issues promptly, even if it means agreeing to discuss them more fully the next day.

3. Fight fair: Avoid blame words, personal attacks, or bringing up past resolved issues. Instead, focus on expressing feelings and working towards solutions.

4. Maintain physical intimacy: While respecting boundaries with children, prioritize the marital relationship and physical closeness.

5. View your spouse as a gift from God: Cultivate gratitude for your partner and the unique ways they reflect Christ's character.

6. Serve one another sacrificially: Following Christ's example of laying down His life for the church, spouses are called to put each other's needs before their own.

Have you found yourself struggling in one or many of these areas? It's essential to remember that God's ultimate desire is always for restoration. Even in cases where failure, pain, and broken trust has done damage to a relationship, through God's grace there is hope for healing and new beginnings through repentance.

A powerful reminder comes from 1 Corinthians 13, the famous "love chapter." When we substitute our own name into this passage (e.g., "[Your name] is patient, [Your name] is kind..."), it becomes a convicting exercise in how we're called to embody Christ's love in our relationships.

Love, as described in this passage, is not a feeling but a series of choices and actions. It's about being patient when your spouse is frustrating, kind when you're exhausted, and persevering through difficult seasons. This kind of love reflects God's unconditional love for us and serves as a powerful testimony to a watching world.

For those in the throes of parenting, marriage takes on new dimensions. For Katie and I, we're intentionally raising our son to be a man who will one day "leave and cleave" to his own wife, leading his family to the feet of Jesus. We celebrate him as he wakes up each morning first reading God's word. We encourage Him and do our best to model for Him what a healthy marriage looks like, and what it means to personally pursue Christ. We haven't always done it perfectly, but we've done it consistently.

As parents we have to remember that everything is caught not taught. What our kids see, they will emulate. We have to set the example. We also have to remember we're stewarding His kids, they're never really ours to begin with. God has entrusted us with His children, and we should love, steward, and guide them back to their Heavenly Father. This preparation starts early, with daily choices to instill values, responsibility, and a personal relationship with God.

As father, I see the stats and studies that show a dad's spiritual leadership cannot be overstated. Time and again studies have shown that when a father actively pursues a relationship with Jesus and leads his family spiritually, there's a dramatically higher likelihood, around 95%, of the entire family coming to faith. Dads, you play a vital role in the soul of your family, don't neglect it.

Whether you're single, dating, newly married, or celebrating decades together, the call to love like Christ is the same. It's a daily choice to serve, to forgive, to believe the best, and to persevere. In a culture that often devalues marriage, living out this biblical model becomes a powerful witness to God's love and design.

As we reflect on these truths about marriage and relationships, let's challenge ourselves:

- How can we better embody Christ's sacrificial love in our relationships?
- In what ways might we need to repent and seek restoration in our marriages or other important relationships?
- How can we support and encourage the marriages around us, pointing others to God's design and grace?

Remember, no matter where you find yourself on the relationship journey, God's heart is always for reconciliation and restoration. Whether that means working to strengthen your current marriage, healing from past hurts, or preparing for a future relationship, lean into God's grace and let His love transform you from the inside out.

May we all strive to love as Christ loved us – selflessly, unconditionally, and with a commitment that endures through every season of life.

Today I am reflecting on the life of my recently passed Papa Tinkle. My most fond memory of Papa Tinkle was at Christmas time every year. As a child, it also might have been the hardest part to deal with. We would show up at my Aunt Lisa’s house, and there were presents everywhere. There is nothing worse than being a kid on Christmas morning seeing all those presents and being told, “Hold on! We have something more important than opening all these presents!” What could possibly be more important than opening gifts!?! But then Papa would open up the Word of God to read us Luke chapter 2.

This left such an impact on me over the years that it’s what I do with my family as well. It’s what I encourage our church to do with their families now as well. When Papa Tinkle took that great book and began to read, he became more than Grandpa, Father, or Husband, but a spiritual patriarch, letting everyone know what was most important.

Papa Tinkle taught me “Men who know the Word of God, lead the world to God.” It wasn’t something He had to say, it was something his example spoke louder than words ever could.

Many of us might have a desire or interest to know the Word of God, but have no clue where to begin. Each Christmas, it was easy to know where Papa would begin, Luke chapter 2, verse 1. But for the rest of the year it can be daunting when we think of where to start.

Because I'm a pastor, people ask me all the time, “Where should I start in the Bible? If I want to know what this book is all about, what’s the best place to begin?" I don’t feel like I can ever answer it correctly. Part of me wants to say, “Well, start in the beginning!” Other times I want to recommend my favorite book, Luke. And still other times I want to tell them to start with John.

I love Genesis because it’s the beginning, and that always seems like a great place to start. It lays a foundation for every book that follows and begins the history of the Jews. But I also love Luke because he wasn’t a Jew, rather a Gentile, which is more like you and me. He acted like an investigative reporter, giving a detailed history based on eyewitness interviews. But then I love the gospel and writings of John because John was with Jesus! John took care of Jesus’ mother after Jesus’ death and resurrection, they were really really close.

John called himself the disciple whom Jesus loved. John so badly wants people to see that it is the personal love of Jesus that changes us because it’s what changed John. Yes, John tells us that God loved the world, but what changed John was not a general revelation of God’s love, but a specific revelation of God’s love for him, lived out and made real through Jesus.

I think the other reason I tend to recommend Luke and John is because they record what I believe are the 2 most powerful sentences in the whole Bible. 2 Scriptures that seem to have more weight than any others.

One of them is a statement we live from, the other is a statement we live for. In fact, the entirety of our lives and purpose on this Earth is wrapping our hearts, minds, souls, and lives around these two sentences. If you know nothing of the Scriptures, if you have no relationship with God, or if you have followed Jesus as long as you can remember, I would challenge you to spend the rest of your life, however long or however short it may be, trying to wrap your head and heart around these two sentences because they will change your life forever.

One is one we live from, the other is one we live for.

The first one is found in John 19:30. These words were heard by John himself as Jesus hung up on the cross. Right before Jesus took His last breath, John heard Him say, “It is finished.”

Had Jesus not also risen from the dead, these words would have been nothing more than a commentary on His life. His life, the ministry, and His following would have been completely finished. This is why His disciples went into hiding. They saw their rabbi brutally beaten, murdered, and humiliated and were terrified they were next.

Jesus said “it is finished” and for 3 days His disciples felt more like “we are finished” — but then John records the whole reason He wrote the gospel in the first place. The disciples heard from some of the women that the tomb was empty. They ran to check it out, John tells us that Peter was ahead of Him running to the tomb but John was faster so he outran Him and beat him there. They saw an empty tomb, then saw the risen, living Jesus. They ate with him, talked with him, had the world’s coolest Bible study with Him, and spent 40 days with Him along with over 500 others. They saw Jesus’ half-brothers James and Jude turn from annoyed skeptics to bold disciples.

Those disciples learned that “it is finished” didn’t simply mean "I’ve expired" or "I’m done." But rather, the wrath and judgement of God over sin had been poured out completely upon Jesus. When Jesus said “it is finished” it signaled a new beginning.

The cross is the place God’s wrath towards us is finished. The cross is the place where our old lives, our old ways of thinking, our old self-ish desires come face to face with the wrath of God. This is why Paul says that when Christ died, we died with Him! All those who believe and know Christ are to count ourselves as dead to sin and alive to righteousness. (See Romans 6:3-11)

When Jesus said “it is finished,” the disciples learned that it was a new beginning. It meant they no longer had to be scared, powerless disciples, but now could be bold, empowered men and women of God. The wrath of God had been poured out, and now they were to live a new life in the grace of God. It signaled a new beginning because they realized that death had no victory, but was rather a simple passing from one place to the next. This new beginning meant that no matter what happens to us, no matter how our body decays or is destroyed, that in Christ we can have new life here on this earth and look forward to life more abundantly forever with God in heaven. (See John 10:10)

As believers, “It is finished” is a new beginning we live from. We do not work to complete something; rather, we rest in the finished work of Christ. It is Christ who lives within us and moves through us. It is the finished work of Christ which gives us new life and leads us to a brand-new life.

This is why men who know the Word of God lead the world to God. Because when we know what Christ has done, we find our new life and purpose in Him.

These are the 2 most powerful sentences in all scripture! “It is finished” is the one we live from, and the one we live for is… “Well done, good servant.”

Luke 19:17 — “Well done, good servant! You have been faithful with very little…” Matthew, another one of Jesus’s disciples, records it as “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.”

We live for the “well done!” We live for the description of our lives to be “good and faithful.” This is what we live for as followers of Jesus.

As we come to the realization of the brevity of our lives, of the surety of how everyone’s life has both a beginning and an ending, we might ask “what on earth am I here for?” “God, what do you have for me?” “Why are there so many challenges we might face, difficulties we might battle, joys which seemed parallel to pains?”

As I remember and celebrate the life of Papa Tinkle, I’m also embracing the mourning of His loss. Joy and pain seem to run parallel in so many areas of our lives.

But it is the cross that reminds us that pain and suffering produce an eternal weight of glory which leads to joy and life. (See 2 Corinthians 4:17) As we understand the weight of what “It is finished” means, and see it as what we live from, we must also realize that the cross was a beginning and what we’re living for now is the “well done.” What we live for now, no matter who we’ve been before, is the "well done" spoken to good and faithful servants.

To be good here is not simply treated as an adjective, but as a noun, a constant state of being. One who does not “act right” but one who IS right. They are useful, they are pleasant, they are kind, they are honorable. It’s not a state of doing, but a state of being. The very constitution of who they are has become good. It’s not something they were before, but it’s something they became when they started to live from the words of the cross “it is finished.”

To be faithful is an adjective. Faithfulness is the description of the type of things one does. To be faithful means to be one who keeps the commands of the master. This is not someone who goes their own way, and does their own thing, rather they serve at the pleasure of their Lord.  

To be faithful also describes someone who trusts in the promises of God, someone who trusts in the finished work of God.

To be good means when Christ said “it is finished” I realize that means my old life which was not good is finished, and now I have new life in Christ which is made good by Christ. To be faithful means I trust that “it is finished” means God did a good enough job for me to trust Him, so now I live trusting His words and obeying His commands.

The more I know these words of God, the more they change me.

This is why men who know the word of God will lead the world to God.

The mark on my life left by Papa Tinkle was to remember Christ first; go to the Word first, know the Word first. While many will ignore the Word and chase the momentary wants and desires, we must be “good servants” who know and pursue the Word first.

Because men who know the Word of God will lead the world to God.

I pray in all your searching, in all your seeking, praying, and wondering, you learn the power of these two sentences and experience the joy of new life in Christ. I pray you come to know God’s Word and the power of Christ. I pray you come know that what it means when Jesus said “it is finished” and to live the rest of your life from it. Once you do, I pray you live the rest of your life for “well done" as a good and faithful servant.

Have you ever left a situation feeling relieved to be out of it? Perhaps it was a toxic relationship, a difficult workplace, or an uncomfortable gathering. We've all experienced those moments when we look back and think, "Thank goodness I'm no longer in that situation." These experiences often leave us questioning the value of relationships and community.

But what if relationships, even the challenging ones, are actually a gift from God? What if they serve a greater purpose in our spiritual growth and journey?

The Bible tells us that "every good and perfect gift is sent down from the Father above" (James 1:17). If relationships are indeed a gift from God, why can they be so painful and challenging? Why would God give us something that often causes adversity and heartache?

The truth is, we were created for intimate community. From the very beginning, in the book of Genesis, we see God declaring that it was "not good for man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). Even in the perfection of Eden, something was missing – companionship, partnership, and intimate relationship.

God, in His infinite wisdom, knows what we need. He created us in His image, and just as He exists in community within the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), we too are designed for meaningful connections with others.

Interestingly, companionship alone isn't enough. When God brought the animals to Adam for naming, it became clear that while they provided company, they couldn't fulfill the deep need for intimate partnership. God's solution was to create Eve, a comparable helper and partner for Adam.

This teaches us an important lesson: isolation isn't good, but mere companionship isn't sufficient either. We are made for something deeper – intimate community that reflects the image of God.

But here's the challenging part: sin entered the world and broke what God had called good. Relationships became complicated, filled with shame, blame, and separation. Yet, God's desire for us to experience true community didn't change. In fact, He uses our relationships to refine us and draw us closer to Him.

Think about it – difficult people in our lives can actually increase our capacity for grace, mercy, and forgiveness. An honest rebuke from a friend can lead us to greater humility and surrender before God. Even toxic situations, while painful, can be used by God to shape us more into His image.

The early church in Acts 2 gives us a beautiful picture of what God-centered community can look like. They devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, sharing meals, and prayer. They lived with generosity, praising God and enjoying the favor of all people. As a result, "the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved" (Acts 2:47).

This is the power of authentic, Christ-centered community. It's not about perfection, but about being perfected by Christ together. It's about bringing our failures and sins into the open, not for shame, but for healing, forgiveness, and restoration.

So, what does this mean for us today? How can we embrace relationships as the gift God intended them to be?

Recognize that you were made for community. Resist the temptation to isolate yourself, even when relationships are difficult.

Be willing to be vulnerable. True intimacy in relationships requires honesty and openness.

See challenging relationships as opportunities for growth. Ask God to show you how He might be using difficult people or situations to refine you.

Prioritize forgiveness and reconciliation. As Ephesians 4:32 instructs, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Seek to build others up. Look for ways to encourage, support, and motivate others in your community.

Be part of a local church community. Don't neglect meeting together with other believers regularly.

Bring sin into the light. Confess your struggles to trusted friends or mentors, allowing for healing and accountability.

Look for opportunities to restore broken relationships. Take the initiative to reach out and make amends where possible.

Remember, the goal isn't to have perfect relationships, but to allow our relationships to perfect us in Christ. As we navigate the complexities of human connections, we have the opportunity to display God's love, forgiveness, and grace to a watching world.

Jesus himself modeled the importance of community throughout His earthly ministry. He surrounded himself with disciples, invested in relationships, and even in His moments of deepest anguish, sought the company of others.

When we embrace relationships as a gift from God, we open ourselves up to experience His love in profound ways. We create space for the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, refining our character and drawing us closer to the heart of God.

So, the next time you find yourself in a challenging relationship or community situation, pause and consider: How might God be using this to shape you? What can you learn? How can you extend grace, seek forgiveness, or offer reconciliation?

In doing so, you may just find that the very relationships you once viewed as burdens become the greatest blessings in your spiritual journey. For it is often in the crucible of human relationships that we encounter the transforming power of God's love most profoundly.

Let us then approach relationships not as mere social connections, but as sacred spaces where God's work in us and through us unfolds. May we have the courage to love deeply, forgive freely, and live in the kind of community that reflects the very heart of God to a world in desperate need of authentic connection and divine love.

We want our church family to value "His Word." So take this blog post deeper with 5 key verses to reflect on and pray over today.

Embracing Relationships as God’s Gift: James 1:17
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Reflection:
Reflect on the relationships in your life. Consider both the joyful and the challenging ones. Recognize them as gifts from God intended for your growth and development. Ask God to help you see each relationship through His eyes.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the people You have placed in my life. Help me to see them as part of Your purpose and plan for me. Give me wisdom to navigate both the blessings and challenges they bring, remembering they are perfect gifts from You. Amen.

Action Step:
Take a moment to write a note or send a message to someone who has positively impacted your life, thanking them for their influence and care.

The Importance of Community: Genesis 2:18
"The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'"

Reflection:
Think about the concept of community and why God emphasized its importance right from the beginning. How has community played a role in your personal and spiritual growth? Reflect on your current communities—home, church, work—and your role in them.

Prayer:
Lord, You created us for community. Help me to embrace the communities You have placed me in and to contribute positively to them. Strengthen the bonds I have with others and guide me to build meaningful connections. Amen.

Action Step:
Identify one community you are a part of and think of a way you can contribute or participate more fully in it this week.

Vulnerability and Openness: 1 John 1:7
"But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin."

Reflection:
True intimacy requires vulnerability. Reflect on the areas in your life where you are holding back. Consider the fears that prevent you from being open and authentic with others. What would it mean to let others into your struggles and joys?

Prayer:
Jesus, You modeled vulnerability and openness in Your relationships. Teach me to walk in the light, to be honest and transparent with those around me, and to invite others into my journey. Amen.

Action Step:
Reach out to a trusted friend or mentor and share something you have been keeping to yourself. Allow room for grace and accountability.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Reflection:
Consider a relationship in your life that needs forgiveness or reconciliation. Reflect on the barriers to offering or receiving forgiveness. How could freeing yourself from these barriers bring peace and healing?

Prayer:
Father, I struggle with forgiveness at times. Help me to remember the forgiveness You’ve extended to me through Christ. Give me the grace to forgive and courage to seek reconciliation where needed. Amen.

Action Step:
Take the first step toward reconciliation in a strained relationship by praying for that person and, if you feel led, reach out to express a desire to mend things.

Growing Through Difficult Relationships: Romans 12:18
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Reflection:
Reflect on how God might be using challenging relationships to grow your character. Consider the qualities such as patience, grace, and humility that are being developed in you. How can these experiences draw you closer to God?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the lessons that difficult relationships teach me. Strengthen me to respond with grace and patience, and let these experiences refine me to be more like You. Show me how to use these lessons to bless others. Amen.

Action Step:
List qualities God is developing in you through difficult relationships. Thank Him for these opportunities and ask how you might help others grow in turn.

Relationships are hard. Life is hard. Work is hard. Following Jesus is hard. But something being hard doesn’t mean it’s not good.

I quickly grow weary with games that are easy. I like the challenge. Work that is simple and easy is fine at first, but overtime the lack of challenge becomes mind-numbing, leaving us feeling a lack of purpose.

Following Jesus is incredibly easy. I just do what He says. One step after the other, one command after the other, I just do what He says. It’s easy—except it’s not. It’s challenging because Jesus keeps calling me to do more than I was comfortable with. His grace, although free, freeing, and amazing, constantly requires more of me. It’s the paradox of grace. I don’t do anything to earn it or deserve it, but once I have it, this free gift carries a challenge equal to its weight and beauty.

The more I grasp hold of the grace I’ve been given, the more I understand the cost of this free-to-me gift. Nothing I do ever earns me more grace, but I find as I grow in grace, or maybe I should say grow in my knowledge and understanding of grace, I find that I have more grace than I realized. The greater my revelation of grace, the greater price I see was paid for me to have it. The greater value I see in grace, the more precious that grace becomes to me.

Before I go so deep down the rabbit hole of grace, let me try this illustration of 2 families who were given a brand-new, beautiful home.

The first family loved the home. It was amazing. They had spent years struggling, moving from home to home with constant chaos seeming to follow them. They longed for a home, a place of stability and comfort. The family so badly just wanted a place to call home. No more moving from place to place, no more changing schools, but a home. True stability.

The other family too loved the home after dealing with their own struggles and challenges. They couldn’t afford to buy a house, but had a burdening desire for one. They worked with a realtor and their banker and realized they couldn’t afford the down payment. With the current housing market, they realized it was out of their grasp. They so badly wanted a home, but no matter how hard they tried, it was out of reach.

Then in the mail, both families received a deed. They had each been gifted a home; all that was waiting was their signatures. The taxes were paid, and the transfers were taken care of. The owner of the two homes was giving them away without a single string attached. Each family received a house, now it was theirs to make a home.

Both families were in awe. It was what they had always dreamed of, what they had longed for. It was an answer to so much pain, countless frustrated nights, and many wishes and tears. These two houses happened to be neighbors, side by side, and both families pulled up to their houses at the same time. This bond made them instant friends. They helped each other move in and bonded over this amazing gift they had received.

As the years progressed, one family’s home continued to shine with the elegance of that first day. The lawn was kept tidy, the maintenance of the home was up to date, and the care for the home was at a level they had never even kept any previous “home” of theirs. There was something about how grateful they were and how stable this house was that they continually grew in awe of the gift they had.

The other family, however grateful, were growing impatient. This new house, although beautiful, was much larger than they felt they needed, which meant more square footage to clean than they had ever desired. Also, being first time “homeowners” came with the realization that no one was coming to mow the lawn, pull the weeds, or trim the trees wanting to grow over the roof. Not only that, but now they had to pay taxes on this property as well! They loved the house; getting it for free was amazing, but it seemed to require more of them than they desired to give.

For one family, the gift became a continual source of awe, gratefulness, and wonder. For the other, it became a burden.

Although I know this isn’t the perfect illustration, I hope it gets the point across. When Katie and I first got a home, I couldn’t hang a photo. I knew nothing about caring for a home. Honestly, it’s one of my weak points. But I’ve also learned over the years how to run electrical and plumbing, how to build and renovate; there is still a ton I’m learning. While my neighbors seem to have regular competitions one-upping the other with their lawn care, I’m still learning how to create those cool lines in my yard. Caring for a house can be hard; maintaining it can be challenging, but there’s also a joy that comes with it.

Just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s not good.

I cannot begin to count the number of times I have been working on a house, doing something I didn’t think I was capable of, running into challenge after challenge, only to stop, pray, and hear the voice of the Lord guide me to solve the problem. This is the beauty of God’s grace. His grace gives us the wisdom we need when we need it. His grace guides us through hard things to see His goodness in the middle of it.

Relationships are hard. Life is hard. Work is hard. Following Jesus is hard. But just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s not good. The grace of God uses hard things to teach us how to trust Him in everything. It’s through relying on God’s grace in the midst of hard things that we see the good in all things. It’s in the middle of hard things that God’s grace gives us the wisdom we need. It’s in the middle of the overwhelming things of life that God’s grace grants us peace which surpasses understanding. It is the grace of God that not only gives us more than we need but calls us to more than we thought possible.

Forgiveness is hard. Restoration is hard. Freedom is hard. Persistence is hard. But it is in the hard that we find grace. Just because something is hard doesn't mean it’s not good. The hard things might just be the hand of God leading you to the right thing. The hard things just might be the hand of God leading you to the grace of God.

God’s grace is free. It’s a beautiful, wonderful gift. It doesn’t come with strings attached; the house is yours, but it does require something of you.

Continuing our illustration, grace gives you a house; growing in grace makes it a home. The more valuable I see God’s grace, the more grateful I become. The more grateful I become, the more I willingly endure hard things that His grace might be made known. The more I endure hard things, the more I see the old, lazy me dying, and the one worthy of the calling, or home, I have received appearing.

The hardest part of life isn’t relationships, parenting, marriage, or following Jesus. The hardest parts of life are not forgiveness, restoration of a marriage, finding freedom from an addiction, or maintaining the persistence needed. The hardest part of life is receiving His grace and realizing that to truly grasp His grace, I have to let go of myself. This is the great requirement of grace: taking hold of grace and letting go of myself. This is what makes grace not just a house I’ve been given but a home I live in. The new me, which God’s grace has given me, requires me to leave the old version behind.

The first family had a life of chaos. We could equate this to a life full of sin, which was both blatant and obvious. The second family was doing everything in their power and their strength to bring order to their chaos. We could equate this to a life of rules, rituals, and self-righteousness. Both leave us short of what only grace can give us.

So which family saw the house become a home? The one that realized the grace they had been given required them to let the old ways go and step into a life worthy of the grace they had received. The family who didn’t look back longingly on their old life, but embraced the adventure of the new life they had been given. It was hard, but just because it’s hard, doesn't mean it’s not good.

Embrace the hard today. Hard can be good.

1. **Embrace the Challenge:** Identify an area in your life—whether it's a relationship, a work project, or your spiritual walk—that feels particularly challenging right now. Instead of avoiding it, lean into the difficulty with the mindset that growth and goodness are often found in the hard. Journal about what you learn from embracing this challenge and how it transforms your perspective.

2. **Cultivate Gratitude for Grace:** Take a moment each day to reflect on the grace you've received in your life. Consider setting aside five minutes every morning to recount ways you have seen grace at work, whether in small daily events or significant life changes. Let this practice deepen your gratitude and motivate you to tackle hard things with a grateful heart.

3. **Release the Old, Embrace the New:** Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify an aspect of your old self or past habits that you need to let go of to fully embrace what God has given you (much like the transformation from house to home). Make a tangible plan to leave this 'old version' behind, perhaps by adopting a new habit, and seeking accountability by joining a Discipleship Group.

Taking action can help take this good thought into a real new life you're living. You can use this guide over the next three days to help deepen your growth in this area. After these three days, take a moment to reflect on any changes you've experienced or that God is leading you towards. Write down any insights or shifts in perspective, and thank God for His ongoing work in your life. Consider continuing these practices as you grow in understanding and applying God's grace.

Day 1: Embracing the Challenge

Scripture: James 1:2-4 (Consider it pure joy...whenever you face trials of many kinds...)

Reflection:
Reflect on an area of your life where you are facing challenges. How can you see these challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles?
Write down three areas where you feel most challenged. Pray for wisdom and strength to embrace these areas with a positive outlook.

Action Step:
Spend time journaling about the lessons these challenges may be teaching you. Ask God to reveal the purpose behind them and how they can contribute to your growth.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to view challenges as tools for growth. Give me strength and perspective to embrace the hard things with joy and trust in Your plan. Amen.

Day 2: Cultivating Gratitude for Grace

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9 (For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith...)

Reflection:
Reflect on the grace you have experienced in your life. Consider specific instances where you have seen God’s grace in action.
Make a list of at least five ways grace has impacted your life. Reflect on how this grace has changed you and your outlook on life.

Action Step:
Set aside five minutes today to express gratitude for these instances of grace through prayer or by writing a thank-you letter to God.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the grace that saves and transforms me. Help me to see Your grace in every aspect of my life and to let it guide my actions. Amen.

Day 3: Releasing the Old, Embracing the New

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 (If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come...)

Reflection:
Consider aspects of your old self or past habits that you need to let go of. What’s holding you back from fully embracing the new life God offers? Reflect on how letting go of these can make room for growth and new opportunities.

Action Step:
Choose one specific habit or mindset to release. Make a concrete plan to let it go, such as setting a goal, finding an accountability partner, or starting a new, positive habit.

Prayer:
Lord, I release my old ways and embrace the new life You have given me. Guide me on this path and transform me into the person You have called me to be. Amen.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you reluctantly agreed to something, uttering a half-hearted "Fine, you win" while inwardly seething? This scenario plays out in relationships, workplaces, and even in our spiritual lives. It's the difference between obligation and obedience - doing what we have to do versus what we get to do.

When joy is missing from our actions, frustration sets in. The task might get completed, but no one is happy about it. This disconnect between our actions and our hearts reveals something profound about our values and the condition of our souls.

As believers, we're called to align our values with God's - to love what He loves and hate what He hates. But how do we practically live this out? It starts with understanding three core values that can transform our spiritual walk:

His Abundance: We pray constantly, live boldly, and give generously because we're overwhelmed by God's grace.
His Word: We treasure Scripture because it reveals Jesus, who is life and truth.
His Love: We make much of God's love because it changes us, empowers us, and transforms our world through us.
Let's focus on that last value - His love. Often, we treat God's love like a limited resource, hoarding it for ourselves. We see our capacity for love as a small bucket that can only hold so much. But what if we've been looking at it all wrong?

Imagine a never-ending supply of water, constantly flowing. God's love isn't meant to be contained in our small "buckets" of capacity. It's meant to overflow, to be poured out continually. Jesus tells us in John 15:9-14 that when we share His love, He's always coming back to fill us up again. We're meant to remain in His love, not so we can walk around proudly with our full buckets, but so we can pour it out and keep trusting Him to refill us.

So how do we love like Jesus? The answer is simple, yet challenging: obedience.

Jesus says, "If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commands and remain in his love." Our obedience to Jesus is how we show the world His love. It's not about proving our love to Him through forced actions, but about a relationship of true obedience born out of love.

This obedience requires three things from us:

Humility: We must be willing to bring our deeds into the light, to be honest about our struggles and shortcomings. John 3:16-21 reminds us that when we come to the light, God's work can be clearly seen in our lives.

Surrender: We must surrender ourselves, our preferences, and our leadership. As Jesus said in John 12:24-28, "Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." We have to let our old selves die so that new life can spring forth.

Love for Others: Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us. This love isn't just words, but a life laid down for others.

Obedience to Jesus often goes against our culture's mantra of "follow your heart" or "do what feels good." The heart, as Jeremiah reminds us, is deceitful above all things. Just because something feels natural or desirable doesn't make it right or holy.

Instead, we're called to follow Jesus' example: "Father, if it is your will, take this cup from me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done." It's about choosing God's will over our own desires, even when it's uncomfortable or challenging.

This surrender isn't about losing ourselves, but about finding something greater. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians, "Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day." When we surrender to God, we tap into a joy that surpasses understanding and a peace that goes beyond our circumstances.

Imagine how your relationships would change if you loved people like Jesus loves them. What if, instead of saying, "God, I only have this much to give," you said, "God, what could you do through me if I allowed you to be the conduit of my life?"

There's joy in obedience to Jesus. It's not always easy, but it's transformative. It requires us to come before God in humility, not perfect but just as we are. It means being honest about our struggles and saying, "I don't want that life anymore. I want to know you, pursue you, and trust you fully."

This journey of obedience isn't about raising your hand once and then going back to your old way of living. It's about waking up every day and saying, "God, I'm following you." It's about trusting Him to lead you into everlasting life, knowing that you can't lead yourself there.

As we reflect on these truths, let's challenge ourselves to live differently. Let's choose obedience over obligation, surrender over self-reliance, and love over self-interest. Let's allow God's love to overflow in our lives, not content with just filling our own buckets, but eager to pour out and bless others.

Remember, God's capacity to work through you is far greater than your own limited resources. When you feel empty, trust Him to keep filling you up. When you're faced with challenges, see them as opportunities for God's glory to shine through you.

In a world that often feels dark and divided, let your obedience to Jesus be a beacon of His love. Let it transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you. For in this obedience, we find true freedom, lasting joy, and the fulfillment of our deepest purpose - to know God and make Him known.

Here is a 5 Day Devotional Guide to get you started as you seek the heart of obedience rather than the dredge of obligation.

Day 1: Abiding in God's Love
Scripture: John 15:9-17

Devotional: Jesus calls us to abide in His love, comparing it to the love between Him and the Father. This isn't a casual invitation, but a command with profound implications. To abide means to remain, to stay rooted. When we abide in Christ's love, we're not just recipients, but active participants in a divine relationship. This love isn't based on our performance, but on Christ's sacrifice and God's character. What areas of your life are you trying to earn God's love rather than abiding in it? How might your actions and attitudes change if you truly believed and lived in the reality of God's love? Today, practice "abiding" by praying a short prayer throughout your day thanking God for His presence & love.

Day 2: The Light of Truth
Scripture: John 3:16-21

Devotional: The familiar words of John 3:16 remind us of God's incredible love, but the verses that follow challenge us to respond to that love with honesty and humility. Jesus speaks of light exposing what's done in darkness, calling us to live transparently before God and others. This passage invites us to examine our hearts. Are there areas of your life you're keeping in the shadows, away from God's light? Remember, God's light doesn't shine to condemn, but to cleanse and restore. Take time today to confess any hidden sins or struggles to God. If appropriate, share with a trusted friend or mentor, bring light to darkness.

Day 3: Dying to Self
Scripture: John 12:24-28

Devotional: Jesus uses the powerful metaphor of a seed dying to produce new life. This principle is at the heart of the Christian journey – we must die to our old selves to experience the fullness of life in Christ. It's a daily choice to surrender our will, our comfort, and our perceived rights to follow Jesus. What areas of your life are you still clinging to, refusing to let "die"? It might be a cherished sin, a grudge, or simply your own plans and ambitions. Pray for the courage to truly surrender these to God. Choose one specific area today where you can practice "dying to self.”

Day 4: Putting Off the Old, Putting On the New
Reading: Ephesians 4:22-32

Devotional: Paul gives us a practical picture of what it looks like to live out our new identity in Christ. It's not just about stopping bad behaviors, but actively cultivating godly character. Notice how many of these instructions relate to how we treat others – our speech, our forgiveness, our kindness. As you read through this passage, which specific instruction stands out to you? Perhaps it's controlling anger, speaking words that build up, or showing forgiveness. Choose one area to focus on today. Ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of opportunities to "put on" this new characteristic. At the end of the day, reflect on how living this way impacted your relationships and your own heart.

Day 5: Laying Down Our Lives in Love
Reading: John 10:11-18

Devotional: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, demonstrates the ultimate example of sacrificial love. He willingly lays down His life for His sheep. This isn't just about His death on the cross, but His entire life lived in service and obedience to the Father's will. We’re called to follow this example, laying down our lives for others. This doesn't necessarily mean physical death, but a daily dying to selfishness and living for the good of others. How can you "lay down your life" today? It might mean sacrificing time to help someone in need, giving generously even when it's inconvenient, or choosing to love someone who's difficult to love. Ask God to show you specific ways you can share His love in your relationships and community today.

Have you ever met a celebrity you admire? Perhaps you've encountered a famous athlete or someone you've seen on TV countless times. While exciting, these encounters often leave us with a superficial knowledge of the person, rather than a deep, meaningful relationship.

This disconnect between knowing about someone and truly knowing them mirrors our spiritual lives. Many of us have knowledge about God – we may know Bible stories, attend church regularly, or even memorize scripture. But do we truly know God in an intimate, transformative way?

The difference between knowledge and relationship is profound. Knowledge settles for rules, rituals, and outward appearances. It seeks applause from others and may even lead to hypocrisy – looking righteous on the outside while harboring impurity within. Jesus himself warned against this, saying:

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean." (Matthew 23:27)

True relationship with God, on the other hand, creates an insatiable hunger for more of Him. It transforms us from the inside out, aligning our hearts with His and producing genuine fruit in our lives.

The longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, beautifully illustrates this hunger for God and His Word. Throughout its 176 verses, we see a progression from initial hunger to deep intimacy with the Lord. Let's explore some key themes from this Psalm:

1. Righteousness for those who hunger for His Word

"Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart." (Psalm 119:1-2)

When we truly hunger for God's Word, it leads us to righteousness. Not a self-righteous adherence to rules, but a genuine desire to walk in God's ways and seek Him wholeheartedly.

2. Renewal for those who meditate on His Word

"How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." (Psalm 119:9-11)

Meditating on God's Word – not just reading it, but truly chewing on it and allowing it to permeate our thoughts – brings renewal. It cleanses us, transforms our minds, and helps us resist temptation.

3. Refinement for those who long for His Word

"My soul is consumed with longing for your laws at all times. You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed, those who stray from your commands." (Psalm 119:20-21)

God's Word acts as a refining fire in our lives. It reveals areas that need pruning, challenges our pride, and shapes us to be more like Christ. This refinement process may be uncomfortable, but it's essential for spiritual growth.

4. Revival for those who live out His Word

"My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word. I have declared my ways, and you have answered me; teach me your decrees...I will run the course of Your commandments,For You shall enlarge my heart." (Psalm 119:25-26, 32)

When we not only know God's Word but live it out, we experience true revival. Our souls are lifted from the dust, and we find new life and purpose in following God's ways.

So how can we move beyond mere knowledge to a vibrant, transformative relationship with God? Here are some questions to ponder:


Ultimately, it comes down to this: Do I love God more today than yesterday? Do I realize more fully how much He loves me?

As we grow in relationship with God, our lives naturally overflow with His Spirit. We give, serve, and sacrifice not out of obligation or to earn approval, but because we love Him and want to be like Him. The Apostle Paul describes this transformative process:

"And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18)

If you're hungry to know God more deeply, consider spending time each day meditating on portions of Psalm 119. Let its words ignite a passion for God's Word and a desire for deeper intimacy with Him.

For those who feel they don't truly know God yet, today is the day to start that journey. Taste and see that the Lord is good! Begin by confessing your sins and turning away from anything that hinders your relationship with God. Believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior, knowing that His sacrifice is sufficient. Identify with Him through baptism, leaving behind the old life and embracing the new. Seek the fullness of His Spirit and receive it by faith.

Remember, knowing about God is not enough. He invites us into a dynamic, life-changing relationship. As we pursue Him wholeheartedly, we'll find that He is more wonderful and beautiful with each passing day. Don't settle for less – embark on the adventure of truly knowing God!

As you embrace the desire of truly Knowing God, consider diving into the journey of Psalm 119. Whether you read it in whole, or take in bite size chunks, you will see a journey of someone who goes from knowing about God, to truly knowing Him.

Here is a 5 Day Devotional Guide to get you started.

Day 1: Knowing God Intimately
Reading: Psalm 119:1-16

Devotional: Today's passage emphasizes the importance of truly knowing God, not just knowing about Him. As we read, we see the psalmist's deep hunger for God's word and righteousness. Reflect on your own relationship with God. Are you seeking Him with your whole heart, or are you content with surface-level knowledge? Remember, intimacy with God goes beyond mere information; it transforms our very being. Today, challenge yourself to move beyond ritual and into relationship. Ask God to open your eyes to see wondrous things in His law, and to hide His word in your heart. How can you practically apply God's word in your life today to deepen your relationship with Him?

Day 2: The Refining Power of God's Word
Reading: Psalm 119:17-32

Devotional: In today's reading, we see how God's word acts as a refining fire in our lives. The psalmist longs for God's judgments and asks to be taught His statutes. This reminds us that growth often comes through challenges and refinement. Consider areas in your life where you feel God may be refining you. Are you resisting or embracing this process? Remember, refinement leads to purity and closer alignment with God's character. Meditate on how God's word has changed you over time. Pray for a heart that is open to correction and eager for growth, even when it's uncomfortable. What specific area of your life can you surrender to God's refining work today?

Day 3: Revival Through God's Word
Reading: Psalm 119:33-48

Devotional: The concept of revival is central to today's passage. The psalmist cries out, "Revive me in Your way," recognizing that true life comes from following God's path. In our own lives, we may experience spiritual dryness or feel distant from God. But His word has the power to revive our souls. Reflect on times when God's word has brought you new life or renewed your spirit. How can you actively seek this revival daily? Consider memorizing a verse from today's reading to meditate on throughout the day. Ask God to enlarge your heart and revive your passion for Him and His word.

Day 4: Comfort in God's Promises
Reading: Psalm 119:49-64

Devotional: Today's reading highlights the comfort we find in God's promises, even in the midst of suffering. The psalmist declares, "This is my comfort in my affliction, that Your word has revived me." We all face trials, but God's word provides hope and strength. Think about a current challenge you're facing. How can God's promises bring you comfort in this situation? Take time to write down specific promises from Scripture that speak to your circumstances. Pray for the faith to trust in these promises, even when you can't see the outcome. How can you share the comfort you've received from God with someone else who may be struggling?

Day 5: Living Out God's Word
Reading: Psalm 119:65-80

Devotional: Our final day's reading emphasizes the importance of not just knowing God's word, but living it out. The psalmist states, "Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments." True faith is always accompanied by action. Reflect on how your knowledge of God's word is translating into your daily life. Are there areas where you know what God desires but struggle to follow through? Ask the Holy Spirit for the power to live out God's word faithfully. Consider one specific way you can apply a truth from God's word today. Remember, as we live out His word, we grow in our relationship with Him and our lives become a testimony to His transforming power.

Have you ever stopped to consider just how blessed you truly are? In a world that often focuses on what we lack, it's easy to overlook the abundance that surrounds us. Yet, when we shift our perspective and recognize the blessings God has lavished upon us, it can transform not only our lives but the lives of those around us.

At the heart of this transformation lies a simple yet powerful truth: We are blessed to be a blessing.

This statement encapsulates a profound spiritual principle that challenges us to view our lives through the lens of God's abundance rather than scarcity. It's not just about acknowledging what we have, but understanding the purpose behind those blessings.

Scripture reminds us of this truth in various ways. In 1 John 3:1, we're told, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" This verse highlights the extravagant love God has for us, a love so great that He calls us His children. It's a reminder that our very identity is rooted in God's blessing.

Similarly, Ephesians 1:3-4 declares, "Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight." This passage emphasizes that God's blessings aren't just material; they encompass every spiritual blessing in Christ.

But how do we live out this truth? How do we embrace God's abundance and become conduits of His blessings to others?

It starts with recognizing the values that shape our lives. Our actions, words, and decisions flow from what we truly value. Jesus put it this way in Luke 6:45: "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of."

This verse highlights the importance of cultivating a heart that values God's abundance. When we truly grasp how much God has blessed us, it naturally overflows into every aspect of our lives. We begin to speak words of gratitude, act with generosity, and view challenges through the lens of God's provision.

One practical way to cultivate this mindset is through personal declarations. These are statements we speak over our lives that align with God's truth. For example:

- I am an intimate lover of God and people.
- I am blessed, favored, equipped, called, chosen, and empowered to do everything God has prepared for me.
- I make the world better and different because I follow Jesus.

By regularly affirming these truths, we remind ourselves of who we are in Christ and the abundance He has given us.

However, living in God's abundance isn't just about personal blessings. It's about becoming active participants in God's kingdom work. This is where the concept of "Kingdom Builders" comes into play. Kingdom Builders are individuals and families committed to expanding God's kingdom through financial generosity.

This commitment goes beyond regular tithes and offerings. It's about prayerfully considering how God might be calling us to give above and beyond, to support missions, community outreach, and the expansion of ministry efforts.

The apostle Paul speaks to this in 2 Corinthians 9:8-11: "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work... You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God."

This passage beautifully illustrates the cycle of blessing: God blesses us abundantly so that we can be generous, and that generosity results in thanksgiving to God. It's a powerful reminder that our blessings are not meant to terminate with us but to flow through us to others.

Living this way requires faith and trust in God's provision. It means being willing to step out of our comfort zones and into the abundant life God has for us. It's about asking, "God, what would you have of me? How can I partner with what you want to do in the world?"

As we ponder these questions, it's important to remember that God's abundance isn't limited to financial matters. It encompasses every area of our lives – our relationships, our talents, our time. We are called to be generous with all that God has given us.

Embracing this lifestyle of abundance and generosity doesn't happen overnight. It's a journey that begins with prayer, seeking God's wisdom, and being honest about our fears and hesitations. We can come to God with our doubts and concerns, knowing that He understands and is patient with us.

The invitation is clear: to live abundantly, to recognize God's blessings, and to become channels of those blessings to others. It's about shifting our perspective from "What do I lack?" to "How can I give from what God has given me?"

As we embark on this journey, let's hold onto the promise found in 1 Corinthians 2:9: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived — the things God has prepared for those who love him." There is so much more that God wants to do in and through us when we open ourselves up to His abundance.

So today, let's challenge ourselves to live as true Kingdom Builders. Let's pray for God's guidance, seek His wisdom, and ask Him to show us how we can be a blessing to others. As we do, we may find that we're not just building God's kingdom in the world around us, but experiencing a deeper, richer life in Christ ourselves.

Remember, you are blessed to be a blessing. How will you live that out today?

Our desire to become Kingdom Builders continues by giving $75,000 towards Kingdom Builders Projects! This isn't a one time thing, rather a new way of living. As we move into the future God has called us to, we will trust in His Abundance as we give generously to expand the Kingdom of both locally and globally. If you'd like to learn more, or are interested in making a commitment to become a Kingdom Builder, here are the details!

What are Kingdom Builders? 
Kingdom Builders are individuals and families who commit to supporting the expansion of God's Kingdom through financial generosity. This group goes beyond the regular tithe, which is typically 10% of one's income used for the day-to-day operations of the church, by giving additional contributions. Kingdom Builders aim to fund initiatives that help spread the Gospel, build up the church, and serve local and global communities. Their goal is to advance God’s mission through strategic investments in outreach, ministry, and other projects that make an eternal impact. This community is open to all who feel called to be part of this mission of growth, outreach, and transformation.

What are the Kingdom Builders Projects?
Kingdom Builders is directly funding four key areas: missionary support, strategic partnerships, church planting, and the NextGen Foundation. A major focus of Kingdom Builders is building the Equipping and Training Center (E.T.C.). Until it is completed, 80% of all Kingdom Builders giving will be allocated to the E.T.C., a space that will shape generations to come. The remaining 20% will continue to resource and support our 16 full-time missionaries and 13 strategic partners, ensuridng the Gospel is shared both locally and across the globe.

What will this goal accomplish? 
With $75,000, we will have the funds needed to complete the third phase of our building project, bringing us one step closer to fully funding the E.T.C. We have already raised and saved, $250K which fully funds Phases 1, & 2 and partially funds phase 3. Our total need across all 5 Phases for the building is $575K. These consist of Design, Sitework, Foundation & Rough-in (Phase 1 & 2), exterior walls & siding & roof (phase 3), bathrooms, interior walls, drywall stage, HVAC etc (Phase 4) and all the finishing touches, such as Painting, Decor, Sound Equipment, Chairs, Stage Lighting and functionality (Phase 5).  Raising this $75K will fund the remainder needed for Phase 3 and fully fund all of our mission commitments, support benevolence requests, and expand our local outreach while providing crucial support for church planters and continued resources for our strategic partners like Convoy of Hope, Informed Choices, Called College and more.

By meeting our Kingdom Builders goal, we will not only sustain these vital mission efforts but also advance our new building through the first three of its four phases—bringing us closer to completion. Together, we are laying the foundation for an incredible future, equipping the next generation, and making a lasting difference in the world!

Pray and ask God what to give and then respond by giving in faith. We give to a big God who does great things through obedient people.

Once you're ready to make a commitment you can do so at www.mchmaranatha.org/kb or click the button below!

My dad wasn't perfect, but he was definitely present. It's one of the things I most admire about him. My parents divorced when I was 1.5 years old, but my dad didn't ever let that keep him from being my dad.

My parents had lived in Tennessee most of their lives, but the divorce led my mom to take my brother and me to be near her family, which had moved to Texas. Being away from his kids was not an option for him, so my dad followed. Leaving his job and entire life behind, he became a carpenter, barely living above the poverty line. He mainly lived on the generosity of others while finding his footing because he cared more about being present than posh or polished.

Because my dad was present, I was given a front-row seat to watch him become a new man. He made a lot of mistakes; after all, divorce is never one-sided. But what I saw was someone not being defined by mistakes, rather someone being faith-filled for a God-led future.

My dad's trust in the Lord's ability to redeem, and his continual faith in God's present working, was the source of his joy and optimism. His perseverance, joy, serving, and ever-present optimism became a living and loving model for my brother and me.

My dad modeled a faith in God's plans by waking up early each morning to commune with the Lord. He modeled the importance of presence by showing up to every game, coaching, cheering, and supporting us in every way he knew how. He modeled humility by owning his mistakes and asking for forgiveness when needed. He modeled repentance by rooting out the things in his life that led to the breaking of a marriage. He modeled redemption by continuing to serve, give, and lead because he knew his status had not changed as a loved child of God.

But when it came to Christmas, the thing I remember most is how my dad modeled a confidence in both God's active place in our lives today and God's desire to do something new with our future. Each Christmas morning, my dad would wake up before us, grab his coffee and Bible to spend time with Jesus. When we woke up, he would then take time to read us the Christmas story. Then, one at a time, he would look at my brother and me and share a word of encouragement for the coming year he felt the Lord had given him.

Sometimes that word was simple, "New! Son, I believe God is going to do a new thing in your life this year. It’s going to be a season of new beginnings, new relationships, new job, new chances, but God is doing something new in you!" Sometimes it was challenging, "Hold fast. The year ahead is going to have difficulties, but hold fast to the truth that God loves you, I love you, and His grace is enough for you." It was a word given after much prayer, and full of faith. It was a little leap to say it, but He trusted it was from the Lord. The word was full of hope, even the challenging ones showed me God cared and would be with me through it all.

This Christmas, I encourage you to take time to pray over a "word" from the Lord for your life and your family. The truth is, the greatest gift you'll get this Christmas is that despite the chaos of life, despite the distance you've felt from Him, God is present and active in your life right now. He is with you. He is near. He is closer than you think. He desires to speak to you. He knows the forks in the road that are ahead of you in the coming year. He knows the plans He has for you. God is present. God wants to give you a word full of hope, full of faith, to show you He cares and is with you through it all.

Take your time. Ask the Lord to speak to you. Ask Him to give you a word for this coming year. This could be one word that keeps repeating, a phrase, or maybe even a scripture. But if you ask Him, He will speak. If you’re the head of your household, ask the Lord to give you a specific word for each member of your home. Use Christmas morning, not just to give presents, but to give the gift of presence by encouraging one another in the Lord. The promise scripture gives us is when we gather in His name, He is with us! See Matthew 18:20. After all, this is what Christmas is all about: celebrating that God is with us! Immanuel has come to us. Let this Christmas be about remembering that God is with you, He is for you, He is speaking to you, He loves you, and He desires to lead you.

I don’t remember every gift I got for Christmas (I do remember that really cool baseball bat, though), but I remember the feeling, emotion, and joy that came with sitting down for Christmas, reading the Christmas story, and hearing my dad speak life into me and my family. My dad was present and showed me God was present, and that was the best present of all.

When I read through the OLD Testament, sometimes it feels like a bunch of stories of "back in the old days." There are just some stories that seem too graphic, too violent, too...real. I think we often have a rather picturesque glimpse into "right now." Many of us romanticize the good of the past, but more than we romanticize the past, we tend to over estimate how "advanced" and "civilized" we now compared to "the old days."

One of the most alarming things I see when I read the Old Testament, is no matter how different things are today, no matter how "advanced" we are now, we are really not that much different. I believe this is why so many of the principles are so transferable. It doesn't matter that these stories are being shared about people who lived 3000 years ago, it's about people, and people really haven't changed that much.

Stick with me for a minute and let's read one of these passages. Here is a little background.

We're going to pick up in 1 Samuel 5 where we find the nation of Israel has gone through a really rough stretch of history, doing whatever seemed right in their own eyes and generally not anything that seemed right in God's eyes. Their outright betrayal and rejection of God had led to God giving them what they wanted.

Instead of God's people honoring Him, being blessed, and generally living out His plan according to His plan, they told God, "Hey we want the blessing, but not your leadership. Instead bless me, while I do what I want the way I want even though I know it's not what you want. Sound good?" News flash, it did not sound good to God.

So rather than winning battles, subduing the land, driving out enemies, and enjoying God's promised land, they found themselves under oppression and constantly fighting with nations they couldn't overthrow.

Chapter 5 picks up, right after they had lost one of those battles. Let's read it...

“Then the Philistines took the ark of God and brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod. When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the house of Dagon and set it by Dagon. And when the people of Ashdod arose early in the morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the earth before the ark of the Lord. So they took Dagon and set it in its place again. And when they arose early the next morning, there was Dagon, fallen on its face to the ground before the ark of the Lord. The head of Dagon and both the palms of its hands were broken off on the threshold; only Dagon’s torso was left of it. Therefore neither the priests of Dagon nor any who come into Dagon’s house tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod to this day. But the hand of the Lord was heavy on the people of Ashdod, and He ravaged them and struck them with tumors, both Ashdod and its territory. And when the men of Ashdod saw how it was, they said, “The ark of the God of Israel must not remain with us, for His hand is harsh toward us and Dagon our god.” Therefore they sent and gathered to themselves all the Lords of the Philistines, and said, “What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?” And they answered, “Let the ark of the God of Israel be carried away to Gath.” So they carried the ark of the God of Israel away. So it was, after they had carried it away, that the hand of the Lord was against the city with a very great destruction; and He struck the men of the city, both small and great, and tumors broke out on them. Therefore they sent the ark of God to Ekron. So it was, as the ark of God came to Ekron, that the Ekronites cried out, saying, “They have brought the ark of the God of Israel to us, to kill us and our people!””
‭‭I Samuel‬ ‭5‬:‭1‬-‭10‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

First off, think about how crazy this chapter starts out. Israel had just lost a battle, but the ark of God was with them. This symbol of God's presence, full of tablets holding the 10 commandments, and various signs of God's miracles was with them. Yet, God himself wasn't with him.

Here's the first thing to be awe of with this passage: The Israelites went into the fight "with God" but God was not with them. 

We can fighting battles with symbolism, memories of God's faithfulness, clinging to traditions, convinced we're doing things for God, yet be doing all of it without God. 

Israel fights the battle, believing they were "taking God with them" yet God was not "with" them. They wanted God's blessing, but they didn't want to do what intimacy with God required.

Quick question for reflection: Am I asking God to bless me and then taking him with me, or am I more concerned with being with Him and experiencing the blessing of His leading? 

Now let's look at the Philistines this passage is all about.

Here is what I see: Fear without reverence. Fear without surrender.

This passage reminds me of what James writes to the church, "19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder." Fear without reverence. Fear without surrender. The Philistines feared God but did not revere Him as God.

The Philistines received God's grace. These Philistines in ignorance carried the ark away from the battlefield, and God in His grace and mercy allowed them to do so without suffering the consequences for not doing it how He wanted. God didn't judge them according to the Law, He graced them according to their ignorance.

Then they received God's warning, and then another. Dagon their handmade god was knocked over. They had to pick him back up with the hands that made him. Then the next day, their god was humiliated & broken. But the Philistines did not  even stop to think "Maybe this God is better than ours? Maybe their God is real." Instead, they grew more afraid of God than they already were.

Then they received judgement. They received temporary judgment and chose to continue to flee from God’s presence rather than repent in His presence. They kept putting faith in an idol they made by hand, rather than the God who was alive and moving in their midst. They chose what was powerless over what was powerful because they could control what was powerless.

They feared but did not revere. They feared, but did not surrender. Their fear of God was rooted in a hatred towards His people, and the selfishness of pride.  Yet in the midst of their pride and hatred, God was still giving them a chance. They weren't being killed, fire wasn't falling from heaven, the judgement they were being handed was still temporary. They knew of God's power, they saw the warning, and yet knew what the cost of repentance would mean, so they didn't want to turn from their ways. They would rather claim God was evil and spiteful than repent of their sin and surrender to Him.

Israel and Philistine were fighting the same sickness: pride.

Sure, Israel was taking God with them, and the Philistines were acknowledging God's power and fearing Him. But both of them were stuck in pride.

Israel's pride was rooted in “doing what I want my way.”

The Philistine's pride was in an inability to surrender and have humility with others. If the Philistines would have repented, it would have meant acknowledging the God of Israel was the one true God. It would have meant a complete reversal of their way of life. But more than any of that, it would have meant they needed to make peace with Israel. 

Ultimately this is where pride draws the line. Pride says "I will serve you, but only on my terms." And peace between these two nations, was not terms the Philistines could accept.

Our pride can take many forms. It could be like Israel, and when God tells us to do something we say "Yeah, yeah, but I like my way better. I will serve you but only on my terms." Our pride can also take the form of the Philistines, seeing the need for repentance (rejecting and fleeing from your old way of life) as cruel and oppressive. And the need to make peace with people, that is just as adding insult to injury.

If we want to kill the pride in our lives, we have to be honest about where we're at.

Are you Israel? Do you want all of God's blessing and goodness without the responsibility of obedience? Do you want to claim God is with you, while never doing what He tells you?

Are you the Philistines? Do you love what's comfortable and controllable more than what is real? Does forgiveness feel like nails on a chalkboard?

The finished work of Jesus made peace with God and man possible. His sacrifice for our sin, our pride, makes us right with God. Our job is surrender. We cannot live like Israel saying, "Oh thank you for the blessing, now I can do what I want." (See Romans 6:1-2). Nor can we live like the Philistines, so stubborn that we won't repent, or forgive. (See Matthew 3:8 & 6:15).  

So how do we embrace peace with God through Christ? We serve Him and surrender our right to be right. How do we make peace with others through Christ? We serve them and surrender our right to be right.

Pride holds onto our right to be right. My thoughts are right. My opinion is right. My way is right. I am right. Ungodly fear, sees all that God does as wrong, so that I can be right.

Fear of God without a reverence for God will always push me away from His presence. Fear of God without a surrender to God will always push me away from His grace.

Godly fear, a fear that places me back into reverence of God's power and authority, is one that turns me to Him because nothing else is as worthy of my attention.
Godly fear, a fear that causes me to surrender to Him, is one of shock. It's shock that despite all the ways I've rejected God, he kept gracing me. Despite of all the evil I've done, He still accepts me. Despite the ways I've ran from Him, he still wants to embrace me. Despite my sin, He has still desires to save me. It's the kindness of God, that He has not given me what I deserve, that puts me in awe of His grace.

Holy Fear. Godly Fear. The type of fear scripture tells us to have, is one that is born out of the love of God being felt in the heart of man.

This is part of what it means to serve God the way God wants to be served. God loves us. He desires us to love Him back. He won't force you to love Him. He won't force you to lay down your pride, but He invites you into it. 

Fear without reverence will find all the reasons why God is vindictive, and we shouldn't surrender. Fear without surrender will find all the reasons God is too harsh and He should try things our way. Fear with reverence, and surrender, sees how beautiful and wonderful God is, repents of how wrong we are, and then lives with a love that overflows to God and others. 

May we repent of our selfish desires. May we repent of the lies we claim about God. May we repent of our lack of humility. May we repent of our lack of forgiveness. May we love God truly.  

Don’t distance yourself from God’s mercy. Cling to his mercy, repent, reconcile, and give the same grace to others.

Thank you. It's one of the simplest things to say, and can also be one of the most challenging. At times the vagueness of a “Thank you,” or a nonchalant delivery, lacks depth and meaning, while other times the simplicity and sincerity of those two words leaves nothing more to be said.

"I love you!" He whispered into her ear. She took a deep breath, looked into his eyes, and while moving in for a kiss replied, "Thank you." In times like these “Thank you” is not always the best response, but it can be a lot easier. No strings attached. No commitment.

As the soldier lay pooled in blood, he looked into the eyes of the medic. The soldier taking hold of his dog-tags and a picture of his wife he kept in the pocket covering his heart, handed them to the medic. As he started to move his lips, he barely had strength to form words. The medic cut him off, "Don't worry, I'll tell her you love her, I'll take this to her myself." With his dying breath he barely let out, ”Thank you.” Thank you can be powerful.

In that scenario, the power of the “Thank you” wasn't because of what the recipient did, but because of what he would do. The power came because he believed what he was told would happened, would happened. He thanked him in advance like it had already taken place.

When my son, Casen, was just three years old, I had a strong desire to teach him how to pray. Little did I know that he would be the one teaching me. While I asked for God to do something, Casen thanked God like it had already happened. When my prayer started "God please..." His started with “God, thank you for..."

Prayers are powerful, not because of the words we use to string them together, or because of the title of the person praying. Prayers are powerful because God will do what He has said He will do. Prayers are about us remembering and declaring God's promises and His righteousness.

Power in prayer comes from righteousness. "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." I think when we read that passage we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to be the source of power and effectiveness. We then become confused when our prayers lack power because we think the power is in the right words or our personal righteousness. "Maybe if I twist God's arm with eloquence, repeat certain scriptures word for word, or say exactly what my discipleship group leader said, then God will do this. Better yet, I'll have my Pastor pray for this." Our faith for power in prayer gets placed in some person's perfection, or at least our understanding of what might be perfect.

When we notice our prayer isn't answered we ask, "Is there something wrong with me? What am I doing that caused God not to move?" So we try again. "God if you can hear me...." "God if you are able..." "God could you..." "God can you..."

Still no answer. We question ourselves then we question God. "Maybe God doesn't answer prayer anymore." "Maybe God can't, or won't." We then tend to justify ourselves. "Maybe God isn't there after all" we might think.

Our prayers reveal more about our doubt in God's ability and desire than our faith in God's love and power.

Powerful prayers aren't about you; they're not about your words or eloquence. Power is a gift of God received from the Holy Spirit, in the same way righteousness is a gift of God received from the blood of Jesus. My prayers are powerful and effective, not because of my righteousness and power, but because of the righteousness of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit living in me.

When we pray with doubt, when we pray with maybes or when we pray out of our "goodness", the love and power of God become all about us. It is as if God is saying, "I love you" and, our response is only "Of course, thank you." Say, "I love you" back to God requires a commitment. This commitment requires vulnerability, sacrifice, and form a new level of relationship which becomes less about you and more about who you are becoming as you're joined into one heart and mind.

God's "I love you" is the righteousness of Christ, His faithfulness to His promises and His knowledge of what you need before you ask. His "I love you" is a complete understanding of your problems, your situation and the solution. It is His peace which he has already given you. It is His power which He has placed in you. It is His faithfulness even in your unfaithfulness.

So when you pray, don't doubt. When you pray, don't make it about you. When you pray, do not put more faith in fear, anxiety, or worry, than His perfect love and faithfulness.

His word is true. He will do what He has said He will do. His timing is perfect. He does not lie. He gives generously to all who ask. He loves to bless. He loves to restore and renew. Trust His character, stop making everything about yours.

When you pray, trust in His goodness and power. As you go about your everyday ordinary life with a God who loves you, stop praying in wishes and start praying in "Thank You's."

"Thank you God for knowing I need peace and giving it to me before I asked. I rest in your peace even when everything around me tries to steal it."

"Thank you God for providing everything I need, so often I lack self-control but your spirit gives me self-control. Replace my lack, with your Spirit and your abundance."

"Thank you God for healing me. Christ has made all things new and even when I don't see it today, I know you've already brought me into wholeness and my eternity is free from the pain I feel right now."

"God, thank you, you've saved me, redeemed me, restored me, and renewed me. If you have done all of this before, why would I ever doubt you to do it again? Thank you for being faithful. Thank you for making all things new."

Scriptures to Chew On: James 1:5-6; James 5:6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Acts 1:8; Matthew 6:33;  Matthew 6:5-14;

If you were tasked with saying 3 things which were nice, redeeming, kind, endearing, or encouraging about a close friend, or loving parent, inspiring teacher, boss or coach, you would probably have a hard time only sharing 3. But what if it was your competition, or someone you vehemently disagreed with everything they are and stand for? What if it was for your enemy? What if you had to praise someone who has harmed you? Could you come up with 3 actually nice things?

Recently both Presidential candidates were tasked with coming up with 3 nice things about the other candidate. They both were only able to come up with 1. To be fair, one candidate did come up with 3, but the other two were quickly turned into insults, so truly they both settled for one. Kudos for trying I guess.

It was at least admirable that one of the candidates recognized they didn't actually know the other candidate. I wonder how their answers, and maybe the entire campaign process, might be different if the major party candidates actually sat down for dinner. No cameras, no microphones, no media. Just a meal, and their task was simply to ask the other genuine questions about who they are and why they do what they do. I would never assume they would agree after that, but I would hope they might at least be able to say 2 o r 3 nice things about one another.

In the chaos that is election season, we're all told to pick sides. Both candidates and their respective party leaders have said if the other side wins it will be the end of democracy as we know it. Both parties have campaigned from a position that the other side isn't merely wrong, nor are they simply expressing an opinion, rather that the other side is inherently evil and dangerous.  

Sadly, this attitude has crept into much of our daily lives as Americans. We have lost the ability to love one another in disagreement. We have replaced segregation based on skin color, for opinions. When our African American brothers and sisters were being vilified by their skin color, the church wasn't exempt. Some church leaders claimed they were fallen angels, and that's why their skin was darkened. It's pure evil to allow division like this to exist among us, especially when we do it in the name of the one who came to unite the whole world to Himself.

As believers, we have a responsibility to steer through chaos, not add to it.

So how do we navigate the chaos of division when everyone around us seems to find comfort in it? Here are seven keys that can help you navigate through the chaos and be a source of hope in a world that is craving it.

1. Be Curious
Have any of you ever found yourself in an argument going nowhere? More than likely, it's because neither side actually cares what the other person is saying, they are simply looking for a way to make their point.

Instead of fighting to win the argument, fight to win a relationship. Ask questions and get curious. When people feel genuinely heard, they tend to genuinely listen.  

Proverbs 17:28 Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive."

2. Be Quiet
One of my favorite verses is Exodus 14:14, "The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still." I've rested in that verse through many adversities. As I've studied that verse throughout the years, I was a little shocked when the I learned how this phrase "need only to be still" is used in its common vernacular. Essentially God is saying "I'll handle this, sit down and shut up."

Many of us can't be quiet in chaos because we're too busy complaining about others and trying to manage what only God can handle. Sometimes the best solution is to sit down and shut up.

How many fights could be avoided in your marriage or relationships if, in the heat of the argument, rather than raising your voice, you sat down and shut your mouth for a moment? Then, as you collected your thoughts, you prayed silently for God to bring peace in the chaos? I think more of us should sit down and shut up--I mean, "only be still"--more often, and allow the Lord to fight for us.

3. Be Honest 
My mom would tell me, "If you don't have anything nice to say, it's better to not say anything at all." Your mom might have said that too. When I didn't have anything nice to say, what I didn't realize is that it revealed an issue with me more than the other person.

Proverbs 17:20 He who has a deceitful heart finds no good, And he who has a perverse tongue falls into evil. 

If I'm honest, when I really don't like someone or can't say anything good about them, it's because I don't want to give them a redeeming inch. I'd rather be deceitful about someone's character than admit there could be a hope of redemption for them.

Instead, speak to the image of God within a person. Find the good. Call out the image of God you see within them. It is amazing how a relationship can shift when you begin to consistently speak life into someone. You just might call out something they've never seen within them.

4. Be Hope-filled
One of the many things I admire about my wife is that no matter how bad things are, she genuinely rests with peace when she says, "I'm not worried about that, the Lord will work it out when the time comes". We can be talking about the most challenging of circumstances, but her hope isn't in a doctor, a job, a boss, or leader, her hope is in the One who works all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28). 

Our world needs to see men and women of God who aren't being thrown by chaos, but whose faith is actually grown in chaos.

5. Be Alone
We are inundated with opinions, thoughts, ideas, ads, commercials, events, and everyone else's needs and wants of the moment. You have to have time to be alone. Shut off the phone. Set a "Do Not Disturb Time" and be cut off from the world. Not every text or phone call is important. Not everyone needs an immediate response. If you feel the urge to text someone, or call someone, it could be a signal that you actually need to pray.  Get alone with God daily. Pray often. If you don't take time to get alone with God, you're simply adding to the noise of the chaos.

One of the most revealing, and honestly brutal, things for me is glancing at my "Screen Time" report on my phone. This report tells me how many times I pick my phone up, how long I am in certain apps, and how long I am on my phone in general. It can be convicting, but it's an accountability that I need to remind me that although the world is at my fingertips, my God is nearer still.

Be alone with God, and you will lead others to God. Allow others to occupy all your time, and chaos will lead your life. 

6. Be Present
When you're with people, give them your attention. Kids know when you're there--and when you're not. Ever wonder why your kid goes crazy every time you pick up your phone? Because you're with them, but your mind is somewhere else. Being present takes intentionality. This is something I'm working on, but it is absolutely vital. Being present is showing up in someone's life with the love of Jesus.

When we see the story of Zacchaeus, it wasn't what Jesus said that changed Zacchaeus, it was Jesus caring enough about Zacchaeus to see Him, engage with him and be present with him. Zacchaeus was lost, but was found, not by debate but by presence.

Being present with people is treating the person in front of you as worthy of the blood which Jesus gave to save them. When you're home, be home. When someone gives you a moment of their time, cherish it. Treat each person as valuable to you as they are to Jesus.

7. Be Generous
Often when we think of generosity we think of finances, and absolutely we should be generous financially. But what we miss is that generosity isn't a certain dollar amount. Generosity can be a small gift with meaning. Generosity can be a cup of coffee. Generosity can be the cost of a handwritten card. Generosity can be time and attention.

Be generous with people. Be generous with your words, blessing people with kindness. Be generous in your relationships, rather than being someone who is always taking and needing something from someone. Be generous looking for ways to bless your friends and coworkers. Be generous with the way you speak to your waiter and with their tip. Be generous to your neighbors, finding needs and meeting them.

Generosity is not an act of giving, but a way of living. 

A generous person lives a generous life. They're looking to bless others because they're secure in the hands of a generous God. They make deposits within people because they live in an overflow. They're not anxious or insecure but faith-filled and eager to bless. Generous people live with eyes and hearts wide open, ready for who God might lead them to next.

1 Peter 3:15 "always be ready to give an defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you." 

Do people see hope when they look at you? Do you have to defend your hope in a world that sees chaos as normal? Which of the 7 Keys do you need to start implementing to open the door on the peace of God in your life and be a source of hope to the world?

I'm working on these. I pray you will too. Let's be people that navigate chaos rather than add to it. Let us be people who are set apart to bring hope to a world engulfed by chaos.