Introduction:

God does not desire what is easy, convenient, or leftover. He desires offerings that come from the depth of our hearts—gifts that cost us something. Sacrifice is at the core of biblical worship, and we see this vividly in the life of David and his mighty men.

1. The Story of David’s Thirst – A Picture of Sacrificial Love

In 2 Samuel 23:13–17, David, Israel’s anointed king, was in hiding during a fierce battle with the Philistines. Bethlehem—his hometown—was occupied by the enemy. In a moment of longing, David said:

“Oh, that someone would get me a drink of water from the well near the gate of Bethlehem!” (v. 15)

This was not a command—just a heartfelt desire. But three of David’s warriors heard him and acted. They risked their lives, broke through enemy lines, and brought him the water he longed for.

Their act reflects deep devotion, loyalty, and sacrificial love. It wasn’t about the water—it was about honoring the heart of their king.

2. David’s Surprising Response – Worship over Gratification

Upon receiving the water, David didn’t drink it. Instead:

“He refused to drink it; instead, he poured it out before the Lord.” (v. 16)

David recognized the cost of the water—it symbolized the blood of the men who had risked their lives. He said:

“Far be it from me, Lord, to do this! Is it not the blood of men who went at the risk of their lives?” (v. 17)

This water became too sacred for personal use—it became a sacrifice worthy only for God. Pouring it out was David’s way of turning the devotion of his men into an act of worship.

This echoes the principle found in Leviticus 17:11 (NIV):

“For the life of a creature is in the blood… it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.”
David saw the water as symbolic of life itself—thus worthy to be poured before God alone.

3. A New Testament Reflection – Christ’s Thirst and Our Response

This story foreshadows Jesus Christ, the Son of David. While on the cross, Jesus cried:

“I am thirsty.” (John 19:28, NIV)

This was not only physical thirst but a cry reflecting His spiritual longing for souls, love, and the fulfillment of His mission. But instead of honor, He was given vinegar (John 19:29)—a symbol of contempt.

Yet Christ’s thirst continues even today—not for water, but for faithful hearts willing to respond in sacrifice and love.

In Matthew 25:35–40, Jesus makes it personal:

“I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Giving to others sacrificially—whether time, money, or service—is giving to Christ Himself.

4. Turning Water into Blood – What Kind of Offerings Do We Give?

Many people give to God what’s easy to spare. But God is not honored by convenience. The question is: Do we give what costs us?

David refused to offer to God something that cost him nothing:

“I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.”
(2 Samuel 24:24, NIV)

True worship involves sacrifice. That’s why Romans 12:1 tells us:

“Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

When we give what truly costs us—time, money, possessions, comfort—we give not just water, but blood. It becomes a holy offering.

Even if it’s small, what matters is the cost. Like the poor widow in Mark 12:41–44, who gave two small coins, Jesus praised her above the rich because:

“She, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

5. The Eternal Reward of Costly Giving

When we give sacrificially, heaven sees it not just as a gift, but as a testimony. Revelation honors those who have poured out their lives for Christ:

“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”
(Revelation 12:11)

While not all are called to physical martyrdom, we are all called to lay down our lives in surrender. Sacrificial giving places us among the ranks of those who share in the testimony of Christ.

Conclusion: Offer What Costs You

God is not asking for what is easy. He is asking for what is real.
Let us not settle for giving God what is leftover, but let’s offer Him what matters most to us—just as those three warriors did for David.

Let’s give:

• Even when it hurts,
• Even when no one sees,
• Even when we don’t understand the reward.

Because what we pour out to God never goes to waste. It rises as a sacrifice, and in return, God fills us with more than we gave.

“Give, and it will be given to you.”
(Luke 6:38)

Shalom.

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Question: What does Paul mean when he writes, “The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one” (1 Corinthians 2:15, ESV)?

1. What It Means to Be “Spiritual”

In 1 Corinthians 2, Paul contrasts the natural person (ψυχικὸς ἄνθρωπος – “soulish man”) with the spiritual person (πνευματικὸς ἄνθρωπος – “Spirit-led man”).

The natural person relies on human reasoning and is limited to earthly perception. Paul writes: “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14, ESV).

The spiritual person, however, is indwelt and enlightened by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:9). He is not spiritual because of visions, dreams, or supernatural gifts, but because he has come to know the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).

Being “spiritual” is therefore not about having mystical experiences, but about living under the direction and illumination of the Holy Spirit, who reveals the wisdom of God centered in Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2).

2. The Mystery of God’s Wisdom Revealed in Christ

Paul declares that the supreme mystery of God is Jesus Christ Himself. The rulers of this world—both political and spiritual powers—failed to grasp this truth:

None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory

(1 Corinthians 2:8, ESV).

Christ is described as “the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24) and in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:3, NASB).

Had the rulers understood that the cross was the very plan of God for salvation (Acts 2:23), they would not have carried it out. But God, in His sovereignty, allowed their blindness to accomplish His redemptive purpose.

3. Why the World Cannot Understand

John confirms this spiritual blindness:

“Though He had done so many signs before them, they still did not believe in Him” (John 12:37, ESV).

Isaiah foresaw this when he wrote, “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them” (John 12:40, quoting Isaiah 6:10).

This blindness is not intellectual but spiritual. Without the Spirit, the natural mind is incapable of grasping God’s truth (Romans 8:7–8).

4. How the Spiritual Person Discerns All Things

When Paul says the spiritual person “judges all things,” he does not mean that believers know everything in detail. Rather, by the Spirit, they are given discernment (1 John 2:20, 27).

The Spirit searches the deep things of God and reveals them to us (1 Corinthians 2:10).

The believer can discern between truth and error, light and darkness, righteousness and sin (Hebrews 5:14).

This discernment extends beyond knowledge—it shapes character, decisions, and perspective, aligning the believer’s mind with the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).

Thus, while the world may not understand the believer, the believer, by the Spirit, perceives both the things of God and the reality of the world around him.

5. Why the Spiritual Person Is Not Judged by Others

Paul adds, “He himself is judged by no one” (1 Corinthians 2:15, NKJV). This means that the natural person, who lacks the Spirit, cannot truly evaluate or comprehend the spiritual person’s life, motives, or hope.

To the world, Paul was considered insane (Acts 26:24).

John the Baptist was accused of being demon-possessed (Matthew 11:18).

Jesus Himself was misunderstood, mocked, and rejected by the religious leaders (John 7:20, Mark 3:21).

In the same way, those who are led by the Spirit may be misunderstood or even despised by the natural mind. But their true life is hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3), and only God’s judgment ultimately matters.

6. The Call to Be Truly Spiritual

Being spiritual begins with surrendering to Christ. Without Him, there is no access to the wisdom of God. Jesus Himself said:

Unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God

(John 3:3, ESV).

If you have never surrendered your life to Christ, or if you once did but have grown cold, now is the time to return. Only then will the Spirit of God open your eyes to the deeper truths of Christ and grant you discernment that the world cannot understand.

Final Word

To be “spiritual” is to live under the illumination of the Holy Spirit, beholding Christ as the wisdom of God. Such a person can discern all things in light of Christ, yet remains a mystery to the world.

But we have the mind of Christ

(1 Corinthians 2:16, ESV).

May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you richly as you seek to walk in the Spirit.

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What does it mean if you dream that you’re having sex or making love with someone you don’t know? Let’s explore the theological context and meaning behind such dreams.

1. For Those Who Are Not Saved (Not in Christ)

The Bible gives us insight into the nature of dreams, particularly when they are related to our actions or thoughts. In Ecclesiastes 5:3, it says:
“For a dream comes through much activity…”
This verse suggests that the dreams we have often stem from our daily lives what we think about, what we do, and the things that occupy our hearts during the day. If your life is filled with sinful activities like sexual immorality, pornography, or indulging in lustful thoughts, your dreams may reflect those actions. These dreams, though they may feel random, are often rooted in the sinful desires you have in your waking life.

In James 1:14-15, we are warned about the process by which sin enters our lives:

“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”

If your thoughts and actions are constantly focused on immorality, it’s no surprise that you will dream about such things. The Bible clearly teaches that sin begins in the heart and mind before it manifests in actions. Therefore, if your life is immersed in sexual sin, such dreams will become a regular part of your experiences.

Moreover, the Bible acknowledges the role of spiritual forces in influencing us. In Ephesians 6:12, Paul tells us:

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Evil spirits can influence people, especially those who are not saved, to lead them further into sin. This can result in repetitive dreams of sexual immorality as a way of keeping the person trapped in sin.

2. For Those Who Are Saved (In Christ)

For those who are in Christ, the experience of such dreams might be different. There are two main possibilities.

First Possibility: A Spiritual Weakness

If you are saved but begin to have dreams of sexual immorality, it may be a sign of spiritual weakness. In Matthew 26:41, Jesus warns His disciples:

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

If your prayer life and your connection with God have weakened, it’s easy for your flesh (your sinful nature) to become more active, allowing temptation to take root in your mind and dreams. The Bible encourages believers to stay strong in their faith, to be diligent in prayer, and to immerse themselves in God’s Word. 2 Timothy 2:22 reminds us:

“Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”

If you feel that your spiritual life has been compromised, it is essential to draw near to God through prayer, worship, and Bible study. As you strengthen your relationship with Christ, these troubling dreams will cease.

Second Possibility: A Test or Attack

On the other hand, if you are genuinely walking with Christ and still experience such dreams unexpectedly, it could be a spiritual attack. In 1 Peter 5:8, the apostle warns believers:

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Even though we are saved, Satan may still try to tempt us or place thoughts in our minds to disrupt our spiritual peace. If this happens, it’s important to resist the temptation. The Bible provides clear instructions on how to handle such attacks. James 4:7 says:

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

You can rebuke these dreams in the name of Jesus, affirming that you are a child of God, and the devil has no power over you.

Why Do These Dreams Happen?

Sexual immorality, including lust and fornication, is a powerful force that the Bible warns against. In 1 Corinthians 6:18, Paul tells believers:

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.”

The impact of sexual sin on a person’s life is profound, and overcoming it is not easy. In fact, the Bible teaches that overcoming sin requires the help of Jesus Christ, as He alone has the power to break the chains of sin.

John 8:36 says:

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Jesus Christ is the only one who can truly free you from the power of sexual sin, whether you are a Christian or not. His grace is available to all who are willing to turn from their sins and seek His forgiveness.

Sexual immorality is one of the leading causes of spiritual destruction. In Romans 1:24-25, Paul speaks about how people who reject God give themselves over to sinful desires, and this leads to their downfall:

“Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator who is forever praised. Amen.”

The Bible also warns that in the last days, sexual immorality will increase, and people will continue in sin just as they did in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah. In Luke 17:28-30, Jesus compares the end times to the days of Lot:

“It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed.”

The judgment that befell Sodom and Gomorrah was directly tied to their sexual immorality, and Jesus warns that the same will happen in the last days. Jude 1:7 further explains that Sodom and Gomorrah serve as an example of the consequences of sexual sin:

“In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.”

The Way Out: Turning to Christ

The Bible makes it clear that anyone, no matter their background, can be saved from sexual sin. Titus 2:11 reminds us:

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.”

Jesus offers forgiveness to anyone who repents and trusts in Him. If you are struggling with sexual sin or any other type of sin, there is hope in Jesus. He can transform your heart and mind.

Acts 3:19 calls us to repent and turn to God:

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

If you want to turn away from sin and follow Christ, here’s a prayer you can pray:

“Dear God, I come before You today acknowledging that I am a sinner and have committed many sins. I deserve judgment, but I know that You are a God of mercy who forgives those who love You. Today, I ask for Your forgiveness and help to overcome my sins. I confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, and He is the Savior of the world. I ask that His blood cleanses me from all my sins and makes me a new creation starting today. Thank You, Jesus, for accepting me and forgiving me. Amen.”

If you sincerely pray this prayer and repent from your sins, God will hear you. The next step is to live out your repentance by changing your actions and walking away from sinful behaviors. As you do this, God will come into your life and bring transformation.

Seek out a community of believers, such as a church, to grow in your faith and receive support. Hebrews 10:25 encourages us:

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

God is ready to help you today. If you open your heart to Him, He will work a powerful change in your life.

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Marriage is one of God’s most sacred institutions. But what exactly is it? The Bible reveals both earthly marriage and the greater reality of the heavenly marriage. Understanding both helps us see marriage not merely as a social contract but as a divine covenant that reflects the relationship between Christ and His Church.

1. Earthly Marriage

At its core, earthly marriage is the union of one man and one woman, joined together physically and spiritually under God’s covenant.

The very first marriage was ordained in Eden:

And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place. Then the rib which the LORD God had taken from man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man.

Genesis 2:21–22 (NKJV)

God Himself performed the first wedding by presenting Eve to Adam. This shows that marriage is not man-made, but a divine gift. Eve was not taken from Adam’s head to rule over him, nor from his feet to be trampled by him, but from his side—signifying equality, companionship, and shared purpose.

Jesus reaffirmed God’s original design in Matthew 19:4–6 (ESV):

Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.

This leaves no room for polygamy, same-sex unions, or casual partnerships. Biblical marriage is exclusively one man and one woman in covenant before God.

2. Marriage as a Covenant

Marriage is more than a contract—it is a covenant sealed before God. Malachi 2:14 (NASB) calls a wife “your companion and your wife by covenant.” Breaking this covenant is not just betrayal against a spouse; it is sin against God who witnesses the union.

That’s why Hebrews 13:4 (NKJV) declares:

Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.

A marriage is meant to display God’s holiness, faithfulness, and love. To defile it through immorality or dishonor is to invite judgment.

3. The Calling to Marriage and Singleness

Not everyone is required to marry. Paul highlights the unique advantages of remaining single for the sake of the kingdom:

I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife.

 1 Corinthians 7:32–33 (ESV)

Both singleness and marriage are gifts (1 Corinthians 7:7). Marriage provides companionship (Genesis 2:18), partnership in godliness (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12), and a context for raising godly children (Malachi 2:15). Singleness provides undistracted devotion to the Lord. Neither is lesser; both glorify Christ when lived in obedience.

4. The Heavenly Marriage

All earthly marriages point to a greater reality: the union between Christ and His Church.

Paul explains this profound mystery in Ephesians 5:31–32 (NKJV):

“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

Christ is the Bridegroom (John 3:29; Revelation 19:7).

The Church is His Bride (2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 21:2).

The marriage covenant reflects Christ’s sacrificial love: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.

(Ephesians 5:25 NKJV).

This heavenly marriage will be consummated at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6–9), where the redeemed are united forever with Christ.

5. Preparing for Marriage

Because marriage is holy, preparation is essential. Scripture warns against rushing into it without understanding the covenant:

Luke 14:28 (NASB) reminds us:

For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it?

In the same way, marriage requires sober preparation—spiritually, emotionally, and practically. Entering lightly brings dishonor and judgment, but entering with reverence brings blessing.

6. The Eternal Perspective

Finally, Jesus taught that marriage belongs to this age, not the age to come:

For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels of God in heaven.

 Matthew 22:30 (NKJV)

This truth reminds us that while marriage is precious, it is temporary. The eternal relationship that matters most is with Christ Himself. Without Him, even the best earthly marriage cannot save.

Mark 8:36 (NKJV) asks:

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?

Before seeking a husband or wife, seek Christ. He is the true Bridegroom, the source of salvation, and the hope of eternal joy.

Conclusion

Marriage is honorable, holy, and blessed by God. It is to be entered with reverence, lived with faithfulness, and treasured as a reflection of Christ’s love. Yet above all, our greatest need is not an earthly spouse but the heavenly Bridegroom—Jesus Christ.

Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus.

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Choosing a life partner is not a trivial decision. Marriage is sacred, intended by God to be a covenant that mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:25–27). Unlike casual friendships, where misunderstandings can be temporary, marriage carries eternal spiritual and moral implications.

For a born-again believer, choosing a spouse must be done with discernment. A wrong choice can not only hinder your spiritual growth but may also lead others into sin (James 3:1). The Bible provides numerous examples of people whose poor choice of spouse led to tragedy:

King Ahab and Jezebel: Ahab married Jezebel, a woman whose influence drew him into idolatry and sin, bringing calamity to Israel (1 Kings 21:25–26, NKJV).

Samson and Delilah: Samson’s heart was swayed by Delilah, a Philistine woman, resulting in his capture and suffering (Judges 16).

Solomon and foreign wives: Despite his God-given wisdom, Solomon allowed foreign women to turn his heart from God, leading to idolatry (1 Kings 11:1–4, NKJV).

Abigail and Nabal: Abigail was married to a foolish and sinful man, nearly suffering the consequences of her husband’s folly (1 Samuel 25).

Herod and Herodias: Herod’s unlawful marriage influenced him to execute John the Baptist, showing how marital choices can directly impact obedience to God (Mark 6:17–28, NKJV).

These examples emphasize that choosing a life partner is a spiritual matter, not merely emotional or social.

Step 1: Do Not Rush into Marriage

The Bible teaches that love should develop in God’s timing:

I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, by the gazelles or by the does of the field, do not stir up nor awaken love until it pleases.

Song of Solomon 2:7 (NKJV)

Rushing into marriage without spiritual discernment can lead to regret. If you are young, still studying, or not yet stable financially, it is wise to delay pursuing a marital relationship. Marriage requires preparation—spiritual, emotional, and practical.

Ask yourself: Can I meet the basic needs of my spouse? Am I spiritually mature enough to lead and support a family? Are my motives pure, or am I influenced by lust, social pressure, or fleeting attraction?

Do not be swayed by outward appearances, wealth, or dreams and visions. God’s Word is ultimate truth, and any dream or prophecy contradicting Scripture must be rejected (Deuteronomy 13:1–5, NKJV).

Step 2: Ensure Your Spouse is a Believer

A biblical marriage is a union of two believers:

Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?

2 Corinthians 6:14 (NKJV)

Your life partner must be a born-again believer, walking faithfully in Christ. This ensures unity in spiritual vision and purpose. Marrying someone who is not a believer may bring temporary pleasure but will ultimately lead to spiritual compromise (Malachi 2:15, NKJV).

If a potential spouse is not yet a believer, they must first come to Christ. Only then can God’s guidance for the marriage be confirmed. Seek His wisdom through prayer, discernment, and observation.

Step 3: Take Time to Discern Character and Spiritual Maturity

Even after confirming that your potential spouse is a believer, do not rush. Observe their lifestyle, character, habits, and obedience to God. The Bible often highlights the importance of patience and discernment:

Joseph did not rush to marry Mary but waited for God’s confirmation, even as she became pregnant (Matthew 1:18–20, NKJV).

Proverbs 31 describes the qualities of a godly wife: virtuous, diligent, and reverent toward God. These qualities are not immediately apparent and require careful observation.

During this period, pray earnestly:

Lord, I have seen this person. If this relationship aligns with Your will, please guide me. If not, please protect me from it.

Step 4: Follow Biblical Steps in Courtship and Marriage

Once God confirms the relationship, proceed in accordance with biblical principles:

Courtship and discernment: Spend adequate time observing each other.

Engagement and presentation: Present yourself and your intentions respectfully according to cultural and biblical customs.

Marriage in the Church: A godly marriage should be solemnized in the presence of God, following the pattern of Scripture (Ephesians 5:22–33, NKJV).

A marriage conducted in obedience to God brings blessings, spiritual growth, and a strong foundation for children. Husbands and wives become mutual helpers and protectors, fulfilling God’s design (Genesis 2:18, NKJV).

Step 5: If You Are Not Yet Born Again

If you have not accepted Christ, your decision to marry is extremely risky. Without Christ, marriage cannot be truly blessed (Psalm 127:1, NKJV). Today is the time to repent and receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The Bible warns that the end times are near (Revelation 3:14–22, NKJV).

Pray sincerely:

Heavenly Father, I acknowledge my sins and my need for Your mercy. I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Cleanse me through His blood and make me a new creation. Guide me in Your will, and lead me to a spouse according to Your plan. Amen.

After prayer, live out your repentance, join a faithful church, study the Word, and seek baptism in Jesus’ name (Acts 2:38, NKJV). God will then lead you to a spouse aligned with His purpose.

Theological Insights

1. Marriage as a Covenant: Marriage is more than a legal contract; it is a sacred covenant reflecting Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:25–27).

2. Spiritual Compatibility: Unequal yoking can cause spiritual and emotional imbalance (2 Corinthians 6:14).

3. Patience and Discernment: Biblical characters demonstrate that God’s timing is perfect. Rash decisions often lead to suffering.

4. Prayer and Guidance: Every step in finding a spouse must be bathed in prayer, seeking God’s confirmation (Proverbs 3:5–6).

Following these principles ensures a marriage rooted in God’s plan, leading to spiritual fruitfulness, mutual support, and blessings for generations to come.

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Faith is one of the central pillars of the Christian life. But what is faith? Can we truly have faith that moves mountains? How is it developed, and what is its source? Romans 10:17 gives us a profound insight:

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ

(Romans 10:17, ESV).

Faith is not a vague hope or mere courage—it is certainty and confidence in God’s promises. Hebrews 11:1 explains this clearly:

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen

(Hebrews 11:1, ESV).

Faith is the inner certainty that something God has promised will come to pass, even if it is not yet visible. While hope is a desire for something to happen, faith is knowing that it will happen because it is guaranteed by God’s Word and character.

Faith Requires a Foundation

Faith is never arbitrary. It cannot exist in a vacuum; it requires a foundation. Just as a student who has studied diligently and practiced will expect to pass an exam with confidence, so faith in God requires preparation.

In the Christian context, faith is grounded in knowing God’s Word and His past works. For example, to have faith for healing, one must understand that Jesus heals (Mark 5:34), and ideally, one has seen or heard testimonies of His healing power. Faith grows through hearing, understanding, and internalizing God’s Word, as Romans 10:17 explains.

“Faith comes from hearing…”—hearing what? Hearing the Word of Christ. And what is the Word of Christ? It is Jesus Himself (John 1:1, 14). Faith begins with a personal encounter with Christ through His Word.

Biblical Example: Bartimaeus

Consider Bartimaeus, the blind man healed by Jesus:

Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus, was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ Many rebuked him, but he shouted all the more. Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him.’ So they called the blind man. ‘Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you,’ they said. Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ Jesus asked him. ‘Rabbi, I want to see,’ he replied. ‘Go,’ said Jesus, ‘your faith has healed you.’ Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road

(Mark 10:46–52, NIV).

Notice that Bartimaeus’ faith was rooted in knowledge of who Jesus is—the Son of David, the Messiah, and the promised healer. His faith was active: he called out, refused to be silenced, and approached Jesus. Faith requires both understanding and action (James 2:17: “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead”).

Faith Grows Through Testimonies

Faith is strengthened by witnessing God’s past works. David’s faith in facing Goliath did not appear suddenly. His experiences of God’s protection from lions and bears gave him confidence:

Your servant has killed both lions and bears; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine

(1 Samuel 17:36–37, NIV).

Faith is cumulative: past experiences of God’s faithfulness, combined with Scripture and testimonies, build certainty. This principle is consistent with Hebrews 11, where the faith of Old Testament saints is described as confidence in God’s promises, even before their fulfillment.

Faith and Salvation

Before we can have true faith for anything else, we must first place our faith in Jesus Christ. Faith begins with believing in Him, His death and resurrection, and His promise of eternal life:

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast

(Ephesians 2:8–9, ESV).

Without faith in Jesus, there is no foundation for any other faith. Faith in God’s Word, faith for healing, provision, or miracles all flows from our first faith in Christ.

Practical Steps to Build Faith

1. Know the Word of God deeply – Not just memorization, but internalization of Jesus’ words and works.

2. Study testimonies of God’s power – Both biblical and contemporary accounts.

3. Act on your faith – Pray, step out in obedience, and trust God’s timing.

4. Be baptized – In water and in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38), signifying new life in Him.

5. Rely on the Holy Spirit – He strengthens faith and leads into all truth (John 16:13).

In Summary

Faith is being certain of what we hope for and convinced of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Its source is trust in the words of Jesus Christ, and Jesus Himself is the living Word (John 1:1). When we receive Christ and His promises, faith naturally grows. It leads to action, breakthrough, and the supernatural in our lives.

Faith is not wishful thinking. It is certainty in God, rooted in His Word, confirmed by His works, and strengthened by personal experience. Through this faith, the impossible becomes possible.

May the Lord richly bless you as you grow in faith.

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Numbers in the Bible are not merely digits—they carry deep spiritual meanings and often reveal God’s purposes. Understanding them helps us interpret Scripture with greater clarity.

Shalom! May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified.

Before we begin, it is vital to understand that we do not live by numbers alone. Numbers do not determine our destiny, create holy days, or make one number holier than another. Instead, they often serve as spiritual symbols that reveal God’s plans and principles. Sometimes God may communicate through numbers—through dreams, visions, or while reading His Word. Knowledge of their meanings enables us to discern God’s voice and purpose.

Number One (1) – God’s Unity and Sufficiency

The number 1 represents God’s uniqueness and self-sufficiency. God exists alone and is perfect in Himself. He is the source of all completeness, and no human or creature can be self-sufficient apart from Him.

Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (ESV):

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

Theological Insight: The oneness of God establishes monotheism, foundational to both Judaism and Christianity. This number assures us that our worship is directed to the only true God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things.

Number Two (2) – Witness and Union

Two represents testimony and confirmation. God often confirms His truth through two witnesses. Christ sent His disciples in pairs to proclaim the gospel (Luke 10:1), and the two witnesses in Revelation 11 prophesy for 1,260 days (42 months).

Genesis 41:32 (ESV):

…for this is the thing God has shown to Pharaoh twice…

Ecclesiastes 4:11-12 (NIV):

If two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves…

Theological Insight: Number 2 also symbolizes union—marriage is the union of two individuals (Genesis 2:23-24), and the relationship between Christ and the Church is a spiritual union (Ephesians 5:31-32). God’s principles emphasize companionship and mutual support in spiritual life.

Number Three (3) – Confirmation and Divine Completeness

Three represents confirmation, divine completeness, and validation. God often manifests His presence in threes: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; and Christ’s revelation on the Mount of Transfiguration to Peter, James, and John.

Matthew 18:16 (NASB):

…take one or two others along with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed.

Theological Insight: The triune nature of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is foundational to Christian theology. Salvation also unfolds in three steps: the cleansing blood of Jesus, water baptism, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, showing a complete path of redemption.

Number Four (4) – Universality and Completeness

Four represents completeness in the physical world or universality. In Eden, the river split into four heads (Genesis 2:10), and Scripture speaks of the four corners of the earth (Revelation 7:1). God’s judgments often manifest in four forms: famine, pestilence, sword, and wild animals (Ezekiel 14:21).

Theological Insight: Number 4 often relates to creation and God’s providential order, and it contrasts with Satan’s evil schemes (e.g., the four horsemen in Revelation 6). God’s control over the four directions shows His sovereign rule over all creation.

Number Six (6) – Humanity and Imperfection

Six is the number of man. Humanity was created on the sixth day (Genesis 1:26-31). It also represents incomplete work, as man is inherently limited and dependent on God.

John 9:4 (ESV):

As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me; night is coming, when no one can work.

Theological Insight: Six represents human effort apart from God. It reminds us that man’s works are incomplete without divine guidance. Spiritually, believers are called to labor faithfully during their “six days” of opportunity.

Number Seven (7) – Spiritual Perfection and Rest

Seven represents spiritual perfection and completion. The Israelites circled Jericho seven times, and the walls fell (Joshua 6). God rested on the seventh day after creation (Genesis 2:2-3).

Hebrews 4:9 (NIV): …there remains a Sabbath-rest for the people of God.

Theological Insight: Seven emphasizes divine fulfillment, Sabbath rest, and completion. In eschatology, it points to the fullness of God’s plan, including the seven churches and seven angels in Revelation.

Number Ten (10) – God’s Order and Law

Ten represents completeness in order. There are ten commandments, and parables often feature ten servants (Luke 19:13).

Theological Insight: Ten illustrates God’s moral and spiritual order, reinforcing His law as the framework for righteous living.

Number Twelve (12) – Divine Government and Foundation

Twelve symbolizes spiritual governance and divine order. Israel arose from Jacob’s twelve sons, and the Church arises from the twelve apostles. The New Jerusalem has twelve foundations and twelve gates (Revelation 21:12-21).

Theological Insight: Twelve represents God’s divine foundation for His people, both Israel and the Church, showing His governance and authority over spiritual and earthly realms.

Number Twenty-One (21) – Mourning and Preparation

Twenty-one signifies periods of mourning and preparation. Daniel fasted and mourned for 21 days (Daniel 10:2-4). Spiritually, this number indicates a time of testing or spiritual refinement before God’s response.

Number Forty (40) – Testing and Preparation

Forty symbolizes testing, trial, and preparation. Israel wandered 40 years, Moses spent 40 years in the wilderness, and Christ was tempted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2).

Theological Insight: Forty is a period in which God refines His people, preparing them for destiny and divine assignment.

Number Forty-Two (42) – Judgment and Authority

Forty-two represents judgment and authority in eschatology. The Antichrist will have authority for 42 months, and the two witnesses will prophesy for 42 months (Revelation 11:2-3).

Theological Insight: This number highlights God’s ordained time for testing, judgment, and prophetic fulfillment.

Number Fifty (50) – Liberation and Jubilee

Fifty signifies freedom, deliverance, and new beginnings. The Jubilee year in Israel came every 50 years (Leviticus 25:8-13). In the New Covenant, Pentecost occurred 50 days after Christ’s resurrection, releasing the Holy Spirit.

Theological Insight: Fifty represents spiritual freedom and the fullness of God’s redemptive work in both the Old and New Covenants.

Number Seventy (70) – Service and Completion

Seventy symbolizes service and divine completeness. Jesus sent 70 disciples (Luke 10:1), Moses appointed 70 elders (Numbers 11:16), and Israel’s Babylonian exile lasted 70 years (Jeremiah 25:11-12).

Theological Insight: Seventy represents the full measure of spiritual service and God’s plan in both human and prophetic history.

Number 666 – The Antichrist

666 represents the Antichrist and opposition to God. Revelation 13:18 identifies the beast and the number of its name as 666. Historically, it relates to the papal title VICARIVS FILII DEI (“Vicar of the Son of God”), demonstrating how human institutions may oppose God’s authority.

Final Exhortation

These are signs of the last days. Time is short. If you are not saved, now is the moment. Confess your sins, repent genuinely, and receive Jesus Christ. Be baptized according to Acts 2:38 to complete your salvation and receive the Holy Spirit.

May God bless you abundantly.

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The Bible assures us that Jesus experienced the full spectrum of human life, including all its temptations and trials. When the writer of Hebrews states that Jesus was “tempted in every way, just as we are,” it means that Jesus encountered the same struggles, difficulties, and tests that we face, but without ever sinning. This makes Him uniquely able to empathize with our weaknesses and offer the help we need in times of trouble.

1. Jesus’ Humanity: Fully God, Fully Man

Jesus is fully God and fully man, which is a foundational doctrine in Christian theology known as the Hypostatic Union. This doctrine teaches that in the person of Jesus Christ, the divine nature and the human nature are united without mixing, changing, or diminishing each other (John 1:14). Jesus was not only divine but also fully human, subject to the same human experiences we face.

Jesus’ humanity means that He understood what it was like to be hungry (Matthew 4:2), to be thirsty (John 19:28), to feel physical pain (Luke 22:44), and to experience deep sorrow (John 11:35). His suffering was real, and He experienced everything that we go through in life, except for sin. His sinlessness is the key difference between His temptations and ours.

2. Jesus Endured Temptation: The Wilderness and the Cross

Matthew 4:1-11 (NIV) tells the story of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. After fasting for 40 days, Jesus was tempted by Satan in three significant ways: the temptation to satisfy His hunger by turning stones into bread, the temptation to test God’s protection by jumping from the pinnacle of the temple, and the temptation to gain all the kingdoms of the world in exchange for worshiping Satan. Despite being physically weak, Jesus resisted all of Satan’s offers, responding with Scripture each time. This shows His deep understanding of human temptation and His capacity to overcome it.

When He was on the cross, Jesus experienced the most intense suffering that any human could ever endure, both physically and spiritually. He was mocked, beaten, and ultimately crucified, but His perfect obedience to the Father, even in the face of such unimaginable pain, remained steadfast.

Matthew 27:46 (NIV) records Jesus’ cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

which reflects His profound emotional and spiritual anguish. However, even here, He did not sin.

3. Jesus Understands Our Struggles

Hebrews 4:15 (NIV) teaches that “we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses.”

Because Jesus experienced every kind of human temptation, He can empathize with us in a way that no one else can. Whether you are struggling with loneliness, rejection, pain, temptation, or loss, Jesus knows exactly what it feels like because He has been there.

For example, when you face rejection or feel like an outcast, you can take comfort in knowing that Jesus was despised and rejected by men (Isaiah 53:3). When you feel abandoned by friends or loved ones, remember that even Jesus felt forsaken by His disciples in His darkest hour (Matthew 26:56). Jesus’ life is a testament to the fact that He understands the depth of human suffering, and He is able to provide compassion and support when we go through our own trials.

4. The Call to Repentance and New Life in Christ

As Jesus understands our struggles, He also offers us a way out—through repentance and salvation. The Bible teaches that all people have sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). We are all in need of redemption, and Jesus is the only one who can save us from our sin. This is why He came to earth, lived a sinless life, died on the cross, and rose again.

John 3:16 (NIV) says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Jesus’ death and resurrection made it possible for us to be reconciled with God. The invitation is open to all who repent (turn away from sin) and believe in Him.

Romans 10:9 (NIV) emphasizes this: “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Repentance is more than just feeling sorry for sin; it is a complete turning away from sinful behavior and a commitment to follow Christ. The Bible teaches that when we repent and believe, we receive the Holy Spirit, who helps us to live a new life in Christ (Acts 2:38).

5. Baptism and the Holy Spirit

Baptism is an outward sign of the inward transformation that has occurred when we accept Christ as our Savior.

Acts 2:38 (NIV) says, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Baptism symbolizes the believer’s identification with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4). Through baptism, we publicly declare our faith in Christ and our commitment to live for Him.

Being filled with the Holy Spirit enables believers to live out their faith, overcoming temptation and living in obedience to God. The Holy Spirit is the source of strength, comfort, and guidance in the life of the believer.

6. Jesus’ Ongoing Intercession

As our High Priest, Jesus continues to intercede on our behalf.

Romans 8:34 (NIV) tells us that “Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”

Jesus is constantly praying for us, ensuring that we have the strength and grace to endure our trials.

7. The Promise of Eternal Life

In the midst of our struggles, we have the assurance that our hope is in Christ. 1

John 5:13 (NIV) states, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.”

No matter what we face on earth, we have the hope of eternal life with God through Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

Jesus was tempted in every way that we are, yet He never sinned. He understands our struggles, and He offers grace, forgiveness, and strength to help us overcome. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He made a way for us to be reconciled to God. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to repent and accept Christ as your Savior, be baptized, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you. Through Christ, you will have the strength to face life’s challenges and the hope of eternal life with God.

Romans 8:37-39 (NIV) reminds us,
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

God bless you

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