The Natural Olive Tree Will Be Grafted Back In
God’s covenant with Israel is not cancelled, but paused
Some people believe that under the New Covenant, God no longer deals with specific nations or people groups. They often quote Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse indeed teaches that in terms of salvation and spiritual identity, all believers are equal before God. However, this does not mean God has abandoned His covenant promises to Israel as a nation. The Bible shows that while salvation is now available to all, God still honors His promises to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 17:7–8, Romans 11:1–2).
Why Israel Was Spiritually Blinded—For Our Sake
Israel’s rejection was part of God’s redemptive plan
Romans 11:11says:
“Through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles.”
God temporarily allowed Israel to be blinded so that salvation could come to the Gentile nations. Their rejection opened the door for the gospel to be preached worldwide. Without that divine interruption, the gospel would have remained a Jewish message.
This shows God’s sovereignty in salvation history. He used Israel’s disobedience to fulfill His larger plan of bringing salvation to all nations (Romans 11:32).
Grace Has Moved in Seasons and Continents
The gospel has traveled in prophetic waves
Though the message of salvation was given to all (Matthew 28:19–20), its impact has moved geographically over time:
- It began in Asia (e.g., Jerusalem, Antioch),
- Expanded to Europe (e.g., Rome, Greece),
- Spread to North America (revivals and missions),
- And now has reached Africa, where great revivals are ongoing.
This movement reflects Acts 1:8
“And you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Like a wave, the grace of God has swept across regions—and now it is preparing to return to its starting point: Israel.
God Will Restore Israel—Just as He Promised
God’s covenant with Israel is eternal and unbreakable
In Jeremiah 33:23–26, God responds to those who claim He has rejected Israel:
“If My covenant is not with day and night… then I will cast away the descendants of Jacob…”
God compares His covenant with Israel to the certainty of day and night. Just as the sun continues to rise and set, His covenant with Israel remains unbroken. The restoration of Israel as a nation in 1948 is a direct fulfillment of this prophecy and many others (Ezekiel 37:21–22, Isaiah 11:11–12).
Paul’s Olive Tree Analogy: Grafted In by Faith
Gentiles were grafted into Israel’s spiritual root
In Romans 11:17–24, Paul explains that Gentiles were grafted into the spiritual root of Israel, like wild branches grafted onto an olive tree:
“If you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and were grafted… into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, who are natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree?” (v. 24)
- The cultivated olive tree represents God’s covenant with Israel.
- The natural branches are the Jews.
- The wild branches are the Gentiles.
God warns us not to boast, because if He didn’t spare the natural branches, He won’t spare us if we fall into unbelief (v. 21). But He also gives hope that the Jews, once broken off, can and will be grafted back in when they turn back in faith (v. 23).
Israel’s Future Revival Is Prophesied
Israel will recognize Jesus as Messiah in the last days
Paul continues:
“Blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved…”
(Romans 11:25–26)
This doesn’t mean every Jewish person in history will be saved, but that a future generation of Israel will experience a massive national awakening when Jesus returns.
This is confirmed in Zechariah 12:10
“I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced.”
The entire city will mourn and repent—recognizing Jesus, whom they once rejected, as their Lord and Messiah.
When Grace Leaves the Gentiles
There is a prophetic shift coming
Once the full number of Gentiles has received the gospel, grace will return to Israel in full. That shift will mark the final season of redemption and judgment.
Jesus will use Israel as His instrument of judgment during the end times. Revelation 16:16 describes the Battle of Armageddon, which will take place in Israel, after the rapture of the Church.
Even Now, Israel’s Global Significance Is Unmistakable
Despite its small size, Israel remains central in world politics, military tension, and prophecy. This is not random—it is divine. Zechariah 12:3 even prophesies:
“I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples…”
Israel matters because God’s hand is on it, and His plan involves it until the end of the age.
Prepare Your Life Before Time Runs Out
We are living in the final moments of grace
The signs are clear. The window of grace is closing for the Gentile world. Soon, God will turn His full attention back to Israel. The rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17) and the tribulation will follow.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”
(Isaiah 55:6)
If you haven’t repented, do so today. If you’ve grown lukewarm, return to God with all your heart. Strengthen your walk with Him now—before the days of judgment begin.
God has not forgotten Israel. He has not replaced them. Rather, He has opened a door for all nations to receive salvation—but only for a time. When that time is up, He will fulfill every promise made to Israel, just as Scripture foretold. Be watchful. Be ready.
May the Lord bless you and guide you in these prophetic days.
GOD IS A JUST GOD
Peace to you, child of God. Let us learn together about the justice of God.
It is a fundamental truth that Almighty God, Creator of all things, is a God of justice (Deuteronomy 32:4 “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just.”). There is no question about His righteousness. However, it is important to understand how His justice operates among His creation, especially humanity.
Satan and his fallen angels work to accuse and drag people away from God, while holy angels seek to protect and draw people closer to God (Job 1:6-12; Zechariah 3:1-2). Both sides focus on humanity, but with opposite goals.
God does not battle Satan personally.
God is sovereign and supreme above all creation (Isaiah 40:12-14). No created being can challenge Him or defeat Him. The spiritual battle is fought by the chief angel Michael and his holy angels, as Revelation 12:7-9 explains:
“Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.
The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.”
God’s Role: Judge and Just Arbiter
God acts as the righteous judge (Psalm 7:11“God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.”), giving justice to those who deserve it. He neither shows favoritism nor injustice (Romans 2:11).
The Role of Angels
- Holy angels stand as defenders, advocating for believers before God
(Zechariah 3:1-2; Matthew 18:10 “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”).
- Satan (“accuser” in Hebrew) and his demons accuse believers before God, seeking permission to punish or destroy:
(Revelation 12:10 “He who accuses them before our God day and night.”).
When Satan Accuses
If a person lives knowingly in sin (e.g., adultery, witchcraft), Satan brings a strong accusation to God, claiming legal rights over that person (John 8:44“He is a liar and the father of lies.”). Without repentance and faith, this accusation may be allowed.
God’s Justice is Impartial
God judges each person according to their deeds (Romans 2:6-8). No one is exempt, and justice is perfect and impartial.
Protection Under Jesus’ Blood
Believers who are washed by Jesus’ blood (1 John 1:7) and live a holy life have their sins covered and stand defended by angels, who bring good reports before God. This keeps Satan’s accusations from succeeding (Romans 8:33-34“Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.”).
Spiritual Vigilance Required
We must examine our lives continually, because Satan prowls like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).
Being “Under the Blood” Is More Than Words
Confessing “I am under the blood of Jesus” must be demonstrated by living a life consistent with that truth (James 2:17). Obedience and godly living activate the protection of Jesus’ blood.
Closing Doors to Satan
Satan only has access to us where doors are opened through sin or disobedience (Ephesians 4:27). These “doors” may include:
- Sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18)
- Idolatry (Exodus 20:3-5)
- Witchcraft and occult practices (Galatians 5:19-21)
- Wearing inappropriate clothing or adornments linked to pagan customs (Deuteronomy 22:5)
- Engaging in pornography or worldly music that pulls the heart away from God (Psalm 101:3)
Opening such doors gives Satan legal grounds to accuse and afflict us (Luke 11:24-26).
Steps to Secure Salvation and Protection:
1. Believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior (John 3:16).
2. Be baptized by full immersion in water, in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38).
3. Receive the Holy Spirit, God’s promised helper and seal (Ephesians 1:13-14).
When these steps are completed sincerely, Satan’s accusations fail because believers are covered and justified (Romans 8:1 “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”).
Urgency of Salvation
We live in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1), and the time to prepare is now before Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). Will you be ready to meet Him?
May God bless you richly as you seek His justice and protection.
THE END OF THOSE WHO FORGET GOD
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” — James 1:22
Introduction: A Warning for the Last Days
The name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be glorified forever. We live in prophetic times. The signs of the end are not only evident in the world’s events but also in the hearts of believers. Jesus clearly warned in Matthew 24:12,
“Because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”
This is not only about human affection but also the diminishing love for God. Many believers who once walked closely with God are slowly drifting, losing their spiritual fire. The danger here is subtle—it begins unnoticed and ends in spiritual death.
How People Forget God
Forgetting God doesn’t always mean open rebellion. It often begins with slow spiritual neglect:
- Neglecting prayer (Luke 18:1)
- Neglecting the Word of God (Psalm 119:105)
- Compromise in personal holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16)
- Pursuit of worldly pleasures (2 Timothy 3:4-5)
A believer may start off well: praying fervently, seeking the Lord, living modestly, serving in church, evangelizing. But as the cares of this life grow, and the temptations of modern culture increase—entertainment, social media, peer pressure, secular ideologies—these things can slowly pull one away from intimacy with God.
Paul speaks to this in Galatians 5:7:
“You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?”
Job’s Warning: The Spiritual Withering of Those Who Forget
The book of Job 8:11–13 uses an illustration of water plants to describe the spiritual life:
“Can papyrus grow where there is no marsh? Can reeds flourish without water? While still growing and uncut, they wither more quickly than grass. Such is the destiny of all who forget God.”
Papyrus and reeds depend completely on water. Remove them from that environment, and they wither—even if they still appear green for a while. This is a striking metaphor. When we disconnect from God—our source—we may seem fine temporarily, but spiritual death follows.
Jesus echoed this in John 15:5-6:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit… If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers.”
Who Are “Those Who Forget God”?
The phrase doesn’t refer to atheists or unbelievers—it applies to those who once knew Him but have grown cold. You can’t forget someone you never knew. These are Christians who once walked in truth, but now:
- They no longer pray consistently.
- They no longer hunger for the Word.
- They adopt worldly behaviors and justify sin.
- They fellowship with the world more than with God’s people.
2 Peter 2:20-21 warns:
“If after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled… it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness.”
The Consequences of Forgetting God
1,Spiritual Dryness. At first, nothing seems wrong. But just as a tree cut off from water dries gradually, so do believers who disconnect from God.
Hebrews 2:1– “We must pay the most careful attention… so that we do not drift away.”.
2, Vulnerability to Sin
Prayerlessness and lack of the Word open doors to temptation. Without the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18), we are spiritually defenseless.
3,Judgment
“Consider this, you who forget God, or I will tear you to pieces, with no one to rescue you.” — Psalm 50:22
How Not to Forget God
God has provided practical and spiritual means to help us remain steadfast.
1. Daily Meditation on the Word
Not just reading, but deeply reflecting and applying Scripture.
Joshua 1:8: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth… then you will make your way prosperous.”
James 1:25: “The one who looks into the perfect law… and perseveres… will be blessed in what he does.”
2. Regular Fellowship with Believers
Surround yourself with those who encourage your faith.
Hebrews 10:25: “Not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.”
Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
3. A Lifestyle of Prayer and Worship
Prayer keeps us aligned with God’s heart. Worship draws us close to His presence.
1 Thessalonians 5:17: “Pray without ceasing.”
Ephesians 5:18-20: “Be filled with the Spirit… singing psalms and hymns… giving thanks to God.”
4. Guarding Your Time and Mind
In a digital age, distractions are constant. We must intentionally redeem our time.
Ephesians 5:15-17: “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil.”
Conclusion: Be Watchful, Be Wise
These are the days spoken of in Scripture—times of great deception, lukewarmness, and spiritual distraction. Let us not fall asleep spiritually or take God for granted. If you’ve drifted, return today. God’s grace is still available. But don’t delay.
Revelation 2:4-5:
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”
Final encouragement:
Be vigilant. Be in the Word. Stay in fellowship. Keep praying. Don’t forget God—because He has not forgotten you.
May the Lord bless you and keep you faithful until the very end.
HE BECAME A SACRIFICE FOR US
When you show compassion to someone in need—whether they’re hungry, poor, or broken-hearted—you’re doing more than just being kind. You are, in a real way, stepping into their suffering. For example, if someone has no food and you give them what little you have, you’re taking their hunger upon yourself. If someone is in danger of death and you willingly take their place, you’re carrying their death so they can live.
This is exactly what Jesus Christ did for humanity.
We were all guilty before God. Because of our sin, we were destined for death (Romans 6:23). But Jesus—who was without sin (Hebrews 4:15)—willingly took our guilt, our sorrow, our punishment, and bore it upon Himself so that we could be free.
Isaiah 53:4–5
“Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows… He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities…”
He became our substitute. To save us from dying, He had to die in our place. To deliver us from God’s judgment, He took the judgment Himself. This is the heart of the Gospel—the Doctrine of Substitutionary Atonement, where one innocent person bears the penalty for the guilty.
2 Corinthians 5:21
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
Grace through His Sacrifice
This act of love was purely by grace—not because we deserved it, but because He chose to show mercy.
2 Corinthians 8:9
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.”
In divine justice, someone had to pay the penalty of sin. Either we would bear it ourselves eternally, or someone sinless had to carry it once and for all. That’s why Jesus had to suffer and die.
This connects with the Old Testament sacrificial system, where an innocent lamb was offered in place of the guilty (Leviticus 16). But those sacrifices were temporary. Jesus became the final Lamb, once for all.
John 1:29
“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”
Victory over Death
Since Jesus carried our sin—and our sin deserves eternal punishment (Romans 6:23)—He should have remained under the grip of death. But because He Himself had no sin, He could not be held by death. He triumphed over sin, death, and hell.
Hebrews 9:28
“So Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”
This is called the Doctrine of Resurrection Victory. His resurrection proved that the sacrifice was accepted by God, and that death had no final power over Him—or over anyone who believes in Him.
Romans 4:25
“[Jesus] was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.”
Christ: From Sacrifice to Judge
Now imagine a man sentenced to life imprisonment, but someone else steps in, serves the sentence, and later you see that man walking free—and now he’s been made the Chief Judge of the nation. You would ask: What happened? Did he escape? No—he overcame the charges legally and was exalted.
That’s exactly what happened with Jesus. He bore our case, took our sentence, died, rose again, and was given all authority.
Matthew 28:18
“All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.”
He is not just our Savior now—He is also our Judge.
Acts 10:42
“And He commanded us to preach to the people… that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.”
But This Grace Is Not Automatic
Even though Jesus died for all, not all will be saved. Why? Because not all are willing to receive salvation. God has given every person the freedom to choose—life or death.
Deuteronomy 30:15
“See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.”
Jesus is the Light of the world, but many reject the Light because they love their sin. This is the Doctrine of Human Responsibility—we must respond in faith to the grace offered.
John 3:19–20
“And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light… For everyone practicing evil hates the light.”
What Must You Do?
If you haven’t surrendered your life to Christ, now is the time. The first step is repentance—genuine sorrow for sin and a decision to turn away from it. The next is baptism, as commanded in Scripture:
Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
This is the new birth (John 3:3–5), where your sins are washed away, and the Holy Spirit comes to live in you to help you walk in holiness.
When you do this, your sins are no longer counted against you. Jesus includes you among those He has redeemed. You are delivered from the judgment that is coming soon upon the whole earth.
Jesus became the sacrifice for your sin. He carried your burden so you could be free. He rose again so you could live forever. Now, He is calling you to respond.
Choose Light. Choose Life. Choose Jesus.
Romans 10:9
“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
May the Lord bless you as you believe and walk in this truth.
COVERED INSIDE AND OUT: TRUE HOLINESS BEFORE GOD
In the Old Testament, every time the Israelites built an altar for God, they were instructed to place it on elevated ground. God specifically commanded this as part of His design for worship:
Exodus 20:24
“An altar of earth you shall make for Me, and you shall sacrifice on it your burnt offerings… In every place where I record My name I will come to you, and I will bless you.”
The word “altar” itself comes from a root meaning “a high place” or “to lift up.” Therefore, building it on high ground or raising it up was not just symbolic—it was prophetic. God was teaching His people that worship and sacrifice must ascend to Him—it must rise from a lower (earthly) place to a higher (heavenly) reality.
Later on, pagan nations imitated this concept by building their own altars and shrines on elevated places, but instead of worshipping the true God, they used them for idol worship and witchcraft. That’s why, during the period of the kings, God constantly rebuked Israel for failing to tear down these “high places”:
2 Kings 17:10–12
“They set up for themselves sacred pillars and wooden images on every high hill… and they burned incense… and served idols.”
Satan is an Imitator, Not an Originator
Satan never creates anything original. He imitates and perverts what God establishes. When God commanded the Israelites to offer sacrifices for the atonement of sin, Satan introduced pagan sacrifices and counterfeit altars. The goal? To confuse, distract, and ultimately destroy.
THE ALTAR AND PRIESTLY GARMENTS: PHYSICAL SYMBOLS WITH SPIRITUAL MEANING
In the Old Covenant, approaching God’s altar was not casual. Only priests could approach, and only under very specific conditions. They had to wear holy garments to cover their entire bodies.
Exodus 28:40–43
“…You shall make tunics for them… for glory and beauty… and you shall make for them linen trousers to cover their nakedness; they shall reach from the waist to the thighs… so that they do not incur iniquity and die.”
Because the altar was raised and had to be approached by steps, even the long linen robe was not sufficient to hide one’s lower body when climbing. So, God required priests to wear linen undergarments to avoid any exposure. If their nakedness was revealed, even unintentionally, they could die in God’s presence.
Exodus 20:26
“Nor shall you go up by steps to My altar, that your nakedness may not be exposed on it.”
This was a powerful statement: God demands reverence and purity, both inwardly and outwardly, when we come before Him.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR US TODAY: THE NEW TESTAMENT FULFILLMENT
Today, we no longer offer animal sacrifices or go to physical temples. Our altar is in heaven, and the perfect sacrifice—Jesus Christ—has already been made.
Hebrews 9:11–12
“But Christ came as High Priest… not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”
So when we pray, worship, or serve, we are spiritually approaching the heavenly altar. Just as the Old Testament priests had to be properly clothed, we too must come before God “covered” in the right garments—both spiritually and physically.
1. OUTER GARMENTS: YOUR PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Outer garments represent how you present yourself to the world. How you dress and act in public says something about your reverence toward God.
1 Timothy 2:9–10
“In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation… which is proper for women professing godliness.”
If you, as a believer, wear revealing clothes, tight jeans, mini-skirts, or anything that draws sensual attention, especially in God’s house—you’re not only dishonoring God but also putting yourself in spiritual danger.
Likewise, men who walk in open sin—drunkenness, immorality, dishonesty—and still come before God without repentance are unclothed spiritually.
Even Peter, when fishing half-naked, covered himself out of reverence when he realized Jesus was watching:
John 21:7
“…When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.”
If Peter, a grown man, respected Jesus enough to cover his body, what does that say to us today—especially when entering His presence?
2. INNER GARMENTS: THE CONDITION OF YOUR HEART
Just as important as your appearance is the state of your heart—your inner garments. You may appear holy on the outside, but what does God see on the inside?
Matthew 23:27–28
“Woe to you… For you are like whitewashed tombs… outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”
You may serve in church, sing in the choir, or preach, yet harbor bitterness, jealousy, lust, or unforgiveness. In God’s eyes, you are like a priest who appears well-dressed outwardly, but underneath, is exposed and naked.
You may secretly watch pornography, commit fornication, or live a double life—attending church while also engaging in worldly activities. That is spiritual nakedness, and it’s dangerous.
Galatians 6:7
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”
THE CHURCH OF LAODICEA: A PICTURE OF OUR GENERATION
We are living in the Laodicean age—the last of the seven churches in Revelation. This is a lukewarm generation. It thinks it’s rich, but in reality, it is poor, blind, and naked.
Revelation 3:17–18
“…you say, ‘I am rich…’ and do not know that you are… naked.
I counsel you to buy from Me… white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed.”
Jesus is giving us a loving warning. He’s offering white garments—spiritual purity and righteousness—to cover our shame.
A GREAT REWARD FOR THOSE WHO OVERCOME
To the Laodicean church, Jesus gives the greatest reward of all the churches:
Revelation 3:21
“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”
Think of that! Sitting on the throne of Christ—ruling and reigning with Him. No earthly pleasure compares to this eternal reward.
YOUR RESPONSE: REPENTANCE AND OBEDIENCE
If you are still living outside of Christ—or if you’re lukewarm—it’s time to turn back. Repent sincerely, and obey the gospel:
Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
The Lord Jesus is coming soon. He Himself said:
Revelation 22:12
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me…”
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
Don’t let the moral confusion and spiritual darkness of today’s world deceive you. These days were prophesied. But if you hold on, stay pure, and walk in both outer modesty and inner righteousness, your reward will be glorious.
Romans 8:18
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.”
May you be found dressed—inside and out—when Jesus returns.
Be blessed and remain faithful.
Am I Using God’s Word the Right Way?
You might be a good pastor or a teacher of God’s Word. You may have deep knowledge and spiritual insight. But the vital question is: Are you rightly handling God’s Word in your ministry?
The apostle Paul gave Timothy an important principle:
“If anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”
— 2 Timothy 2:5
This means God expects His servants to faithfully and correctly handle His Word. Just like an athlete must obey the rules to win, ministers must rightly divide the Word of truth (see also 2 Timothy 2:15). This “rightly dividing” (Greek: orthotomeo) means to cut straight, teach accurately, and handle Scripture responsibly.
The Importance of Faithful Teaching
God’s Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), and it is the foundation for sound faith (Romans 10:17). If ministers distort or misuse Scripture, they lead people astray (2 Peter 3:16). That’s why Paul warns Timothy to avoid “profane and idle babblings” that cause division (2 Timothy 2:16-18).
Signs You Are Not Handling the Word Rightly
Paul warns Timothy:
“Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers.”
— 2 Timothy 2:14
Arguing over trivial words or doctrinal disputes that lack spiritual fruit damages the church and confuses believers. Paul compares such disputes to a cancer (Greek: gangrene), a deadly disease that spreads if not removed (2 Timothy 2:17).
This shows the serious harm of false teaching and contentious debate—it weakens the faith of others and causes division (Titus 3:10-11).
God’s Desire: Unity, Gentleness, and Truth
Paul continues:
“A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance.”
— 2 Timothy 2:24-25
True ministry requires humility, patience, and gentleness. The goal is restoration, not winning arguments. God desires that sinners repent and come to know the truth (John 8:32).
Application Today
In our time, many debates between Christians and others can become hostile and unfruitful. Instead of drawing people to Christ, they often push people away. This is evidence that we are not using God’s Word rightly.
Paul’s instructions remind us to focus on faithful teaching, avoid pointless quarrels, and minister in love and humility.
We, like Timothy, must strive to be approved workers who handle the Word of God accurately (2 Timothy 2:15). This involves careful study, integrity, and loving correction.
May God bless you richly as you seek to rightly divide His Word and build His kingdom.
When the Day of Pentecost Fully Came
(Acts 2:1–13)
“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.”
—Acts 2:1
This verse introduces a significant momàent in the history of the Church—the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The phrase “had fully come” suggests that Pentecost was not random—it was a divinely appointed day. God had scheduled this event in His redemptive timeline, just as He had fulfilled the Passover through Christ’s death (1 Corinthians 5:7).
Jesus had already instructed the disciples to remain in Jerusalem until they were “endued with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). Therefore, their being together “in one accord” shows obedience, unity, and expectation of the promise (Acts 1:4–5).
The Coming of the Holy Spirit as a Rushing Wind
“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.”
—Acts 2:2
The sound of wind was not ordinary. The text says “as of”—meaning it was like a strong wind but not an actual one. This is a metaphor to help us grasp a spiritual reality. The Holy Spirit, who is invisible, moved with supernatural power, filling the entire space.
This reflects what Jesus told Nicodemus about being born of the Spirit:
“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
—John 3:8
Just as wind is uncontrollable and unpredictable, so is the work of the Holy Spirit. He moves beyond human control and leads believers according to God’s will—not their own understanding.
Divided Tongues as of Fire
“Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them.”
—Acts 2:3
Fire in Scripture often symbolizes the presence, purification, and power of God (Exodus 3:2, Malachi 3:2–3, Hebrews 12:29). These “tongues as of fire” represented the divine inspiration being given to the disciples—each one being empowered individually by the Holy Spirit.
Speaking in Tongues as the Spirit Gave Utterance
“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
—Acts 2:4
Here, “tongues” refers to real, earthly languages, not unintelligible speech. The Spirit gave each disciple the ability to speak in a language they had never learned. This was a sign and wonder that testified to the supernatural origin of their message.
Paul later affirms the proper use of tongues:
“In the law it is written: ‘With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to this people; and yet, for all that, they will not hear Me,’ says the Lord.”
—1 Corinthians 14:21
Languages Understood by People of Many Nations
“And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven… And they were all amazed and marveled, saying… how is it that we hear, each in our own language?”
—Acts 2:5–8
The miracle wasn’t just in the speaking—but in the hearing. People from different nations (vv. 9–11) each heard the gospel in their native language. This confirmed that the message was from God and for all nations, fulfilling Jesus’ words:
“You shall be witnesses to Me… to the end of the earth.”
—Acts 1:8
Pentecost reversed the confusion of Babel (Genesis 11:7–9). At Babel, God scattered people by confusing languages. At Pentecost, He unified people by using many languages to declare one gospel.
Tongues of Fire: God-Glorifying Speech
“We hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God.”
—Acts 2:11
The tongues spoken were not empty or emotional noise. They were Spirit-filled declarations of God’s mighty works, glorifying His power, mercy, and kingdom. This kind of speech brings conviction, not confusion.
Real Conviction, Not Mere Emotion
“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart…”
—Acts 2:37
The preaching that followed the outpouring of the Spirit led to deep conviction. The people were moved—not by entertainment or hype—but by truth spoken in power. Peter, now bold through the Spirit, preached Christ crucified and risen (Acts 2:22–36).
This led to a sincere question:
“Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
And Peter gave a clear answer:
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
—Acts 2:38
True Tongues vs. Confusion Today
Many modern claims of “speaking in tongues” involve unintelligible phrases with no interpretation or understanding—often creating chaos. But 1 Corinthians 14 teaches us that tongues without interpretation do not edify the church. At Pentecost, the message was understood and led to salvation.
“Unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken?”
—1 Corinthians 14:9
True tongues, as seen in Acts 2, lead people to Christ, not confusion.
What Should You Do?
If you’ve ever felt God tug at your heart through a message, a song, or conviction of sin—that’s the Holy Spirit. He’s calling you to repent and follow Christ.
Just like the people on Pentecost, your response matters. If your heart is stirred, then do what Peter said:
Repent — turn away from sin.
Be baptized — not as a ritual, but in faith, through full immersion in the name of Jesus Christ.
Receive the Holy Spirit — He empowers and transforms you to live a holy life.
This includes fully turning from things like sexual sin, dishonesty, addiction, violence, gossip, and anything unholy. It means surrendering your life to Jesus in truth.
The Holy Spirit still moves today—speaking, convicting, saving. The tongues of fire may not look the same, but the power is the same. When the Word of God burns in your heart, when you’re drawn to repentance, when your life changes for His glory—that is the work of the Spirit.
“For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
—Acts 2:39
Respond today. Don’t wait. Let the fire of Pentecost change your life.
May the Lord Jesus bless you and fill you with the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
THE CURRENT SPIRITUAL FAMINE
Just as God’s goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives (Psalm 23:6), may the Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be continually praised and exalted forever. Amen.
Let’s take a moment to reflect deeply on a crucial issue affecting our generation: spiritual famine—a hunger not for physical food, but for the Word of God and the truth that gives eternal life.
1. Understanding Famine – Both Physical and Spiritual
It’s often said that it’s better to die instantly from a gunshot than to die slowly from hunger or thirst. Though both are painful, a slow death through starvation is full of prolonged agony. Surprisingly, Scripture confirms this truth:
Lamentations 4:9
“Those slain by the sword are better off than those who die of hunger; for these pine away, stricken for lack of the fruits of the field.”
This principle is also true in the spiritual realm. It is one thing to be spiritually “dead” and know it, but it is far worse to be alive yet starving spiritually—wandering from place to place, seeking truth but not finding it. This slow spiritual death is even more tragic because the person often doesn’t realize how desperate their condition truly is.
2. God’s Prophetic Warning: The Famine of the Word
God warned long ago that a spiritual famine would come in the last days—not of bread and water, but of hearing His Word:
Amos 8:11–12
“Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord God,
“That I will send a famine on the land,
Not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water,
But of hearing the words of the Lord.
They shall wander from sea to sea,
And from north to east;
They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord,
But shall not find it.”
This is a clear eschatological prophecy (end-time warning), showing that in the closing days of this age, people would crave spiritual truth but find only spiritual confusion, error, and silence.
3. Why the Famine Is Dangerous
When someone is physically hungry, even bad food tastes good. That’s what happens spiritually too:
Proverbs 27:7
“A satisfied soul loathes the honeycomb, but to a hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.”
In other words, spiritual hunger can cause people to accept weak, unbiblical teachings as truth—simply because their spirits are starving. Even false teachers and deceivers are embraced, not because their message is true, but because there’s such a desperate need.
Jesus Himself warned us:
Matthew 24:24
“For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.”
4. The Rise of False Prophets and Teachings
In this time of hunger, even weak or false messages are celebrated. People rejoice over any “new” word, even if it doesn’t lead them to holiness, repentance, or deeper intimacy with God. This is a result of famine. The Apostle Paul foresaw this:
2 Timothy 4:3–4
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”
Because spiritual hunger is so great, even the counterfeit “foods” (fake revelations, distorted doctrines) have found an audience—just as fake products sell well where the demand is high.
5. Jesus, Our Only True Source of Nourishment
Just as God raised up Joseph in Egypt to preserve people’s lives in a time of famine (Genesis 41), so Jesus Christ is our true “Joseph” today. He is the Bread of Life and the only one who can satisfy our souls.
John 6:35
“I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.”
If we reject Jesus, we are choosing spiritual starvation. If we keep running around—physically or digitally—from one preacher to another, from one place to another, hoping to find satisfaction elsewhere, we will end up tired, confused, and still hungry.
6. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Feeding Us Truth
Jesus did not leave us without help. He promised to send us the Holy Spirit, the One who would lead us into all truth:
John 16:13
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth…”
The Holy Spirit is the One who leads believers to the places and people where pure doctrine and truth are being taught. Jesus hinted at this when He said:
Matthew 24:28
“For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.”
In other words, just as vultures gather around a carcass, so true seekers will be drawn by the Spirit to where the true Word is being taught.
7. What Must You Do?
The path out of spiritual famine begins with surrender to Christ. That means:
- Repenting sincerely and turning away from sin
- Being baptized in water in Jesus’ Name for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38)
- Asking the Father for the Holy Spirit to fill and guide your life
Luke 11:13
“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
When you are filled with the Holy Spirit, He will give you discernment and strength to endure this spiritual famine and avoid deception.
8. Don’t Feed Yourself Through Human Effort
Many try to feed themselves spiritually through their own wisdom, logic, or methods—but they fail. The Bible warns:
Amos 8:12
“They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the Lord, but shall not find it.”
Why? Because they refused the guidance of the Spirit.
9. Final Encouragement
This spiritual famine is real—and growing. But you don’t have to die in it. Jesus Christ has already provided everything you need: forgiveness, spiritual food, and the indwelling Holy Spirit. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6), and whoever comes to Him will never hunger again.
So seek Him while He may be found. Let the Holy Spirit fill you, guide you, and lead you to the place where the Word is taught in truth and power. That is your only safety in these end times.
Isaiah 55:6
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.”
May the Lord bless you and give you spiritual discernment, hunger for truth, and the fullness of His Spirit in these last days. Amen.
Trust in God, Not in Man
Jeremiah 17:5–6 (ESV)
“Thus says the Lord: ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord. He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land.'”
⚠️ Trusting in Man Brings a Curse
The prophet Jeremiah delivers a severe warning directly from the Lord: placing your trust in man rather than in God invites a curse upon your life. When you rely on human wisdom, strength, or protection as your ultimate hope—while turning your heart away from God—you step outside of God’s covenantal blessing.
This is not just about seeking help from people—it’s about depending on people in place of God. That’s a form of idolatry (Exodus 20:3), because it gives the glory and trust that belong to God to mere human beings.
Whether you depend on:
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A political leader to secure your future,
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A boss to determine your promotion,
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A doctor to ensure your healing,
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Or guards to ensure your safety,
…if your ultimate hope rests in them and not in the Lord, you are under a curse—spiritually dry and disconnected from the source of life.
💬 Real-Life Signs of Trusting Man
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When your first thoughts in the morning are about your employer or clients, not God.
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When you compromise your integrity to please people, fearing you might lose opportunities.
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When you fear disobeying men more than you fear disobeying God (cf. Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men.”).
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When your decisions are driven by the need to be accepted, rather than by obedience to God’s Word.
This heart posture reveals you are trusting man. And God says such a person will not see when good comes—meaning they may miss God’s blessings even when they’re near, because their heart isn’t aligned with Him.
🛡️ “Man as Your Shield” Is Idolatry
Psalm 127:1–2 (NKJV)
“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.”
Placing full confidence in people—whether in guards, systems, institutions, or authority figures—replaces God’s role as your protector. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t have security measures or receive medical care. Rather, the issue is where your faith is anchored.
Proverbs 21:31 (ESV) says:
“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the Lord.”
In other words, preparations are necessary, but our ultimate trust must rest in the Lord, not in those preparations.
🩺 Misplaced Trust in Human Expertise
Trusting in medical science more than in God is another form of idolatry. Yes, doctors are a gift from God (Sirach 38:1–2, a useful Apocryphal reference), and medical knowledge is a blessing. But salvation—especially eternal life and true healing—comes from the Lord.
Psalm 103:3 (NKJV) reminds us:
“Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases.”
No doctor can raise the dead. No medicine can restore a soul. When medical reports lead us into panic, it shows our faith was in man—not in the God who raises the dead (2 Corinthians 1:9).
✅ Trusting in the Lord Brings Blessing
Jeremiah 17:7–8 (ESV)
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water… It does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
The contrast is powerful. Those who trust in the Lord:
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Remain steady in hard times.
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Do not fear the future (2 Timothy 1:7).
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Continue to bear fruit, even during spiritual or economic “droughts.”
This is both a practical and a spiritual promise:
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Practically, they’ll flourish in work, family, and provision.
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Spiritually, they’ll bear fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience… (Galatians 5:22–23).
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Evangelistically, they will bear fruit by leading others to Christ (John 15:8; Proverbs 11:30).
🔍 How Do You Know Where Your Trust Lies?
The first sign is fear. If fear dominates your decisions—fear of lack, fear of rejection, fear of failure—it reveals a lack of trust in God.
Matthew 6:31–33 (NKJV)
“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’… But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
People who trust God do not panic when threatened. Like Daniel, they stand firm in righteousness even when others plot against them (Daniel 6:10).
🌱 Those Who Trust God Will Bear Lasting Fruit
Why will they always bear fruit? Because their roots go deep into the river of God’s presence—just as Psalm 1:3 describes:
“He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season…”
Fruitfulness in God isn’t seasonal—it is eternal. It includes:
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Fruit in their work and resources.
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Fruit in their character and relationships.
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Fruit in evangelism and discipleship.
And their reward is eternal (Matthew 25:21; 1 Corinthians 3:14).
✨ Final Exhortation
Where is your trust?
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Is it in your salary, your education, your connections?
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Or is it in the Lord who owns everything and never fails?
Psalm 20:7 (ESV) says:
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
Choose the blessing. Put your full trust in the Lord—not partially, not occasionally, but wholeheartedly.
“Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
May the Lord bless you and anchor your heart in Him alone.
HEARING FROM GOD ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH TO GUARANTEE VICTORY
In Judges 19, we encounter one of the most distressing and sobering events in Israel’s history. A Levite’s concubine, who had previously been unfaithful to him, left and returned to her father’s house. After four months, the Levite, out of love and compassion, journeyed to retrieve her (Judges 19:1–3).
On their return, they were taken in by an old man in the city of Gibeah, in the territory of Benjamin. That night, wicked men of the city surrounded the house and demanded that the Levite be brought out so they could abuse him. To protect his guest, the old man offered his own daughter and the Levite’s concubine (Judges 19:22–24). Eventually, the Levite gave them his concubine, and she was abused all night until she died (v. 25–28).
In horror and grief, the Levite cut her body into twelve parts and sent them throughout Israel — a gruesome act meant to awaken the conscience of the nation (Judges 19:29–30). The tribes of Israel responded with shock and a collective demand for justice.
Civil War and Seeking God
The 11 tribes of Israel came together to demand the guilty men from Benjamin be handed over. Benjamin refused (Judges 20:13), revealing the deep corruption and moral decay within the tribe — a spiritual decline reminiscent of Sodom and Gomorrah (cf. Genesis 19).
Israel prepared for war and sought the Lord.
Judges 20:18 (ESV)
“The people of Israel arose and went up to Bethel and inquired of God, ‘Who shall go up first for us to fight against the people of Benjamin?’ And the Lord said, ‘Judah shall go up first.’”
Despite clear instruction from God, Israel lost the battle. That day, 22,000 soldiers died (v. 21). The people wept and asked again.
Judges 20:23 (ESV)
“And the people of Israel went up and wept before the Lord until the evening. And they inquired of the Lord, ‘Shall we again draw near to fight against our brothers, the people of Benjamin?’ And the Lord said, ‘Go up against them.’”
They obeyed — and lost again. Another 18,000 Israelites were killed (v. 25). In total, 40,000 men perished over two days, despite divine confirmation.
The Turning Point: Sacrifice with Prayer
What changed on the third day?
This time, Israel didn’t just fast or weep — they offered sacrifices.
Judges 20:26–28 (ESV)
“Then all the people of Israel, the whole army, went up and came to Bethel and wept… And they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord… And the Lord said, ‘Go up, for tomorrow I will give them into your hand.’”
Now the response was not just permission, but a promise of victory:
“Tomorrow I will give them into your hand.”
On the third attempt, God gave Israel a great victory, nearly annihilating the tribe of Benjamin (Judges 20:35–48). Their breakthrough came only after their devotion was expressed through both prayer and offering.
Spiritual Principle: Sacrifice Completes the Equation
This account teaches that seeking God through prayer, fasting, and even hearing His voice is not always enough. There are moments in spiritual warfare that demand sacrificial response — acts of worship, giving, and surrender.
Under the Old Covenant, burnt offerings represented total dedication to God (Leviticus 1:9), and peace offerings symbolized fellowship and thanksgiving (Leviticus 3:1–5).
Today, in the New Covenant, Jesus Christ is our ultimate burnt offering.
Hebrews 10:10 (ESV)
“And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
But God still desires our living sacrifices:
Romans 12:1 (ESV)
“I appeal to you… to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.”
When you come to God without offering your life, your resources, or your gratitude, you may delay or even forfeit your breakthrough. Many Christians fast and pray like the Israelites did — but hold back when it comes to giving.
Proverbs 3:9–10 (ESV)
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty…”
God doesn’t need our money, but He desires our heart expressed in action (2 Corinthians 9:7–8). Sacrificial giving reflects faith, obedience, and honor.
Don’t Be Surprised by Defeat If You Ignore This Principle
You may say, “God gave me a dream,” or “God confirmed it to me,” yet still fail in what seems like a God-ordained mission. That’s exactly what happened to Israel. Though God said “Go,” they were defeated because they lacked full spiritual engagement — the kind that includes offering, worship, and obedience.
Even with 400,000 warriors (Judges 20:17), they were defeated by only 26,000 Benjamites. That’s a warning: strength, numbers, or even a word from God alone is not always sufficient. The heart posture — expressed through acts of faith — matters greatly.
Conclusion: Prayer Must Be Paired with Sacrifice
Breakthroughs often require more than intercession. You must:
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Fast
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Pray
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Listen
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Worship
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Give
Psalm 50:14–15 (ESV)
“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving… and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”
God honors those who come to Him not just with words, but with everything — their hearts, resources, time, and obedience.
Final Encouragement
If your prayers feel unanswered and your spiritual battles remain unwon, ask yourself:
“Have I only been praying, or have I truly been giving my all to God?”
Let your life — not just your lips — become an offering. Then God, who is faithful, will fight for you, open doors, and grant you victory in ways you could never imagine.
Malachi 3:10 (ESV)
“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and thereby put me to the test… if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing…”
May the Lord bless you richly.
