The Bible says, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come…” (1 Timothy 4:8, NIV). What does this mean?
If you read the context in the earlier verses of this passage, you’ll find that Paul is addressing false teachers who were advocating for outward, ritualistic practices as the key to a holy life. These teachers were promoting certain external behaviors, such as strict dietary rules (e.g., not eating certain foods), circumcision, ritual washings, or excessive asceticism, believing that these actions could make a person holy or acceptable to God.
However, Paul points out that these practices, while they might have temporary value for the body, do not address the deeper needs of the soul. Paul is not dismissing the importance of physical health or discipline, but he’s emphasizing that godliness living a life that honors God through faith in Christ is far more beneficial, both now and in eternity.
Paul’s argument in 1 Timothy 4:8 (NIV) contrasts the temporary value of physical exercise (or bodily disciplines) with the eternal and all-encompassing value of godliness (spiritual devotion). Physical exercise does offer some benefit to the body it can improve health and extend life in this world. But it can never secure eternal life, nor can it transform the heart and mind in the way godliness does.
In Colossians 2:20-23 (NIV), Paul provides further clarification on this point:
“Since you died with Christ to the elemental spiritual forces of this world, why, as though you still belonged to the world, do you submit to its rules:
**‘Do not handle! Do not taste! Do not touch!’
These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility, and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.”
Here, Paul is saying that even though these outward religious rules might seem wise or pious, they don’t deal with the deeper issue of sin and the desires of the flesh. True holiness comes from a heart transformed by faith in Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, not through mere physical discipline or human-made rules.
The key point Paul is making is that godliness (which can be understood as holiness or piety) is the path that leads to true life both in this world and in the life to come. This godliness is not about external rituals but about internal transformation that comes from a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. As the NIV Study Bible notes, godliness refers to a reverent, respectful relationship with God that is lived out in practical holiness.
The fear of God the reverence, awe, and respect we have for God’s holiness and sovereignty is what keeps us grounded in our spiritual lives. This fear of God is foundational to wisdom and righteousness (Proverbs 9:10). As we live out this reverence, we experience spiritual growth, peace, and joy that surpasses anything the world can offer.
In 1 Timothy 4:8, Paul points to a two-fold promise that comes with godliness:
Promise for the present life: A godly life leads to peace, purpose, and health. This isn’t a guarantee of perfect physical well-being, but it’s a promise that God will protect and provide for His faithful people. The Lord’s peace can sustain us in the midst of trials, and He promises to be with us in every season of life.
Promise for the life to come: Ultimately, godliness leads to eternal life. Unlike physical exercise, which only benefits the body for a limited time, godliness brings eternal reward. This is the hope of the Christian faith eternal life with God (John 3:16, Romans 6:23).
While accumulating wealth or seeking worldly success might offer temporary security, it cannot protect the soul. In Matthew 16:26 (NIV), Jesus asks, “What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Wealth and physical protection can only offer temporary security, but they can never address the deeper need for salvation and eternal life.
However, when we live a life of godliness, which is rooted in faith in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we not only gain the promise of peace and provision in this life, but we also inherit eternal life (Romans 8:17, 1 Peter 1:4). This is a life of eternal security, built on a firm foundation of faith in Christ.
So, why not choose godliness? In a world that constantly tempts us with temporary pleasures and fleeting rewards, the Christian is called to focus on what truly lasts. Godliness is what will lead us to fulfillment, peace, and ultimately, eternal life with God.
As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 4:8 (NIV),
“For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
This is the simple, clear choice Paul is urging Timothy and all of us to make. Let us prioritize spiritual disciplines that lead to godliness, rather than chasing after fleeting physical accomplishments or material gain.
God bless you.
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The story of this world centers on humanity and our Creator, period! It’s the account of how God created mankind and gave us dominion over everything beneath us, all that exists on Earth…
So, there is no other creature with greater intelligence than humans living on distant planets. When we refer to the “universe,” we’re not only talking about the Earth we live on, but also all the planets, stars, and celestial bodies that exist in space. The universe encompasses everywhere humanity can reach, and no being in the universe surpasses humanity in intelligence.
Psalm 8:3-9 (NIV)
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, 4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? 5 You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. 6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet: 7 all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild, 8 the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. 9 Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!”
So, you may ask, if there are no intelligent beings greater than humans, what about those mysterious creatures that scientists claim to see and photograph in space, which sometimes appear human-like?
It is an undeniable fact that scientists have observed strange phenomena in space, and at times they manage to capture them on film. Other times, they see unusual lights, patterns, or shapes that disappear quickly, leaving behind many questions. Because science, for the most part, rejects the idea of God, these scientists are left to speculate about what they are witnessing, often with no satisfying answer.
So, who are these beings, often referred to as ALIENS? The Bible gives us insight into the nature of these beings in the following passage:
Revelation 12:7-9 (KJV)
“And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, 8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.”
These “aliens” that scientists observe in space are not extraterrestrial beings, but Satan and his fallen angels (demons). The Bible teaches us that Satan, though powerful, is a created being with limited authority. As the passage in 2 Corinthians 11:14 (NIV) warns us, “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” He and his demons have the ability to disguise themselves and appear as beings of light or aliens from distant planets, intending to deceive humanity.
Satan’s ultimate goal is to lead people away from the truth of God’s Word and deceive them into believing in alternative explanations about the universe such as the existence of aliens. His aim is clear: to distract people from the reality of God and shift their trust to these supposed “higher beings” that will provide answers to humanity’s technological and social dilemmas.
Satan has many tools at his disposal to deceive humanity. Witchcraft and occult practices deceive those who believe in such things. False prophets and false teachers mislead those who attend churches, but who fail to truly know and understand God’s Word. The alien deception works on those who do not believe in God, leading them to think that beings from other planets possess superior knowledge and power.
I once read a testimony from a woman who had just committed her life to Christ, but she hadn’t fully surrendered yet. She shared how she loved reading about aliens, and in her heart, she believed that there must be other beings different from humans living on distant planets. She longed to see them one day, because she had heard many testimonies from people claiming to have seen these beings.
One night, while driving home, she saw a bright light ahead on the road. As she looked closer, the light came nearer to her car, and she had to slam on the brakes. She described the object as looking like a spacecraft. She was certain it was made from advanced technology, far beyond what is known on Earth.
Although she didn’t see the beings inside, she heard a voice telling her that they were extraterrestrials from a distant planet who had come to help Earth. Overjoyed, she felt as though her dream of seeing aliens had come true. However, shortly before this event, she had heard the gospel and decided to follow Jesus though she hadn’t fully committed, with one foot still in the world.
She then asked these beings, “Do you worship Jesus?” They didn’t respond at first. But after persistently asking, they finally answered, “We do not worship Jesus. You humans worship Him. We are not human.” As she continued questioning them about their worship, the craft suddenly took off and vanished from her view.
It wasn’t long after this encounter that she began to experience problems while reading the Bible. Every time she opened it, she could only see light nothing more. But when she was prayed for and the spirits were cast out, she realized the truth. What she had encountered wasn’t aliens at all. It was demons who had disguised themselves as extraterrestrial beings.
The Bible gives us a clear warning in 1 John 4:1 (NIV):
“Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
So, to conclude, the concept of aliens is a creation of Satan. It is a lie designed in hell with the aim of drawing people away from God. Satan wants people to stop believing in God and instead place their faith in the idea of extraterrestrial beings, as promoted by modern science. This deception has already caused significant confusion in the Western world, and it is beginning to take root in other parts of the world as well.
Blessed!
Answer: The Bible does not give a precise timeline for the duration of Job’s suffering. However, by examining key passages and theological context, we can form a general understanding of the period over which his trials took place.
One key passage comes from Job 7:2–6 (NIV), where Job laments:
“Like a slave longing for the evening shadows, or a hired laborer waiting to be paid, So I have been allotted months of futility, and nights of misery have been assigned to me. When I lie down I think, ‘How long before I get up?’ The night drags on, and I toss and turn until dawn. My body is clothed with worms and scabs, my skin is broken and festering. My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and they come to an end without hope.”
Here, Job uses the plural “months”, which clearly indicates that his suffering lasted longer than just a few weeks. Although no exact number is given, it is reasonable to infer that he endured several months possibly a year or more of intense physical, emotional, and spiritual torment. The comparison to a laborer expecting wages shows Job’s expectation of relief, but also the painful delay in receiving it.
In Job 2:11–13, we are told that Job’s three friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar traveled from different regions to comfort him:
“When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud… Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.” (v.12–13)
These friends stayed seven days in silence before even beginning their long dialogues with Job, which span chapters 3 to 31 a significant amount of discourse. Additionally, their journey to reach Job from distant lands (Teman, Shuah, and Naamath) would also have taken time.
After God’s final speech and Job’s humble repentance (Job 42:1–6), God commands Job to offer a sacrifice on behalf of his friends:
“Take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly.” (Job 42:8, NIV)
This indicates another period of preparation, worship, and likely waiting. Job’s restoration described in Job 42:10 may have taken place gradually, especially if rebuilding livestock, family, and estate took time.
“After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.”
While the restoration is described in summary, it does not necessarily mean it occurred instantly. Agricultural wealth (livestock, property, family) typically takes years to develop, suggesting Job’s full recovery could have unfolded over an extended period.
The apostle James refers to Job as an example of patience and endurance in the face of trials:
James 5:10–11 (NIV): “Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”
James 5:10–11 (NIV):
“Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”
James uses Job to teach that God’s purposes unfold over time, and even prolonged suffering can result in divine blessing. The “end intended by the Lord” (as some translations say) reflects God’s faithfulness in bringing restoration after refining and testing.
Understanding that Job’s trials lasted months or longer helps correct a common misconception: that spiritual deliverance or divine restoration always happens quickly. The doctrine of perseverance enduring in faith despite suffering is a cornerstone of biblical maturity. Job’s story highlights:
The hidden purposes of God in suffering (Job 1–2; Romans 8:28)
The legitimacy of lament and questioning in pain (Job 3–31; Psalms)
The necessity of trusting God’s character, even without knowing His reasons (Job 38–42)
Job did not suffer for a day or a week. His months of suffering included the loss of family, wealth, health, and reputation—yet he remained faithful, and in the end, God revealed His mercy.
As modern believers, we are called to display the same kind of patience and perseverance:
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 (NIV)
Be blessed!
Shalom!
In Luke 23:27–29, the Bible says:
And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. But Jesus, turning to them, said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed! (Luke 23:27–29, NKJV)
And a great multitude of the people followed Him, and women who also mourned and lamented Him. But Jesus, turning to them, said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For indeed the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, wombs that never bore, and breasts which never nursed!
(Luke 23:27–29, NKJV)
Understanding the Context:
These were prophetic words Jesus spoke on His way to be crucified. A group of women followed Him, weeping in sorrow over the pain and injustice He was enduring. But Jesus, in His compassion and divine foresight, told them not to weep for Him — but for themselves and their children.
Why? Because Jesus foresaw the impending judgment and destruction that would soon fall upon Jerusalem. His words were not just emotional, but deeply prophetic.
The Prophecy Fulfilled in 70 A.D.:
Just 37 years later, in A.D. 70, the Roman army under General Titus besieged Jerusalem. The result was catastrophic: the city was starved, burned, and completely destroyed. Over 1.1 million Jews were slaughtered, including countless women and children. Josephus, a Jewish historian, described horrifying scenes of famine, cannibalism, and mass executions. In that chaos, mothers who had children witnessed unspeakable horrors. In such conditions, it truly seemed a blessing to have never given birth.
Jesus had earlier prophesied this destruction:
For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation. (Luke 19:43–44, NKJV)
For days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, and level you, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave in you one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of your visitation.
(Luke 19:43–44, NKJV)
This devastation was divine judgment because the nation of Israel rejected their Messiah. They did not recognize the time when God came to them in the person of Jesus Christ.
He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. (John 1:11, NKJV)
He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.
(John 1:11, NKJV)
But they cried out, ‘Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify Him! (John 19:15, NKJV)
But they cried out, ‘Away with Him, away with Him! Crucify Him!
(John 19:15, NKJV)
Theological Insight: Judgment for Rejecting the Messiah
The destruction of Jerusalem was more than a historical tragedy — it was a judicial act of God upon a nation that had rejected its Savior. Jesus had longed to save them:
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! (Luke 13:34, NKJV)
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing!
(Luke 13:34, NKJV)
Because of their stubbornness and rebellion, their house — the Temple and the city — was left desolate (Matthew 23:38). This is a sobering reminder that rejecting God’s grace has eternal consequences.
A Foreshadowing of the Great Tribulation:
Even more sobering is the fact that this judgment was a type or shadow of a much greater judgment to come upon the entire world — the Great Tribulation, spoken of by Jesus and the prophets.
For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. (Matthew 24:21, NKJV)
For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be.
(Matthew 24:21, NKJV)
This coming tribulation will be God’s final outpouring of wrath on an unbelieving world — a time of intense suffering, famine, war, plagues, and divine judgment (see Revelation 6–18). It will be a time so dreadful that people will cry out for mountains to fall on them to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb (Revelation 6:15–17).
Just as the Jews of Jesus’ time rejected the Messiah, many today continue to harden their hearts against Christ. The result will be far worse than what happened in Jerusalem.
The Only Escape — Jesus Christ:
The only way to escape both the coming judgment and the eternal wrath of God is by turning to Jesus Christ in repentance and faith. Jesus is not only the Judge — He is also the Savior who laid down His life for sinners.
Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12, NKJV)
Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
(Acts 4:12, NKJV)
He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him. (John 3:36, NKJV)
He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.
(John 3:36, NKJV)
Before the Great Tribulation begins, Christ will return to rapture His Church — those who truly belong to Him:
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout… And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, NKJV)
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout… And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
(1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, NKJV)
This is why Jesus’ warning remains urgent today. Now is not the time to delay or ignore your eternal destiny. The door of grace is still open — but it won’t remain open forever.
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV)
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
(2 Corinthians 6:2, NKJV)
Conclusion:
When Jesus said, “Blessed are the barren…”, He was not encouraging barrenness, but expressing the sheer terror of what was about to come. In times of divine judgment, the natural blessings of life — like having children — would turn into sorrow. That statement was both a historical warning and a spiritual wake-up call.
Let His words stir us to repentance and readiness. Will you be among those who meet the Lord in the air? Or among those who will face the wrath to come?
May the Lord bless you and give you wisdom to prepare your heart.
Shalom.
QUESTION:
How can I know if the decision I’m about to make is truly God’s will?
I deeply desire to study medicine, but I’m unsure whether this is God’s will for me. These doubts keep me from making a clear decision. What should I do to know what field of study God has purposed for my life?
ANSWER:
Your question touches on one of the most important aspects of the Christian walk—discerning the will of God. It’s a question many believers ask, whether about marriage, career, ministry, or life direction.
Many people expect God to reveal His will through dreams, visions, audible voices, or prophetic words. While God may sometimes use these ways (Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17), they are not the primary means He has chosen to guide His people. The Word of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit remain the clearest and most trustworthy sources for understanding His will.
1. God is a Counselor, not a Dictator
Isaiah 9:6 describes Jesus as the “Wonderful Counselor”, not a dictator or commander of personal choices. He guides us with wisdom, not compulsion. God created us with the ability to think, choose, and desire. He doesn’t override our will; instead, He shapes it through counsel, conviction, and the renewal of our minds (Romans 12:2).
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2, ESV
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2, ESV
God’s desire is not just to tell us what to do, but to transform our thinking so we can wisely choose according to His will.
2. How Does God Counsel Us? Through His Word
God has already given us His foundational guidance through Scripture. The Bible is not just a religious book—it is the very counsel of God. It corrects, teaches, rebukes, and trains us in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105, ESV
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Psalm 119:105, ESV
When you desire to make a major life decision, such as choosing a career path, start by:
Praying sincerely and regularly over the matter (Philippians 4:6–7)
Comparing your desire with biblical principles
Checking for any conflicts with your faith or God’s commands
For example, if you’re drawn to a business involving things clearly condemned in Scripture (e.g., alcohol sales, pornography, dishonest profit), then regardless of the appeal or profit, God’s Word gives a firm “no.” Our desires must always be filtered through truth (Psalm 1:1–3).
3. God’s Will Is Not Always Mystical—Sometimes It’s Moral and Missional
There are two dimensions of God’s will in Scripture:
God’s moral will – revealed in the Bible (e.g., sexual purity, honesty, loving others, avoiding evil).
God’s sovereign or specific will – details about life that are not explicitly found in Scripture (e.g., where to study, whom to marry, which career to pursue).
As long as your decision does not violate God’s moral will, and you’re walking in fellowship with Him, then you are free to choose within that boundary. God gives us wisdom to decide.
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9, ESV
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.
Proverbs 16:9, ESV
So if, after prayer and reflection, you find no biblical reason against studying medicine, and it’s something you’re passionate about, and it would glorify God, then you can confidently pursue it, trusting that He is guiding your steps.
4. Peace Is a Confirmation, Not a Replacement for Scripture
Colossians 3:15 says: And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15 says:
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
If your decision brings a sense of lasting peace, and that peace aligns with Scripture, then it’s often a sign that God is leading you. However, peace should never contradict God’s Word. We must not confuse emotional comfort with divine approval—always let Scripture be your highest authority.
5. God Doesn’t Play Games with Our Destiny
God is not a trickster who hides His will from sincere seekers. If you truly desire to honor Him, He will ensure you’re not misled.
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3, ESV
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:3, ESV
Even if the decision you make turns out not to be God’s perfect will, as long as you invited Him in from the beginning, He can redirect your path (Proverbs 3:5–6). He is sovereign over every step and can use even our detours for His glory (Romans 8:28).
So what should you do?
1. Pray deeply and consistently about your decision. If possible, fast and spend focused time in God’s presence. Show Him that you’re serious about seeking His will (James 1:5).
2. Study the Word. Make sure your desire does not conflict with Scripture.
3. Seek godly counsel. Mature believers can help confirm what God may be saying.
4. Observe your heart. Is there peace? Joy? Clarity? Or fear and confusion? (1 Corinthians 14:33)
5. Step out in faith. If everything aligns, move forward with confidence.
And don’t wait for a dream, vision, or an angelic visitation. Those are rare and not essential. God’s Word and the inner witness of the Holy Spirit are sufficient.
Final Encouragement:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5–6, ESV
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:5–6, ESV
As long as you walk in humility, seeking God first and obeying His Word, He will faithfully guide you. Choosing to study medicine can be a wonderful and God-honoring path, especially if your motive is to serve others and glorify Christ.
God bless you richly as you pursue His purpose for your life.
Answer:
Let’s start with a simple but important question: Why do most boarding schools prohibit students from having phones, watching movies, playing video games, or even playing cards?
The answer is straightforward: these activities tend to distract students from their main purpose—studying. Instead of focusing on schoolwork, a student may spend hours thinking about a movie they watched or the card game they played. Over time, their grades suffer, and they fail to meet their goals. That failure becomes a loss not only for the student, but also for their family, school, and even the nation.
Now if people—teachers, parents, and leaders—can use such wisdom to guide children away from time-wasting things, how much more does God, who is infinitely wise, know what is good and bad for His children?
The Bible warns us clearly about loving the world in a way that draws our hearts away from God:
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” —1 John 2:15–17
This passage doesn’t mean that playing games, enjoying entertainment, or resting are evil in themselves. God created us with emotions, minds, and bodies that need joy and rest. In fact, the Bible celebrates rest (Genesis 2:2–3), music (Psalm 150), and joy (Nehemiah 8:10). However, the danger comes when these things take over and replace our spiritual priorities.
Just as students are in school for a short season, we are here on earth for a brief time compared to eternity. If we allow temporary pleasures to distract us from eternal priorities, we risk missing what matters most—our relationship with God and our eternal future.
The Bible describes believers as foreigners and strangers in this world:
“Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.” —1 Peter 2:11
We are not here to live for worldly entertainment. We are here to grow spiritually, serve God, and prepare for eternity. There will be plenty of joy and fulfillment in the life to come—in the New Jerusalem, where God will dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:1–4).
There, we will no longer need to fast, fight temptation, or preach the gospel. It will be a place of perfect rest, eternal joy, and glorious worship.
“In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” —Psalm 16:11
Some might argue, “But isn’t it too extreme to avoid fun games like cards?” But the apostle Paul helps us here:
“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” —1 Corinthians 6:12
The point is this: not every activity is sinful, but if something masters your attention, wastes your time, or hinders your spiritual life, then it becomes spiritually dangerous. Card games and similar entertainment can easily become addictive or lead to further forms of gambling, competition, or laziness. Worse still, they can slowly drain your hunger for God.
Ask yourself: Can I spend two hours playing cards, but struggle to read my Bible for 10 minutes? Can I binge-watch a series for eight hours, but feel too tired to pray or attend fellowship?
That’s a sign that your spiritual priorities are being undermined.
“Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” —Hebrews 12:1
Life is short. Eternity is long. We must learn to prioritize what truly matters. It’s not foolish to avoid worldly distractions—it’s wisdom. Just like a serious student avoids unnecessary entertainment to focus on their studies, so must a serious Christian avoid anything that weakens their faith.
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” —Ephesians 5:15–16
So, is it right for a Christian to play cards?
Theologically and practically, it is unwise. While not sinful in itself, it often leads to distraction, time-wasting, and even spiritual coldness. The devil doesn’t always use sin to destroy us—sometimes, he simply uses distractions.
Let us stay alert, focused, and rooted in the things of God. There is a crown of life awaiting those who endure and overcome.
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” —Colossians 3:2
Be wise. Be watchful. Be blessed.
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Shalom servant of God, please help me understand something. In the book of Acts, three different passages—Acts 9:3–7, Acts 22:6–9, and Acts 26:12–14—describe Paul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. But when I read them, they seem to say different things, especially about whether the people with Paul heard the voice or not. How can that be?
This is an excellent question and one that many Bible readers have struggled with. At first glance, the accounts seem contradictory—but once we look deeper, we find they are not conflicting but complementary.
The main confusion comes from these two verses:
Acts 9:7
“And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.”
Acts 22:9
“And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.”
So, one says they heard the voice, and the other says they did not. Which one is true?
The resolution lies in understanding how Scripture uses the word “hear.” In Greek, the word akouō (ἀκούω) can mean to hear a sound or to understand what is being said, depending on the context.
It’s the difference between audible hearing and comprehending the message. This is a biblical concept seen throughout Scripture.
Compare Paul’s experience with the account in John 12:28–30
“Then a voice came from heaven: ‘I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.’ The crowd that stood there and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, ‘An angel has spoken to him.’ Jesus answered, ‘This voice has come for your sake, not mine.’”
Here, God audibly speaks from heaven. Some people recognized it as a voice, but others only heard thunder. They all heard something, but not all understood what was said.
The same is true of Paul’s companions—they heard the sound, but did not understand the words Jesus spoke to Paul.
Jesus often emphasized that true hearing involves understanding. He said:
Matthew 11:15
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Luke 8:18
“Take care then how you hear…”
These verses teach us that spiritual hearing is more than just sound—it’s about discernment and reception of God’s truth.
According to Acts 26:14 Paul heard Jesus speak to him in Hebrew:
“And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’”
It’s likely that the others:
Jesus was speaking directly and personally to Saul. The others were not the intended audience.
There’s no contradiction—just different angles of the same miraculous event.
Paul urged Timothy:
1 Timothy 4:13
“Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.”
This wasn’t just about casual reading. It meant deep, prayerful study, guided by the Holy Spirit. Without this, we might misread or misunderstand the Bible.
Jesus warned about this in Matthew 13:14–15
“You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull… lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them.”
The people traveling with Saul on the road to Damascus heard a supernatural sound but didn’t understand what Jesus was saying. Only Paul, who was the intended recipient, understood the message.
This story reminds us that hearing God is not just about listening with the ears, but receiving His Word with a heart that is ready and open.
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Matthew 11:15)
❓Understanding the Question
Before Jesus rose from the dead, some of the saints who had died were also raised back to life (Matthew 27:52–53). But where exactly were they before their resurrection? Had they already gone to Paradise, or were they somewhere else?
Let’s explore what the Bible teaches about the condition and place of the dead before Christ’s resurrection, and what changed after He rose.
Before the atoning work of Christ on the cross, everyone who died went to the realm of the dead, referred to in Hebrew as Sheol and in Greek as Hades. This was not yet “Heaven” or “Hell” in the full eternal sense but a temporary holding place for souls—both the righteous and the wicked—awaiting redemption or final judgment.
David, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, spoke prophetically:
“For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.” (Psalm 16:10)
While David said these words, they were ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, not David himself. Peter explained this clearly at Pentecost:
“For David did not ascend into the heavens… his tomb is with us to this day.” (Acts 2:29–31)
This means David died and remained in the grave, like others before Christ. His words were prophetic of the Messiah, whose soul would not remain in Hades, and whose body would not decay.
The realm of the dead had two compartments, as implied in Jesus’ teaching about Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16:19–31):
Between these two, a great chasm prevented crossing from one side to the other (Luke 16:26).
However, even this arrangement was not perfect peace. Due to Adam’s fall (Genesis 3:17–19), humanity came under the dominion of death and darkness. Satan had limited authority over death:
“…through death He [Jesus] might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.” (Hebrews 2:14)
That is why, before Jesus’ resurrection, even the righteous were held in Sheol, not yet brought into God’s full presence in Heaven.
When Jesus died on the cross, He descended into Hades (the realm of the dead) and proclaimed victory over death:
“…by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison…” (1 Peter 3:19)
These “spirits” were those who had died long ago, including those in Noah’s time (1 Peter 3:20). Jesus did not go to offer salvation again, but to proclaim His victory—and to separate the righteous from the wicked.
Jesus declared:
“I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” (Revelation 1:18)
He took authority over death, defeating Satan’s dominion.
From then on, Satan no longer has access to or control over the souls of the righteous dead. No one—not demons, not spirits, not Satan himself—can communicate with the dead anymore. Any spiritual encounters people claim to have with their deceased relatives are deceptive demonic manifestations (2 Corinthians 11:14).
After Jesus rose, many saints also rose from the dead:
“…and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many.” (Matthew 27:52–53)
This showed that Christ had opened the way out of Sheol for the righteous, bringing them into the presence of God—what Jesus called Paradise (Luke 23:43).
Since that moment, when a righteous person dies:
“…to be absent from the body [is] to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8)
They now go directly to Paradise, awaiting the resurrection of their bodies at the return of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17).
Those who died in sin remain in a place of torment within Hades, as shown in Jesus’ parable:
“And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.” (Luke 16:23)
They are awaiting the Final Judgment:
“Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it… And the dead were judged…” (Revelation 20:11–15)
After judgment, the wicked will be cast into the Lake of Fire, which is the second death.
This teaching gives us a powerful reminder: life is short, and eternity is real.
Jesus warned:
“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26)
The story of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16) reminds us that once we die, our eternal destiny is sealed. There is no second chance. If we are not right with God before death, we will face eternal regret and separation.
Now is the time to make peace with God. Salvation is still freely offered to anyone who will believe:
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:2)
If you have not given your life to Jesus Christ, today is the day. He loves you, He is gentle and full of mercy, and He has promised to receive anyone who comes to Him:
“The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.” (John 6:37)
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you miss salvation today, you may seek it tomorrow with tears and not find it (Luke 13:24–28).
Make the decision now—surrender your life to Jesus, and you will have the hope of eternal life with Him in Paradise.
God bless you. May this message lead you into truth, repentance, and eternal hope in Christ Jesus.
In Acts 19:13 we read:
“Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists undertook to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.’”
These men were traveling Jewish exorcists—religious individuals who went from place to place attempting to cast out evil spirits using various methods. Although they tried to use the name of Jesus, they had no personal relationship with Him, and no spiritual authority from God. Their actions were based on imitation, not faith.
“Exorcists”means “to drive out demons.” It’s a general term used for exorcism. However, just because someone appears to cast out demons doesn’t mean they are doing it by the Spirit of God.
There are two sources of spiritual power at work in the world:
According to the Bible, true believers have been given authority to cast out demons in the name of Jesus:
Mark 16:17 “And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons…”
This authority is not based on rituals, oils, or charms—but solely through faith in the finished work of Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in believers:
Luke 10:19 “Behold, I have given you authority… over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you.”
When a Christian casts out a demon in the name of Jesus, the person is completely delivered. If the demon caused physical illness (e.g., stomach pain or seizures), both the spirit and its effects leave. Healing, peace, and freedom follow.
But not all “deliverance” is true deliverance.
Witch doctors, spirit mediums, and occult healers—though they may claim to remove demons—do not operate by the Spirit of God. Their methods are based on demonic manipulation. They don’t remove demons; they simply replace weaker spirits with stronger ones.
For example: If a person is tormented by a demon that causes stomach problems, and they visit a traditional healer, the healer might summon a stronger spirit—such as a demon of infertility or mental torment—to suppress the weaker one. The result? Temporary relief from stomach pain, but the person eventually experiences a more severe problem, like barrenness or insanity.
This is not true healing—it is deception. The kingdom of darkness simply rearranges its forces.
Jesus exposed this deception when He said:
Matthew 12:26 “And if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand?”
Satan doesn’t defeat himself. He only shifts strategy. That’s why witch doctors and occult exorcists are powerless to bring true freedom—because they are still under Satan’s dominion.
Imagine trying to solve a rat problem by releasing a snake into your house. The snake might kill a few rats, but eventually, the snake itself becomes a greater danger than the rats were. That’s exactly what happens in false deliverance—one demon is replaced by another, often worse than the first.
In Acts 19:14–16, the Jewish exorcists tried to copy Paul’s use of Jesus’ name, saying:
“I adjure you by the Jesus whom Paul proclaims.” But the demon replied: “Jesus I know, and Paul I recognize, but who are you?” And the possessed man attacked them violently, leaving them wounded and naked.
They used the right name—but without a real relationship with Jesus or authority from God. This shows us that spiritual power cannot be borrowed or imitated. Only those who are born again and filled with the Holy Spirit have the authority to confront demons.
To walk in spiritual authority, one must first be born again through faith in Jesus Christ:
John 1:12 “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Only Jesus can truly set people free from demonic bondage—not religious titles, not rituals, and certainly not witchcraft.
If you’re seeking freedom from demonic oppression, do not turn to traditional healers or false prophets. Run to Jesus Christ, the only One with power to save, heal, and deliver completely.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.”
Be blessed in the truth of Christ.
Meaning of Confirmation:
Confirmation means “being established.” It is used in certain Christian traditions like the Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican churches as one of their key sacraments. For example, the Catholic Church teaches seven sacraments, and confirmation is considered essential for a baptized person to be fully accepted before God.
In these churches, after baptism, the person undergoes teaching, and then a bishop lays hands on them. This laying on of hands is believed to bring the Holy Spirit upon the person, similar to what happened in the early church:
Acts 8:14–17 “Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”
This passage is often used to support the idea that the laying on of hands is necessary for receiving the Holy Spirit.
The Bible clearly teaches that faith precedes baptism. Baptism is a public testimony of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Infants cannot exercise faith or repentance, so infant baptism contradicts biblical teaching.
Romans 10:13–15 “For ‘whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?”
Therefore, baptism requires personal belief in Jesus as Savior and Lord.
The apostles never set a fixed rule that the Holy Spirit only comes through the laying on of hands. The example in Acts 8 is one occasion where this happened under the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
However, there are other clear examples where the Spirit was given without laying on of hands:
Peter’s teaching on how to receive the Holy Spirit also focuses on repentance and baptism:
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.”
He did not say anything about laying on of hands as a requirement.
Today, some churches treat confirmation and ritual anointings as necessary to be accepted by God, yet Scripture emphasizes a personal faith commitment. Trusting ceremonies over genuine faith can lead to spiritual complacency.
Many who have been baptized and confirmed may not truly understand or live by biblical teaching about the Holy Spirit, salvation, and holiness.
Confirmation Confirmation as a sacrament is not a biblical requirement but a church tradition. The Bible teaches salvation and receiving the Holy Spirit come through personal faith, repentance, and baptism in Jesus’ name.
God never instructed that receiving the Spirit depends on being confirmed by a bishop or anointed with oil. Such practices, while meaningful in some traditions, should not replace the clear gospel message.
Be blessed and continue to seek God’s Word faithfully.