Youth is precious—especially when it is used rightly. Every place needs the strength of the young: nations depend on young people for labor; Satan desires youth for his evil work; and likewise, the Holy Spirit seeks young people for the work of God.
Statistics show that between the ages of 13–20 is when most people sense the call of God. Ages 21–30 are often years of spiritual training, and 30–50 are the years of active service. Few are drawn to Christ at forty or fifty; if you come to Him then, you have received great grace. But remember, youth is valuable before God.
It is in youth that one possesses great spiritual strength—a unique grace given only to the young, not to the old.
“I have written to you, fathers, because you have known Him who is from the beginning. I have written to you, young men, because you are strong, and the Word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the wicked one.” — 1 John 2:14
Just as the physical strength of a nation lies in its youth, so also the Kingdom of God is built by holy young people, for they have been given power! Therefore, YOUTH IS TO BE HIGHLY VALUED.
At the end of his ministry, the Apostle Paul understood this truth and chose young men for special assignments in building the Kingdom of Heaven—among them Timothy and Titus.
These were young men Paul trained and sent out. They were likely between 20–25 years old, yet they performed great works, causing damage to the kingdom of darkness. Paul even wrote personal letters to them. Timothy was placed over the churches in Asia, and Titus was given authority by the Spirit to appoint elders—men older than himself.
Imagine—a young man supervising churches and appointing elders! (Read the book of Titus.) Timothy also was young, yet entrusted with similar responsibilities (read 1 Timothy 3). Paul even instructed them to rebuke and warn older men as fathers.
But the greatest instruction Paul gave them was this:
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” — 1 Timothy 4:12
And to Titus, he said:
“Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.” — Titus 2:15
Meaning: when preaching the gospel, do not regard a person’s face or age. Boldly declare, “All fornicators who do not repent will go to hell!” Do not fear that they are older than you. Speak what the Holy Spirit puts in your heart, for it is God who sent you—not them! You will see even those older than you coming to Christ, for the gospel is the power of God unto salvation.
So, do not despise your youth, and let no one despise you. If people look down on you and say, “You don’t know anything,” ignore them. Preach the Word! There is more of God’s power in youth than in old age—and Satan knows it. That’s why he targets young people to destroy them.
Paul also warned these young ministers to FLEE YOUTHFUL LUSTS.
“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” — 2 Timothy 2:22
This means youth is full of temptations and desires. Even as a young servant of God, you will face them. But what does the Bible say? “FLEE!”—not “PRAY ABOUT THEM.”
There is no prayer that will make lust disappear. You don’t pray against fornication, pornography, or drunkenness—you flee!
If you are in a romantic relationship leading to sin, cut it off. If your friends lure you into sin through their speech or habits, separate yourself. That is what it means to “flee youthful lusts.”
Joseph did not pray about Potiphar’s wife—he ran away!
If you are addicted to pornography that leads you to sin, there is no prayer that will save you. Decide to stop. Delete those images from your phone, and if you still struggle, replace your smartphone with a simple one. That’s fleeing from sin!
“If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you…” — Matthew 5:30
Do not let the devil ruin your youth. The age you have now is precious. If you do not wake up today, a time will come when you will regret not serving God while young. Wake up from your sleep!
May the Lord bless you, young person!
If you have not given your life to Christ, then your life is still in Satan’s hands. To be outside of Christ is to be against Him, for “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.” — Matthew 12:30
Turn to Christ today. Your youth is valuable in His Kingdom. Many will be transformed through you if you obey Him—and on that day, you will receive the Crown of Life.
Maranatha!
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In John 21:15–23, we encounter one of the most personal and instructive conversations between Jesus and the Apostle Peter. After His resurrection, Jesus restores Peter and gives him a glimpse of his future. But what follows is a revealing moment that exposes a common human weakness: comparison. When Peter asks about another disciple’s destiny, Jesus replies with a simple yet powerful truth: “What is that to you? You follow me.”
This passage invites us to reflect on our individual callings, the danger of comparison, and the necessity of faithfully following Christ—regardless of others’ paths.
After Peter had denied Jesus three times (John 18:15–27), Jesus graciously restores him with a threefold question:
“Simon, son of John, do you love me?” (John 21:15–17)
Peter affirms his love each time, and Jesus responds with:
This is not only personal restoration—it is Peter’s apostolic recommissioning. Jesus affirms Peter’s leadership role in the early church (cf. 1 Peter 5:1–3). It shows that failure does not disqualify a believer from future service when there is repentance and love for Christ.
Jesus follows the restoration with a sobering prophecy:
“When you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands…” (John 21:18)
This expression, “stretch out your hands,” was a common idiom for crucifixion. John explains in verse 19:
“(This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.)”
Peter would glorify God not just in life but also in death. According to early church tradition (e.g. Origen, Eusebius), Peter was crucified in Rome, upside down, by his own request—deeming himself unworthy to die in the same manner as his Lord.
This reminds us that discipleship involves sacrifice, and that true love for Christ includes a willingness to suffer for His name (cf. Philippians 1:29, Luke 9:23).
As soon as Peter hears about his own destiny, he turns and sees John, “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” and asks:
“Lord, what about this man?” (v. 21)
Peter is essentially saying, “If I must suffer and die, what will happen to him?” This is a deeply human moment—comparing our journey to another’s is a temptation we all face.
Jesus replies:
“If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!” (John 21:22)
In other words: “Even if I choose a completely different path for John, that is not your concern. Your responsibility is to follow me.”
Theologically, this response affirms two important truths:
Jesus’ sharp response also corrects the false assumption that God’s favor is measured by ease or suffering. John might live a long life (as he did), while Peter would face martyrdom—but both lives glorify God in their own ways.
Comparison can lead to jealousy, insecurity, and even spiritual burnout. Many believers today struggle with thoughts like:
But Scripture warns us not to compare:
“Let each one test his own work… For each will have to bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:4–5) “Not all are apostles, not all are prophets…” (1 Corinthians 12:29–30)
Instead of imitation, we are called to faithfulness. As in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30), God rewards not based on how much we were given but how faithfully we used what we had.
John, the author of this Gospel, clarifies:
“So the saying spread among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die…” (v. 23)
Misinterpretation of Jesus’ words led to rumors about John’s immortality. John himself corrects this. This highlights the importance of careful theological interpretation—taking Jesus’ words at face value without reading in assumptions.
John lived a long life, exiled on Patmos, where he received the Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:9). His path was different, but not less significant than Peter’s.
The message is clear: God’s calling is personal. Whether you lead a large congregation or minister quietly in a village, God values your obedience more than your comparison.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23)
“It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2)
Peter’s question—“Lord, what about this man?”—is the same question we often ask. But Jesus’ answer is timeless:
“What is that to you? You follow me.” (John 21:22)
You are not called to walk another’s path. You are called to follow Jesus where He leads you. Do not measure your value by someone else’s journey. The measure of a life is not comparison, but faithful obedience.
May the Lord give you grace to walk confidently in your calling, faithfully in your assignment, and joyfully in your purpose
When the Bible speaks of the heart, it does not mean the organ in our chest that pumps blood. Rather, it speaks of the inner person — our spirit.
“The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints.” — Ephesians 1:18
You see, it says “the eyes of your heart.” The physical heart cannot have eyes; therefore, this verse speaks about something spiritual — our spirit man.
Our spirits are similar to our physical bodies — they have eyes, ears, hands, and feet. They can see, hear, eat, and even die if placed in environments that deny them life.
A person who is spiritually blind is one whose spiritual eyes cannot see. But this does not necessarily mean someone who cannot see angels, demons, or visions. No! It refers to someone who does not understand the Word of God.
A person who does not understand the Word cannot be helped by it. It becomes meaningless and powerless in their life. When you read a book you do not understand, you easily ignore it — even if others praise it. The same applies to the Bible. If a person does not understand it, it becomes just another book to them.
To understand means to recognize the purpose and application of what you are reading in your life today.
Let us turn to the Scriptures and learn more about what it means to have our spiritual eyes opened.
On the day Jesus rose from the dead, two disciples were walking to a village called Emmaus, and on the way, Jesus Himself joined them — but they did not recognize Him.
“Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was about seven miles from Jerusalem. And they talked together of all these things which had happened. So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him.” — Luke 24:13–16
Jesus asked them what they were discussing, and they told Him about His own crucifixion — not knowing it was Him!
They said,
“But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened.” — Luke 24:21
Then Jesus said to them:
“O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?” — Luke 24:25–26
And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them all the Scriptures concerning Himself.
When they reached the village, they urged Him to stay with them. And when He sat with them at the table, He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them — and immediately:
“Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. And they said to one another, ‘Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?’” — Luke 24:31–32
Notice — even while Jesus explained the Scriptures to them on the road, they still did not fully understand what He was saying. But after He broke the bread, their understanding was opened, and suddenly everything He had taught them made sense.
They realized that those Scriptures were speaking about Him! First, their spiritual eyes (understanding of the Word) were opened — then their physical eyes recognized Him.
This means that if they had not understood the Scriptures, even if Jesus had revealed Himself plainly, they still would not have believed.
This truth is confirmed in the Gospel of John:
“But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him, that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke: ‘Lord, who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?’ Therefore they could not believe, because Isaiah said again: ‘He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, Lest they should see with their eyes, Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, So that I should heal them.’” — John 12:37–40
So you see, having your spiritual eyes opened is not about seeing demons, witches, or visions. Neither is it about having prophetic dreams.
To have your spiritual eyes opened means to understand why Jesus came, what He desires now, where He is today, and how to walk in His will.
When you understand His Word and do His will, you will begin to see Jesus every day in your life — not with your physical eyes, but with the eyes of your spirit.
“Then He said to them, ‘These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.’ And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures.” — Luke 24:44–45
A murderer, an adulterer, a fornicator, or one who dresses immodestly is still spiritually blind — no matter how many visions they claim to see or prophecies they speak. According to the Bible, they are still in darkness.
So how can one have their spiritual eyes opened?
First, by acknowledging that we are sinners, humbling ourselves before God, and asking for His mercy and forgiveness. Then, by obeying His command to be baptized — in the true baptism, in the Name of Jesus Christ — and receiving the Holy Spirit.
It is the Holy Spirit who opens our spiritual eyes and enables us to understand the Scriptures. Without Him, we can never truly know God.
Without Him, we are like animals who have eyes but cannot see.
May the Lord bless you and open the eyes of your heart.
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Shalom, beloved in Christ. We are living in the very last days — days in which every prophecy spoken by the Lord Jesus Christ concerning the end of the world is being fulfilled before our very eyes.
The Bible says:
“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” — 2 Timothy 3:1–5
When we look at the world today, we see exactly what Paul warned Timothy about. People are self-centered, driven by greed, pleasure, and rebellion. Evil is celebrated while righteousness is mocked. Churches are full of people who profess to know God but live lives that contradict His Word.
The Apostle John also warned us long ago that the world is fading — its pleasures, its pride, and its desires are only temporary.
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world — the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life — is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” — 1 John 2:15–17
Beloved, this world is not our home. Everything you see — the wealth, fame, technology, and power — will soon perish. The kingdoms of this earth will fall, and the Kingdom of God will stand forever.
Jesus Himself told His disciples about the signs that would precede His return:
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.” — Matthew 24:6–8
Look around today — these words are being fulfilled. We hear of wars across nations, earthquakes shaking the earth, deadly diseases spreading worldwide, and moral decay at its peak. All these are signs of the end, warnings to awaken those who are asleep spiritually.
Jesus warned His followers not to be caught unaware, saying:
“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.” — Matthew 25:13
Sadly, many Christians today have fallen into spiritual slumber. They have grown comfortable with the world — seeking success, entertainment, and comfort more than holiness and obedience to God. Yet the Lord says:
“Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” — Revelation 16:15
Now is the time to wake up! Now is the time to repent, to turn from sin, and to live a life that pleases God.
The coming of the Lord is very near. The trumpet could sound at any moment. Jesus said:
“Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and the other left. Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and the other left.” — Matthew 24:40–41
Ask yourself — where will you be when that moment comes? Will you be found faithful, walking in righteousness, or entangled in sin and worldliness?
The Lord is calling His people to purity and holiness. He is calling us to separate from the world and to live as pilgrims who are waiting for their eternal home.
“Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God?” — 2 Peter 3:11–12
We must live daily with eternity in mind — praying, forgiving, loving, and serving faithfully. This is not the time to compromise or to play with sin. It is the time to stand firm in truth and righteousness, for the day of the Lord will come suddenly.
“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.” — 2 Peter 3:10
Do not delay your repentance. If you have not yet given your life to Christ, do so today — not tomorrow. The Lord Jesus died on the cross to save you from eternal destruction. He is still calling, still forgiving, and still transforming lives.
“Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near.” — Isaiah 55:6
Time is short. The end is near. Let us be ready, for the King of Kings is coming soon!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, open my eyes to see the times we are living in. Give me a heart that loves righteousness and hates sin. Help me to be ready for Your coming and to walk daily in Your truth. Amen.
MARANATHA!
Jude 1:9 (NKJV) “Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’”
Jude 1:9 (NKJV)
“Yet Michael the archangel, in contending with the devil, when he disputed about the body of Moses, dared not bring against him a reviling accusation, but said, ‘The Lord rebuke you!’”
The Bible reveals that Satan’s opposition toward God’s people does not end with physical death. Many assume that once a person dies, their struggles with the devil are over. But the Scriptures show otherwise.
After Moses—the servant of God—fulfilled his divine mission, he died in Moab. Yet Scripture tells us that God Himself buried him in a secret place that no one knows to this day:
Deuteronomy 34:5–6 (NKJV) “So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. And He buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth Peor; but no one knows his grave to this day.”
Deuteronomy 34:5–6 (NKJV)
“So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. And He buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth Peor; but no one knows his grave to this day.”
One would think that once Moses died, the matter was finished. But Jude 1:9 reveals that Michael the archangel contended with the devil over the body of Moses. Imagine that! Satan had the audacity to claim even the lifeless body of a man who had walked faithfully with God.
This teaches us that Satan’s hostility toward humanity is not limited to our souls—he wants complete possession of anything that bears God’s image or glory, even the body that once served God’s purposes.
The Bible doesn’t give explicit details, but from the pattern of Scripture, we can understand his motives. Throughout history, Satan has used idolatry to draw people away from God. He likely desired to use Moses’ body or his burial site as an object of worship—knowing how easily Israel had fallen into idolatry before (Exodus 32:1–6).
Had the devil succeeded, the Israelites might have turned Moses’ tomb into a shrine, venerating his remains instead of worshiping the living God. Thus, God’s wisdom was seen in keeping Moses’ burial a mystery.
Satan’s request for the body also fits his character as “the accuser” (Revelation 12:10). He may have sought to bring up Moses’ past failings—like striking the rock in anger (Numbers 20:10–12)—to argue that Moses did not deserve a burial of honor. But Michael, knowing that divine judgment belongs only to God, rebuked the devil by saying, “The Lord rebuke you!”
This reminds us that even angels depend entirely on God’s authority to overcome the accuser. Spiritual battles are not won by reasoning or emotion, but by invoking the divine authority of the Lord.
Why does Satan still desire the body of the righteous? Because even our bodies belong to God. Scripture teaches that our bodies are “the temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). They are sacred instruments designed for God’s glory.
At the resurrection, God will raise these very bodies in glory (Romans 8:11; 1 Corinthians 15:42–44). Satan knows that our physical resurrection will be the final proof of his defeat. That’s why he tries to corrupt, destroy, or desecrate the human body even in death—through witchcraft, necromancy, or false worship.
In contrast, the believer’s body—though it may return to dust—remains under divine ownership. As Scripture says:
Psalm 116:15 (NKJV) “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” —
Psalm 116:15 (NKJV)
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” —
The enemy cannot lay lasting claim to what belongs to God.
The Hebrew word “Satan” means “accuser” or “adversary.” His mission has always been to accuse believers before God, as he did with Job:
Job 1:9,11 (NKJV) “Then Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘Does Job fear God for nothing? … Stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!’”
Job 1:9,11 (NKJV)
“Then Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘Does Job fear God for nothing? … Stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!’”
He does the same today. Whenever you deliberately sin, Satan uses that as evidence against you before God’s throne. He claims legal right to afflict, oppress, or destroy, citing your own actions as proof. If there is no repentance and no covering under the blood of Jesus, you stand spiritually exposed.
But when a believer confesses and forsakes sin, the blood of Jesus Christ silences every accusation:
1 John 2:1 (NKJV) “If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” —
1 John 2:1 (NKJV)
“If anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” —
Through the atoning work of Christ, every claim Satan has against us is nullified.
If Satan contended for Moses’ body—a man who walked with God for decades—how much more does he contend for the unsaved or the lukewarm? Without Jesus, you have no defense. Even your possessions, family, and reputation become open targets for the enemy’s schemes.
Jesus declared:
— Matthew 12:30 (NKJV) “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.” —
— Matthew 12:30 (NKJV)
“He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.” —
There is no neutral ground in spiritual warfare. You either belong to Christ or to the world—and the world lies under the sway of the evil one (1 John 5:19).
Therefore, if you live outside of Christ, the devil can easily lay claim to your life and even your death. This is why some graves are defiled through witchcraft and demonic rituals—because the enemy claims legal rights over those who died without Christ. God, being perfectly just, cannot deny Satan’s accusations when sin remains unrepented.
Jesus prayed for His followers, saying:
John 17:15 (NKJV) “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.” —
John 17:15 (NKJV)
“I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.” —
Those who belong to Christ are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13–14). The Spirit acts as both a mark of ownership and a shield of protection against the enemy’s accusations.
That’s why Paul wrote:
Philippians 4:7 (NKJV) “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” —
Philippians 4:7 (NKJV)
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” —
The word “guard” here means “to garrison” — to surround with divine defense. The believer who lives in obedience and repentance is spiritually guarded day and night.
Beloved, time is running short. The signs of the Lord’s return are being fulfilled rapidly. Satan knows his time is limited (Revelation 12:12), and that is why he works with such fury and deception.
Now is the time to surrender completely to Jesus Christ. Repent sincerely of every sin. Be baptized in water in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38), for this name carries the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
When you receive the Holy Spirit, He will strengthen, guide, and protect you until the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30).
Let Jesus be your refuge and defense against the accuser. Without Him, you stand condemned. But with Him, you stand justified, protected, and destined for eternal life.
Romans 8:1 (NASB) “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” —
Romans 8:1 (NASB)
“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” —
Satan values even your dead body, but God values your eternal soul far more. The devil seeks to claim, corrupt, and destroy what God created in His image — but Jesus came to redeem and restore it.
So, choose today whom you will serve (Joshua 24:15). Yield your life fully to Christ, that both your life and your death may belong to Him.
Romans 14:8 (NKJV) “For whether we live, we live to the Lord; and whether we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.” —
Romans 14:8 (NKJV)
“For whether we live, we live to the Lord; and whether we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.” —
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ keep you blameless in spirit, soul, and body until His glorious return (1 Thessalonians 5:23). Amen.
There are certain battles in life that cannot be won by ordinary prayer alone—they require fasting. Jesus Himself affirmed this truth after His disciples failed to cast out a demon. He revealed that spiritual authority is strengthened through prayer and fasting. This shows that fasting is not merely a physical discipline; it is a spiritual weapon that deepens our communion with God and weakens the flesh.
The word “fasting” literally means to abstain or withhold from something. Spiritually, it means to deliberately turn away from natural appetites or distractions to focus entirely on God.
Consider a hen: before she can have chicks, she must go through an incubation period of about twenty-one days. Laying eggs is not enough—there must be a season of stillness and heat. She stops eating excessively, wandering around, or playing with other hens. Her focus is singular—to nurture life until it is born.
If she becomes careless and abandons the eggs, they lose warmth and die. In the same way, believers must separate themselves for a time of “spiritual incubation”—a period of fasting and prayer to birth new things in the Spirit. The prophet Isaiah described this principle clearly:
“As soon as Zion was in labor, she gave birth to her children.”(Isaiah 66:8, NKJV)
No new spiritual life can be born without travail—without the heat of persistent prayer and the consecration that comes through fasting.
Fasting is not limited to abstaining from food—it is a lifestyle of separation and focus.A student who desires to excel must “close certain doors.” He may go to boarding school, leaving behind comfort, entertainment, and family life for months. He wakes up early, studies late, and endures hardships for the sake of his goal.
He does this because he understands a simple truth: you cannot hold on to two things and succeed in both. As Jesus said,
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other.”(Matthew 6:24, NKJV)
To gain mastery in one area, you must let go of another. That is the essence of spiritual fasting—choosing God above all else.
Many believers fail to overcome sin, not because God is weak, but because they have not yet “closed the doors” to temptation.You may say, “I have prayed for years but I still struggle with sexual sin.” The reason is that you have not yet cut off the sources that feed your weakness—ungodly company, immoral media, or worldly conversations. Scripture says:
“Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.’”(1 Corinthians 15:33, NKJV)
Fasting helps us silence the voice of the flesh and tune our hearts to the voice of the Spirit. When we fast with a sincere heart, the Holy Spirit strengthens us to overcome sin, temptation, and worldly desires.
Jesus Himself modeled this when He fasted forty days in the wilderness before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1–2). After that period, Scripture records:
“Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee.”(Luke 4:14, NKJV)
Power follows consecration.
Have you ever wondered why some people read the Bible but never understand it? Often it’s because their hearts are filled with worldly distractions.Just as a student who skips foundational lessons cannot understand advanced topics, a believer who neglects the Word cannot grow in revelation.
Paul told Timothy:
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”(2 Timothy 2:15, NKJV)
Spiritual understanding requires discipline. When we fast from distractions—social media, entertainment, idle talk—we make room for the Holy Spirit to teach us. Jesus promised:
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”(John 14:26, NKJV)
The Bible becomes clear when the heart is quiet before God.
Many believers lose spiritual fire because they do not guard what God has planted in them. The Word is a seed—if not protected, it can be stolen by worldly influences. Jesus said:
“Now the ones sown among thorns are those who hear the word, but the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.”(Mark 4:18–19, NKJV)
Every time we fill our minds with endless TV dramas, football matches, or social media, we quench the spiritual warmth that sustains growth. You cannot incubate both the world and the Word at the same time. One must die for the other to live.
People often say, “Let me watch a movie or football to relax or clear my mind.” In truth, these distractions numb the heart and silence conviction. Over time, the Word once planted within begins to fade away. That is why Scripture urges us:
“Do not quench the Spirit.”(1 Thessalonians 5:19, NKJV)
The more we fast from worldly pleasures, the sharper our spiritual sensitivity becomes. Fasting restores focus and keeps the fire of the Holy Spirit burning in our hearts.
We are living in the closing hours of history. The Lord’s return is near, and the Church must remain alert and consecrated. Jesus said:
“Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”(Luke 21:36, NKJV)
This is why fasting and prayer are essential disciplines for the end-time believer. They keep us awake spiritually and preserve our crowns.
“Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown.”(Revelation 3:11, NKJV)
ConclusionFasting is not punishment—it is preparation. It is the sacred act of silencing the flesh so the spirit may thrive. It sharpens discernment, strengthens prayer, and releases divine power. Just as the hen must incubate her eggs in stillness, so must believers withdraw into the presence of God to “incubate” spiritual life until it manifests.
“Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength;They shall mount up with wings like eagles.”(Isaiah 40:31, NKJV)
Let us therefore fast not as a ritual, but as a pursuit of deeper intimacy with God.For “this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
May the Lord bless, strengthen, and renew us in His presence. Amen.
Shalom,
May the name of our Savior, the King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus Christ, be blessed forever. Today is another day, and I invite you to reflect with me on the Word of God.
The Scripture says:
Romans 10:1-2 (ESV) –
“Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.”
From this passage, we see that mere zeal or effort (“diligence”) is not enough. Without proper knowledge of how to truly worship God, our efforts can be in vain. This explains why many people, despite their dedication, feel distant from God—because zeal alone cannot replace understanding.
Today, we will examine two groups of people described in the Bible who are zealous for God but lack knowledge:
Those within the Christian faith
Those outside the Christian faith who seek God
We will look at both groups biblically and, if we recognize ourselves in either, we must humble ourselves and turn back to God before it is too late.
1. Christians Zealous but Lacking Knowledge Consider Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha welcomed Jesus into her home, but she became overly busy with tasks: preparing meals, serving guests, fetching water—she labored for the Lord but missed what was most important. Meanwhile, her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to His teaching.
Luke 10:41-42 (ESV) –
“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”
Martha’s example represents Christians who are industrious for God but neglect spiritual essentials—prayer, Bible study, listening to the Holy Spirit, proper baptism, and understanding God’s will. Their good works are commendable, but before God, they are incomplete because knowledge and spiritual growth are lacking.
This reminds us: it is better to focus on learning God’s Word, obeying it, and growing in faith than only performing visible acts of service.
2. Non-Christians Zealous but Lacking Knowledge The second group includes non-Christians who sincerely believe they are honoring God but lack proper knowledge.
An example is the Apostle Paul before his conversion. Though zealous for God, he persecuted Christians, believing he was serving God (Philippians 3:6-7). Similarly, some Muslims or adherents of other religions may act zealously in worship, but without the true knowledge of God through Jesus, their efforts do not align with God’s plan.
Hosea 4:6 (ESV) – “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”
Proper knowledge is found in Jesus Christ, as all wisdom and understanding are in Him:
Colossians 2:3 (ESV) –
“In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
To worship God in truth, one must know Jesus:
John 14:6 (ESV) –
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Even Christians can fall into the same trap—prioritizing church activities, choir, or giving over prayer, Bible study, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit. This is the time to examine ourselves, repent, and seek to worship God in Spirit and truth (John 4:24), learning His will through Scripture.
Conclusion:
Zeal without knowledge is incomplete. Whether inside or outside the faith, it is knowledge of God through Jesus Christ that makes worship meaningful and pleasing. Let us strive not only to serve but to know God deeply through His Word and Spirit.
May the Lord bless you.
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Matthew 11:28–30
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”
When you meditate on these words of the Lord Jesus, you realize that He compared the people before Him to beasts of burden — like donkeys or oxen — that have been tied with a hard yoke around their necks and forced to pull heavy loads by a cruel master.
Jesus could see that these “animals” were suffering — their necks wounded by the harsh yoke, their bodies weighed down by loads far beyond their strength. Worse still, their master was merciless — beating them, driving them harshly, and never allowing them rest. It was work from dawn to dusk, without compassion.
Seeing this, the Lord was moved with compassion and said,
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”
In other words, “Leave that cruel master and come to Me.”The phrase “I will give you rest” shows that where they were, there was no rest at all — only toil and pain. Then He added,
“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me.”
This means, “Remove the hard yoke of your old master and take Mine instead.” His yoke represents discipleship, a new life of obedience guided by love and humility. Jesus says,
“For I am gentle and humble in heart” — not like that harsh master who enslaved you.
And then comes the promise:
“You will find rest for your souls.”
A Modern PictureImagine you work under a boss who pays you very little, gives you impossible tasks, shouts at you, and never appreciates you. Then another employer approaches you and says,“Come work for me. I will pay you well, give you fair work, and treat you kindly because I am gentle and humble.”Would you refuse? Certainly not — you would leave the old job immediately without looking back!
This is exactly what Jesus is saying.The Bible teaches that
“everyone who sins is a slave to sin” (John 8:34).
Anyone who has not received Christ is under the slavery of Satan. And Satan is a cruel master — proud, harsh, and merciless. His yoke is painful, and his burden is heavy. He uses people to destroy themselves and others, only to cast them into eternal ruin. Jesus said,
“The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
The Call to FreedomBut today Jesus stands before you, saying:
“My child, enough of this slavery to sin and Satan. Take off that yoke, lay down that burden, and come to Me. You will find rest for your soul.”
Will you refuse such an invitation to peace?If you desire true rest, come to Jesus today.
To come to Him means to repent — to remove the things that tie you to your old master. Cast away sin and its symbols: leave behind ungodly dressing, immoral habits, drunkenness, lust, and every weight that enslaves you (Hebrews 12:1). These are the heavy loads that crush the soul.
At the cross of Calvary, Jesus carried your burden — your guilt, shame, and sin (1 Peter 2:24). All you need to do is surrender to Him. When you do, you will experience a peace so deep that no words can describe. You will feel like a prisoner suddenly set free — your mind clear, your heart light, your soul at rest.
As Romans 5:1 says,
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Even when Satan tries to threaten or tempt you afterward, remember — you are now under a new Master: Jesus Christ, who is gentle and humble. He will never abandon you or harm you. He promises,
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
A Final WordDear friend, Christ offers rest — true rest.If you have not yet received Him, today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Lay down your burdens at the cross, and you will find the joy and peace your heart has longed for.
“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
May the Lord bless you, give you His peace, and make your soul rest in Him forever.