Title December 2020

Shalom. The Lord Jesus said these profound words:

John 11:9 “

Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world.
10 But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

In these verses, Jesus presents a vivid metaphor of light and time, equating His own mission and presence in the world to the limited hours of daylight. Theologically, this highlights the urgency of God’s grace and the window of opportunity for salvation. It is a clear reminder that salvation is not to be taken for granted.

Jesus, referring to Himself as the Light of the World (John 8:12), shows us that His coming into the world is like the daytime—offering illumination, guidance, and truth. As the light of the sun enables us to work, Christ’s presence on earth enables us to do the work of the Kingdom—bringing forth the gospel, healing the sick, and calling sinners to repentance. However, just as the sun sets and night follows, there will come a time when the opportunity to work in God’s Kingdom will cease, and judgment will follow (Matthew 24:36-44).

The Bible teaches that the grace of salvation is a limited time offer. The analogy of daylight here is significant. The time for receiving Christ’s light is finite—just as the sun only shines for twelve hours during the day. This truth is echoed throughout Scripture, showing that God’s grace operates within a set period of time. Jesus Himself said:

John 9:4 “

We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.”

In other words, the “day” is the time of opportunity for salvation through Christ, and the “night” represents the time when that opportunity will end. This is a warning not just for Israel, but for all people throughout history. Theologically, this points to the sovereignty of God and the ultimate timing of salvation.

The light that Christ brings does not last indefinitely for every individual. This might be a difficult concept to grasp, but it is in line with God’s plan throughout history. As we see in the gospel narratives, God’s grace is not a universal, constant offer for all people at every moment. We learn from the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish people that once a time of grace passes, it may move to others. Jesus Himself was sent to the Jews first, but as they rejected Him, that grace was extended to the Gentiles (Matthew 21:43).

This truth is deeply sobering. The Bible says that while the Jews had the first opportunity to receive Christ, they rejected Him:

Matthew 23:37 “

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 chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!”

This rejection of Christ by the Jews resulted in God’s grace moving to the Gentiles, as shown in the New Testament. Paul and other apostles took the gospel to the Gentiles after the Jews largely rejected it (Acts 13:46-47). Theologically, this represents God’s divine plan of salvation unfolding in stages. The grace that the Jews once had has been extended to us, the Gentiles, but this does not mean that the grace will last forever. There is still an end to this time of grace before Christ’s return.

It’s important to understand that while grace is still available to us, it is not something that remains forever in one place. Just as daylight shifts across the globe, God’s grace also shifts geographically and historically. Theologically, this is referred to as God’s “dispensational plan”—where God interacts with humanity in different ways during different periods of history. Right now, we are living in the age of the Gentiles (Romans 11:25), but a time is coming when God will turn His attention back to Israel, bringing about the final fulfillment of His promises.

Romans 11:25-26 says,

“For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved…”

This means that the “time of the Gentiles” will come to an end, and salvation will again be offered to Israel. In this period, the Light of the Gospel is shining particularly in Africa, as the Church has flourished here more than in any other region in recent times. Theologically, this reflects the grace of God spreading across nations, fulfilling His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

However, just as each nation and person has their “twelve hours,” we must recognize that this period is not unlimited. The Light of the world is currently available, but it will not remain forever. Once the final hour of grace has passed, no one can be saved. That is why it’s urgent to respond to Christ when you sense His calling.

John 11:9 once again says: “

Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world.

10 But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

There will come a time when the Light will no longer be available, and those who have rejected Him will find themselves stumbling in darkness, unable to find their way. This is the tragic end for those who ignore or delay their response to the gospel. Theologically, this points to the finality of God’s judgment. The Light that offers salvation will eventually be withdrawn, and those who have rejected it will face eternal separation from God (Matthew 25:30, Revelation 21:8).

Luke 13:24 Jesus warns, “

Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”

This is the stark reality of the gospel—God offers grace and salvation, but there is a time limit. Once that time ends, there is no more opportunity to receive salvation. The light of Christ may no longer be available to those who have ignored it.

For us in the church today, this is a reminder to take our salvation seriously and to make the most of the opportunities God gives us to share the gospel. We are at the close of a time of grace, and soon the door will be closed. Just as the Israelites failed to recognize their moment of salvation, we too could miss the opportunity if we don’t respond to Christ while we still can.

2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “

For He says: ‘In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Let us not delay our response to Christ. The time is now. The light of the world is shining, but we don’t know how long it will stay.

Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! Welcome to this Bible study.

As we know, Satan is our primary enemy. The Bible tells us that he prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). This means that we are always a target of his attacks, and it’s important to stay alert. This “devouring” represents both spiritual destruction (through temptations, sins, and false teachings) and physical harm (such as sickness, emotional turmoil, and despair). It is crucial to recognize that the enemy does not only attack when we sin but can attack us at any point, even when we are trying to live righteously.

There are several ways through which Satan brings attacks, both physical and spiritual. These can manifest as physical illnesses or spiritual struggles, like being tormented by evil spirits, experiencing fear, doubt, or various weaknesses. If you notice these symptoms in your life, it’s likely that the enemy has launched an attack against you.

The Bible reminds us in Ephesians 6:12 that

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

Here are some of the major doors through which Satan attacks people:

Adultery and Fornication

The first and most significant door that Satan uses to destroy people’s lives is adultery and fornication. This sin is even more destructive than witchcraft.

1 Corinthians 6:18 warns,

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

Sexual sin is not just a physical act; it is a sin against our own bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). When someone engages in sexual immorality, it’s like they are declaring that their body is a house for unclean spirits. This door is wide open for demons of any kind to enter.

Other doors through which the enemy attacks include witchcraft, idol worship, unforgiveness, hatred, and even murder. Matthew 15:19 also tells us that

 “out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.” These actions are gateways for spiritual and physical destruction.

Now, you might be thinking that you don’t engage in adultery, witchcraft, or idol worship. You might not drink or kill. You might be doing your best to live according to God’s Word, yet still feel like you’re under attack.

If that’s the case, then there’s another door through which Satan might be attacking you that you might not even realize—and that door is the lack of prayer.

The Power of Prayer

The prayer we’re talking about here is not the kind where someone prays for you, like when a pastor lays hands on you. No, we’re talking about your personal prayers—those moments when you connect with God on your own, asking Him about your life and the lives of others.

Philippians 4:6 says,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

” And these prayers should not be rushed; they should last at least an hour. Not once a week or month, but daily.

Satan has deceived many people into thinking that once they’ve accepted Jesus as their Savior, they don’t need to pray often. They believe that because they are covered by His blood, they don’t need to pray every day. But don’t be fooled! Even though Jesus was perfect, He prayed often and with great passion.

Hebrews 5:7 tells us,

“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”

And Jesus Himself said:

Luke 22:46

“Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.”

Think of prayer like bathing. A person who bathes daily is reducing their risk of sickness. But someone who refuses to bathe but continues to eat well and brush their teeth might seem healthy for a while, but eventually, the lack of hygiene will catch up to them and bring sickness.

In the same way, a person who doesn’t pray but simply reads the Bible or avoids certain sins might feel spiritually healthy for a time, but the enemy will find an opening.

1 Peter 5:8-9 reminds us to “

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

Resist him, standing firm in the faith.” Without prayer, it becomes difficult to resist the enemy, and spiritual attacks can catch us off guard.

But when you combine reading the Word, avoiding sin, and praying diligently, it’s like someone who eats well, bathes regularly, and maintains their health. Such a person is less likely to fall ill spiritually or physically because they have closed all the doors to attack.

Matthew 26:40 “

Then He returned to His disciples and found them sleeping. ‘Could you not watch with Me for one hour?’ He asked Peter.”

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

Self-Reflection on Your Prayer Life

So, if you’re still struggling with spiritual attacks, take a look at your prayer life. Ask yourself: when was the last time you prayed for at least an hour?

James 4:2 says, “

You do not have because you do not ask.”

You might not be committing sins like adultery or witchcraft, but if you’re neglecting your prayer life, that’s where the problem lies.

Even if you haven’t seen the consequences of not praying, know that they are coming. Hosea 4:6 says, “

My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.”

When we lack the spiritual discipline of prayer, we leave ourselves vulnerable to attack. Don’t wait until things get difficult before you start praying. Begin to fix this today, and you’ll see the difference in your life.

May God bless you abundantly.

Maranatha!

In James 3:1, the Apostle James warns us:

“Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (ESV)

In essence, James is cautioning us that not everyone should aspire to be a teacher in the Church. While teaching is an important role, it comes with serious responsibility and a stricter judgment before God.

James’ words were inspired by the Holy Spirit and speak directly to the issue of spiritual authority within the Church, which was also relevant in his time and remains so today. In many churches, there can be a tendency for everyone to want to take on the role of a teacher or an expert. However, James’ caution serves as a reminder that the Church is not to be led by personal ambition but by the gifts the Holy Spirit has distributed to each believer. The Apostle Paul reinforces this in 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, where he reminds us that the Spirit gives different gifts to different people, and each is meant to contribute in a unique way:

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6, ESV)

The Church is intended to function in unity, with each member fulfilling their God-given calling. Not everyone is meant to be a teacher, just as not everyone is meant to be a pastor, an evangelist, or a prophet.

When everyone seeks to be a teacher, it creates confusion and disorder. The gifts of the Spirit are meant to complement one another, not overlap to the point where roles and callings are blurred. For instance, someone might be gifted in healing or miracles but might desire to teach or pastor, which could lead to teaching things outside of God’s Word. In such cases, false teachings can arise—either by adding to Scripture or subtracting from it. This, according to Scripture, is a serious matter.

Revelation 22:18-19 gives a stern warning about altering God’s Word:

“I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book, and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.” (Revelation 22:18-19, ESV)

This is a reminder of the gravity of being faithful to God’s Word. Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it is about faithfully transmitting what God has revealed in His Word. Teachers are held to a higher standard because they influence the spiritual growth of others (James 3:1).

As Paul warned in 2 Timothy 2:15,

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” (ESV)

Teachers are entrusted with the sacred duty of rightly dividing the Word of God and teaching it with integrity.

Therefore, we are called to recognize and stay in our God-given roles. If you are called to be a teacher, then teach. If you are called to be a pastor, then shepherd the flock. If you are an evangelist, then go and preach the gospel. Don’t seek positions or gifts that you have not been called to.

As 1 Peter 4:10-11 reminds us:

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 4:10-11, ESV)

When we stay in our calling, we avoid confusion and division, and we honor God by fulfilling the role He has specifically assigned to us.

May the Lord bless us and guide us in fulfilling the callings He has placed on .

A preacher once said, “God is not impressed by our success, but by our faith.” That may sound surprising, especially in a world that celebrates results. But it reflects a deep biblical truth. Scripture says, “

Habakkuk 2:4, ESV).

The righteous shall live by his faith”  

In other words, God values trust over performance.

Many believers assume that when their plans go smoothly—when ministries flourish, finances align, and life feels fruitful—that’s a clear sign of divine approval. But God doesn’t always operate on human logic. In fact, Scripture shows us that He sometimes interrupts even the most sincere efforts—not to discourage us, but to deepen our dependence on Him.

Take the Apostle Paul as an example. He was passionate about preaching the gospel, traveling widely to spread the message of Christ. Yet multiple times, his plans were interrupted—by imprisonment, shipwrecks, or resistance.

In Acts 16:6–7 (NIV), we read: “

Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.”

Imagine that: the Holy Spirit prevented them from preaching in a certain area. Why? Because God’s purpose was bigger than Paul’s immediate plan. Sometimes, divine redirection is hidden within what feels like a closed door.

In another case, Paul was imprisoned for preaching the gospel (Acts 21–28). Yet it was during these imprisonments that he wrote much of the New Testament, including letters that still shape Christian doctrine today. So even though his outward ministry was “interrupted,” God’s work through him never stopped.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…” (Romans 8:28, NIV).

We see this in the life of the prophet Jeremiah as well. In Jeremiah 37, after delivering God’s word, Jeremiah was falsely accused of betrayal and thrown into a cistern. God could have protected him from that injustice—but He didn’t. Why? Because faith isn’t built only on ease and comfort. It’s forged in moments of uncertainty, where we choose to believe that God is still with us. As Jeremiah wrote later, “

Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him” (Jeremiah 17:7, NIV).

Even Jesus, in His earthly ministry, faced interruptions. In Mark 6:31–34 (ESV), Jesus invited His disciples to rest after ministry, but a large crowd found them. Moved with compassion, He changed His plan and taught them. This shows us that love often requires flexibility. Service to God sometimes means allowing your plans to be reshaped for the sake of others.

In practical terms, this means that when God interrupts your life—when your goals, routines, or dreams are suddenly overturned—it’s not always a sign that something is wrong. Sometimes, it’s the exact place where faith is born. Joseph was faithful in Potiphar’s house, yet still thrown into prison (Genesis 39). But even there, “

the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love” (Genesis 39:21, ESV).

So when your plans fall apart—when you face delays, disappointments, or divine detours—don’t lose heart. People may say, “If your God cares, why did He let this happen?” But they don’t understand that God is not focused on making life easy. He is focused on forming Christ in us (Romans 8:29).

Faith means trusting that God is still working, even when nothing seems to make sense. And because He is faithful, He won’t leave you there.

As Psalm 37:23–24 (NIV) reminds us:

“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”

So don’t be discouraged when God disrupts your plans—for His name’s sake. Trust Him. He knows what He’s doing. And He will strengthen you in every season.

Shalom.

Question:

Praise the Lord. In Psalm 51:5, David says

, “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.” Does this mean David was not Jesse’s legitimate son?

Answer:
At first glance, Psalm 51:5 may seem to imply that David was born out of wedlock. The verse reads:

“Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.” (Psalm 51:5, ESV)

However, this verse is not making a statement about David’s mother’s morality or his legitimacy as Jesse’s son. Instead, David is expressing a profound theological truth about original sin—that all human beings inherit a sinful nature from the moment of conception.

In Psalm 51, David is repenting deeply after being confronted by the prophet Nathan for committing adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrating the death of her husband, Uriah (2 Samuel 11–12). His words are an honest confession of the sin that permeates his very nature—not just his actions, but his spiritual condition from the beginning.

“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.”
(Psalm 51:1–2, NIV)

He continues in verse 3:

“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
(Psalm 51:3, NIV)

And then he acknowledges the root of it all:

“Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.”
(Psalm 51:5, NIV)

This is a reflection of the doctrine of original sin, which teaches that all humanity has inherited a fallen nature from Adam:

“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
(Romans 5:12, NIV)

David’s statement is not unique. He echoes the same truth in another Psalm:

“Even from birth the wicked go astray; from the womb they are wayward, spreading lies.”
(Psalm 58:3, NIV)

This shows that sinfulness is not something we acquire later in life—it is part of our human condition from the very beginning. David isn’t singling himself out; he’s acknowledging a universal truth.

What About David’s Family Background?

Some readers speculate that David may have been an illegitimate son because, in 1 Samuel 16, when the prophet Samuel came to Jesse’s house to anoint a new king, Jesse presented all his sons except David. David was left in the fields tending the sheep:

“Then Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Are all your sons here?’ And he said, ‘There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.’”
(1 Samuel 16:11, ESV)

This might raise questions about how Jesse viewed David, but the text does not explicitly say that David was illegitimate. Even if David had been born of a concubine or lesser wife (which is possible in ancient Israelite culture), the Bible does not treat him as any less legitimate in God’s plan. In fact, God chose David as king and called him “a man after My own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14, NIV).

The Greater Point: The Need for a New Birth

Whether David was born of a legitimate marriage or not is ultimately not the most important issue. What matters is that all human beings are born in sin and need to be born again through faith in Jesus Christ:

“Jesus replied, ‘Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.’”
(John 3:3, NIV)

This new birth—spiritual regeneration—comes only through faith in Christ. Only one person in all of history was born without sin: Jesus Christ. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, and He lived a sinless life:

“He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”
(1 Peter 2:22, NIV)

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
(2 Corinthians 5:21, NIV)

Final Encouragement

So regardless of whether David’s birth situation was ideal or not, the core issue is not the identity of one’s parents but the identity one receives through Christ. Whether rich or poor, born in wedlock or not, an orphan or raised in a full household—it is only through the new birth in Christ that anyone can enter the kingdom of God.

Therefore, repent of your sins, be cleansed by the blood of Jesus, and become a new creation.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
(2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)

Shalom.

In the Bible, the term “fortress” is often used to describe a place of safety, security, and refuge. One of the most notable references comes from the Psalms and other writings of David.

For example, in 2 Samuel 22:2, David declares:

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge.” (ESV)

David’s comparison of God to a fortress draws from the understanding of fortresses in ancient times. These were strongholds built to protect a city or nation from invaders. A fortress typically had high, thick walls that were difficult to breach. There were also guard towers where watchmen kept a constant lookout for enemies, and if danger was spotted, the people would retreat inside the fortress for protection.

In ancient Israel and other civilizations, a fortress was not just a building but a symbol of safety, strength, and security in times of danger. The fortress was the last line of defense, a place where one could find protection from those who wished harm.

Here are a few Bible verses that mention the concept of a fortress:

Psalm 18:2: “T

he Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” (ESV)

This verse emphasizes God as not just a fortress, but a complete source of defense—our rock, shield, and stronghold.

Psalm 71:3: “

Be to me a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come; you have given the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress.” (ESV)

Here, the Psalmist refers to God as a “rock of refuge,” a constant place to which one can return for protection and deliverance.

Psalm 144:2: “

My lovingkindness and my fortress, my high tower and my deliverer, my shield and the one in whom I take refuge, who subdues my people under me.” (NKJV)

In this verse, David highlights multiple attributes of God—His lovingkindness, fortress, and deliverance—all qualities that make God a source of ultimate security.

These verses show that, for David, the fortress was not a mere physical building, but a spiritual reality symbolizing God’s protection, strength, and trustworthiness.

What About Us? What is Our Fortress?

For us, as believers in Christ, there is only one true fortress—JESUS CHRIST. No matter how powerful, wealthy, or influential we become in this world, if we do not have Christ as our fortress, we cannot stand against the spiritual forces of evil.

In Ephesians 6:12, the Apostle Paul writes:

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

(NKJV) This reveals the nature of the battle we face—it’s not against physical enemies, but against spiritual forces, and only Christ can provide the ultimate protection.

John 10:28-29 assures us of Christ’s protective power: “

I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.”

(ESV) This passage highlights the security we have in Christ—no external force can remove us from His protective care.

Jesus Himself speaks about being our refuge in Matthew 11:28, where He invites us:

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (ESV)

In Christ, we find peace and protection from the struggles and dangers of life.

Jesus as Our Fortress
Jesus is not only our fortress, but He is our rock, shield, and refuge. The Psalms often speak of God as a “rock” or “refuge,” and Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of these roles.

In 1 Corinthians 10:4, Paul writes, “..

.and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.” (ESV)

Jesus is the Rock that provides spiritual sustenance and protection.

Jesus is our true and lasting fortress because He secures our salvation.

Hebrews 6:19 states: “

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (NIV)

Christ, as our fortress, is the foundation upon which our lives are built, offering us not just protection in this life, but eternal security in Him.

Why is Christ Our Only Fortress?
Without Christ, we are vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy, who seeks to destroy and deceive us.

John 10:10 tells us: “

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (ESV)

The enemy’s intention is to rob us of life, but in Christ, we find life and protection.

No matter how strong or safe our earthly circumstances may seem, without Jesus, we have no true security.

Psalm 127:1 says,

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” (ESV)

This reminds us that true security comes only from God. Without Him, our efforts are futile.

What Should We Do?
If you are still outside of Christ, you are vulnerable to the spiritual attacks of the enemy.

2 Corinthians 6:2 urges: “

For he says, ‘In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.’ Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

The time to seek refuge in Christ is now. These are perilous times, and only in Christ can we find lasting protection.

If you are ready to repent and make Jesus your fortress, He will become your ultimate refuge and protection.

As Romans 10:9 says: “

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (ESV)

Prayer of Repentance
If you are ready to accept Christ as your fortress and savior, open your heart to Him today. Click here for the prayer of repentance and further guidance.

May God bless you abundantly

The Bible teaches us that animals, like humans, are created by God, and they experience pain and suffering. Since God is the Creator of all things, He cares deeply about how we treat His creation, including animals.

Romans 8:22 –

“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” (NIV)

This verse highlights that the entire creation—animals, nature, and humanity—is affected by the brokenness of the world, as a result of sin. Just as we suffer, animals experience pain. Therefore, causing unnecessary harm to them contradicts God’s will to protect and care for His creation.

The Bible allows for two primary reasons why it might be necessary to kill or discipline an animal:

1. For Food or Essential Use

It is permissible to slaughter animals for food or when necessary for survival. This is not seen as sinful, as God provides animals for our sustenance. In the Old Testament, God gave specific instructions regarding the use of animals for food:

Deuteronomy 12:15 –

“Nevertheless, you may slaughter your animals in any of your towns and eat as much of the meat as you want, as if it were gazelle or deer, according to the blessing the Lord your God gives you.” (NIV)

Here, God provides a way for His people to use animals for food, and this practice is not sinful as long as it is done with respect for God’s creation. Similarly, trade and other necessary uses of animals for livelihood are also acceptable in God’s eyes.

2. For Protection or When Animals Cause Harm

The Bible also allows for the killing of animals when they pose a danger or cause harm. This can include wild animals or domestic animals that have become a threat. The Bible clearly lays out the principle of justice and protection in such cases:

Exodus 21:28-29 –

“If an ox gores a man or a woman to death, the ox must be stoned, and its owner also must be put to death. However, if the ox has had a habit of goring and the owner has been warned but has not kept it penned up, and it kills a man or a woman, the ox is to be stoned and the owner also is to be put to death.” (NIV)

In this case, an animal is held accountable for its actions, and its owner is responsible if they failed to prevent harm. This emphasizes the importance of justice in the treatment of animals, particularly when they endanger human life. Similarly, harmful pests such as snakes, rodents, and insects that spread disease can be removed or killed as a protective measure.

However, the Bible does not allow cruelty or unnecessary harm to animals. If an animal is not a threat, there is no justification for harming it.

Theological Insights: The Importance of Compassion for Animals

God’s creation includes both humans and animals, and He has made us stewards of the earth.

Genesis 1:26 says, “

Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’” (NIV)

This verse emphasizes humanity’s role as stewards or caretakers of the earth. As stewards, we are entrusted with the responsibility of caring for God’s creation, which includes showing kindness and respect to animals.

Psalm 24:1 also reminds us, “

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” (NIV)

God owns everything, including animals, and as humans, we are accountable to Him for how we treat them. This means that cruelty toward animals is not just an ethical issue; it is a theological one, as it goes against God’s command to care for His creation.

The Example of Balaam and His Donkey

In Numbers 22:21-29, we see an interesting story where Balaam’s donkey sees an angel of the Lord blocking the road. Balaam, not seeing the angel, strikes the donkey in frustration. God then opens the donkey’s mouth, and it asks Balaam why he is beating it. The Lord rebukes Balaam, showing that He does not condone the unnecessary suffering of animals.

Numbers 22:28 –

“Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’” (NIV)

This story illustrates that even when we don’t understand why an animal behaves in a certain way, we should not resort to violence. God cares for all creatures, and He expects us to do the same. Balaam’s actions were unjust because the donkey had done nothing wrong.

A Blessing for Kindness to Animals

In addition to the prohibition against cruelty, the Bible also highlights the reward for showing kindness to animals. One notable example is found in Deuteronomy 22:6-7, where God instructs His people to show compassion to a bird by not taking the mother bird along with her young:

Deuteronomy 22:6-7 –

“If you come across a bird’s nest beside the road, either in a tree or on the ground, and the mother bird is sitting on them or on the eggs, do not take the mother with the young. Let the mother go, and take the young. Do this so that it may go well with you and you may live long.” (NIV)

This small act of mercy—allowing the mother bird to go free—comes with a promise of blessing and long life. This is an example of how God rewards those who treat animals with kindness.

Conclusion

The Bible teaches that God cares for all of His creation, and we are called to be good stewards of it. While it is acceptable to use animals for food and protection, unnecessary harm or cruelty is not in line with God’s will. God wants us to show kindness and respect to His creatures, reflecting His love and compassion. When we treat animals well, we honor God as the Creator of all things.

Shalom.