WHY SHOULD YOU DESPAIR?

Why give up in your pursuit of God? Even if God Himself were to say, “I don’t want you; you’re unworthy,” you should never despair. Why? Because God’s mercy and love are not limited by our failures. Scripture consistently reminds us that God seeks the heart that turns to Him in repentance and faith.

There is a seed of discouragement that Satan plants in the hearts of many believers—a seed that convinces them they are unworthy, that God cannot be with them, or that they have failed beyond redemption. Many stop moving forward in faith, especially when prayers seem delayed. I have met countless people who feel abandoned, even by God.

But you must not give up. Even people whom God initially rejected or who were steeped in sin were not beyond the reach of His mercy. Some had angered God greatly, yet they did not despair. If God heard and restored them, how much more will He hear you, whose life is already redeemed in Christ?

Psalm 107:10-15 (ESV)
“Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons,
for they had rebelled against the words of God and spurned the counsel of the Most High.
So he humbled their hearts with hard labor; they stumbled, and there was none to help.
Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.
He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death and broke their bonds apart.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of men!”

Notice the spiritual principle here: even those in bondage and rebellion, facing the consequences of sin, can cry out to God and be delivered. God’s mercy is not earned—it is responded to through faith and repentance.

Consider the example of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:22-28 (ESV). Before her encounter with Jesus, she still had ties to idolatry. Yet when her daughter was afflicted by a demon, she did not give up, even when Jesus seemed silent or initially dismissive. She persisted in faith, humbling herself before the Lord, and Jesus healed her daughter:

“O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.”

Her persistence demonstrates a key theological truth: faith is active, persistent, and humble. God honors the humility of those who recognize their dependence on Him, even if their lives have been far from perfect.

Another example is King Ahab. Though one of the most wicked kings of Israel, married to the idolatrous Jezebel, when confronted with God’s judgment, he humbled himself:

1 Kings 21:27-29 (ESV)
“When Ahab heard these words, he tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his flesh and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about meekly. Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah, saying, ‘Do you see how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself, I will not bring the disaster in his days. I will bring it on his house in the days of his son.'”

Even the Bible’s “villains” reveal God’s desire to restore rather than condemn. God’s discipline is corrective, not merely punitive.

King Manasseh provides an even more powerful example. Considered one of the most sinful kings of Judah, he led Israel into idolatry, sacrificed his children in fire, and practiced witchcraft. Yet, during his captivity in Babylon, he humbled himself, prayed, and God restored him:

2 Chronicles 33:12-13 (ESV)
“And when he was in distress, he entreated the Lord his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. And he prayed to him, and God was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea and brought him again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the Lord is God.”

Here, we see the theological truth of God’s sovereign mercy: even the worst sinners, when they repent, find forgiveness. This is a foreshadowing of the gospel of Christ, which offers forgiveness to all who turn to Him, no matter the depth of their sin.

If God listened to and restored sinners like Ahab and Manasseh, how much more will He hear you, a redeemed child of God? Scripture assures us that God hears the prayers of His children:

Psalm 34:17 (ESV)
“When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.”

Psalm 105:8 (ESV)
“He remembers his covenant forever, the word that he commanded, for a thousand generations.”

As believers, our prayers are not ignored. Our cries for help are noticed, our tears recorded. The fact that we have been saved by Christ guarantees God’s presence with us:

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)
“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Even in times of waiting, delay, or apparent silence, God is at work. The call to persistent faith, humility, and prayer is a constant theme in Scripture.

Psalm 107:4-7 (ESV)
“They wandered in the wilderness in a desert way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them. He led them by a straight way, to go to a city where they might dwell.”

Theological takeaway: God is the faithful guide who leads His people out of spiritual darkness and into life, just as He guided Israel physically in the wilderness. Our wandering and trials are never wasted when we cry out to Him in faith.

James 5:11 (ESV) reminds us:
“Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.”

You are called to persist, to trust, and to cling to God. Your faith matters. You are precious in His eyes. No sin, no delay, no past mistake can separate you from His mercy when you seek Him in humility and truth.

So, do not despair. Continue following God diligently. Pray, persist, and trust that He is working all things for your good. The Lord bless you and keep you.

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Learn to Dedicate Yourself to God and Be Hospitable

“Hebrews 13:2 (ESV)

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – 

Shalom, beloved in Christ! Today, let us reflect on the vital importance of dedicating ourselves to God’s work and practicing hospitality. The Word of God is not just a guide for our lives—it is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105, ESV). Our spiritual growth and witness to others depend on obedience to His Word.

Dedication and Faith in Action

I have been corresponding with a young Tanzanian woman who lives in Zambia near the border. Despite her youth, she demonstrates a deep love for God and a willingness to serve Him faithfully. She often asks profound spiritual questions, such as:

“Who is the one that cannot be stopped even if removed?”

“How can I discern the voice of an angel from the Holy Spirit?”

Her questions show spiritual maturity, especially for someone so young. Even though her family is not particularly religious and she faces many personal challenges, she continues to boldly share the Gospel with others. She recently reported:

“Even though the churches here were closed due to COVID-19, I went out to witness. People I spoke to asked for my number so I could pray with them and guide them in repentance.”

Her story exemplifies faith in action, aligning with

James 2:17 (ESV):

“So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

True faith is always accompanied by obedience and service.

A Divine Encounter

A few days ago, she had an encounter reminiscent of Abraham’s visitation in

Genesis 14:8-18, where God’s angels interacted with ordinary people to accomplish His purposes. She shared:

“Early yesterday morning, while doing chores, I heard someone calling my name. I thought it was my imagination at first. Then I saw a tall, unfamiliar man at the gate. I greeted him politely. He gave me money and food, along with a Bible, a diary, and a pen. I realized afterward that I had been visited by an angel of the Lord. I felt an overwhelming peace, knowing that God had sent him to encourage and bless me.”

This experience illustrates a spiritual truth: angels often work behind the scenes to bless those who serve God faithfully. They do not always appear in heavenly glory—they come as ordinary people (Genesis 18:2, ESV; Hebrews 13:2, ESV).

Angels as Ministering Spirits

Hebrews 1:14 (ESV) reminds us:
“Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation?”

Angels are assigned to serve those who actively follow God, protecting, guiding, and even providing for their needs. God’s supernatural assistance is not arbitrary—it aligns with His purposes and the faithfulness of His children.

Theological Insight: Spiritual Rewards and Witness

The young woman’s encounter shows that dedication, obedience, and faithfulness attract God’s blessing. Theologically, this aligns with the principle of divine reciprocity in Scripture: those who serve God diligently often receive encouragement and provision, sometimes through miraculous means

(Matthew 6:33, ESV: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”).

Moreover, angels carry our acts of righteousness and service before God (Psalm 103:20, ESV), presenting our good works as evidence of faith and obedience. Even small acts of kindness and devotion are noticed in heaven.

Application for Our Lives

This testimony teaches us several vital lessons:

Dedicate yourself to God’s work. Serve others not for recognition but because God values obedience and compassion.

Practice hospitality. You never know when your kindness might intersect with divine intervention.

Faith requires action. Even small opportunities to share the Gospel, help the needy, or encourage others are significant in God’s eyes.

Be attentive to God’s provision. Angels and God’s blessings often operate in ordinary ways, not always in spectacular manifestations.

Call to Salvation

If you have not yet been saved, take this moment seriously. Salvation is available here on earth

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

Turn from sin—whether drunkenness, sexual immorality, theft, pornography, cursing, violence, or any other unrighteousness—and seek a living church for baptism. The Holy Spirit will guide your life from there.

Living in the Last Days

We are living in the last days. The rapture could happen at any moment, and sudden tribulations may arise unexpectedly, as the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated. Believers must live with vigilance, faith, and commitment, preparing both themselves and others for the coming Kingdom.

Maranatha! The Lord is coming soon.

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RESURRECTION – BE READY TO COMPLETE EVERYTHING

On the day the Lord Jesus died, the Bible tells us that tombs were opened and the bodies of many saints who had died were raised. But they did not leave their tombs immediately; they remained there until the day Jesus Himself rose. Then they began their journey to the holy city of Jerusalem. When they arrived, many people saw them.

This raises an important question: Why did the dead rise at that particular time? And why did they go specifically to Jerusalem?

Let us read:

Matthew 27:50-53 (ESV)
“50 And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit.
51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.
52 The tombs also were opened. And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised,
53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many.”

Theological Significance of the First Resurrection

The resurrection of these saints was not random; it served several purposes:

Validation of Christ’s Resurrection: God wanted to confirm to His people that the resurrection was real and that Jesus Christ had truly risen

(1 Corinthians 15:20 ESV

– “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”).

This prefigured the future general resurrection and served as a living testimony to those in Jerusalem.

Witness to Others: At that time, there were groups of people, such as the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection (Acts 23:8 ESV). Others falsely claimed that Jesus’ body had been stolen. The risen saints provided irrefutable evidence that God’s power is absolute and that death cannot hold His children.

A Demonstration of God’s Sovereignty: The timing and location—Jerusalem—underscores God’s divine orchestration. Jerusalem was the spiritual and political heart of Israel. By directing the saints there, God showed that resurrection is a divine act of power, meant to glorify Him and encourage faith.

But did everyone see it?

No. Only the saints who were in Jerusalem at that time witnessed the event. Just as the resurrected Jesus did not appear to everyone, but only to His followers (Luke 24:36-43 ESV), the risen saints appeared only to those who were spiritually receptive. This reminds us that God’s miraculous acts often require faith to perceive.

Imagine the awe of those who saw familiar faces—friends, neighbors, loved ones—rise from the dead, speaking and testifying: “I am Joseph, I am Solomon, I am Jeremiah”. Could anyone then doubt the resurrection?

The Future Resurrection and the Rapture

The resurrection we are now awaiting, the resurrection of the Church, is even greater and nearer than most realize. At that time, the great trumpet of God will sound, and an event similar to the resurrection of the saints after Jesus’ death will occur—but on a far larger scale.

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 (ESV)
“15 For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep.
16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.
18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.”

This future resurrection is also called the “first resurrection” (Revelation 20:5-6 ESV). It is primarily for the righteous—those who belong to Christ. Unlike the resurrection after Jesus’ death, this will include saints from all generations, not only those present in Jerusalem.

Theologically, this event is part of God’s eschatological plan:

Dead in Christ rise first: The resurrection is sequential; the dead in Christ are raised before the living are caught up.

Transformation of the living: Those who are alive will not experience death but will be instantly changed (1 Corinthians 15:51-52 ESV).

Judgment delayed for the righteous: The rapture spares the saints from the coming tribulation, demonstrating God’s mercy.

Why Only Some Will See

Just as in Jesus’ first resurrection, the event will not be visible to everyone. Only those who are spiritually alive—born again believers—will witness it. The rest of the world may be confused, deny it, or claim deception, much as they did during Jesus’ resurrection.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 (ESV)
“51 Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed.”

At that time, the act of “sleeping and awakening” will end. Those who are caught up will enter the spiritual Jerusalem (Galatians 4:26 ESV – “But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother.”), fully united with the Lord.

A Call to Readiness

We are living in the season of the Church’s rapture. Signs of the times are clear. The question is: Are we ready? If the trumpet sounded today, could you confidently be taken up? After the rapture, the door of God’s mercy will close, and the world will experience His judgment (Revelation 6:16-17 ESV).

Time is short. If your relationship with Christ is distant, turn to Him today. He will receive you and make you His child

(John 1:12 ESV

– “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”).

May the Lord bless you.

I

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THE HARVEST IS PLENTIFUL
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few” (Matthew 9:37, ESV).

Blessed be the name of the Lord Jesus. Let us take a moment to reflect on some essential truths for our journey of faith and our role in God’s Kingdom.

1. Our Responsibility as Christians

As followers of Christ, it is our duty to actively participate in the work of God. Each believer has been gifted uniquely by the Holy Spirit for ministry and service. Paul reminds us in

1 Corinthians 12:4–7 (ESV):
“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. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”

The benefits of engaging in God’s work far outweigh the cost of inactivity. As we approach the last days, the spiritual labor required has increased. Yet, the work itself has become simpler: we are not called to plow or plant physically but to harvest souls for Christ.

2. The Nature of the Harvest

Jesus used agricultural imagery to teach spiritual truths. Consider this illustration:

• One worker may be given a small, overgrown field of two acres, requiring immense effort to clear and cultivate.

• Another may be given ten acres, but the work is simply harvesting what has already grown.

The first laborer represents those who pioneer ministry—planting and watering in spiritually “hard” places. The second represents those who reap—bringing to maturity what others have sown. Both are vital, yet the harvester’s task may be larger in scale, reflecting the great opportunity for evangelism today.

As Jesus said in

John 4:35–36 (ESV):
“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? Behold, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.”

This highlights that spiritual labor leads to eternal reward, and that ministry is a shared partnership across generations.

3. The Urgency of the Work

In Matthew 9:36–38, Jesus expresses compassion for the crowds, describing them as “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” He then says:
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

This emphasizes several theological truths:

1. God’s Compassion: Ministry begins with a heart of compassion, reflecting God’s love for the lost.

2. The Plentiful Harvest: Many are already spiritually prepared; the field is ripe.

3. The Need for Laborers: God calls His people to participate actively, not passively.

4. Prayer for Workers: Evangelism is inseparable from prayer, as spiritual empowerment comes from God, not human effort alone.

4. The Spiritual Storehouse

Where do the harvested souls go? The “storehouse of God” represents the spiritual security and protection provided by Christ. Those who repent, surrender their lives, and are baptized are spiritually hidden in Christ:

Colossians 3:3–4 (ESV):
“For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.”

This illustrates the already-but-not-yet reality of salvation: believers are already secure in Christ spiritually, yet full revelation and glory await in eternity. Salvation begins here on earth, and the fields we labor in represent the world where God’s Kingdom is advancing.

5. Practical Implications

Many people have already heard about Jesus; some have even responded superficially but remain spiritually immature. Our role is to help these believers move from being “name Christians” to fully surrendered followers of Christ.

Theological points to consider:

• Prevenient Grace: God has already worked in people’s lives through past teaching and influence (John 4:38).

• Partnership in Ministry: Evangelism is cooperative; we reap what others have sown.

• Kingdom Work Today: The modern church must engage in active soul-winning, discipleship, and prayer for laborers, as the fields remain vast and full of spiritual danger (Ephesians 6:12).

6. The Call to Action

The message is clear: The work is great, the harvest is ready, but the workers are few. Each believer must stand in their place, offering themselves to God’s service, while also praying for others to be sent. This dual approach—personal engagement and intercessory prayer—is essential to advancing the Kingdom.

Ephesians 6:18–20 (ESV) reminds us:
“Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel.”

May the Lord strengthen us, uphold us, and abundantly bless all laborers in His harvest.

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1. Introduction: The Hierarchy of Angels in Scripture

The Bible presents various types of angelic beings, each serving a unique role in the spiritual realm. Among them are:

• Seraphim – Worshippers surrounding God’s throne
• Cherubim – Guardians of God’s glory (e.g., Genesis 3:24; Ezekiel 10)
• Archangels – Warrior angels like Michael (Jude 1:9; Revelation 12:7)
• Living Creatures – Heavenly beings full of eyes and wings (Revelation 4:6-8)
• The Twenty-Four Elders – Symbolic leaders in heavenly worship (Revelation 4:4)

These beings are described in apocalyptic visions and prophetic literature and serve specific functions: worship, warfare, message delivery, and guardianship.

2. Who Are the Seraphim?

The Seraphim (Hebrew: śārāph, meaning “burning ones”) appear explicitly in Isaiah 6:1–7, in the prophet’s vision of the Lord in the temple. This is the only place in the Bible where they are named:

Isaiah 6:1-3 (NIV)
“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”

Symbolism of Their Wings:

• Two wings covering the face: Reverence and humility before God’s holiness (Exodus 33:20 – no one can see God and live).
• Two wings covering the feet: A symbol of modesty and unworthiness (similar to Moses removing his sandals in Exodus 3:5).
• Two wings for flying: Represents readiness to serve and act at God’s command (Psalm 103:20–21).

Their cry of “Holy, holy, holy” is significant—this threefold repetition emphasizes God’s perfect and complete holiness, unlike any created being.

3. Theological Meaning of the Seraphim’s Worship

The worship of the Seraphim reveals key theological truths:

• God is utterly holy, distinct, and exalted above all creation.
• Heavenly worship is centered around God’s glory, not human preferences.
• Reverence in worship is modeled by sinless beings, teaching us that holiness matters even more for fallen humanity.

Revelation 4:8 (NIV) parallels Isaiah’s vision:
“Day and night they never stop saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.”

4. Application: Worship and Reverence in Practice

The behavior of the Seraphim offers practical lessons for Christian worship today. If angels, who are sinless, cover themselves before God, how much more should we approach Him with reverence?

Paul addresses this principle in 1 Corinthians 11, instructing the church on modesty and order during worship:

1 Corinthians 11:5 (NIV)
“But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved.”

1 Corinthians 11:10 (NIV)
“It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own head, because of the angels.”

This reference to “the angels” connects earthly worship with the order and reverence of the heavenly realm. Modesty, head coverings, and respectful behavior are not cultural relics but reflections of spiritual truths.

Challenge to Modern Worship:

Many today come to worship dressed casually or immodestly, forgetting the sacredness of the moment. The Seraphim remind us that worship is not about comfort or appearance—it is about honoring a holy God.

Hebrews 12:28-29 (NIV)
“…let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’”

5. Final Warning: Angels Are Not to Be Worshiped

While angels serve God and minister to believers (Hebrews 1:14), they are not objects of worship. Throughout Scripture, worship belongs to God alone.

Revelation 22:8-9 (NIV)
“I, John… fell down to worship at the feet of the angel… But he said to me, ‘Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you… Worship God!’”

Creating images of angels or praying to them goes against this biblical instruction. The purpose of angelic beings is to glorify God, not to receive glory from men.

6. Conclusion: What the Seraphim Teach Us

The Seraphim are not just awe-inspiring creatures—they are living symbols of how we should worship God:

• With reverence, knowing we approach a holy God.
• With modesty, covering ourselves as a sign of respect.
• With focus, centering our hearts and voices on God’s holiness.

Let us learn from their example and approach God in worship with fear, awe, and deep respect.

May the Lord bless 

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A MESSENGER WITHOUT A MESSAGE

(Expanded with theological detail and English Standard Version citations)

The story of David and Absalom in 2 Samuel 18 presents one of Scripture’s clearest illustrations of a person who runs with zeal but without a true message. It teaches us something crucial about ministry: having passion is not enough; one must also have the right message from God.

When Absalom rebelled against his father David, a fierce battle broke out in the forest of Ephraim. David did not join the battle personally; instead, he entrusted it to his commander, Joab. Before the fighting began, David issued a clear command—a command rooted in the heart of a father:

2 Samuel 18:5, ESV

“Deal gently for my sake with the young man Absalom.”

However, Joab ignored David’s instruction. When Absalom was found hanging in a tree, Joab killed him (2 Samuel 18:14). Once the troops learned of Absalom’s death, the battle ended and the people dispersed.

The next challenge was to inform David of what had happened. Delivering such sorrowful news required both courage and clarity of message.

Two messengers stepped forward:

1. Ahimaaz — Zealous but uninformed

2. The Cushite — Faithful, informed, and obedient

Ahimaaz wanted desperately to run—even though Joab insisted that the message was not “good news” (2 Samuel 18:22). Joab knew that Ahimaaz lacked the necessary information and that his excitement was not matched by understanding.

The Cushite is sent

Joab instead commissioned the Cushite:

—2 Samuel 18:21, ESV

“Go, tell the king what you have seen.”

Unlike Ahimaaz, the Cushite had witnessed the events firsthand. He had substance, not just speed.

Ahimaaz outruns the true messenger—but arrives empty

Because of his zeal, Ahimaaz ran faster and arrived first. Yet when he stood before the king—standing where truth was required—he had nothing meaningful to say:

—2 Samuel 18:29, ESV

“I saw a great commotion, but I do not know what it was.”

Ahimaaz ran with enthusiasm but no message.

When the Cushite arrived, however, he delivered the truth with solemn respect:

2 Samuel 18:32, ESV

“May the enemies of my lord the king be like that young man.”

He told David what actually happened.

This narrative is a profound allegory for ministry today.

WHAT DOES GOD WANT US TO LEARN?

Many Christians desire to serve God—as pastors, evangelists, teachers, prophets, intercessors, singers, writers, or through other forms of ministry. But it is possible to run like Ahimaaz: full of zeal, but empty of the message God actually sent us to proclaim.

THE TRUE MESSAGE OF THE CHURCH IS NOT SELF-DEFINED

Jesus Christ gave one universal commission to every believer—regardless of calling or ministry gift:

Matthew 28:19–20, ESV

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”

This is not optional.
This is not limited to pastors or apostles.
This is not a “different calling.”

It is the core mission of the Church.

Some say,
“I’m not called to preach repentance.”
“I’m not called to make disciples—only to encourage people.”

But this is the language of an Ahimaaz—someone running without the message Christ entrusted to His followers.

TRUE MINISTRY ALWAYS POINTS PEOPLE TO CHRIST

The apostles understood this. Their message was not self-help, motivational teaching, or worldly success. It was:

• repentance (Acts 2:38)

• faith in Christ alone (Acts 4:12)

• holiness (1 Peter 1:15–16)

• denying self (Luke 9:23)

• obedience to Jesus (John 14:15)

• transformation into Christ’s image (Romans 8:29)

In fact, Jesus Himself taught that discipleship requires total surrender:

Luke 14:27, ESV

“Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.”

Any ministry that avoids pointing people to Christ’s lordship, repentance, holiness, and obedience is running off course.

ARE YOU A MESSENGER WITH A MESSAGE OR WITHOUT ONE?

If what we teach focuses more on earthly success than spiritual transformation…
If our sermons emphasize comfort but avoid repentance…
If our music stirs emotion but not conviction…
If our “encouragement” leads people to self-confidence instead of Christ-dependence…

Then we are running fast, like Ahimaaz—
but delivering nothing of eternal value.

Paul warns that anyone building a ministry must build on Christ alone:

1 Corinthians 3:11, ESV

“For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

Otherwise, our work will burn up before God (1 Corinthians 3:13–15).

THE MESSAGE IS CHRIST

The world does not need more motivational speakers.
It does not need entertainers.
It does not need charm or charisma.

The world needs the Gospel—the message Paul described as:

Romans 1:16, ESV

“the power of God for salvation.”

That message is:Christ crucified (1 Corinthians 1:23)Christ risen (Romans 6:4)Christ reigning (Revelation 19:16)Christ returning (Acts 1:11)

Everything we preach must point back to Him.

Run—yes.
Serve—yes.
Be zealous—yes.

But above all, carry the message Christ gave, not one you invented.Be like the Cushite: faithful to tell the truth.Not like Ahimaaz: running eagerly but empty-handed.May your ministry be rooted in the Gospel, centered on Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

May the Lord bless you and make you a faithful messenger of His Word.

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THE SEASON WHEN GOD ALLOWS YOU TO STAND ALONE IN THE WILDERNESS

“Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Welcome again as we study the Word of God.

Every believer, no matter how spiritually mature, will experience different seasons in life and in faith. Scripture makes this very clear:

Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 (ESV)

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted…
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance.”

This means that even the strongest Christian will not always live on the mountain top. There are seasons of joy and peace—but also seasons of tears, uncertainty, silence, and spiritual dryness.

THEOLOGICAL REALITY: GOD SOMETIMES HIDES HIS FACE

In theology this is often called “Divine Hiddenness.” God does not abandon His people, but He may withdraw the sense of His presence so that our faith matures.

Even Jesus experienced this mystery:

Matthew 27:46 (ESV)

“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

Jesus was not truly forsaken—He was fulfilling prophecy (Psalm 22). Yet emotionally He felt the weight of separation.
Likewise, God sometimes allows believers to feel alone so that they learn to walk by faith, not by feelings.

Paul echoes this:

2 Corinthians 5:7 (ESV)

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”

THE PARABLE OF THE NINETY-NINE AND THE ONE LOST SHEEP

Jesus illustrates this principle beautifully in Luke 15:

Luke 15:3–7 (ESV)

“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost…?
And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing…
there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.”

Notice carefully:
He leaves the ninety-nine in the wilderness—not in a fenced pen.
This represents a season when believers feel exposed, vulnerable, and seemingly unattended… yet they are still in God’s will.

WHY DOES GOD “LEAVE” BELIEVERS IN THE WILDERNESS?

1. To Grow Maturity Through Testing

Throughout Scripture, the wilderness is a place of testing and strengthening:

• Israel was tested in the wilderness for 40 years (Deut. 8:2).

• John the Baptist grew strong in the wilderness (Luke 1:80).

• Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tested (Matt. 4:1).

The wilderness teaches obedience, endurance, and dependence.

2. To Teach Us to Stand Firm Even Without Emotional Assurance

God matures believers by allowing them to continue trusting Him even when the feelings fade.

Peter describes this as “tested faith”:

1 Peter 1:6–7 (ESV)

“…you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold… may be found to result in praise and glory…”

3. Because the Shepherd Is Saving Others

Just as in Luke 15, God is often working to rescue someone else.
Your temporary wilderness is not abandonment—it is assignment.

During such times the enemy whispers,
“God has left you.”
But scripture says:

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)

“I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

God’s apparent absence is never His true absence.

HOW TO STAND WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENT

1. Stay Where God Placed You

The wilderness has no fence. This is not the time to wander spiritually.
The safest place is the spot where God last instructed you.

Paul encourages stability:

1 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV)

“Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…”

2. Hold Firm to Scripture

When feelings fade, the Word becomes your anchor.

Psalm 119:105 (ESV)

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

3. Resist Temptation and Deception

The wilderness is where the enemy tempts (Matthew 4).
Focus, stay rooted, and avoid anything that would pull you away from the path of salvation.

4. Strengthen and Encourage Others

Even in dryness, God calls you to serve.
Paul commands believers in tough seasons to continue encouraging one another:

Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

“…encouraging one another… as you see the Day drawing near.”

THE “SHOULDERS SEASON” AND THE “WILDERNESS SEASON”

When you first came to Christ, you were like the lost sheep placed on the Shepherd’s shoulders—
you felt His presence everywhere, prayers were answered quickly, and spiritual experiences were strong.

This corresponds with spiritual infancy:

1 Peter 2:2 (ESV)

“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk…”

But as you grow, God gently sets you down among the other sheep.
Not to leave you—
but to mature you.

Jesus spoke of those who “believe for a while” but fall away during testing:

Luke 8:13 (ESV)

“…when testing comes, they fall away.”

Understanding God’s purpose in the wilderness prevents spiritual collapse.
Faith must be carefully guarded.

Proverbs 4:23 (ESV)

“Keep your heart with all vigilance…”

The wilderness is not punishment.
It is not abandonment.
It is not a sign of weak faith.

It is a sign that God trusts you enough to strengthen you.

If you are in that season—remain still, remain faithful, and remain obedient.
Your Shepherd knows exactly where He left you, and He will return in His timing.

Psalm 23:4 (ESV)

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me…”

May the Lord bless you, strengthen your faith, and carry you through every season.
Amen.

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There are some words that a person simply cannot say unless they fully understand what they’re saying. Otherwise, they might trap themselves in their own words and end up in serious trouble.

At one point, Jesus said something profound to the people who were constantly opposing Him:

“Can any of you prove Me guilty of sin?”
— John 8:46a (NIV)

That is not a small statement. Just a few verses earlier in the same chapter, Jesus had posed a similar challenge when a group of people brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. But instead of condemning her, they ended up walking away in silence, ashamed, unable to stand under the weight of the test Jesus gave them.

“Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
— John 8:7b (NIV)

After He said that, the Bible says:

“At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there.”
— John 8:9 (NIV)

Do you see what happened? Now, in verse 46, Jesus puts Himself in a similar situation facing a hostile crowd and asks them, essentially:
“Who here can prove that I have ever sinned?”

Now imagine putting yourself in that moment. You’re 33 years old. You’ve lived a full life faced temptations, dealt with people, made relationships, worked, traveled. Then you stand before a crowd of people who know you well your siblings, your friends, classmates, neighbors, coworkers and you ask them:

“Which one of you can say you’ve seen me sin?”

Could you ask that? (I know I couldn’t.)

Could you confidently say:
“Who here has ever heard me gossip? Who has caught me in a lie or seen me cheat? Who has seen me act out of jealousy, hatred, pride, or hypocrisy? Where have I ever disrespected someone, cursed someone out, or acted selfishly?”

If someone had anything to say, they’d step forward. But in Jesus’ case not a single person could accuse Him of anything.

That’s not something we should take lightly. That’s why Scripture also tells us:

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

Jesus is the only one in the history of the world across every generation who lived a sinless life from birth to death. And He didn’t live a sheltered life either. He went through far greater temptations than we face. Yet, He never gave in.

That’s why, personally, I have anchored my life in Jesus.
What about you?

There is no one like Him. He is the only one truly worthy of our trust. He’s the only one who can give us victory over this world because He overcame it Himself. He alone can save us, if we place our faith in Him.

When we make Jesus the center of our lives, the first and most beautiful thing He does is forgive all our sins. Then, He declares us righteous not because of anything we’ve done, but purely by His grace. So much so that in God’s eyes, we are seen as completely justified.

And it doesn’t stop there. He then gives us His Holy Spirit who empowers us to overcome sin just like He did, and who leads us into the truth of God.

So if you haven’t yet accepted Christ, the time for salvation is now. Don’t wait. Invite Jesus into your life. If you’re tired of living in sin, if you’re concerned about where your soul is headed, then run to Jesus while there’s still time.

But if we reject His words, then He will also turn away from us and we’ll show ourselves not to be among those chosen by His Father. As Jesus said:

“Can any of you prove Me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe Me? Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.”
— John 8:46–47 (NIV)

I hope today, you will hear His voice.
May the Lord bless 

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“For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way.”

— 2 Thessalonians 2:7 (NKJV)

Context and Explanation:

In this passage, the Apostle Paul addresses confusion among the Thessalonians who believed the Day of the Lord (the end-time judgment) had already come (2 Thess. 2:1–2). Paul corrects them by explaining that two major events must occur first:

1. A great apostasy (falling away) — a widespread rejection of truth (2 Thess. 2:3).
2. The revealing of the “man of sin” or “lawless one” — commonly understood as the Antichrist (2 Thess. 2:3–4).

Paul assures the believers that this man cannot be revealed yet because someone or something is currently restraining him (2 Thess. 2:6–7). The “mystery of lawlessness” — the spirit of rebellion against God — is already active, but it’s being held back until God’s appointed time.

Who Is the Restrainer?

There have been several interpretations throughout church history, but the most theologically consistent view — especially among evangelical and Pentecostal traditions — is that the Restrainer is the Holy Spirit, working through the Church.

Here’s why:

1. The Restrainer must be powerful enough to hold back Satan’s plans.

Only a divine being like the Holy Spirit can restrain the rise of the Antichrist and the full outbreak of evil.
Job 1:12; 2:6 shows us that even Satan must operate within boundaries God sets.

2. The restraining work is consistent with the Holy Spirit’s role.

Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the One who convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). The Spirit, dwelling within believers (1 Cor. 3:16; Rom. 8:11), also holds back moral decay and judgment (Matt. 5:13–14, the Church as salt and light).

3. The removal of the Restrainer coincides with the Rapture of the Church.

Many scholars believe the Holy Spirit will not be entirely removed from the Earth but will cease restraining evil in the same way, as His role in the Church changes once believers are taken up (1 Thess. 4:16–17).
The Church — indwelt by the Spirit — is God’s agent of restraint on Earth. When the Church is raptured, the Antichrist will be revealed (2 Thess. 2:8).

What Happens After the Restrainer Is Removed?

Once the Restrainer is “taken out of the way,” the man of lawlessness will be revealed:

• He will exalt himself above all that is called God (2 Thess. 2:4).
• He will perform false signs and wonders (2 Thess. 2:9).
• He will deceive many who have rejected the truth (2 Thess. 2:10–11).

This period is known as the Great Tribulation — described in Daniel 9:27, Matthew 24:21–22, and Revelation 6–19. It will last approximately seven years, divided into two 3.5-year periods, culminating in Christ’s Second Coming (Rev. 19:11–21).

Application: Are You Ready?

This passage is not just prophetic—it’s pastoral. Paul’s message serves as a wake-up call. The restraining work of the Holy Spirit is evidence of God’s mercy, but a time is coming when that restraint will be lifted.

Hebrews 2:3 warns: “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?”

If the Rapture were to happen today, where would you be?

Now is the time to:

• Repent and turn to Christ (Acts 3:19)
• Believe in the gospel (Romans 10:9–10)
• Remain steadfast in faith if you already belong to Christ (1 Cor. 15:58)

Conclusion:

The one restraining evil is the Holy Spirit, working through the Church. When the Church is raptured, the Spirit’s restraining influence will be removed, allowing the Antichrist to rise and global lawlessness to unfold.

These are serious times. God’s grace is available now. Accept His invitation while the door is still open.

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”
— Revelation 3:22 (NKJV)

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