Title September 2022

How Can I Know If My Prayers Have Been Heard or Are Enough?

The Bible clearly teaches that prayer is a vital, ongoing communication with God. We are commanded to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Prayer is not just about speaking to God but also about trusting that He hears and responds in His perfect will.

Here are some clear signs that your prayers have reached God and are effective:

1. You Feel a Burden Lift Inside You

When you sincerely bring your concerns before God, you often experience a sense of relief or peace afterward. This is because prayer allows you to cast your cares on Him, as 1 Peter 5:7 says, “casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

This relief or “lifting of the burden” is evidence that the Holy Spirit is comforting you and that your prayer has been accepted by God (Romans 8:26-27). It doesn’t mean your problem is instantly solved, but God gives you peace that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:6-7).

2. A Scripture or Memory Comes to Mind

Sometimes, during or after prayer, God brings a Bible verse, story, or personal memory to your mind that relates directly to your situation. This is God’s way of encouraging your faith and confirming that He has heard you.

For example, God might remind you of His promises in Scripture such as Isaiah 41:10

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Or you may recall a past testimony where God showed His power and faithfulness. These reminders build your faith and assure you that God is at work.

3. You Gain New Strength and Courage

Sometimes, after praying, even if your circumstances haven’t changed yet, you feel renewed strength and hope to keep going. This inner strengthening is a sign that God is sustaining you (Isaiah 40:29-31)

“He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

This strength is God’s way of equipping you for the journey ahead, reminding you that His timing is perfect.

Why Sometimes Prayers Aren’t Answered

If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, your prayers may not be answered as you expect. The Bible says in John 9:3

“We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him.”

God’s will is that everyone comes to repentance (2 Peter 3:9) and is reconciled to Him through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 10:9-10). Once you receive salvation, your prayers become aligned with God’s will, and He promises to answer them (1 John 5:14-15).

If you are a believer standing firm in faith, rest assured God hears your prayers and will answer according to His perfect plan. Continue praying with persistence and trust.

Remember the promise in Isaiah 40:31:

“But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

May God richly bless you and strengthen your faith.

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What Does the Lord Want From the Miracle He Has Done For You?

Shalom! Let’s reflect on an important truth about miracles and God’s purpose for them.

Two Purposes of Miracles

Jesus allows miracles in our lives for two main reasons:

  1. To bless us and meet our needs (so we can benefit).
  2. To lead us to repentance—a change of heart and turning to God.

Many Christians focus on the first reason—seeking miracles for healing, financial breakthroughs, or answered prayers. However, the second reason—repentance—is the most important. God’s ultimate desire is not just to bless us but to transform us (2 Corinthians 7:10: “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation…”).

The Example of Peter’s Response

When Jesus performed the miracle of the huge catch of fish (Luke 5:4-9), Peter did not just rejoice over the blessing. Instead, he recognized his sinfulness and repented immediately:

“When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, ‘Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!’” (Luke 5:8).

This shows that miracles should lead to awareness of our sin and a desire to change, not just gratitude for material blessings.

The Danger of Rejecting Repentance

Jesus performed many miracles in towns like Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Chorazin (Matthew 11:20-24), but the people did not repent. They enjoyed the miracles without changing their hearts or lives. Because of this, Jesus pronounced a stern warning:

“Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago… it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you.” (Matthew 11:21-22)

This passage shows that miracles alone do not guarantee salvation. What matters is how we respond. Rejecting the call to repentance leads to judgment.

The Purpose of Miracles

From Scripture, we understand that miracles are signs (John 2:11: “This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee…”) meant to point us to God and His holiness. They are not ends in themselves. They reveal God’s power and goodness but also His justice and call to repentance (Romans 2:4-5):

“Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? But because of your hard and impenitent heart, you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God.”

God’s mercy through miracles is an invitation to turn away from sin and live a holy life (1 Peter 1:16: “Be holy, for I am holy.”).

Your Response to God’s Miracles

If God answers your prayers or performs a miracle in your life, understand this as a message: He loves you and wants you to repent. He is not approving any sin or wrong behavior you continue to live in. Miracles should motivate us to:

  • Repent sincerely.
  • Turn from sin and live according to God’s will.
  • Receive baptism and the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38: “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized…and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”).

Do not just enjoy the blessings and miracles—allow them to transform you. God’s ultimate purpose is not only to bless but to save your soul by leading you to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

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A Friend Loves at All Times, and a Brother Is Born for Times of Trouble Proverbs 17:17 – “


Proverbs 17:17 – “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”

QUESTION: What does this verse mean, and what is God teaching us through it?

ANSWER: Proverbs 17:17 gives us two profound insights — the nature of true friendship, and the value of faithful companionship in times of hardship.

1. “A friend loves at all times” — Consistent, Christ-like Friendship

This part of the verse speaks to the faithfulness of a true friend. A genuine friend does not waver in their love depending on your mood, success, or status. They love you in seasons of joy and in times of failure or pain. Their love is not transactional — it is unconditional.

This kind of friendship reflects the heart of Christ. In fact, Jesus exemplified this kind of love:

John 15:12-13 – “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

Jesus’ love is perfect, unwavering, and sacrificial. A true friend mirrors that by remaining loyal through misunderstanding, silence, or even disagreement. This kind of love is rare — it’s a fruit of a heart that has been touched by God.

1 Corinthians 13:7 – “[Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

If someone only loves you when you please them, or disappears when life gets hard, that’s not a biblical friend. God’s Word shows us that real friends carry burdens together:

Galatians 6:2 – “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

2. “A brother is born for a time of adversity” — Family Through the Fire

This second line adds another layer: some people step into your life and become more than friends. They become family — not necessarily by blood, but by the bond forged in hardship.

True brothers (and sisters) show up when you’re sick, when you’ve lost everything, when you’re grieving. They don’t just say “I’m praying for you” — they walk beside you, hold your hand, provide support, and stay even when it’s messy. That’s not ordinary friendship — that’s covenant-level commitment.

Romans 12:15 – “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

Job 2:11-13 – Job’s friends sat in silence with him for seven days when they saw his suffering. While they later failed in wisdom, their initial response showed how love is sometimes expressed just by presence.

God often uses such people to reflect His own nearness in our distress:

Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

So, when Proverbs says “a brother is born for adversity,” it’s telling us that the depth of someone’s relationship with you is revealed in suffering. Those who remain — those who show up when life collapses — are more than friends. They are God-given family.

3. Jesus — The Friend Who Became Our Redeeming Brother

But there’s One who surpasses even the truest friend or most loyal brother — Jesus Christ. He didn’t just stand with us in hard times; He entered into our suffering, bore our punishment, and gave His life so we could be saved.

Isaiah 53:3-5 – “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain… But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities…”

Jesus walked into our worst trouble — sin and death — and conquered it for us.

Hebrews 2:11-12 – “Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.”

He died and rose again not just to be our Savior, but to bring us into God’s family as sons and daughters. That’s why ignoring His offer of salvation is so serious:

Hebrews 2:3 – “How shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him.”

Salvation cannot be earned through our own goodness. It’s a gift offered through the grace of Jesus alone. Our response is to believe, repent, and follow Him.

Are you ready to give your life to Jesus?
You can reach out to us for guidance through these numbers:
📞 +255693036618 / +255789001312
We are here to pray with you, answer your questions, and help you begin this new life — free of charge.

 

Please share this message with others — it may be the encouragement someone desperately needs today.

God bless you richly

 

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THEY WERE TIRED AND SCATTERED, LIKE SHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD

I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Thank you for joining me once again as we reflect on the Word of God.

A Glimpse Into Jesus’ Heart

One of the most revealing moments in the ministry of Jesus is found in Matthew 9:35–36:

“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness.
When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

This passage doesn’t just describe an event—it opens a window into the heart of Christ. His compassion wasn’t just emotional; it was theologically grounded in His identity as the Good Shepherd (cf. John 10:11). His concern was for people who were vulnerable, spiritually abused, misled, and abandoned by the very ones who were supposed to care for them.

The terms “harassed and helpless” in Greek literally mean troubled, thrown down, or cast aside. These people were not only physically tired—they were crushed under the weight of religious burdens, legalism, and spiritual manipulation. This paints a sobering picture of what it means to be sheep without a shepherd—a biblical metaphor for spiritual lostness and lack of guidance (cf. Ezekiel 34:5–6).

A Reflection of Today’s Church

This same problem still exists today. Many believers are spiritually exhausted. They’ve been misled by false teachers who promise prosperity, healing, or breakthrough in exchange for money. They’ve been taught rituals, ceremonies, and man-made doctrines in place of the saving grace of Jesus Christ (cf. Ephesians 2:8–9).

Instead of hearing the true Gospel—the message of repentance, faith, and new life in Christ—many are offered anointing oils, so-called miracle waters, or manipulative teachings that center on fear, guilt, or superstition. This is spiritual abuse. And the fruit of it is clear: people feel betrayed, disillusioned, and scattered. Many would rather stay at home than risk being deceived again.

This tragedy grieves the heart of God.

A Warning to Shepherds and Leaders

If you’re a pastor, preacher, or church leader, this message is especially for you. The role of a shepherd in Scripture is sacred. Leaders are called not to exploit the flock but to feed, protect, and guide them in truth (cf. 1 Peter 5:2–4).

The Lord speaks strongly against unfaithful shepherds in Jeremiah 23:1–4

“Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of my pasture!” declares the Lord.
Therefore this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says to the shepherds who tend my people: “Because you have scattered my flock and driven them away and have not bestowed care on them, I will bestow punishment on you for the evil you have done,” declares the Lord.
“I myself will gather the remnant of my flock… and I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing,” declares the Lord.

God holds shepherds accountable. Ministry is not a business. It is not a career ladder. It is a holy calling to lay down one’s life for the flock—just as Christ laid down His life for us (cf. John 10:11).

Hope for the Weary and Scattered

To those who feel scattered and weary: God sees you. Jesus has not abandoned you. In fact, He is the True Shepherd, the One who leaves the ninety-nine to find the one who is lost (cf. Luke 15:4–7).

And to faithful servants: be encouraged. God is raising up shepherds after His own heart (cf. Jeremiah 3:15)—leaders who will teach truth, live humbly, and serve out of love. The Church of Christ is being purified. What man has corrupted, God will restore.

A Call to Examine Ourselves

Let each of us who claim to serve God ask ourselves honestly:

  • Are we pointing people to Jesus or to ourselves?
  • Are we feeding God’s people with the Word or exploiting them for personal gain?
  • Are we bringing healing or causing harm?

Let us return to the simplicity and power of the Gospel:

“For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2)

May the Lord help us to be faithful shepherds, wise followers, and loving members of His flock. Amen.

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Who Is a Fool According to the Bible?

In secular terms, a fool is often considered someone who lacks intelligence, logical reasoning, or problem solving ability. Such a person may struggle academically, socially, or mentally. However, God’s standard for wisdom and foolishness is not measured by IQ or worldly success, but by how a person relates to Him, His Word, and others.

According to the Bible, foolishness is a moral and spiritual failure, not just an intellectual one. Scripture defines a fool not by a lack of knowledge, but by a lack of reverence for God, disobedience to His commands, and disregard for others.

The following are eight biblical characteristics of a fool. If any of these describe you, it’s a call to repentance and transformation not just for moral improvement, but for alignment with God’s heart and truth.

1. A Fool Does Not Seek God

Psalm 14:2–3 (ESV):
“The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one.”

The first sign of spiritual foolishness is a life lived without pursuit of God. To live independently of the One who created and sustains you is to live in denial of the most basic truth of existence. The apostle Paul echoes this in Romans 3:10–12, affirming that without grace, no one seeks God naturally.

This reflects the doctrine of total depravity that humanity, left to itself, does not seek God. Only by the Spirit’s drawing (John 6:44) can a person begin to pursue God rightly.

2. A Fool Despises Others

Proverbs 11:12 (NIV):
“Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.”

A fool sees others as inferior and unworthy of kindness or honor. This is rooted in pride, a sin God resists (James 4:6), while He gives grace to the humble. Jesus modeled radical humility and called His followers to do the same (Philippians 2:3–5).

Biblically, the wise understand that all humans bear the image of God (Imago Dei) (Genesis 1:27). To despise others is to despise God’s creation.

3. A Fool Oppresses the Weak

Proverbs 28:16 (ESV):
“A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.”

Oppression of others whether through exploitation, manipulation, or abuse reveals a corrupt heart. God is a defender of the poor and weak (Psalm 140:12; Isaiah 1:17), and He strongly condemns injustice.

God’s justice is an essential attribute (Psalm 89:14). To ignore justice is to defy the very nature of God.

4. A Fool Is Sexually Immoral

Proverbs 6:32 (NIV):
“But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.”

Sexual sin distorts God’s design for marriage, body, and holiness. The New Testament repeatedly warns against it (1 Corinthians 6:18–20, Hebrews 13:4). Sexual immorality also grieves the Holy Spirit and impairs spiritual sensitivity.

Sexual sin dishonors the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19) and leads to self destruction physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

5. A Fool Ignores Eternal Judgment

Proverbs 15:24 (NIV):
“The path of life leads upward for the prudent to keep them from going down to the realm of the dead.”

The wise consider the end of life and the reality of judgment. Ecclesiastes 7:2 reminds us that reflecting on death brings wisdom. A fool, however, lives as though this life is all there is, neglecting the urgency of salvation (Hebrews 9:27).

Jesus taught more about hell than heaven, not to scare but to warn. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).

6. A Fool Rejects Godly Instruction

Proverbs 10:8 (NIV):
“The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin.”

A wise person welcomes correction and biblical teaching, knowing it leads to growth (Proverbs 9:8–9). A fool resists instruction and follows their own opinion, even when clearly against Scripture.

Spiritually, this reflects the heart of rebellion. Hebrews 12:11 affirms that God disciplines those He loves. Refusing instruction cuts you off from that love.

7. A Fool Forgets God’s Word

Proverbs 10:14 (NIV):
“The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.”

A wise person treasures and meditates on God’s Word (Psalm 119:11). Forgetting God’s law or failing to apply it leads to moral collapse. Jesus compared such people to builders who built houses on sand (Matthew 7:26–27).

Sound doctrine and biblical memory are essential for perseverance in faith (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Psalm 1:1–3). A forgetful believer is a vulnerable believer.

8. A Fool Is Lazy and Neglects Responsibility

Proverbs 24:30–31 (NIV):
“I went past the field of a sluggard, past the vineyard of someone who has no sense; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins.”

Laziness is a form of neglect not just of physical work, but often of spiritual discipline. Paul commands believers to work diligently as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). A lazy person wastes time, gifts, and opportunities.

Laziness shows a lack of stewardship. God created humanity to work (Genesis 2:15), and the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14–30) warns against wasting what God has entrusted.

Walking in True Wisdom

If any of these traits describe you, don’t lose heart God offers wisdom generously to those who ask (James 1:5). Wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10), continues through the Word of God, and is matured by the Spirit of God.

God doesn’t measure wisdom by status, success, or intellect. He evaluates it by your reverence, obedience, humility, and love.

Proverbs 3:3–4 (NIV):
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.”

Let us seek to be wise in God’s eyes not just for our own sake, but for His glory and for the good of others.

May the Lord help us.

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Marriage is a sacred covenant where both husband and wife have specific roles and duties. But what happens when one spouse fails to live up to their responsibilities?

What Are the Responsibilities of Each Spouse?

Husband:
He is called to love his wife

“as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25, ESV).

This love is comprehensive—it includes caring for her physical needs, providing emotional support, protecting her dignity, and leading spiritually.

Wife:
She is called to respect and submit to her husband “as to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22, NIV). This means listening to him, honoring his leadership, and cooperating in the partnership of marriage.

Both:
Have the mutual right and responsibility to fulfill the marital duty, including intimacy (1 Corinthians 7:3-5, ESV).

What If One Spouse Fails to Meet Their Responsibilities?

Suppose the husband neglects his wife, is abusive, unfaithful, verbally abusive, or refuses to meet his physical and emotional duties. Or the wife disrespects her husband, mocks him, is unfaithful, speaks ill of him to others, or makes decisions without consulting him.

Should the other spouse stop fulfilling their own marital duties?

The answer is No.

Why Should You Continue to Fulfill Your Duties?

Consider this analogy: Imagine living in a rented house with 10 tenants sharing the water and electricity bills equally. If some tenants deliberately use more resources to avoid paying their fair share, they ultimately harm themselves because the overall cost rises. It is wiser to continue using your fair share responsibly so that everyone benefits.

Similarly, in marriage, if one spouse fails to fulfill their duties, the other should continue loving, respecting, and honoring their spouse. This is not about enabling wrongdoing but about preserving the marriage and demonstrating godly character.

What Are the Benefits of Maintaining Your Responsibilities Even When Hurt?

  1. Your Godly Example Can Influence Your Spouse
    The Bible encourages wives to submit to their unbelieving husbands so that their behavior may win them over without words (1 Peter 3:1-2, NIV). Likewise, 1 Corinthians 7:16 (NIV) says, “For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?”
    Your faithful, loving example can soften your spouse’s heart and lead to reconciliation over time.

  2. You ‘Heap Burning Coals’ on Their Head
    Proverbs 25:21-22 (NIV) teaches, “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.”
    Showing kindness and patience even when wronged can cause conviction in your spouse’s conscience, bringing them to repentance.

  3. You Leave Room for God’s Justice and Intervention
    Romans 12:17-19 (ESV) instructs believers not to repay evil with evil but to live peaceably and leave vengeance to God, who “will repay.”
    By entrusting your hurt to God and maintaining holiness and peace, you allow Him to work in your spouse’s heart and in your marriage in His perfect timing.

Final Encouragement

Do not return evil for evil within your marriage, even if you are being hurt. Continue to love, respect, and fulfill your marital duties faithfully. This steadfastness reflects Christ’s love and offers a path for healing and restoration.

Remember, marriage is not only a human contract but a holy covenant established by God. Your perseverance honors Him and opens the door for His transformative power to work in your spouse and your relationship.

May the Lord bless you and keep you steadfast in His grace.

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Who Are “Evildoers” According to the Bible?

Answer:
In the Bible, the term “evildoer” refers to a person who engages in behavior that is morally wrong and contrary to God’s standards. For example, someone who commits sexual immorality—such as having children outside of marriage—is considered an evildoer.

Interestingly, the specific word “evildoer” (or “wicked person”) appears only once in the entire Bible, in the book of Job:

Job 30:8 (ESV):
“They are the sons of fools, yes, children of evildoers; they were driven out from the land, excluded from human society.”

This verse highlights that evildoers are those who live foolishly and outside the boundaries of righteousness, ultimately facing judgment and exclusion from the blessings of the land.

The Bible consistently teaches that those who practice evil will not inherit the kingdom or the blessings promised to the righteous. Instead, they are cast out or deprived of God’s favor:

Matthew 5:5 (NIV):
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

This beatitude reminds believers that inheritance of the land—symbolic of God’s blessing and kingdom—is reserved for those who live humbly and righteously, not for evildoers.

Practical Application:

Be vigilant against evildoing in all forms, including how one dresses and behaves. For example, in Scripture, certain types of clothing or outward appearance can reflect inner moral states. Modesty and propriety in dress are biblical principles. The Apostle Paul instructs:

1 Timothy 2:9 (ESV):
“Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control…”

Furthermore, Deuteronomy 22:5 (NIV) clearly states:
“A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor a man wear women’s clothing, for the Lord your God detests anyone who does this.”

This underlines the biblical principle of maintaining distinctions in gender expression as part of living in obedience to God’s design.

Inappropriate clothing that reveals too much of the body, or styles that are provocative or contrary to biblical instruction, can be considered part of evildoing because they reflect a disregard for God’s standards of holiness and order.

Other behaviors such as immoral speech, dishonest actions, or sinful pursuits likewise fall under the category of evildoing.

Remember: evildoers will not receive God’s blessings or inherit His kingdom, but those who live according to His ways—marked by humility, purity, and obedience—will be blessed.

Maranatha!

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COME OUT OF DARKNESS

Do you know why people will face judgment from God?

Let’s look at what Jesus Himself says:

John 3:19 – “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.”

This verse gives a sobering truth: people will not be judged simply for ignorance—but for rejection of the Light, which is Christ. Judgment comes because people consciously choose darkness after the Light has been revealed to them.

What does it mean to “love darkness”?

To love darkness is not just a feeling—it’s a decision. When someone prefers one thing over another, especially in matters of truth and morality, it reflects the posture of their heart. In this context, “loving darkness” means choosing sin over righteousness, despite being given the opportunity to live in the light.

It’s not as if people didn’t have a chance. The Light—Jesus Christ—has already come into the world (John 8:12). But many have rejected Him not because they didn’t know, but because they preferred their sinful ways.

The Problem Isn’t Ignorance—It’s Rebellion

Imagine being in a dark room, and someone turns on a bright light. Suddenly, everything is clear and visible. But instead of staying in the light, people get up and walk back into the dark. That’s what’s happening spiritually in our world.

Jesus emphasized that people reject the Light willingly:

John 3:20–21

“For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”

This passage is not about ignorance; it’s about the willful suppression of truth (cf. Romans 1:18). People avoid the Light because it exposes their sin—and they don’t want to repent. But those who are sincere, who love truth, will come to the Light and walk in it.

Why Do People Prefer Darkness?

According to the Bible, sinful acts love secrecy. Sin thrives in hiddenness and shame. Even in daily life, we see this:

  • Thieves steal at night.
  • Adulterers seek secrecy.
  • Drunkards lose themselves under cover of darkness.

This is echoed in the Old Testament:

Job 24:15–16

“The eye of the adulterer also waits for the twilight, saying, ‘No eye will see me’; he veils his face. In the dark they dig through houses; by day they shut themselves up; they do not know the light.”

Sin corrupts not only our actions but our desires (Jeremiah 17:9). The problem is not just what people do, but what they love. And if one loves sin more than God, that love will be their condemnation.

We Must All Choose—Light or Darkness

God has given every person a choice. Jesus said:

John 9:5 “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

Jesus is not just a light—He is the Light (John 1:4–5), and His presence reveals the truth about our hearts. He doesn’t only expose sin—He offers forgiveness, freedom, and transformation through the Holy Spirit.

But we must respond. You can’t blame Satan or anyone else. Jesus didn’t say, “Satan made them love darkness.” He said, “people loved darkness rather than light” (John 3:19). That means the responsibility lies with us.

So, what have you chosen?

Are your actions exposing a love for the Light or for darkness?

If you claim to know Jesus but continue to live in sin without repentance, then by your actions, you are choosing darkness. And Scripture warns that those who choose darkness after receiving the Light are in danger of judgment (Hebrews 10:26–27).

But there’s good news: you can step into the Light today.

How?

  • Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 1:12)
  • Repent from your sin (Acts 3:19)
  • Receive the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies and empowers you to walk in holiness (Titus 3:5; Galatians 5:16)

When you do this, you pass from death into life—from darkness into Light—and become a child of Light (Ephesians 5:8).

Jesus is still the Light of the world. And He is calling you to walk in that Light today.

Ephesians 5:14

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

Choose the Light. Choose life.

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The Punishment for Our Peace Was Upon Him

QUESTION: What does the Bible mean when it says, “The punishment for our peace was upon Him”?

Isaiah 53:5  – “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.”

ANSWER: To grasp the full meaning of this verse, let’s first consider a simple example: Imagine someone is fined 5 million shillings for an environmental violation. They have three weeks to pay, or they will face a three-year prison sentence. If they cannot pay the fine, they will lose all peace, knowing the judgment of imprisonment is inevitable. In order to restore their peace, they must somehow pay the fine. But then, someone steps in and says, “I will pay the fine for you.” As a result, the person who owed the fine would experience peace again because the debt has been paid for them.

This illustrates what happened when Jesus Christ took our punishment. In the same way, in order for our lost peace to be restored, Jesus had to bear the punishment that was rightfully ours. Isaiah 53:5 shows us that Jesus, the suffering servant, took on the punishment of our sin and transgression to bring us peace with God.

Now, let’s examine this verse more closely. Isaiah 53 is a prophetic description of Jesus Christ’s suffering, which would occur hundreds of years later. When it says, “The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,” it means that the punishment required for our peace with God was placed on Jesus. This is a reference to the fact that because of sin, humanity was separated from God, and there was no peace with Him (Romans 3:23). Our sins deserved judgment, but Jesus, as the Lamb of God, took upon Himself the penalty we owed.

In theological terms, this is known as substitutionary atonement. Jesus was our substitute. He took the place of sinners on the cross, satisfying the righteous requirements of the law on our behalf (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:8). By His suffering, death, and resurrection, He paid the penalty for sin and restored the possibility of peace between humanity and God.

Romans 5:1 , “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

This peace is not just an emotional state but a restored relationship with God, made possible only through the work of Jesus Christ. Before Christ, we were at war with God, as explained in Romans 8:7

Romans 8:7 “The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God.”

But through Christ, our hostility has been removed, and we are reconciled to God as Romans 8:1 assures us further.

Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.”

This is the amazing truth of the gospel: For those who are in Christ, there is no longer any condemnation. Jesus took the punishment that was meant for us, and in return, we receive His peace and forgiveness.

Sadly, many people still reject this offer of grace. They believe they can somehow withstand God’s judgment on their own. But Hebrews 9:27 warns us,

“Hebrews 9:27 “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment”

and Revelation 20:15 clearly states,

“Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”

Outside of Christ, there is no hope, and there is no escape from eternal punishment.

This is why you need Jesus Christ today. The Bible makes it clear that once you die, your eternal fate is sealed. Ephesians 2:8-9  tells us,

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

We cannot earn salvation by our works; it is a gift from God. If you have not yet accepted Jesus as your Savior, now is the time to turn to Him. Repent of your sins, believe in His finished work on the cross, and receive His peace.

2 Corinthians 6:2 says,

“I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

The time is urgent. Do not wait until it is too late. Jesus is the only way to peace with God, and He offers this peace freely to all who will receive it.

The Lord is Coming.

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I have handed them over to Satan so that they may learn not to blaspheme God

1 Timothy 1:20

“Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.” (ESV)

Understanding 1 Timothy 1:20

Before we delve into why the Apostle Paul pronounces such a severe judgment, let us first understand the context and the character of those involved.

Paul writes to Timothy, urging him to maintain a strong faith combined with a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:19):

“Holding faith and a good conscience. By rejecting this, some have suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.” (ESV)

The phrase “a good conscience” refers to the internal witness within a person that what they do is right or wrong. When someone has a good conscience, they are sensitive to sin and quick to repent when they err. Conversely, those without a good conscience suppress this inner conviction and continue in sin with hardness of heart.

Who Were Hymenaeus and Alexander?

These two men were not accidental or ignorant heretics. They deliberately twisted the truth of the gospel to lead others astray. Paul gives us examples of their false teaching:

  • Hymenaeus taught that the resurrection of the dead had already happened, thus undermining the Christian hope of eternal life (2 Timothy 2:16-18):

    “They have swerved from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened, and they upset the faith of some.” (ESV)

  • Alexander was known as a fierce opponent of Paul’s ministry and is believed to have been an active adversary spreading false doctrine (2 Timothy 4:14-15):

    “Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message.” (ESV)

What Does “Handed Over to Satan” Mean?

This expression does not mean that Paul personally gave these men over to the devil, but that God removed His protective hand from them, allowing Satan to have a measure of influence over their lives as a form of divine discipline.

This disciplinary action could involve various forms of hardship such as illness, misfortune, or even social and spiritual ruin — much like Job’s experience when God allowed Satan to test him (Job 1:12).

The purpose is redemptive: to bring these men to repentance and to prevent further harm to the church. The severe consequence is a demonstration that God takes willful, persistent heresy and blasphemy very seriously.

Theological Significance

  1. Church Discipline and Authority:
    The church, under Christ’s authority, is called to protect the purity of the gospel. When a believer persistently spreads false teaching and refuses to repent, the church may “hand them over to Satan” as a last resort for discipline (1 Corinthians 5:1-5). This means removing them from the fellowship to allow the consequences of sin to lead them to repentance.

  2. Conscience and Repentance:
    A good conscience is essential for faith to flourish. Those who reject their conscience become hardened and incapable of genuine repentance, thus endangering not only themselves but others as well.

  3. God’s Sovereignty in Discipline:
    Even when God allows Satan to afflict His people, it is under His sovereign control for a greater good — that of correction and eventual restoration (Hebrews 12:6).

Application and Exhortation

This passage warns all believers to take sin seriously, especially deliberate sin that distorts the gospel. It encourages us to:

  • Guard our faith with a good conscience, remaining sensitive to God’s conviction.

  • Beware of false teachings and those who twist Scripture for their own gain.

  • Support church discipline not as an act of condemnation but as a loving tool for restoration.

Closing Prayer

May the Lord grant us true faith and a pure conscience, that we might live honorably before Him, uphold the gospel, and lovingly confront error when it arises.
Shalom.

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