Title November 2022

  • Home   /  2022   /  
  • November
    • ( Page2 )

Understanding Ecclesiastes 6:3: A Life Full Yet Empty

This passage from Ecclesiastes presents a striking and sobering reality: a man may have all the outward signs of a successful life—many children, long life, material wealth—yet still live an unfulfilled and empty existence. If his soul is not satisfied with good things, and worse still, if he dies without even the dignity of a burial, the Preacher (Qoheleth) concludes that a stillborn child is better off than he.

This statement may seem harsh at first glance, but it confronts us with a powerful truth: a life without purpose, peace, and godly contentment is ultimately meaningless, no matter how prosperous it appears on the outside.

Two Types of People: Those Who Love Their Lives and Those Who Long for Eternity

The Bible often presents two broad categories of people regarding how they view life:

1. Those Who Renounce the World for the Sake of Eternity

These are saints who have denied themselves, choosing to live as pilgrims and strangers in this world. Abraham, though exceedingly wealthy, lived in tents, never attaching himself to earthly luxury because he looked forward to a heavenly city:

“By faith he went to live in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents… For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.”
(Hebrews 11:9–10, ESV)

Such people—like Moses, John the Baptist, the apostles, and the prophets—did not seek comfort in this life. Their hearts were set on the world to come. Many of them suffered, were persecuted, and even martyred, yet Scripture declares they will be highly honored in the Kingdom of God:

(Hebrews 11:23–40 provides a full picture of such faith-filled lives.)

As followers of Christ, we are called to have this same mindset—to fix our minds not on earthly things but on things above (Colossians 3:1–2), storing up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21).

2. Those Who Prosper but Remain Spiritually Empty

This is the person Ecclesiastes 6:3 describes. They experience great earthly success: a large family, wealth, honor, and long life. Yet something critical is missing: satisfaction of the soul.

Despite their achievements, they remain discontent, always striving, always hungry for more—yet never fulfilled. They labor for years, amass wealth, plan for enjoyment, but never actually enjoy what they’ve earned. Some even die without receiving proper burial, a cultural disgrace in ancient Israel and a symbol of a wasted life.

The Preacher says that a stillborn child is better off than such a person. Why?

  • A stillborn child never experiences the futility and sorrow of this world.

  • It enters and exits life without enduring the burden of unmet longing.

  • Meanwhile, the prosperous but unfulfilled soul lives a long life without tasting the goodness of it—a life of accumulation without enjoyment, striving without rest, and wealth without worship.

A Related Verse: The Tragedy of Unenjoyed Blessings

“A man to whom God gives wealth, possessions, and honor, so that he lacks nothing of all that he desires, yet God does not give him power to enjoy them, but a stranger enjoys them. This is vanity; it is a grievous evil.”
(Ecclesiastes 6:2, ESV)

This verse reinforces the same idea: true enjoyment is not in possessions themselves, but in the grace to enjoy them—a grace only God can give.

A Word of Warning and Hope

This passage is not only a warning but also a call to wisdom: do not anchor your life in what is temporary. Wealth, family, honor, and long life are good, but they are not ultimate. Without a relationship with God and a heart surrendered to Him, even the greatest blessings become vanity.

Jesus put it plainly:

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”
(Mark 8:36, ESV)

Application: Store Up Treasures in Heaven

  • If God has blessed you with resources, use them to glorify Him and bless others.

  • Live not as one building an empire on earth, but as one preparing for eternity.

  • Do not be enslaved by possessions, but let them serve your eternal purpose.

  • Invest in what endures: faith, love, truth, the Gospel, and godliness.

The “treasure” warned against here is not your basic savings or wise financial stewardship. Rather, it is a lifestyle that hoards and trusts in wealth, refusing to let go, living as if earth is your forever home.

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”
(Matthew 6:19–20, ESV)

Conclusion

Ecclesiastes 6:3 challenges us to evaluate the true meaning of life. What is the point of earthly success if it leaves the soul empty? A life without God, no matter how long or prosperous, is ultimately a tragedy. But a life lived with eternal purpose, even in poverty or obscurity, is a treasure in God’s sight.

May we live as sojourners, not settlers—investing not in what fades, but in what lasts forever.

Shalom.

Print this post

What Was the Mercy Seat Like?(Exodus 40:20)

“He took the tablets of the covenant law and placed them in the ark, attached the poles to the ark, and put the atonement cover over it.” — Exodus 40:20, NIV

The Mercy Seat that was placed on top of the Ark of the Covenant was not a seat in the way we commonly understand—like a chair with legs for sitting. The Hebrew term translated as “seat” (Hebrew: kapporet) refers not to a literal throne, but to a place of atonement—a symbolic space where God’s presence would dwell and where reconciliation between God and His people would take place.

It was part of the golden lid that covered the Ark of the Covenant. Above this lid stood two cherubim of hammered gold, facing each other, with their wings stretched out upward and overshadowing the cover (Exodus 25:18–20). The space between the cherubim was called the Mercy Seat, and it represented the very throne of God on earth—a holy place where God’s glory would appear.

“There I will meet with you, and from above the mercy seat… I will speak with you about all that I will give you in commandment for the people of Israel.”
— Exodus 25:22, ESV

The lid (including the cherubim and the Mercy Seat) formed a single piece and was crafted from pure gold. It served as the covering for the Ark, which contained the stone tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments, a pot of manna, and Aaron’s rod that had budded (Hebrews 9:4).

Once a year, on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), the High Priest would enter the Most Holy Place and sprinkle the blood of a sacrificial bull on the Mercy Seat seven times. This blood offering served as a temporary covering for the sins of the people.

“He shall take some of the blood of the bull and sprinkle it with his finger on the front of the mercy seat on the east side, and in front of the mercy seat he shall sprinkle some of the blood with his finger seven times.”
— Leviticus 16:14, ESV

Under the Old Covenant, the Mercy Seat symbolized God’s provision for forgiveness through the sacrificial system. But it was ultimately incomplete. The blood of bulls and goats could never truly remove sin, only cover it temporarily (Hebrews 10:1–4). Moreover, the priests who served were themselves sinful and needed atonement.

Because of these limitations, a greater reality was needed:

  • A Heavenly Mercy Seat, not made by human hands.

  • A Perfect High Priest, sinless and eternal.

  • A Spotless Sacrifice, able to cleanse sin once for all.

All of this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. He is our Great High Priest, who entered not into an earthly tabernacle but into Heaven itself, offering not the blood of animals, but His own sinless blood for our eternal redemption.

“But when Christ came as High Priest of the good things that are now already here, He went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands… He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption.”
— Hebrews 9:11–12, NIV

Today, the true Mercy Seat is found in Christ Himself. Through Him, we have direct access to the Father, and full forgiveness of sins. The invitation to receive this mercy is open now—but it will not remain open forever. One day, the door of grace will close when Christ returns.

So the question remains: Have you placed your faith in Jesus? Have your sins been washed away by His blood?

The true Mercy Seat is open to all who will come in repentance and faith. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
— Hebrews 4:16, NIV

Maranatha!
(The Lord is coming)

Print this post

What Is “Confusion of the Heart”?

Question: What does the phrase “confusion of heart” mean, as found in the Bible?

Answer:
In Deuteronomy 28:28 , God warns:

“The LORD will strike you with madness and blindness and confusion of heart.”

This verse is part of a list of curses that God said would come upon Israel if they refused to obey His commandments. Confusion of heart is not simply emotional turmoil—it is a divinely permitted condition where a person’s mind becomes disoriented, unstable, and spiritually numb. The Hebrew word translated “confusion”  implies bewilderment, astonishment, or stupefaction—a deep, paralyzing mental and emotional fog.

1. Biblical Meaning and Experience

This kind of confusion happens when someone is so overwhelmed by circumstances or divine judgment that they cannot think clearly. It’s like being in a state of shock. For instance, someone who narrowly escapes a life-threatening accident—like nearly being hit by a truck—might freeze, unable to process or act. That moment of panic and disorientation is a small taste of what “confusion of heart” describes.

But biblically, it goes deeper than panic. It refers to a spiritual blindness—a soul that cannot grasp truth, a heart that is numb to conviction, and a mind unable to respond to God.

2. Judgment of Hardness and Blindness

God uses confusion of heart as a judgment against hardened rebellion. In Romans 1:28 Paul says:

“And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done.”

This shows that when people continually reject God’s truth, He may eventually give them over to mental and moral confusion. It’s not just natural chaos—it’s divine judgment. This condition is both psychological and spiritual.

Similarly, 2 Thessalonians 2:10–11 warns of a time when people who refuse to love the truth will be sent a delusion:

“…they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them aWhat Is “Confusion of the Heart”? strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false…”

3. Spiritual Consequence: Numbness to the Gospel

Those afflicted by this “confusion” often become indifferent to the gospel. No matter how strong the preaching is, or how urgently they are warned about judgment or salvation, they mock or ignore it. They cannot feel conviction because their heart is under judgment.

A clear example is in Genesis 19:14 when Lot warned his sons-in-law about God’s judgment on Sodom:

“But he seemed to his sons-in-law to be jesting.”

They thought he was joking—even though destruction was imminent. That’s confusion of heart in action.

4. Modern Relevance: Don’t Ignore the Voice of God

Today, many mock the gospel, saying things like, “You’ve waited for Jesus 2,000 years—where is He?” But some of these people may already be under divine confusion. When someone repeatedly rejects truth, their heart can become spiritually numb

Hebrews 3:15 –“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…”).

If you feel God speaking to you—if you sense the need to repent, to follow Jesus, to surrender—do not delay. Like Lot, you may have to leave the crowd and walk alone to obey God.

5. Value the Grace While It’s Still Available

God’s grace is not guaranteed to knock forever. As Isaiah 55:6  says:

“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.”

Don’t waste the opportunity to respond while your heart still feels conviction. Many have lost that sensitivity and are now living under the curse of confusion of heart—unable to see truth, feel conviction, or find the way back.

Confusion of heart is not just stress or anxiety. It’s a spiritual condition permitted by God as judgment for persistent disobedience. It affects both perception and discernment, and it blinds people to truth. If you feel God calling you to repent and believe in Christ, don’t ignore Him. His voice may not always be there.

The Lord is coming.

Print this post

What does Proverbs 18:9 mean?

“He who is slothful in his work is a brother to him who is a great destroyer.” — Proverbs 18:9 

Answer:

This verse teaches a powerful truth: laziness is not just a personal flaw—it’s destructive. According to Scripture, a lazy person is likened to someone who causes real harm. In other words, neglecting our responsibilities can result in damage just as serious as deliberate wrongdoing.

This verse reflects the biblical principle of stewardship. In Genesis 2:15, God placed Adam in the Garden “to tend and keep it”—work was part of God’s design from the beginning. So when we treat work lightly, especially work God has entrusted to us, we are violating that divine principle.

Think of a bridge engineer. If he is careless or lazy, the structure might be unsafe. That doesn’t just waste resources—it puts lives at risk. His negligence is no different from that of a person who destroys intentionally. Jesus Himself said,

“For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required”(Luke 12:48).

Laziness in our duties—especially when others depend on us—can have deadly consequences.

This also applies to the spiritual realm. Many people, when they don’t see fast results in ministry, turn to shortcuts. They begin crafting messages that appeal to emotions rather than truth. They invent teachings that attract crowds but lack biblical foundation. This is what Paul warned about in 2 Timothy 4:3–4 

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires… they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”

Such shortcuts, born out of impatience and laziness, do not build God’s Kingdom—they damage it. We end up doing God’s work without God’s heart or truth, which leads to spiritual destruction.

That’s why the Bible gives a sober warning in Jeremiah 48:10

“Cursed is he who does the work of the Lord deceitfully, and cursed is he who keeps back his sword from blood.”

This verse tells us that God takes His work seriously. When we are called—whether as pastors, singers, teachers, evangelists, or in any ministry—we must accept the responsibility that comes with it. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:16–17

“For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!… I have been entrusted with a stewardship.”

This speaks to our role as servants and stewards of God’s work. A steward must be faithful (see 1 Corinthians 4:2). Laziness not only fails that standard—it endangers the people we’re supposed to serve.

So, Proverbs 18:9 isn’t just a call to diligence—it’s a warning. Laziness is not neutral; it produces fruit just as much as action does—only in the form of destruction.

May the Lord give us grace to be diligent, faithful stewards in every work He has assigned to us.

Print this post

LIST OF FALSE BELIEFS – Part 1

This is a list of false beliefs that contain lies designed to sound close to the truth.

1. The Belief About God the Father

Christian orthodoxy teaches that Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man, eternally equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit in the Trinity (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9). Jesus remains the supreme authority on earth and in heaven even after His ascension (Matthew 28:18). The belief that Jesus no longer holds authority or that His earthly reign has ended contradicts the Bible’s teaching about His ongoing kingship and priesthood.

The false belief:
This belief claims that Jesus no longer has authority on earth, and that only God the Father now has authority. It also falsely teaches that the rapture of the church has already happened, so there is nothing left to wait for, and outward holiness is unnecessary.

Why this is false:

  • Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18, ESV). This authority is ongoing and universal.
  • The Bible encourages believers to live holy lives, reflecting their new identity in Christ (1 Peter 1:15-16).
  • The rapture, or the gathering of believers to Christ, is clearly described as a future event (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

Misunderstanding Satan’s identity:
This belief wrongly calls Satan a “Cherub,” implying he still holds a heavenly rank. However, the Bible teaches that Satan was cast down due to rebellion (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:12-17). Revelation 12:9 (ESV) describes him as “that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world.”

Historical note:
This belief originated in Tanzania around 2003, appealing to those who prefer not to study Scripture deeply but want quick answers.

Warning from Scripture:

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-16,)

2. The Belief in Praying to the Dead ni

Biblical teaching emphasizes Jesus Christ as the sole mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). After death, a person’s eternal destiny is sealed (Hebrews 9:27). The Bible never supports the idea that the dead pray for the living or vice versa.

The false belief:
This belief teaches that dead saints can pray for the living and that we can pray for the dead, suggesting there is a second chance or ongoing influence after death.

Why this is false:

  • Scripture states there is one mediator: Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 2:5-6). No human being, living or dead, can mediate salvation.
  • Jesus said, “You will die in your sins unless you believe that I am He” (John 8:24), emphasizing the necessity of faith in this life.
  • After death, judgment follows (Hebrews 9:27); there is no second chance or intercession from the dead.
  • The Bible contains no example of a dead saint praying for the living, nor a living saint praying for the dead.

Role of Jesus in prayer:
Jesus intercedes for believers (Romans 8:34) while they are alive, not after death. He prays that God will forgive repentant sinners.

Warning from Scripture:
“The Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1)

Both beliefs are serious departures from biblical truth and are rooted in deception designed to mislead Christians. The Bible calls us to remain vigilant, study Scripture carefully, and reject teachings that contradict Christ’s authority and the clear teaching on salvation.

Print this post

The Gospel Is God’s Power That Brings Salvation

If we truly understand the power God has placed in the gospel, we will preach it boldly and passionately.

Many believers wait for the “right moment” to preach — waiting for more knowledge, a special anointing, visions, or theological training. But the Bible teaches a different approach. The gospel itself carries divine power, and this power is available to all who believe.

The gospel is not merely a message; it is the power of God that effects salvation (Romans 1:16). This power is not human ability or eloquence, but God’s sovereign work through the proclamation of Christ crucified and risen (1 Corinthians 1:18). The gospel is the instrument God uses to bring about spiritual regeneration and transformation (1 Corinthians 1:21).

Let’s consider the Scripture:

Romans 1:15-16

“That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”

This means the gospel’s power is not dependent on the preacher’s skill but on God’s Spirit working through the message (1 Thessalonians 1:5). Therefore, preaching is an act of faith, trusting that God will save hearts through His Word.

When you understand this, you will preach without fear or hesitation. Your role is to faithfully proclaim the gospel; God will change hearts. The gospel carries the dynamis—power—to save and transform.

If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, repented, and been baptized, you already have what it takes to share the good news. Don’t wait for perfect knowledge or miraculous signs like speaking in tongues or visions. The Holy Spirit can work through your simple obedience (Acts 2:38-41).

The empowerment for ministry is given by the Holy Spirit, but it does not mean waiting passively. Jesus commissioned His disciples to go and preach before Pentecost (Luke 10:1-9). This teaches us that obedience and action come first, then empowerment.

For example, Peter preached repentance and forgiveness before he spoke in tongues (Acts 2). So what is holding you back?

Luke 10:17

“The seventy returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’”

Your small step to preach can bring great change, because the gospel is God’s power—not human ability.

So, get up and start sharing Jesus’ message. Don’t focus on your weaknesses. God’s power is in the gospel words you proclaim (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). People won’t focus on your flaws, but on the transforming Word of God. You will be amazed at God’s work through you.

May the Lord bless you abundantly.

Print this post

WHY SHOULD WE PREACH THE GOSPEL WITH BOLDNESS?

Let’s explore a powerful and urgent question:

Why are Christians called to preach the gospel boldly and without fear?

The answer is deeply rooted in Scripture and central to our faith as followers of Jesus Christ. Let’s begin by reflecting on Jesus’ final command before His ascension:

Matthew 28:18–20
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’”

1. The Authority of Christ

Jesus opens with a bold declaration: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (v. 18)
This statement is not just a claim of power—it’s a declaration of sovereignty. After His resurrection, Christ is exalted to the right hand of the Father (Philippians 2:9–11), ruling as Lord over all creation. His authority is both universal and eternal. Therefore, when we go to preach, we are not going in our own strength—we are going under His divine commission and covering.

Colossians 1:16–17
“For in him all things were created… all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

2. Our Mission: To Make Disciples of All Nations

Jesus didn’t just tell His disciples to “go”—He told them what to do:

  • Make disciples
  • Baptize them
  • Teach them to obey everything He commanded

This is not a suggestion; it is a command—commonly known as the Great Commission. It reflects God’s heart for the whole world (John 3:16), and it mirrors His plan to redeem people from every tribe, tongue, and nation (Revelation 7:9).

Romans 10:14–15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? … And how can anyone preach unless they are sent?”

3. God’s Presence Gives Us Boldness

Jesus concluded His commission with a promise: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (v. 20)
This echoes God’s covenantal presence with His people throughout Scripture (see Joshua 1:9, Isaiah 41:10). His abiding presence through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16–17) assures us that we are never alone in the mission.

2 Timothy 1:7
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

4. Start Where You Are

You don’t need special qualifications to preach. Jesus didn’t tell His disciples to wait until they had all the resources or knowledge—they were simply told to obey. Evangelism starts in your home, your street, your workplace, or your school. This is modeled in Acts 1:8:

Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Start in your “Jerusalem”—your immediate circle. Be faithful where you are, and God will expand your reach.

5. Don’t Wait for “Special” Signs

Some believers hold back, waiting for a vision, a prophetic word, or a feeling of readiness. But Scripture is clear: the command has already been given. Spiritual growth happens through obedience, not before it.

James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

You may never feel completely “ready”—and that’s okay. God equips those He calls, and He is faithful to strengthen you along the way.

Preaching the gospel boldly is not reserved for pastors or evangelists. It’s the responsibility of every believer, backed by the authority of Christ, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and the urgency of the gospel.

You don’t go alone. You go with the One who has all authority and who promised to be with you until the end.

So go. Preach boldly. The King is with you.

“The Lord bless you and keep you.” – Numbers 6:24

Print this post

What Did Paul Mean by “Whitewashed Wall”?

Contextual Reading – Acts 23:1–3

“Paul looked straight at the Sanhedrin and said, ‘My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day.’ At this, the high priest Ananias ordered those standing near Paul to strike him on the mouth. Then Paul said to him, ‘God will strike you, you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge me according to the law, yet you yourself violate the law by commanding that I be struck!’”
— Acts 23:1–3,

Paul, facing the Jewish council (Sanhedrin), boldly declared that his conscience was clear before God. Yet instead of a fair hearing, he was struck on the mouth by order of the high priest—an act contrary to the law (Deuteronomy 25:1–2). In righteous indignation, Paul responded with a sharp rebuke: “God will strike you, you whitewashed wall!”

Symbolism of the “Whitewashed Wall”

The term “whitewashed wall” is rich in biblical symbolism. It echoes imagery from Ezekiel 13:10–12, where false prophets are condemned for misleading God’s people with shallow, deceptive peace, likened to whitewashing flimsy walls. They create a façade of safety and righteousness, but it’s all for show.

In Paul’s usage, the phrase exposes religious hypocrisy—appearing just outwardly while being corrupt inwardly. The wall may look clean, but beneath the surface, it is unstable and rotten. This fits perfectly with Jesus’ words about the Pharisees:

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”
— Matthew 23:27

This is not just a moral critique—it is a theological indictment. God demands holiness from the inside out, not just external religious performance (1 Samuel 16:7; Psalm 51:6). Jesus consistently warned that mere outward appearance of righteousness is spiritually dangerous because it deceives both the person and others.

The Modern Relevance of Paul’s Rebuke

Paul’s words are still relevant today. Many Christians and leaders may appear holy—preaching, singing, serving—but harbor bitterness, pride, deceit, or lust internally. This form of modern-day hypocrisy grieves the Holy Spirit and undermines the witness of the Church.

Jesus warned us not to be content with an outer display of righteousness. True sanctification is a work of the Holy Spirit that begins in the heart:

“Woe to you… You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence… First clean the inside… and then the outside also will be clean.”
— Matthew 23:25–26

A Call to Inner Holiness

Paul’s concern was not simply personal—it was spiritual. Religious leaders should uphold justice and reflect God’s character, not distort it. That is why Scripture calls every believer to pursue complete holiness:

“Reject every kind of evil. May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:22–23

Paul’s phrase “whitewashed wall” isn’t just a rebuke—it’s a mirror. It invites each of us to examine whether we’re living with integrity before God. The gospel doesn’t just clean us outwardly; it transforms us inwardly through Christ’s righteousness and the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5; Hebrews 10:10).

Let us not settle for spiritual cosmetics. May our hearts, minds, and actions reflect the holiness of the One we follow.

Shalom.

Print this post

HOW CAN I CONTROL MY ANGER?

Question: I am a Christian, but I get very angry a lot. What can I do to control my anger?

Answer: Anger is a natural human emotion, but it can be either constructive or destructive. The Bible shows us two kinds of anger:

1. Positive (Righteous) Anger

This anger is motivated by love, justice, and the desire to do what is right. It is never sinful because it reflects God’s heart. Jesus demonstrated this when He healed on the Sabbath despite opposition and when He cleared the temple of corrupt merchants.

  • Mark 3:1-5
    “Jesus looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.”

  • Mark 11:15-18
    Jesus cleared the temple, showing righteous anger against corruption.

God’s anger toward His people is also for correction, not destruction, aimed at restoration (Jeremiah 29:11).

2. Negative (Sinful) Anger

This anger comes from sin—jealousy, pride, bitterness, and selfishness—and leads to harm, division, and sometimes violence. Examples include Cain killing Abel (Genesis 4), the older brother’s resentment in the prodigal son story (Luke 15:28), and Jonah’s bitterness over God’s mercy (Jonah 4:9-11).

  • James 1:20
    “Human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
    This verse reminds us that sinful anger does not align with God’s will.

Why Do We Get Angry?

Anger can arise from being insulted, ignored, betrayed, or treated unfairly. While anger itself is not a sin, how we respond to it can be. The Bible calls us to control our anger and not let it lead us into sin.

Practical Steps to Control Anger

  1. Be Slow to Speak and Slow to Anger

  • James 1:19: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”
    Anger often causes us to speak or act impulsively. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and helps us respond wisely.

  1. Practice Forgiveness

  • Luke 6:36-37: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful… Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
    Forgiveness releases bitterness and reflects God’s mercy.

  1. Immerse Yourself in God’s Word

  • Psalm 1:2-3: “But whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
    The Word of God shapes our character, teaching humility, patience, and love—key to managing anger.

  1. Pray for Strength and Peace

  • Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and minds.”
    Prayer invites God’s peace, helping us overcome anger.

  1. Count Your Blessings

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
    Gratitude shifts focus away from offense toward God’s goodness.

  1. Cultivate Humility

  • Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
    Humility helps us recognize our own faults and reduces prideful anger.

  1. Remember People Often Don’t Understand Their Actions

  • Jesus said on the cross:
    Luke 23:34: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
    Recognizing ignorance in others helps us respond with grace instead of angels.

Anger itself is not sin, but how we handle it matters deeply. Scripture teaches us to be patient, forgiving, humble, and loving, reflecting Christ’s character. By relying on God’s Word, prayer, and the Holy Spirit, we can control our anger and respond in ways that honor God.

May God bless and strengthen you on this journey.

Print this post

What Is the Difference Between a Gift and a Spiritual Gift?

To understand the difference between these two terms “gift” and “spiritual gift”  let’s consider this example:

Imagine two people each receive a car as a gift. Both cars are identical, but each person uses their car differently. The first person uses the car for their own convenience to travel easily and for personal use. The second person, however, turns their car into an ambulance to help sick people get to the hospital, offering this service freely.

Biblically, the cars represent gifts from God. But the second person’s choice to use the car to serve others exemplifies a spiritual gift. According to Scripture, a spiritual gift is not just a blessing or talent; it’s a divine enablement given by the Holy Spirit to serve and build up the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:7,: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good”).

This means that a spiritual gift is given not primarily for personal benefit but for the edification and blessing of others (Romans 12:6-8).

Today, many people possess natural talents or gifts but lack spiritual gifts in the biblical sense. For instance, some may have the gift of singing but do not exercise it as a spiritual gift intended to encourage and build the church (Ephesians 4:11-13). Others might prophesy or speak in tongues but use these gifts selfishly or for personal recognition instead of serving the community (1 Corinthians 14:12).

Why does this matter? Because Scripture warns that spiritual gifts are to be exercised with love and humility for the benefit of the whole church, not for personal fame or gain (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Paul instructs in,

1 Corinthians 14:12

“Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.”

The primary purpose of spiritual gifts is to build up the church, the body of Christ, rather than glorify the individual.

So, reflect honestly: Is your gift blessing others and strengthening the church, or is it serving your own interests? If your gift primarily brings honor to yourself rather than to God, you may have a talent but not yet a true spiritual gift empowered by the Spirit (John 15:8).

God calls us to transform our gifts into spiritual gifts by surrendering them to His service and using them to bless others. The result is a life that glorifies God and edifies His people (1 Peter 4:10-11).

Furthermore, Scripture tells us that those who faithfully use their spiritual gifts will be honored at Christ’s return (Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents). Only those who serve others with their gifts will be invited to the “banquet”  symbolizing the eternal celebration with Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 reminds us:

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.
There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord.
There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.
Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”

The spiritual gift is meant for mutual benefit not selfish gain.

In summary: Desire to serve and build the body of Christ selflessly. In doing so, God will transform your natural gifts into true spiritual gifts that bring blessing and glory to Him.

May the Lord bless you as you serve!

Print this post

Archives

Search

Archives