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MARRIAGE INSIGHTS: The Role of In-Laws in God’s Design

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. To Him be glory, honor, and power forever. Amen.

This message continues our teaching series on Christian marriage—focusing on a critical, yet often neglected, area: the role of in-laws, particularly your father-in-law and mother-in-law, in building a godly and fruitful marriage.

1. Marriage Is a Covenant That Extends Beyond the Couple

Marriage is not just a bond between two people. It’s a covenant that unites two families. This covenant comes with responsibilities—not just to your spouse, but to your spouse’s family. The Bible tells us:

“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
—Genesis 2:24

While this verse speaks of leaving the parental home to form a new unit, it does not suggest cutting ties or neglecting responsibilities to extended family—especially in-laws. In fact, biblical examples show the exact opposite: relationships with in-laws can be channels of blessing or sources of unnecessary strife, depending on how we handle them.

2. THE MOTHER-IN-LAW: A Channel of Favor

Let’s consider the story of Ruth and Naomi, her mother-in-law.

When Ruth’s husband died, she had every reason to return home and remarry, as her sister-in-law Orpah did. But Ruth clung to Naomi, choosing loyalty over convenience:

“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’”
—Ruth 1:16

This wasn’t just emotional loyalty—it was spiritual insight. Ruth recognized the spiritual covering and destiny connection with Naomi. That decision positioned her for divine favor. She eventually married Boaz and became the great-grandmother of King David—and part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 1:5–6).

Key Principle: As a married woman, your honor and spiritual growth are not only nurtured through your husband, but also through how you relate to your mother-in-law. Don’t overlook the blessings God may want to give you through her.

Even if she is not perfect, humility and honor can unlock divine favor. As Scripture says:

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
—James 4:6

3. THE FATHER-IN-LAW: A Source of Wisdom

Now, for the men: your wife’s father is not just your wife’s dad—he can be a vessel of divine wisdom. Consider Moses and his father-in-law Jethro (also known as Reuel).

Moses had direct access to God. He led the Israelites, performed miracles, and received the Ten Commandments. Yet, in Exodus 18, we see that Jethro provided a leadership model that even Moses hadn’t received from God directly.

“Moses’ father-in-law replied, ‘What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out… Select capable men from all the people… Have them serve as officials… That will make your load lighter.’”
—Exodus 18:17–22

Moses listened:

“Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.”
—Exodus 18:24

Despite being a prophet, Moses received practical help and divine order through his father-in-law’s counsel—a powerful reminder that wisdom can come through human relationships, even when you’re spiritually mature.

Key Principle: As a husband, don’t disregard your father-in-law. His advice may not come through prophecy or miracles—but God can use him to stabilize your home, guide your decisions, or even save you from unnecessary burdens.

4. In-Law Relationships Are Part of Your Spiritual Health

Honoring your in-laws is not just a cultural or emotional duty—it’s a spiritual principle. The command to honor is broader than just parents:

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
—Exodus 20:12

This includes all parental figures who become part of your family through marriage. If you ignore or disrespect them, you risk cutting off a channel of blessing that God Himself established.

Final Encouragement

Your in-laws are not random additions to your life. They are part of God’s design in your marriage journey. Whether they are kind or difficult, wise or flawed, God can use them to mature you, bless you, and guide you—if you walk in humility, wisdom, and honor.

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
—Romans 12:10

So whether you’re a husband or wife, don’t isolate your marriage from your in-laws. Embrace your new spiritual family and see what God will do through them.

May the Lord bless your marriage, give you discernment, and fill your home with peace and favor.

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THE GRACE GOD GAVE TO MARY

Many people read Luke 1 and assume that Mary’s greatest honor was giving birth to Jesus. While that’s true in part, Scripture reveals something deeper. The grace God gave Mary was not simply to bear Christ, but to believe His Word.

1. The Angel’s Words: Mary Found Favor with God

“And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!’ But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.’”
(Luke 1:28–30)

The word “favor” here in Greek is charis, which is the same word translated elsewhere as “grace.” This means Mary was graced by God, not because of her own merit, but because of God’s sovereign choice.

But notice something important: Mary was not told she received grace because she would bear Jesus; rather, she received grace so that she could believe God’s Word about bearing Jesus.

2. Mary’s Belief vs. Zechariah’s Doubt

Compare Mary’s response with that of Zechariah, who was also visited by the angel Gabriel.

Zechariah, a priest, was told his wife Elizabeth would bear a son (John the Baptist). Unlike Mary, he doubted:

“And Zechariah said to the angel, ‘How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.’”
(Luke 1:18)

Gabriel responded:

“Behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words…”
(Luke 1:20)

This shows us something key: Zechariah heard a less miraculous message, yet still doubted. Mary heard a far more impossible message, yet believed.

3. True Grace Enables True Faith

Grace is more than unmerited favor—it is divine empowerment. Paul reminds us:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”
(Ephesians 2:8)

Mary’s faith wasn’t just her own—it was a gift of grace. Her belief in the miraculous conception wasn’t natural—it was spiritual.

4. Why Mary? God Gives Grace to the Humble

Mary’s unique qualification was her humility. She said:

“For he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.”
(Luke 1:48)

This aligns with what the Bible teaches:

“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
(1 Peter 5:5)

Mary’s lowly position and humble heart positioned her to receive God’s greatest favor. Not just in womb, but in heart, she carried the Word.

5. Parallel with the Widow of Zarephath

Jesus referenced this in Luke 4:25–26, showing how God’s provision often goes to those outside the expected circle—those with faith and humility:

“But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel… and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow.”
(Luke 4:25–26)

Just like Mary, the widow believed the Word of God through the prophet—even when it seemed unreasonable (1 Kings 17:8–16).

6. What Can We Learn?

Mary’s story teaches us that God grants grace not to the most religious or powerful—but to the humble who believe.

  • Want grace to walk in God’s calling? Be humble.
  • Want faith to believe the impossible? Stay low before God.
  • Want to do great things? Start with obedience in small things.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.”
(1 Peter 5:6)

A Call to Humble Faith

Mary’s greatness was not her status—it was her heart. A quiet, prayerful, obedient young woman became the vessel of the Savior, not because she was perfect, but because she believed.

As we wait for Christ’s return, may we seek this same grace:
Grace to believe, grace to obey, grace to be humble.

Lord, make us like Mary. Help us walk in the grace to believe Your Word, and give us hearts that remain low before You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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THE WORD OF GOD IS THE COMPLETE REVELATION

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105

May the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be praised.

As we grow in our faith, we must always remember this vital truth: God’s Word, the Bible, is the most complete and reliable revelation of His will. While dreams, visions, and personal revelations may occur—and may even come from God—they are not sufficient on their own. They must always be tested and grounded in Scripture.

1. The Example of Pilate’s Wife: A True Dream but Incomplete Revelation

Before Jesus was crucified, Pilate’s wife had a disturbing dream warning her husband not to be involved in Jesus’s death. The Bible records:

Matthew 27:19 

“While Pilate was sitting on the judge’s seat, his wife sent him this message: ‘Don’t have anything to do with innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him.’”

This dream clearly testified to Jesus’s innocence and righteousness. It’s logical to conclude that this dream came from God because Satan would never affirm Christ’s righteousness or work against the crucifixion plan (John 8:44).

However, we must ask: if the dream was from God and showed Jesus shouldn’t be crucified, does that contradict the divine plan for Christ to die and rise again?

Absolutely not. God never contradicts Himself. The dream was true, but not complete.

2. The Full Revelation: Found in the Word

Luke 9:22

“And he said, ‘The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.’”

This was God’s redemptive plan all along. Christ, though innocent, had to die for our sins:

Isaiah 53:5

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

Pilate’s wife saw one side of the truth—Jesus was innocent—but without the context of Scripture, she couldn’t see the redemptive purpose behind His suffering. This is why we must interpret all spiritual experiences in the light of the Word.

3. Scripture Over Dreams

The prophet Jeremiah makes a profound comparison between dreams and the Word of God:

Jeremiah 23:28–29

“Let the prophet who has a dream recount the dream, but let the one who has my word speak it faithfully. For what has straw to do with grain?” declares the Lord. “Is not my word like fire,” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?”

Note: Straw (dreams) is lightweight and cannot sustain life; grain (the Word) is nourishing and life-giving. Dreams can reveal partial truth, but only God’s Word reveals saving truth (Romans 10:17).

4. Be Grounded in the Word

Perhaps you’ve had dreams or spiritual experiences that seem to indicate you’re on the right path. Maybe you’ve dreamed of going to heaven. But are you living in holiness? Or are you still trapped in sin—lying, sexual immorality, hatred, or drunkenness?

Galatians 5:19–21

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity… envy, drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Even if an angel in your dream says you’re approved by God, if you’re living contrary to the Word, the dream is incomplete or misleading. God’s truth never changes. Only the Word defines the standards for eternal life.

5. Final Judgment is Based on the Word, Not Dreams

John 12:48

“There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.”

Dreams, visions, and prophecies will not be the basis of final judgment—God’s Word will.

6. Let the Word Complete Your Revelation

Pilate’s wife had a real dream from God, but she lacked the full picture because she didn’t have the Word. Let that not be our case.

  • Read and study the entire Bible—not just portions.
  • Submit your dreams and revelations to Scriptural testing (1 John 4:1).
  • Learn the teachings and life of Jesus.
  • Be led by the Holy Spirit not only in dreams but in understanding Scripture (John 16:13).

2 Timothy 3:16–17

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Spend time in the Word. Ground your spiritual experiences in the truth of Scripture. Then your visions and revelations will not be straw, but solid grain.

May the Lord bless you richly.

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What Does “Palm/Palms” Mean in the Bible?

In biblical terms, Palm (Plural Palms)  refers to the palm of the hand — the inner, open part of the hand at the end of the arm. In Hebrew, the word often used is “kaph”, meaning “palm, hollow, or hand.” The palm has both physical and symbolic significance in Scripture. It represents action, power, remembrance, and even judgment or protection.

1. The Palm of Judgment – Daniel 5:24–25

“Then the fingers of the hand were sent from Him, and this writing was written.
And this is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.”

In this passage, King Belshazzar of Babylon desecrated the holy vessels from God’s temple, using them during a drunken feast. As a result, a mysterious hand appeared — just the palm and fingers — and wrote on the wall. The words meant that God had judged him:

  • MENE – God has numbered your kingdom and finished it.
  • TEKEL – You have been weighed in the balances and found wanting.
  • PERES – Your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.

2. The Palm in Ritual Worship – Leviticus 14:26–27

“And the priest shall pour some of the oil into the palm of his own left hand.
Then the priest shall sprinkle with his right finger some of the oil that is in his left hand seven times before the Lord.”

In purification rituals, the palm is the place where anointing oil is held and used. It becomes a vessel for sanctification and blessing.

3. The Palm as a Physical Trait – Leviticus 11:27

“And whatever goes on its paws, among all kinds of animals that go on all fours, those are unclean to you.”

The word “paws” here comes from the same root as palms— referring to the palms or undersides of animals’ feet. It reminds us of the difference between clean and unclean animals, symbolizing holiness in daily living.

4. The Palm of God’s Love and Remembrance – Isaiah 49:16

“See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; your walls are continually before Me.”

This beautiful verse reveals the deep compassion and covenant faithfulness of God. To write someone on your palm means you want to remember them constantly. God promises that even if a mother forgets her child, He will never forget His people (Isaiah 49:15).

What Do Our Palms Teach Us Spiritually?

Every time you look at your palms, remember this:

If You Are Living in Sin…

Like Belshazzar, you may feel comfortable now, but God sees all. The same hand that wrote judgment on the wall may one day write against you. If your life is filled with pride, lust, drunkenness, idolatry, or witchcraft — repent now.

“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:3).

But If You Love and Obey God…

God has not forgotten you. He has engraved your name on His palm — you are always before Him. He watches over you, remembers you, and will never abandon you.

“The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy.” (Psalm 145:8)

Whether the palm reveals God’s judgment or His mercy, it is always active. He is not a distant or forgetful God. If you are in Christ, you are held in His hands — remembered, protected, and loved.

“My sheep hear My voice… and no one shall snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:27-28).

May the Lord bless you and keep you close to His hands — both now and forever.

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Theological Insights into God’s Discipline

1. Discipline as Evidence of Sonship

The writer of Hebrews emphasizes that God’s discipline is a sign of His love and our status as His children. In Hebrews 12:6–7 (NIV), it states:

The Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.

This passage underscores that discipline is not a sign of rejection but of acceptance. Just as earthly fathers correct their children to guide them, our Heavenly Father disciplines us to shape our character and align us with His will.

2. The Purpose of Discipline: Training in Righteousness

Discipline serves a transformative purpose. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) explains:

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

This verse likens discipline to training, suggesting that through God’s correction, we are molded into individuals who reflect His righteousness. The process may be uncomfortable, but the outcome is spiritual maturity and peace.

3. Discipline and Spiritual Growth

God’s discipline is integral to our spiritual development. As noted in Hebrews 12:10 (CSB):

For they disciplined us for a short time based on what seemed good to them, but he does so for our benefit, so that we can share his holiness.

This highlights that God’s discipline is purposeful, aiming to cultivate holiness within us. It’s not arbitrary but is designed to draw us closer to His likeness.

4. Responding to Discipline: Repentance and Zeal

In Revelation 3:19 (NIV), Jesus calls the Laodiceans to repentance:

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.

This invitation to repentance reflects God’s desire for restoration. When we face discipline, it’s an opportunity to turn back to God with sincerity and zeal, reaffirming our commitment to Him.

Practical Application

Understanding the theological basis of God’s discipline encourages us to approach it with the right mindset:

Embrace Discipline as Love: Recognize that God’s correction stems from His deep love for us and His desire for our spiritual growth.

View Discipline as Training: Understand that challenges and corrections are opportunities for us to grow in righteousness and holiness.

Respond with Repentance: When corrected, approach God with a repentant heart, seeking to realign with His will.

Persevere in Faith: Trust that God’s discipline, though painful at times, leads to a harvest of peace and righteousness.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sources

 

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HOW UNCLEANNESS CAN AFFECT A PERSON.

May our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified. We’ve been blessed with another day to see, and I invite you to join me in learning God’s Word, especially as the day draws to a close. As we delve into this topic, let’s remember that our walk with God is not just about avoiding visible sins, but also about guarding our hearts and minds in Him.

Just as “Holiness and sanctification” go hand in hand, so too do “Sin and uncleanness.”

What is the difference between sin and uncleanness?

Sin is any act or thought that goes against God’s will, often manifesting in the violation of His commandments. It’s the breaking of His moral law. The Bible defines sin as “lawlessness” (1 John 3:4, ESV). This includes acts such as adultery, murder, theft, and idolatry.

Sin as Separation from God

Sin separates us from God (Isaiah 59:2). The effects of sin are far-reaching—spiritually, it causes a breach in our relationship with the Creator, leading to guilt and spiritual death (Romans 6:23). It is something that defiles the person both inwardly and outwardly.

On the other hand, uncleanness refers to a condition of impurity or defilement, typically associated with ceremonial laws in the Old Testament. While sin is a moral issue, uncleanness is often related to physical, ritualistic, or ceremonial purity. In the Old Testament, certain actions, foods, or physical states (like childbirth or touching a dead body) rendered a person ceremonially unclean, temporarily separating them from the community and the worship of God (Leviticus 11-15).

The Heart of the Matter: Sin and Uncleanness Together

For a person living in sin, uncleanness doesn’t hold much power because the person is already in a state of separation from God. However, for a saved person, both sin and uncleanness can disrupt their relationship with God, even if the uncleanness is not morally wrong.

Think of it like this: Imagine a black stain on a white shirt. If the stain is on a black shirt, it’s invisible, and the shirt can still be worn. But if it’s on a white shirt, even if the shirt is perfectly clean otherwise, the stain is glaring and ruins the purity of the shirt. This is the effect of uncleanness—while it may not always be a moral sin, it still hinders one’s relationship with God, especially for those who are striving to live in holiness.

The Old Testament View of Uncleanness

In the Old Testament, uncleanness was a significant concern in the life of Israel. For example:

Leviticus 11:23-24 (NIV), “But all flying insects that have four feet are detestable to you. You shall become unclean by them. Anyone who touches their carcass will be unclean until evening.”

Also in:

Leviticus 12:1-5 (NIV),”When a woman gives birth to a son, she will be ceremonially unclean for seven days… And on the eighth day, the boy is to be circumcised.”

Leviticus 15:16-20 (NIV), talks about bodily discharges making a person unclean:

“When a man has an emission of semen, he must bathe his whole body with water, and he will be unclean till evening.”

In these cases, uncleanness was not necessarily sinful but rather a condition that needed purification for a person to re-enter fellowship with God and the community. God’s holiness required His people to maintain ceremonial purity, as a reflection of spiritual purity. The Israelites were to be a holy nation (Exodus 19:6), and uncleanness hindered their ability to approach God’s presence in the tabernacle.

The New Covenant: Jesus and the Heart of Uncleanness

In the New Covenant, uncleanness is no longer about ceremonial laws but is more concerned with the condition of the heart. Jesus changed the focus from external purity to internal purity.

Jesus Himself addressed this in

Matthew 15:17-20 (NIV),”Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what defile a person.”

Here, Jesus is teaching that moral impurity and sin originate from within—the heart. While the Old Testament laws focused on outward cleanliness, Jesus emphasized that true defilement is rooted in what is inside.

Sin and the Heart

Jesus makes it clear that sin is not only in the actions but in the heart.

Matthew 5:28,(NIV) underscores this: “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

This highlights that even harboring sinful thoughts—like lust, hate, or unforgiveness—makes a person unclean. It’s not just about what we do but what we allow to take root in our hearts.

Jeremiah 17:9 (NIV)says, *“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?”*This is why we must guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23).

Theological Insight: The Need for Inner Purification

Under the New Covenant, Jesus offers purification not through external rituals but through His blood.

Hebrews 9:14 (NIV) says, “How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!”

Christ’s sacrifice cleanses us from both sin and the defilement of the heart. It’s through His work on the cross that we are made holy and pure in God’s sight (1 Corinthians 1:30).

However, the battle isn’t over. Christians are still called to be vigilant in guarding their hearts. Paul exhorts believers in

Romans 12:1-2 (NIV): “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

The mind and heart must continually be renewed and purified by the Word of God and the Holy Spirit.

Practical Application: Guard Your Heart

To stay in God’s presence and avoid defilement, we must guard our hearts and minds. The Apostle Paul writes in

Philippians 4:8 (NIV),“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

In a world full of temptations and distractions, it’s vital to continually renew our minds with God’s Word. We are called to 

“put off the old self with its practices and put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:9-10, NIV).

Conclusion: A Holy Pursuit

Uncleanness, in the New Covenant, is about more than just outward actions—it’s about the heart. Sin and uncleanness both defile us, and they start from within. To remain in God’s presence, we must be vigilant in guarding our hearts and minds, continually allowing the Holy Spirit to purify us. As Jesus Himself says in

John 15:3 (NIV), “You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.”

Our purification comes through Him and His Word, but it’s an ongoing process as we grow in holiness.

May the Lord help us to remain pure in heart, that we might always be in His presence, serving Him faithfully.

 

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HOW TO HEAR GOD AND RECEIVE REVELATION OR MESSAGES FROM HIM

Greetings to you in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome to this reflection on the words of life—words that alone have the power to truly set us free (John 8:32, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” – NIV).

Today, we’ll explore one vital biblical principle that can help us receive messages, revelations, and divine insight from God. This principle has deeply impacted my walk with the Lord, and I believe it will also transform your spiritual life.

The Way We Speak to God vs. How He Speaks to Us

When we want to speak to God, we usually go directly into prayer—perhaps kneeling down and presenting our needs before Him. After saying our piece, we often get up and carry on with our lives.

However, God doesn’t always speak back in that same immediate, transactional way. He often operates on a different rhythm. This disconnect leads many believers to grow discouraged when they don’t hear an immediate or obvious response from God.

But Scripture teaches us a critical truth—if we truly want to hear from God, we must learn to be still.

The Principle: Stillness

God’s voice is often heard most clearly in stillness, not in chaos or noise. The prophet Elijah experienced this firsthand. Though God had spoken to him many times, Elijah never truly discerned God’s intimate voice until he was completely still before Him.

In 1 Kings 19:11–13 (ESV), Elijah encounters God not in wind, earthquake, or fire—but in a “low whisper”:

“And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper… And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.”

Only then did Elijah recognize the presence of God and cover his face in reverence, realizing he was in the holy presence of the Almighty.

Stillness Precedes Revelation

We see another example in Elisha, when he needed clear instructions from God concerning the alliance of Israel, Judah, and Edom against Moab. Instead of rushing into prayer, he requested a harpist to play worship music—a way of creating spiritual stillness.

“But now bring me a musician.” And when the musician played, the hand of the Lord came upon him. And he said, ‘Thus says the Lord, “I will make this dry streambed full of pools…”’ (2 Kings 3:15–16, ESV).

Elisha’s request for worship music reveals an important pattern: praise and worship often prepare the heart to hear God. The Spirit of God came upon him after an atmosphere of worship was established.

Moses Waited in Stillness Before Hearing God

Even Moses, God’s chosen leader, had to wait in stillness. When he ascended Mount Sinai to receive the Law, he didn’t immediately enter God’s presence. He waited for six days before God finally called him into the cloud on the seventh day.

“The glory of the Lord dwelt on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. And on the seventh day He called to Moses out of the midst of the cloud.” (Exodus 24:16, ESV)

This teaches us that revelation is not always instant. It often requires waiting in the presence of God, resisting the urge to rush.

How to Cultivate a Life of Stillness

If you desire to hear from God more clearly, you must learn to slow down and give Him room to speak. Don’t just pray and rush away. After praying, sit in stillness. Worship. Meditate on His Word. Contemplate His power and goodness. Let your spirit be quiet before Him.

As you linger in His presence, you may begin to sense a divine stirring—a prompting in your spirit, a word of wisdom, a supernatural peace, a sudden understanding or instruction. That’s often how the Holy Spirit speaks.

Stillness opens the door to divine encounter.

Stillness Must Extend Beyond Prayer Time

Stillness is not just for prayer moments—it must become a lifestyle. If your life is filled with constant noise, endless social media scrolling, chatting in groups, binge-watching shows, or always attending events and parties, you will struggle to hear God.

Shalom.

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What Does It Mean to “Gird Up the Loins of Your Mind”? – 1 Peter 1:13

Let us consider the words of the Apostle Peter:

1 Peter 1:13–14 (NKJV)
“Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance.”

The phrase “gird up the loins” is an ancient expression used frequently in Scripture to symbolize preparedness—being ready to act, alert, and disciplined. In biblical times, people wore long, flowing garments, and when they needed to run, work, or engage in battle, they would gather up the loose fabric and tuck it into their belts. This act was called “girding up the loins.” It represented a shift from rest to readiness.

A Biblical Example: Exodus 12

A clear example is found in the account of Israel’s exodus from Egypt. On the night of the first Passover, God gave specific instructions through Moses:

Exodus 12:11 (NKJV)
“And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover.”

God was instructing His people to be in a state of urgency and expectation—they were not to settle in or relax but to be prepared to move at His command. This readiness was physical, emotional, and spiritual.

The Application to the Mind

So, what does it mean to “gird up the loins of your mind”? It means to prepare your mind for action—to discipline your thoughts, focus your heart, and cultivate mental and spiritual alertness. The Christian life is not passive; it demands vigilance and intention. In the context of 1 Peter 1, believers are being exhorted to live in the full expectation of Christ’s return and the grace that will be revealed in Him.

This phrase also parallels Christ’s words in Luke:

Luke 12:35–37 (NKJV)
“Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching.”

Jesus calls us to live in constant readiness—not in fear, but in faithful watchfulness.

Readiness of Heart and Will

Therefore, to “gird up the loins of your mind” means to align your will with God’s purpose, to be mentally and spiritually equipped to obey, to endure hardship, to reject sin, and to serve faithfully. It means being proactive in our faith, rather than reactive or sluggish.

Are our minds ready for what lies ahead? Are we mentally prepared for the trials, the mission, and the return of our King? Are we sober-minded, fully trusting in the grace that will be revealed?

2 Timothy 4:1–2 (NKJV)
“I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.”

The days are urgent, and the return of Christ is near. When He comes, He will come with His reward:

Revelation 22:12–13 (NKJV)
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”

A Final Reflection

So, let us ask ourselves: Are the loins of our minds girded? Are we spiritually prepared for the return of Christ, for the call to share the Gospel, to endure suffering, and to serve God wholeheartedly?

May we echo the ancient cry of the early Church: Maranatha! – “Come, Lord Jesus!”

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DON’T STOP PERFORMING!

You may be wondering—Are we really called to perform?
The answer is yes, but not in the way the world defines performance. As believers, we are not called to dance on worldly stages or pursue applause for entertainment. Instead, we are called to “perform” lives of holiness and righteousness before an audience that includes both angels and fellow human beings.

The Apostle Paul wrote:

“For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die in the arena. We have been made a spectacle to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings.”
— 1 Corinthians 4:9, NIV

Paul uses powerful imagery here. The word “spectacle” in Greek (theatron) literally means a theater or stage performance. Our lives are like a divine drama being watched by heaven and earth. Everything we do is under observation—not for entertainment, but for eternal evaluation.

Every believer is, in this sense, a performer—not for fame or financial gain, but to demonstrate the power of God’s grace through a life of obedience. And just like a stage performer is evaluated based on their act, so too will we be judged by how faithfully we lived out our calling in Christ (Romans 14:10-12).

Let’s consider an unusual but enlightening example: snake charmers.

In the past—and even today in some cultures—certain performers train themselves to handle venomous snakes, like cobras. They play flutes or use sounds that seemingly mesmerize the snakes, making them appear harmless. Crowds gather, amazed at how these men stand calmly before danger. Because of the risk and rarity of such an act, the performers are often rewarded with more money and attention than typical dancers or musicians.

But this performance is incredibly dangerous. If the charmer loses focus for even a moment, the snake may strike—and the show ends in tragedy.

King Solomon, in his earthly wisdom, wrote:

“If the serpent bites before it is charmed, there is no advantage to the charmer.”
— Ecclesiastes 10:11, ESV

While this may seem like a secular observation, it holds deep spiritual truth. The Holy Spirit ensured this verse was recorded for our instruction. It reminds us that wisdom and vigilance are essential in spiritual warfare.

As Christians, we are spiritual performers. Our enemy—the serpent, Satan—is always present, seeking someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). The world is watching. Heaven is watching. And the question is: Will we finish our race victoriously, or will we fall because we lost focus?

If we allow Satan to strike us—if we fall into sin and compromise—there is no reward for a performer who fails in the most critical moment.

So how do we, as believers, spiritually “charm” the serpent? How do we neutralize the enemy’s attacks?

In the same way that charmers skillfully play their flutes to confuse the snake and prevent attack, we must continually “play” our spiritual instruments with skill and focus.

These “flutes” or spiritual disciplines include:

  1. Holiness
    “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” — Hebrews 12:14, NIV
    Holiness sets us apart and protects us from spiritual compromise.

  2. Prayer
    “Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17, ESV
    Prayer keeps us alert, connected to God, and strengthens us against temptation.

  3. The Word of God
    “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105, ESV
    Scripture equips us with truth, helping us recognize the lies and schemes of the enemy.

  4. Evangelism (Witnessing)
    “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” — Mark 16:15, NIV
    Sharing our faith keeps our hearts engaged in the mission of Christ and exposes the works of darkness.

When we commit ourselves to these disciplines, Satan becomes powerless—like a confused serpent with no target to strike. He will have no foothold in our lives (Ephesians 4:27), and we will finish our race victoriously.

The reward for such a life is not fame or fortune on earth, but eternal glory and honor in the presence of God (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Let us not reduce or neglect these spiritual practices. If we decrease in holiness, prayer, the Word, or witnessing, we give the enemy clarity—and a chance to strike. And if he succeeds in taking us down, the fall can be great, and the reward lost.

So keep playing. Keep performing—not for man, but for the One who called you.

Maranatha—The Lord is coming!

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He Shall Rule Them with a Rod of Iron” — What Does This Mean?

Main Scripture:— Revelation 19:15 (NKJV)
 “Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.”

Understanding the Symbolism of the “Rod of Iron”

In the Bible, a rod (or staff) is often symbolic of authority and discipline. Shepherds traditionally use wooden staffs to guide and correct their sheep—this imagery reflects gentle, corrective leadership.

But when Jesus is described as ruling the nations “with a rod of iron,” the image changes. This is no longer about gentle guidance; it’s about firm, unbreakable rule and righteous judgment. Iron signifies strength, inflexibility, and finality.

Why Iron?

A wooden rod, while it may cause discomfort, rarely does lasting harm. It’s used to correct, not to destroy. But an iron rod—like a metal bar—is dangerous, potentially deadly. It’s not meant to merely discipline, but to crush opposition if necessary.

This change in imagery shows a shift in Jesus’ role—from the gentle shepherd of believers to the righteous judge and king over rebellious nations.

Jesus as the Good Shepherd (Now)

Jesus Himself says:

“I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.”
 — John 10:14 (NKJV)

Right now, Jesus lovingly leads His people—His “sheep”—using a wooden rod, so to speak. When believers stray, He disciplines with love, aiming to bring them back, not to destroy them (see Hebrews 12:6).

Jesus as Righteous King (In the Future)

When Jesus returns to establish His Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:1–6), His rule will be direct, visible, and absolute. There will be peace on earth, but not because evil ceases to exist—rather, because it will be immediately judged.

“He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels.”
 — Psalm 2:9 (NKJV), also quoted in Revelation 2:27

Here, the rod is used not for guidance, but for enforcing justice and maintaining peace.

No Tolerance for Sin in the Millennial Kingdom

— Isaiah 65:20 (NKJV)

“No more shall an infant from there live but a few days, Nor an old man who has not fulfilled his days… For the child shall die one hundred years old, But the sinner being one hundred years old shall be accursed.”

This prophecy shows how strict and fair justice will be during Christ’s reign. Even though people will live longer, unrepentant sinners will still be judged.

Participation of the Saints

Believers who overcome and remain faithful will rule alongside Christ:

— Revelation 2:26–27 (NKJV)

“And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations—‘He shall rule them with a rod of iron; They shall be dashed to pieces like the potter’s vessels’—as I also have received from My Father.”

Two Rods: Wooden and Iron

Jesus essentially holds two rods:

  1. The Wooden Rod – Representing grace, patience, and correction (used now for His church).
  2. The Iron Rod – Representing judgment and authority (used in His future reign).

Today, He offers mercy and salvation. But soon, He will bring justice. The rod of iron also foreshadows the judgments before His kingdom begins, including plagues and global upheavals (see Revelation 6–18).

Final Call: Choose the Shepherd Now

Now is the time to receive Christ as the Good Shepherd. Accepting His leadership today spares us from facing His judgment later.

— Isaiah 55:6 (NKJV)

“Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near.”—

2 Corinthians 6:2 (NKJV)

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

May the Lord bless you as you consider His call. These are indeed the last days—the rapture is near. Let Jesus shepherd you today, so you may reign with Him tomorrow.

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