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What Kind of Person Is One Who Guards His Virgin Daughter? (1 Corinthians 7:36)

Question:
In 1 Corinthians 7:36, the Apostle Paul teaches that if a man sees that he is not treating his virgin daughter properly, he should allow her to marry. What exactly does this mean? What is the overall message of this passage?

Answer:
To understand this well, let’s look at the passage starting a bit earlier, from verse 34:

“There is a difference, however, between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and spirit. But she who is married cares about worldly things, how to please her husband. This is what I mean, brothers: the appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none, and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods, and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.”
(1 Corinthians 7:34-31, ESV)

Paul is giving pastoral advice about marriage and singleness. He encourages believers that while marriage is honorable and not sinful, singleness allows for undivided devotion to God’s work without the worldly distractions that marriage can bring.

Paul is not issuing a command that everyone must remain unmarried but rather presenting a practical wisdom: singleness can be a spiritual advantage for those called to serve the Lord fully (1 Corinthians 7:32-35).

He then addresses parents, particularly fathers, who have virgin daughters at home. The Apostle advises that if the father wishes for his daughters to remain single to serve the Lord without distraction—and if he himself can control his own desires (i.e., he is not pressuring them to marry for worldly reasons)—this is commendable and spiritually beneficial.

“But if anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his virgin daughter, if she is past her youth, and if he is giving her in marriage, he does well. Let him who gives his virgin in marriage do so with the consent of the virgin, and let him not be at peace with himself who has no such practice.”
(1 Corinthians 7:36-38, ESV, paraphrased)

This passage teaches us that:

  • Parents, especially fathers, may encourage their daughters to remain unmarried to serve God wholeheartedly if that is the calling and if they are able to master their own desires.

  • However, if the father perceives that he is not treating his daughter well by holding her back from marriage—perhaps because she has passed the age of youthful innocence or she desires to marry—he should not force her to remain single but should allow her to marry without guilt. Doing so is not sinful.

  • The emphasis here is on loving leadership and spiritual wisdom, not legalistic control.

Theological Insights:

Paul’s teaching is grounded in the understanding that marriage and singleness are both gifts from God, each with its own purpose in the economy of God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 7:7). Singleness, when chosen or maintained by God’s grace, is a calling to undistracted devotion to Christ (cf. Matthew 19:12; 1 Corinthians 7:32-35). Marriage, likewise, is honorable and serves God’s purposes in companionship, procreation, and mutual sanctification (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Paul’s counsel about virgin daughters reflects the cultural context of his time, where family honor and parental authority were significant. However, the spiritual principle transcends culture: believers are called to discern God’s will for their lives, whether in marriage or singleness, and to respect individual freedom and God’s leading.

The “man who guards his virgin daughter” is thus one who lovingly shepherds her spiritual well-being, guiding her to live a holy life in body and spirit (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5), while also respecting her personal calling and readiness for marriage. If she is ready and willing, the father’s love will release her to marry without guilt or shame.

Practical Application:

  • For parents: Encourage your children’s spiritual growth and respect their God-given calling, whether that leads to marriage or singleness.

  • For young believers: Seek God’s will earnestly for your life’s path, and live in holiness and devotion to Him, regardless of marital status.

  • For the church community: Support both married and single believers, recognizing the diversity of gifts and callings within the body of Christ (Romans 12:4-8).

Conclusion:

Paul’s counsel in 1 Corinthians 7:36 is a balanced and compassionate approach to the tension between parental responsibility, individual freedom, and spiritual calling. The father who “guards his virgin daughter” well is one who, empowered by the Spirit, lovingly guides her toward a life of holiness, whether that means remaining single to serve the Lord or entering into a godly marriage.

May the Lord bless you richly as you seek to live wisely according to His Word.

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Jesus Taught in Parables: What Do They Really Mean?

In Matthew 13:34

Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable.”

Matthew 13:35 goes on to say, *”

So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: ‘I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.'”

Jesus frequently taught using parables. But what exactly is the significance of these parables, and why did He use them? A parable is a simple story used to illustrate a deeper spiritual truth. Theologically, parables serve to make the mysteries of the Kingdom of God more accessible to those willing to learn, while also concealing these truths from those who are unwilling to seek them (Matthew 13:11).

Jesus used parables to describe the Kingdom of God, the heart of His message. Most of His teachings were communicated through parables, showing their central role in His ministry. They are not just stories but vehicles for profound theological teaching that unveils divine truth in layers.

Parables as Revelations of the Kingdom of God

Parables reveal the nature of God’s Kingdom. In Matthew 13:24-30, Jesus tells the parable of the wheat and the weeds, illustrating the coexistence of good and evil in this world until the final judgment. This parable emphasizes that God’s judgment will come at the end of time, separating the righteous from the wicked. Jesus also explains in Matthew 13:31-32, using the parable of the mustard seed, that the Kingdom of God starts small but grows into something expansive and mighty, much like a mustard seed grows into a large tree.

In Matthew 13:34-35,it’s made clear that Jesus spoke in parables to fulfill the prophecy of

Psalm 78:2:

“I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world

.” This verse speaks to how Jesus’ parables were not merely creative storytelling but were divine revelations that pointed to mysteries hidden throughout history—truths about God’s Kingdom that were revealed only through Jesus, the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 5:17).

Parables as Spiritual Testing

In Matthew 13:10-17, the disciples asked Jesus why He spoke to the crowds in parables. He responded that He used parables both to reveal and to conceal. To those whose hearts were open and seeking, the parables clarified the truths of the Kingdom of God. But for those who were hardened, like the religious leaders (Pharisees, Sadducees) and those with hardened hearts, the parables concealed deeper truths from them.

Jesus quoted Isaiah 6:9-10, saying,

“You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.”

This refers to how the Gospel of Jesus, although plainly offered, would be rejected by many. Theologically, this demonstrates the concept of divine revelation, where spiritual truths are made clear only to those whom God has chosen to reveal them (Matthew 11:25-27). It reflects God’s sovereignty in revealing His will.

Example of the Parable of Unforgiveness

Consider the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant in Matthew 18:21-35. Jesus uses the story of a servant who owes his master a massive debt (10,000 talents) and is forgiven by the master, but refuses to forgive a fellow servant who owes him a small amount (100 denarii). This parable highlights the divine principle of forgiveness. Theologically, it shows that God forgives the immense debt of sin that we owe to Him (Matthew 6:12, Luke 7:47), and as recipients of this grace, we are expected to forgive others (Ephesians 4:32, Colossians 3:13). The unforgiving servant’s fate serves as a stark warning: those who do not forgive will face judgment (Matthew 18:35).

Parables and the Hidden Mysteries of the Kingdom

The parables Jesus told were not simply moral lessons; they were revelations of God’s mysterious plan of salvation. For example, in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-9), Jesus illustrates how the message of the Gospel is received differently by various people. Some hear the Word but reject it immediately (the hard ground), some receive it with joy but fall away in times of trouble (the rocky ground), and some are distracted by worldly cares and wealth (the thorny ground). Only those who hear the Word, understand it, and bear fruit are likened to good soil. This teaches the theological principle of the different responses to God’s Word and the necessity of true discipleship.

The Purpose of Parables: Revealing and Concealing Truth

Jesus used parables for two main purposes:

  1. To Reveal Truth: Parables reveal deep spiritual truths about God’s Kingdom to those with a heart to understand. To those who were open, the parables provided clear insights into God’s will. For example, the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7) demonstrates God’s love for the lost and His desire to seek and save sinners, illustrating the heart of God’s mission through Jesus.

  2. To Conceal Truth from the Hardened Heart: To those whose hearts were closed, such as the religious leaders who rejected Jesus, parables served as a form of judgment. They concealed truths because the listeners’ hearts were not open to God’s revelation.

As Matthew 13:12 states,

“Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.”

This speaks to the idea that those who are open to God’s teachings will receive more, but those who reject Him will find themselves further alienated.

The Parable Method Continues Today

Even today, Jesus continues to teach through His Holy Spirit, and He still uses parables to reveal God’s will to those who are truly seeking Him. If a person has a genuine desire to know God, He will teach them through both the written Word and real-life examples, helping them understand His will more clearly. However, if a person is not open to hearing the truth, they will remain in darkness, unable to grasp the deeper meaning of the Scriptures. Jesus’ teachings are not for intellectual curiosity but for those who seek spiritual understanding and relationship with God (John 14:6, John 16:13).

Conclusion

Parables are a divine method of teaching that simultaneously reveal and conceal the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. They help us understand spiritual truths through simple stories while also challenging us to examine our hearts. As believers, we must approach the teachings of Jesus with a humble, seeking heart, ready to understand His truth. If we do, we will receive the full revelation of God’s will, leading us into a deeper relationship with Him.

Let us pray for a sincere desire to know God, as He reveals Himself only to those who seek Him in truth. The Bible is not meant to be understood by everyone, but by those who earnestly seek God, the “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3).

Shalom.

 

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Who Really Killed Goliath: David or Elhanan?

Question:
In 1 Samuel 17:49, we read that David killed Goliath, but in 2 Samuel 21:19, the Bible mentions another man named Elhanan who killed Goliath. So, who actually killed Goliath—David or Elhanan?

Answer:

Let’s first look closely at the two passages:

1 Samuel 17:49-50 (ESV):
“And David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone and slung it and struck the Philistine on his forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the ground. So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone and struck the Philistine and killed him, but David had no sword in his hand.”

Here, it is clear that David, as a young shepherd boy, defeated and killed Goliath, the giant Philistine warrior, with just a sling and a stone. This event marks a pivotal moment in Israel’s history, highlighting God’s power working through a seemingly insignificant person to defeat a formidable enemy (1 Sam 17:45-47).

2 Samuel 21:19 (ESV):
“There was again war with the Philistines at Gob, and Elhanan the son of Jaare-oregim, the Bethlehemite, struck down Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam.”

This verse tells us that Elhanan, not David, killed a man named Goliath from Gath, described as a giant whose spear shaft was very large. At first glance, this appears to contradict the earlier account.

How do we reconcile this?

  1. Goliath was a title, not a unique name:
    The name “Goliath” likely referred to a class or title of Philistine giants or warriors rather than a single individual. This is similar to how “Pharaoh” referred to successive Egyptian kings. So, David’s Goliath and Elhanan’s Goliath were different people.

  2. Different battles, different contexts:
    The event of David killing Goliath occurred earlier in Israel’s history (before David became king), while Elhanan’s feat took place later, during ongoing wars with the Philistines. These were distinct confrontations involving different enemies.

  3. Theological significance:
    David’s victory over Goliath is a key theological moment demonstrating God’s sovereignty and the triumph of faith over brute strength. It prefigures Christ’s ultimate victory over evil by the power of God working through humility and obedience (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).

Meanwhile, Elhanan’s victory highlights that God raised many warriors to defend Israel, not only David. The Bible also speaks of other giants and warriors who opposed Israel (e.g., 2 Samuel 21:20-22), emphasizing the ongoing spiritual and physical battles God’s people faced.

Summary:

  • David killed the famous Goliath of 1 Samuel 17 — the giant who taunted Israel and was defeated by faith in God.

  • Elhanan killed a different Goliath from Gath as recorded in 2 Samuel 21:19.

  • The Bible records multiple giants (descendants of the Rephaim) who fought Israel; the name “Goliath” was likely a common name or title among them.

  • Both stories affirm God’s power working through His chosen warriors to deliver His people.

Further Reflection:

This teaches us that God raises many “Davids”—heroes of faith who overcome the “giants” in their lives by trusting in God’s strength rather than their own. It’s also a reminder that Scripture can contain multiple layers and accounts that require careful study and understanding of historical and cultural context.

If you’re interested, I can also share about the 37 warriors of David who defeated giants and how their stories reveal God’s faithfulness and power in Israel’s history.

May the Lord bless you richly.

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What Does It Mean to Love the Lord with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength?

 

What Does It Mean to Love the Lord with All Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength?
Based on Mark 12:30

Introduction

In Mark 12:28–30, a teacher of the law asked Jesus which commandment was the greatest:

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’” — Mark 12:29–30 (NIV)

Jesus quotes from Deuteronomy 6:4–5, known in Jewish tradition as the Shema, a foundational declaration of God’s oneness and the response of undivided love and devotion.

But what does it actually mean to love God in this total way?

1. Loving God with All Your Heart

In biblical language, the “heart” (*Hebrew: lev) is the center of one’s emotions, will, and desires. To love God with your heart means your affections and motivations are aligned with His will.

Proverbs 4:23 — “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Matthew 6:21 — “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

This kind of love is not conditional—it’s not about what you can get from God, but about offering yourself to Him. True love for God isn’t based on emotion alone but flows from sincere devotion and commitment.

Example:
When you give, serve, or worship, you do it freely, not because someone pressured you or for the praise of others. As Paul wrote:

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7

2. Loving God with All Your Soul

The “soul” (*Hebrew: nephesh) refers to the whole of your being—the life and breath within you. It speaks to your identity and spiritual essence.

To love God with your soul means your entire life is oriented around Him. Worship, obedience, prayer, and dependence on God become central—not occasional.

  • Psalm 42:1–2 — “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.”

  • Psalm 103:1 — “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name.”

This is a deep, worshipful intimacy with God. As Jesus said:

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth.” — John 4:23

True love for God is spiritual and real, not ritualistic. It penetrates every part of your life—your decisions, your lifestyle, your attitude toward sin, and your hunger for righteousness.

3. Loving God with All Your Strength

“Strength” refers to physical energy, ability, resources, and efforts. Loving God with all your strength means actively using your body and possessions to serve and honor Him.

  • Romans 12:1 — “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

  • Ecclesiastes 9:10 — “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…”

It also means serving God while you still have time and energy, especially in your youth:

“Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come.” — Ecclesiastes 12:1

Young people often waste their strength on vanity or fleeting pleasures. But Scripture calls for redeeming time (Ephesians 5:16) and offering your best years to God, not your leftovers.

Even in weakness, we can love God with all we have—like the widow who gave all she had (Mark 12:41–44). God is not measuring quantity, but sacrifice and sincerity.

4. Loving God with All Your Mind

The “mind” refers to intellect, reasoning, understanding, and the ability to discern truth. Christianity is not a blind faith—it’s a rational faith rooted in truth.

Romans 12:2 —

“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is…”

2 Corinthians 10:5 — “We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

Loving God with your mind means:

  • Studying His Word (2 Timothy 2:15)

  • Pursuing theological understanding (Acts 17:11)

  • Discernment of truth from error (1 John 4:1)

  • Rejecting spiritual laziness or shallow thinking

Many people use their intelligence to succeed in business, technology, or entertainment—but neglect to seek the wisdom of God. Yet God promises:

“You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13

If we use our minds to seek truth in worldly matters (e.g., choosing careers, gadgets, investments), how much more should we apply our reasoning to pursue eternal truth?

Conclusion

To love God with your whole heart, soul, mind, and strength is a total life commitment. It’s not a part-time affection—it’s full devotion. It’s not passive—it’s active. And it’s not based on feelings—it’s rooted in the covenant relationship we have with God through Jesus Christ.

Jesus said:

“If you love Me, keep My commands.” — John 14:15
“Anyone who loves their father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me…” — Matthew 10:37

On the Day of Judgment, we will give an account not only for our sins, but for whether we obeyed this greatest commandment (Romans 14:12).

A Final Word: Maranatha!

May the Lord give us grace to love Him wholeheartedly, sacrificially, and sincerely.

Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus — Revelation 22:20)

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What Does “He Will Destroy Him by the Brightness of His Coming” Mean?

(2 Thessalonians 2:8, ESV)

2 Thessalonians 2:8 (ESV) – “And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming.”

This powerful verse speaks of the ultimate defeat of the Antichrist, also called “the lawless one,” who will emerge during the end times as part of Satan’s final rebellion against God. The Apostle Paul assures believers that this figure, though powerful and deceptive, will be destroyed by Jesus Christ Himself specifically through the breath of His mouth and the appearance of His coming.

Who is the Lawless One?

The “lawless one” represents a final, personal embodiment of rebellion against God. According to Paul, he is empowered by Satan to perform false signs and wonders to deceive those who refuse to love the truth (2 Thessalonians 2:9–10). This figure is commonly equated with the Antichrist described in 1 John 2:18 and Revelation 13.

1 John 2:18 (ESV) – “Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come.”

Revelation 13:2 (ESV) – “And to it the dragon gave his power and his throne and great authority.”

The Antichrist will deceive many with charisma, false peace, and counterfeit miracles. But his reign will be short-lived.

What Does “The Breath of His Mouth” Symbolize?

The phrase “breath of his mouth” reflects Christ’s sovereign authority and divine judgment. Just as God created the universe by His word (Genesis 1), Christ will destroy evil by His spoken word. It is not a literal breath, but a metaphor for the unstoppable power of divine command.

Isaiah 11:4 (ESV) – “…and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked.”

Hebrews 4:12 (ESV) – “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword…”

Jesus will not need armies or physical weapons; His word alone is enough to destroy evil.

What Does “The Brightness of His Coming” Mean?

The “brightness” (or appearance, Greek: epiphaneia) of His coming refers to the visible, glorious return of Jesus Christ at the end of the age. This is not symbolic or secretive it will be a cataclysmic and undeniable event where every eye will see Him.

Matthew 24:27 (ESV) – “For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”

Revelation 1:7 (ESV) – “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him…”

When Christ returns in glory, the manifestation of His holiness and majesty will annihilate the Antichrist and all rebellion. His coming will bring judgment to the wicked and deliverance to the righteous.

A Glimpse of Christ’s Return in Glory

The Apostle John provides a stunning vision of Christ’s second coming:

Revelation 19:11–16 (ESV)
“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True… From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations… On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords.”

This isn’t the gentle carpenter from Nazareth. This is the conquering King, returning to judge evil and establish His eternal kingdom.

Why Does This Matter Today?

Right now, Jesus offers grace and salvation to all who will repent and trust in Him. But one day, He will return as Judge.

Acts 17:30–31 (ESV) – “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed…”

Are you ready for His return? Have you repented of your sins and surrendered your life to Christ? If not, don’t delay. He is coming again not in weakness, but in power and glory.

Today is the day of salvation. Tomorrow might be too late.

2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV) – “Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus!

Please share this message with others. Let the world know: the King is coming soon.

 

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What’s the Difference Between ‘God’ and ‘Lord’?

What’s the Difference Between ‘God’ and ‘Lord’?

Question: Is there a difference between the names God and Lord? And is it appropriate for us as Christians to use the name Lord (Mola in Swahili) instead of God (Mungu)?

Answer:

Yes, there is a subtle but important difference between the two titles, and both are biblically and theologically valid. Understanding the distinction enhances our prayer life, worship, and knowledge of God’s character.

1. The Meaning of “God” (Mungu)

The name God in English is often used as a general title for the divine being—the Creator of heaven and earth. In Hebrew, the equivalent term is Elohim, which is used throughout the Old Testament to describe God as Creator, Judge, and Sovereign over all creation.

Genesis 1:1 (NIV):
“In the beginning God (Elohim) created the heavens and the earth.”

The name Elohim highlights God’s creative power and majesty. It emphasizes His role as the origin and sustainer of life and the universe.

2. The Meaning of “Lord” (Mola)

The word Lord in English, translated from Hebrew Adonai and Greek Kyrios, conveys authority, rulership, and dominion. It often denotes God as Master, Sovereign King, and one who governs and reigns over all.

Adonai is a title of honor and submission, acknowledging God not just as Creator, but also as Ruler—the One who commands and deserves obedience.

Psalm 97:5 (NIV):
“The mountains melt like wax before the LORD (Adonai), before the Lord of all the earth.”

Romans 10:9 (NIV):
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Here, Lord (Kyrios) is a title attributed to Jesus Christ, acknowledging Him as divine and sovereign. Calling Jesus Lord is a declaration of His authority and deity.

3. Biblical Examples of “Lord” Used in Prayer

Using “Lord” in prayer is deeply biblical and powerful. It emphasizes God’s kingship, justice, and ability to act on our behalf.

Acts 4:24 (NIV):
“When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. ‘Sovereign Lord,’ they said, ‘you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them.'”

In this prayer, the disciples address God as Sovereign Lord (Despota in Greek), acknowledging His ultimate rule over creation and history.

Revelation 6:10 (NIV):
“They called out in a loud voice, ‘How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?'”

The martyrs in heaven appeal to God’s justice and holiness, calling Him Sovereign Lord—emphasizing His authority and righteousness.

4. Theological Insight: Why Use Both Titles?

Using both God and Lord in our worship and prayer enriches our relationship with Him. When we say God, we affirm His power as Creator. When we say Lord, we recognize His authority, guidance, and kingship over our lives.

These names are not interchangeable but complementary. Jesus Himself taught His disciples to pray, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done…” (Matthew 6:9–10). This acknowledges both God’s fatherhood (relationship) and His lordship (authority).

Conclusion

Yes, as Christians, it is both appropriate and biblically sound to use the name Lord (Mola) in our prayers. It is a title that speaks of God’s majesty, sovereignty, and rulership over all things.

Using names like Sovereign Lord, Almighty God, or Lord of Hosts deepens our reverence and acknowledges God’s supreme authority in our lives.

As seen in Acts 4:31 (NIV):
“After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.”

When the early Church prayed to the Sovereign Lord, the presence of God shook the place and empowered them. So let us pray with understanding, calling upon both God and Lord, as we seek His will and power in our lives.

May the Lord Jesus Christ bless you.

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Proverbs 17:12 (NIV)“It is better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool acting in folly.”

This verse vividly illustrates the peril of encountering a fool someone who rejects God’s law and wisdom. In biblical theology, a fool is not merely someone lacking intelligence but specifically one who refuses to acknowledge God (Psalm 14:1). Such a person is spiritually blind, walking in sin, and is under the influence of Satan rather than Christ (John 8:44). Because of this, they forfeit God’s blessing.

Proverbs 10:23 (NIV) explains:
“Doing wrong is like a joke to a fool, but wisdom is pleasure to the discerning.”

This contrasts the fool’s frivolous attitude toward sin with the wisdom and joy that come from living according to God’s precepts.

The warning about a bear robbed of her cubs emphasizes the extreme danger and irrational fury such a bear displays. This is used metaphorically to show how much more dangerous a fool can be. The story in 2 Kings 2:23-25 (KJV) where two female bears maul 42 youths for mocking the prophet Elisha is a stark example of God’s judgment against disrespect and folly.

Historically, Herod the Great serves as a biblical example of a fool motivated by jealousy and evil (Matthew 2:16). His massacre of the infants in Bethlehem shows the destructive nature of a fool who opposes God’s plan. He also executed John the Baptist (Mark 6:17-29) and persecuted the apostles (Acts 12:1-3).

Jesus condemned the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy and misleading teaching, saying they made converts “twice as much children of hell” (Matthew 23:15, KJV). This shows the grave danger of false teaching which leads others away from salvation.

Today’s false prophets often emphasize God’s blessings wealth and success while neglecting repentance and holiness (2 Timothy 3:5). This prosperity gospel misleads many, resulting in eternal loss (Hebrews 10:26-27).

The Antichrist is prophesied in Scripture (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Revelation 13) as the ultimate deceiver who will mislead the entire world into accepting his mark and worship, bringing vast numbers to eternal judgment.

The Bible states it is better to face a furious bear than such fools because a bear will only harm the body, but fools can destroy your soul by leading you away from salvation (Matthew 10:28).

Jesus warned about false prophets in

Matthew 7:15-23 (NIV):
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves… Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.”

This passage highlights the necessity of genuine faith evidenced by obedience, not merely verbal profession.

In light of these warnings, believers are urged to study and abide in God’s Word (John 8:31-32) for protection during perilous times (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Laziness or spiritual complacency opens the door to deception (Matthew 24:24).

May God grant us discernment and steadfastness.

Shalom.

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The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the maker of them all.”

Proverbs 22:2 (ESV)
“The rich and the poor meet together; the Lord is the maker of them all.”

QUESTION: What does this verse mean?

ANSWER:
This verse emphasizes the fundamental truth that, regardless of our social or economic status, every human being shares the same origin—God. The rich and the poor may live vastly different lives, but they are equal in their creation and in their value before the Lord.

God is not partial to the rich nor does He overlook the poor. Scripture affirms in Romans 2:11, “For God shows no partiality.” In His eyes, all human beings are made in His image (Genesis 1:27) and are of equal worth and dignity.

In daily life, although there may be tension between the rich and the poor—envy from the poor and pride from the rich—they are interdependent. The poor may seek employment or support from the wealthy, while the rich often depend on the labor and services of the poor. This mutual need reflects God’s design for community and cooperation.

Jesus Himself ministered to both the rich (like Nicodemus in John 3) and the poor (like blind Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46–52), showing us that salvation is available to all, regardless of status. The gospel, in fact, has a unique emphasis on the poor:

James 2:5 (ESV) says, “Has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?”

At the same time, the Bible warns the rich not to be proud or to place their hope in wealth:

1 Timothy 6:17–18 (ESV) says, “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty… They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.”

This verse in Proverbs ultimately reminds us that all people—regardless of their station in life—stand equal before a holy God. No one is self-sufficient; we are designed to rely on one another and, most importantly, on God.

It teaches humility, unity, and respect:

Micah 6:8 (ESV) says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

In a world that often values people based on status or possessions, God calls us to live differently—recognizing the divine image in each person and valuing them accordingly.

APPLICATION:
Let us learn to appreciate each other, knowing that someone you may think is beneath you could one day be the very person God uses to bless you. Let us live peacefully, serve one another in love, and uphold each other in dignity and mutual respect.

Shalom.

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SPEAKING IN OTHER LANGUAGES: A MESSAGE FROM THE DAY OF PENTECOST

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Welcome let us take this moment to reflect deeply on the Scriptures together.

The Day of Pentecost: A Divine Encounter

One of the most profound events recorded in the New Testament is what occurred on the Day of Pentecost, just as Jesus had promised before His ascension. On that day, the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples and others gathered in Jerusalem. The Bible tells us there were about 120 believers present (Acts 1:15).

When the Holy Spirit came, the manifestation was powerful and unmistakable:

“Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
— Acts 2:2–4 (NIV)

This event fulfilled Jesus’ promise:

“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.”
— Acts 1:8 (NIV)

The Nature of “Tongues”

The word tongues in the Greek New Testament is “glōssa”, which refers both to the physical tongue and to languages. The phrase “tongues of fire” symbolizes the divine empowerment given to the disciples to speak in various human languages they had not learned before.

These were not mysterious, angelic tongues in this instance but known languages spoken on earth. This is clear from the reaction of the crowd in Jerusalem:

“Each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: ‘Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language?’”
— Acts 2:6–8 (NIV)

The crowd included Jews from all over the Roman Empire, and they each recognized their native language. This moment was more than a display of divine power it was a demonstration of God’s intention to reach all people with the gospel, regardless of nation, tribe, or tongue.

“We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!”
— Acts 2:11 (NIV)

What Were They Speaking About?

The disciples were not preaching their own ideas or prophesying judgment they were proclaiming “the wonders of God”. These may have included:

  • The miraculous parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14)

  • The daily provision of manna for 40 years in the wilderness (Exodus 16)

  • The fall of Jericho’s walls (Joshua 6)

  • Elijah calling fire from heaven (1 Kings 18)

These mighty works reminded the people of God’s power and faithfulness throughout Israel’s history.

The Impact: Conviction and Conversion

Hearing these truths spoken in their own languages moved the hearts of those listening. Peter stood up and preached a sermon explaining that this outpouring was the fulfillment of the prophecy in Joel 2:28–32.

“In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.”
— Acts 2:17, quoting Joel 2:28 (NIV)

As a result, 3,000 people repented and believed in Jesus that day:

“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”
— Acts 2:41 (NIV)

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

You don’t need to speak a foreign language for God to use your speech powerfully. Sometimes, speaking in “another language” means allowing God to transform your ordinary way of speaking—so that it becomes Spirit-led, impactful, and full of grace.

Paul emphasized the balance between Spirit and understanding:

“So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my understanding; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my understanding.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:15 (NIV)

This applies to:

  • Preaching — Let your message carry spiritual depth.

  • Singing — Let your voice become anointed, stirring hearts.

  • Praying — Let your words be flavored with spiritual salt.

  • Everyday speech — Let your language reflect God’s character.

Paul also warns:

“Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’”
— 1 Corinthians 15:33 (NIV)

“The tongue also is a fire… It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire.”
— James 3:6 (NIV)

A New Language Through New Life

If you have not yet received Jesus Christ into your life, this transformation begins with salvation. Jesus cannot change your speech until He first changes your heart.

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

If today you’re ready to accept Him:

  • Repent of your sins

  • Believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior

  • Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit

Then go to a quiet place, kneel, and pray sincerely. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit and to give you a new tongue—a new way of speaking that brings life to others and glorifies God.

May the Lord bless you .
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THE MINISTRY OF THE TWO ANGELS: A CALL TO SERIOUSNESS IN SALVATION

Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed… work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”
— Philippians 2:12 (ESV)

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. By the grace of God, we’ve been granted yet another opportunity to seek His face and reflect on His Word. Today, we examine a profound and sobering lesson hidden in the story of the destruction of Sodom and the salvation of Lot’s family  a story that speaks deeply to our generation.

1. God’s Mercy in Action

In Genesis 19, two angels are sent by God to destroy Sodom, a city steeped in wickedness (Genesis 18:20). Yet before judgment, God displays His mercy by seeking to rescue Lot and his family.

Genesis 19:15–16 (ESV)
“As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, ‘Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city.’ But he lingered. So the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the Lord being merciful to him, and they brought him out and set him outside the city.”

Here, we see a picture of God’s active grace. Lot’s deliverance was not based on his urgency or merit  in fact, he hesitated. It was solely God’s compassion that saved him (Titus 3:5). The angels literally pulled them out  a foreshadowing of how God’s grace sometimes intervenes despite our reluctance.

2. Grace That Has Limits

However, the divine assistance was not indefinite. Once outside the city, the angels gave Lot a final instruction:

Genesis 19:17 (ESV)
“And as they brought them out, one said, ‘Escape for your life. Do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley. Escape to the hills, lest you be swept away.'”

This moment signifies the transition from divine intervention to human responsibility. God brings us to the threshold of salvation, but He also expects our response. This is echoed in the New Testament:

Hebrews 2:3 (ESV)
“How shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?”

Lot’s wife tragically failed this test.

3. The Danger of Looking Back

Genesis 19:26 (ESV)
“But Lot’s wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.”

Lot’s wife turned back  not just physically, but with her heart. Her backward glance wasn’t curiosity, but a longing for the life she was leaving. This act revealed her true allegiance, and her fate became a timeless warning.

Jesus Himself referenced her:

Luke 17:32–33 (ESV)
“Remember Lot’s wife. Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it.”

Her judgment illustrates the peril of a divided heart  one that outwardly follows God but inwardly clings to the world.

4. The Urgency of Personal Salvation

We now live in a time when the age of grace is nearing its close. The Gospel is still being preached, but the final call is at hand. The door is still open  but not for long.

Luke 13:24–27 (ESV)
“Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!'”

We must not rely on religious familiarity, past experiences, or outward association. Salvation is personal. As Jesus said, “Strive”  it demands effort, urgency, and total surrender.

5. The Time to Act is Now

2 Corinthians 6:2 (ESV)
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

The days we live in are dangerous. The deception of comfort, prosperity, and compromise is stronger than ever. Like Lot’s wife, many today are walking forward with God but are still longing for Sodom — for the world, its pleasures, and its systems.

But friendship with the world is hostility to God:

James 4:4 (ESV)
“Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”

We cannot afford to be lukewarm. Jesus warns:

Revelation 3:16 (ESV)
“So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth.”

6. A Final Appeal: Save Yourself

The same mercy that led Lot out of destruction is being extended to you today  through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. But God’s mercy demands a response. You must flee. You must not look back. You must run with endurance the race that is set before you (Hebrews 12:1).

Philippians 2:12 (ESV)
“…Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.”

God is not willing that any should perish, but He will not drag anyone to heaven. The time to respond is now. The angels have done their part. The door is still open — but soon it will close.

May the Lord help us to remember Lot’s wife.

 

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