Title August 2023

What Are Spiritual Sacrifices?

(1 Peter 2:5)

“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.”
1 Peter 2:5

What are the spiritual sacrifices according to these scriptures?

In the Old Testament, God required His people to offer animal sacrifices to deal with sin and express devotion. These offerings, part of the Law of Moses, served both as acts of worship and means of atonement (see Leviticus 1:3–16).

But in the New Testament, everything changes through Jesus Christ. He is the perfect and final sacrifice—the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). Through His death and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the requirements of the old system and opened a new and living way for us to relate to God.

Now, as followers of Christ, we no longer offer animal sacrifices. Instead, we are called to offer spiritual sacrifices—acts of worship and devotion that reflect our new life in Christ.

But What Are these spiritual sacrifices?

1. Thanksgiving and Praise
Psalm 50:14, 23; Hebrews 13:15
One form of spiritual sacrifice is giving thanks and praise to God. This goes beyond simply saying “thank you.” It involves living with a heart full of gratitude, recognizing God’s grace, and expressing it through words, worship, and generosity.

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.”
— Hebrews 13:15

2. A Broken and Contrite Heart
Psalm 51:16–17
True repentance is another form of spiritual sacrifice. God desires a heart that is humble and broken over sin—not empty rituals. When we come to Him in sincerity, acknowledging our wrongs and turning back to Him, we offer a sacrifice that deeply pleases Him.

“My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”
— Psalm 51:17

3. Offering Our Bodies and Lives
Romans 12:1–2
Perhaps the most comprehensive spiritual sacrifice is our very selves. Paul urges believers to present their lives to God as a living sacrifice—holy and pleasing to Him.

“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.”
— Romans 12:1

This means living in a way that reflects God’s holiness—turning from sin, pursuing righteousness, and using our time, gifts, and energy for His glory. It’s about daily, intentional surrender.

In Summary

Spiritual sacrifices may not be physical, but they are just as real and deeply meaningful to God. They include:

  1. Gratitude and praise from a thankful heart
  2. True repentance and humility before God
  3. A life surrendered in holiness and service

As believers, we are a holy priesthood—called to worship God not only with our lips but with our lives. These spiritual offerings, made through Jesus Christ, are pleasing and acceptable to our Heavenly Father.

May God bless you.
Shalom.

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What Should I Do to Stay Awake When Reading the Bible?

It’s common for people to find themselves falling asleep when reading the Bible. While it’s easy to blame the devil for this, we must understand that spiritual warfare might be only a part of the issue. In many cases, our own physical condition is a significant factor in this struggle.

The Bible tells us that our physical bodies can become obstacles to spiritual growth. This is a key reason why we may find ourselves distracted or drowsy when reading the Word. The apostle Paul speaks to this conflict

 in Romans 7:18 (NIV):

“I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.”

This passage reveals the tension between the flesh (our physical, earthly nature) and the spirit. The flesh often resists spiritual pursuits like Bible reading, making us feel tired or distracted.

Moreover, there are times when we experience attacks that seem to come from outside us—such as sudden pain, drowsiness, or even blurred vision—which can prevent us from focusing. In these moments, we are likely facing spiritual opposition, which requires prayer and spiritual warfare to overcome.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) reminds us of this reality:
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

This verse makes it clear that there are spiritual forces at work trying to distract us from engaging with God’s Word.

But sometimes, the issue is not an external attack but the weakness of our own flesh. In such cases, the Apostle Paul encourages us

 in Galatians 5:17 (NIV):
“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”

Our flesh naturally resists the spiritual discipline of Bible reading, but we must fight against it, relying on the strength of the Holy Spirit.

So, how do we combat this spiritual and physical resistance when reading the Bible? Here are some practical steps, supported by Scripture:

1) Pray Before Reading the Bible

Before you open the Bible, take a moment to pray and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your reading. The Bible is not just a book of history or teachings—it is God’s Word, alive and active, and we need the Holy Spirit to understand it deeply.

1 Corinthians 2:14 (NIV) says:

“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.”

By praying, you invite the Holy Spirit to open your understanding and make the Word come alive to you.

2) Take Time to Rest

If you’re exhausted, it’s okay to take a break. Sometimes we push ourselves too hard and expect to focus on Bible reading when our bodies are fatigued.

Matthew 11:28 (NIV) says:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”


Take time to rest, especially if you’ve been working or are physically tired. A rested body will help you engage better spiritually. After resting, you can return to the Bible with more focus and energy.

3) Avoid Reading in Bed

Reading the Bible in bed can create an environment that’s too comfortable and leads to drowsiness. Instead, find a place where you can sit upright and be alert.

Luke 12:35 (NIV) encourages us:

“Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning.”

When we approach Bible reading as a serious and intentional activity, it helps our minds stay focused and alert.

4) Keep a Notebook and Pen

When you read and take notes, it deepens your engagement with the Scripture. Writing down what you learn or any revelations you receive helps solidify the message in your heart.

Habakkuk 2:2 (NIV) tells us:
“Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.”


Writing helps you focus, and it gives the Holy Spirit more room to teach you.

5) Read with Others

Sometimes, the best way to stay motivated and alert is to read with others. Whether with family, friends, or a small group, discussing the Bible together keeps you engaged.

Matthew 18:20 (NIV) says:
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Reading together allows the Spirit to speak through others, and the shared experience can deepen your understanding.

6) Read in Smaller Sections

Don’t feel pressured to read large portions at once. Take time to reflect on what you read.

Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV) says:

“But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”

The focus should be on meditating and reflecting on the Word, rather than rushing through it.

7) Fasting

Fasting helps to reduce the distractions of the flesh and allows the spirit to rise in prominence.

Matthew 17:21 (NIV) reminds us:

“But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

Fasting clears your mind and spirit, making it easier to stay focused on spiritual activities, like reading the Bible.

8) Seek Help from a Spiritual Leader

Sometimes, it’s important to share your struggles with a pastor or spiritual leader. They can offer advice, prayer, or encouragement.

James 5:16 (NIV) says:

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”

Having someone to support you in your spiritual journey can keep you motivated and accountable.

Conclusion:

Staying alert and focused while reading the Bible is a combination of physical discipline, prayer, and spiritual preparation.

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What Does “Tirshatha” Mean? (Ezra 2:63)

The term Tirshatha appears in the Old Testament and refers to a Persian-appointed governor over the province of Judah during the post-exilic period. The word itself is of Persian origin, likely meaning “His Excellency” or “Governor.” It signifies a civil leader who held administrative authority under the larger Persian Empire, which had conquered Babylon and inherited dominion over the Jewish people.

Let’s look at where this term appears in Scripture:

1. Ezra 2:63 (NKJV)

“And the governor said to them that they should not eat of the most holy things till a priest could consult with the Urim and Thummim.”

Here, the word “governor” is translated from Tirshatha. This passage refers to Zerubbabel, though he is not named directly here. Zerubbabel was a descendant of King David (1 Chronicles 3:19) and led the first group of exiles back to Jerusalem after the Babylonian captivity.

2. Nehemiah 7:65 (NKJV)

“And the governor said to them that they should not eat of the most holy things till a priest could consult with the Urim and Thummim.”

This verse mirrors Ezra 2:63 and again refers to the same role, showing the consistency of leadership structure during the early restoration of Jerusalem.

3. Nehemiah 8:9 (NKJV)

“And Nehemiah, who was the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, ‘This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn nor weep.’ For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law.”

In this context, Nehemiah is called the Tirshatha. He was a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I of Persia (Nehemiah 1:11) before being appointed governor of Judah. His leadership focused on rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and renewing the people’s covenant with God.

4. Nehemiah 10:1 (NKJV)

“Now those who placed their seal on the document were: Nehemiah the governor, the son of Hacaliah, and Zedekiah…”

Again, Nehemiah is explicitly referred to as the Tirshatha, underscoring his role in both civil governance and spiritual reform.

5. Nehemiah 5:14–18 (NKJV)

This passage details Nehemiah’s integrity and generosity as governor, choosing not to take the usual food allowance from the people, unlike previous governors.

“Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah… I did not eat the governor’s provisions…” (Nehemiah 5:14–15)

Theological Significance

The roles of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah as Tirshatha reflect God’s sovereign use of both spiritual and political leaders in the restoration of Israel. Although neither were priests, they played crucial roles in rebuilding the nation both physically (walls, temple) and spiritually (renewing the law, worship, and covenant).

Their governance under Persian authority shows how God’s plans can work even through foreign empires, fulfilling prophecies such as those in Isaiah 44–45, where God foretold using Cyrus to aid Israel’s return.

A Personal Reflection: Are You Ready for Christ’s Return?

In the same way God used leaders like Zerubbabel and Nehemiah to prepare His people for restoration, Jesus Christ is coming again to establish His eternal kingdom. Are you ready?

The Bible warns us to be spiritually prepared:

  • “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out…” (Acts 3:19, NKJV)

  • “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16, NKJV)

  • “Behold, I am coming quickly!” (Revelation 22:12, NKJV)

Now is the time to repent, believe in the gospel, and receive the Holy Spirit.

If you are ready to surrender your life to Christ, follow this guide to pray in faith >>> [PRAYER OF REPENTANCE]

Shalom   Peace be with you.
Please share this message with others and encourage them to seek the Lord while He may be found (Isaiah 55:6).

 

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The Shortest Verse in the Bible: A Deeper Look

What is the shortest verse in the Bible, and what deeper message does it carry?

The length of Bible verses can vary depending on the language used. A verse that seems short in one language may appear longer in another.

 The shortest verse in the Bible is found in John 11:35, which simply says, “Jesus wept.” This verse, though brief, holds profound theological significance, showcasing the compassion and humanity of Jesus as He mourned the death of His friend Lazarus (John 11:33-36).

This verse, though succinct, carries an important theological message: we are called not to ignore or dismiss the gift of prophecy. Prophecy is a divine gift meant to encourage, warn, and strengthen the Church. The Apostle Paul, in this letter to the Thessalonians, was urging believers to respect and heed the prophetic messages delivered by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:10, Ephesians 4:11-12).

What Does “Do Not Despise Prophecies” Mean?

In the context of 1 Thessalonians, Paul addresses the believers in Thessalonica, who were concerned about the second coming of Christ. In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Paul reassures them that the dead in Christ will rise first, and then the living believers will be caught up with Jesus in the air. In this context, Paul encourages them not to despise prophecies those messages of divine revelation that help guide the Church in preparation for Christ’s return.

In Matthew 24:1-51, Jesus Himself speaks of the signs of the end times, where He mentions events like wars, famines, earthquakes, false prophets, and the love of many growing cold (Matthew 24:4-14). These prophecies are meant to prepare us, as believers, to be alert and ready for Christ’s return. In this sense, to despise prophecy is to ignore the warning signs and not prepare ourselves spiritually for the second coming of Christ.

Prophecy: A Biblical Call to Attention

Prophecies in the Bible often warn of coming judgment but also promise restoration and hope. In the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel were called to deliver God’s messages to Israel, calling them to repentance and reminding them of God’s covenant promises (Isaiah 55:6-7, Jeremiah 29:11-14). In the New Testament, prophecy continues to play a role in building up the Church (1 Corinthians 14:3), and the book of Revelation is filled with prophetic visions of the end times and the ultimate victory of Christ (Revelation 1:3, 22:7).

The Importance of Heeding Prophecies Today

The warning in 1 Thessalonians 5:20 remains highly relevant for today. As believers, we must be discerning but not dismissive of biblical prophecy. We should neither treat prophecies with contempt nor dismiss them as irrelevant. Ignoring the signs of the times and the warnings of Scripture may lead to spiritual complacency. Jesus himself said in

Matthew 24:42, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”

This is a call for constant vigilance and spiritual readiness.

In Revelation 22:7, Jesus declares,

“Behold, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.”

Those who honor and heed prophecy will be blessed and ready for Christ’s return.

Have You Accepted Jesus?

This message calls for reflection: Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior? Are you aware that the generation we live in could witness the second coming of Christ? The signs are all around us (Matthew 24:6-8), and now is the time to prepare your heart for His return.

Be Blessed 

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What Are the Pillars and the Threshold in the Bible?

In biblical terms, pillars are the two vertical posts that support a door, standing on either side of it. This is illustrated in the story of Samson, where he tore down the gates of the Philistine city, including the two pillars.

Judges 16:3 (NKJV): “Samson lay low till midnight; then he arose at midnight, took hold of the doors of the gate of the city, and the two posts (pillars), pulled them up, bar and all, put them on his shoulders, and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron.”

In this context, the pillars symbolize strength and support. These posts were crucial in the design of the city gates, providing security and stability.

Additionally, the threshold is the horizontal beam placed either at the top or bottom of a door frame. It serves as a boundary or a point of transition. A notable biblical event involving a threshold is during the Exodus when God instructed the Israelites to apply lamb’s blood to the doorposts and thresholds of their homes, which protected them from the judgment of the Angel of Death.

Exodus 12:7 (NIV): “Then they are to take some of the blood and put it on the sides and tops of the doorframes of the houses where they eat the lambs.”

The blood on the threshold and pillars was a sign of divine protection, ensuring that the judgment passed over them.

Pillars and thresholds can be constructed from various materials, such as wood, stone, or metal, and are frequently referenced in the Bible. Further references to thresholds can be found in Ezekiel 10:4, 1 Kings 6:31, and 1 Kings 14:17.

What Do the Pillars and Thresholds Represent Spiritually?

Theologically, the temple or house refers to our bodies, which are the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul makes this clear in his letters:

1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV): “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.”

This verse emphasizes the concept of believers’ bodies being the living temple of God, a sacred place where God’s Spirit resides.

If our bodies are the temple, they must have a door—which in spiritual terms refers to the heart. In Scripture, the heart is often seen as the gateway to the soul and the place where decisions, thoughts, and desires are formed.

Revelation 3:20 (NKJV): “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”

In this passage, Jesus is depicted as standing at the door of our hearts, knocking and waiting for us to invite Him in. This illustrates the heart as the entrance to our inner spiritual life.

If the heart is the door, then it must have pillars and a threshold to safeguard what enters. The pillars symbolize the eyes, as they serve as the windows to our soul. The threshold represents the ears, as they are the entry points for what we hear. Both our eyes and ears are gateways that shape our inner lives, and they must be protected and kept pure.

Matthew 6:22-23 (NIV): “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.”

Romans 10:17 (NIV): “Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”

These verses show how our eyes and ears affect our spiritual health. If they are aligned with God’s truth, they bring light and faith into our hearts. If they are defiled, they bring darkness and corruption.

When our eyes (pillars) and ears (thresholds) are spiritually cleansed, it’s like the blood of Jesus being applied to our spiritual gates. This act purifies us and protects us from spiritual destruction, much like the Israelites’ homes during the Exodus.

1 Peter 1:18-19 (NIV): “For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”

Through the blood of Jesus, we are cleansed and protected from spiritual harm, just as the Israelites were spared from the Angel of Death during the Passover.

However, if we allow rebelliousness in our eyes and stubbornness in our ears, it defiles our hearts. This defilement causes us to desecrate the temple of God, our bodies, and places us at risk of destruction, as Paul warns:

1 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV): “If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person; for God’s temple is sacred, and you together are that temple.”

Have You Been Saved?

Have you been cleansed by the blood of Jesus? If not, today is the day to make that decision. Repent, receive Jesus into your heart, be baptized, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Maranatha! (Come, Lord Jesus!)

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What Does the Bible Mean When It Says We Should Prophesy According to the Measure of Faith?

Question: What does it mean when the Bible says we should prophesy according to the measure of faith? (Romans 12:6)

Answer: The Bible teaches that each believer is given a specific measure of grace and faith, which enables them to operate in spiritual gifts. This concept is explained in the following passages:

Romans 12:5-8 (NIV):

5 So in Christ, we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;
7 If it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach;
8 If it is to encourage, then encourage; if it is giving, give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

The apostle Paul here emphasizes that the grace (unmerited favor) and gifts we receive are distributed according to God’s sovereign will. The phrase “according to your faith” implies that each person’s ability to function in their spiritual gift, such as prophecy, is directly related to the measure of faith they have been given. Faith here is not just belief in God but the trust and reliance on God’s power to use the gifts effectively for His glory.

Theological Implications:

  • Grace as a Gift: The theological idea of grace is central here. Grace is the unearned favor of God, and in this context, it is distributed in different measures. Some believers may be given a greater measure of grace to serve, teach, or prophesy, while others may receive grace for different gifts.

  • Faith as the Measure: Faith here refers to the capacity to exercise the gift in alignment with God’s will. This means that the prophetic gift is not something that can be manipulated or exercised beyond the capacity granted by God. The measure of faith signifies how much of God’s power and revelation is allowed to flow through an individual.

Prophecy and its Variability:

Paul specifically mentions prophecy because it is often the most visible and dynamic of the spiritual gifts. Prophecy can be received in various ways—some may receive it through personal insights into people’s lives, while others might experience visions about future events or even nations. The point is that these prophetic abilities differ in accordance with the measure of faith each person has received.

For example, in the Old Testament, prophets like Daniel received clear, detailed visions about future events (Daniel 2:31-45), while others, like Elijah, had direct and dramatic encounters with God (1 Kings 19:11-12). The New Testament also acknowledges different types of prophecy, some of which were more symbolic and mysterious (e.g., the visions in Revelation).

Romans 12:6 therefore reminds us that prophecy must align with the measure of faith we’ve received. Trying to operate beyond that measure can lead to misinterpretations, false prophecies, or confusion.

The Dangers of Overstepping:

When someone tries to function beyond their spiritual gifting or understanding, they risk misleading others. For example, if a person receives a vision but doesn’t fully understand it, and instead of seeking counsel or further revelation, they attempt to explain it with their own logic or reasoning, they might distort the message.

This aligns with 2 Corinthians 10:12-14 (NIV):

12 We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.
13 We, however, will not boast beyond proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you.
14 We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you; for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ.

Here, Paul teaches that we should not compare ourselves to others or try to function outside the measure of grace God has given us. Instead, we should operate within the boundaries of what God has assigned to us.

The Role of Other Gifts:

This principle of staying within one’s gifting also applies to other spiritual gifts, such as teaching, serving, or giving. Paul explains that we each have different gifts, and it is crucial to respect the limitations and boundaries of our particular gifts. A person who is not called to teach or is not gifted in teaching should not attempt to teach, as it may lead to spreading weak or unbiblical teachings.

This concept is echoed in Ephesians 4:7 (NIV):

But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.

This reinforces the idea that each person has received grace and spiritual gifts according to Christ’s will, and we are to use them responsibly and within our given measure.

Conclusion:

The Bible teaches that every believer has received a specific measure of grace and faith, which is directly tied to the gifts God has given them. For those with the gift of prophecy, it is important to operate within the measure of faith God has assigned, as this ensures that the prophecies are accurate and aligned with His will. Overstepping the boundaries of one’s gifting can lead to error and falsehood, so it is crucial to rely on God’s grace and wisdom in exercising spiritual gifts.

Blessings and Shalom.

Feel free to share this message with others.

 

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What Does “Tremble and Do Not Sin” Mean? — Psalm 4:4

“Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.” – Psalm 4:4 (NIV)

Introduction

Psalm 4:4 presents a profound instruction: “Tremble and do not sin.” At first glance, this may seem like a strange combination—why tremble? What kind of trembling leads to righteousness rather than fear or despair? This verse invites us to explore the biblical concept of the fear of God, a theme that runs deeply throughout Scripture.

What Kind of Fear is This?

The Hebrew word translated “tremble” (ragaz) can also mean “to stand in awe,” “to quake,” or “to be deeply moved.” It conveys a strong emotional reaction, not of terror, but of reverent fear—the kind of response one has in the presence of God’s holiness and justice.

This is not a fear of people (Proverbs 29:25), nor is it fear of evil or the devil. It is a fear rooted in awe, reverence, and moral responsibility before a holy God.

The same theme appears throughout Scripture:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10 (NIV)

This fear keeps us grounded, humble, and obedient—it is not paralyzing, but empowering. It’s a healthy fear that leads to godly living.

The Call to Self-Examination

The second part of Psalm 4:4 says:

“When you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.”

This encourages reflection—quiet, personal examination of our inner lives in God’s presence. The Psalms often tie this to the practice of repentance, as seen also in:

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” – Psalm 139:23 (NIV)

When we fear God rightly, we are moved to examine ourselves, repent from sin, and walk in holiness.

Faith and Obedience Go Together

Psalm 4:5 follows with:

“Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.” – Psalm 4:5 (NIV)

In Old Testament times, righteous sacrifices involved not just ritual, but the heart behind them—obedience, humility, and trust (see 1 Samuel 15:22). Today, believers are called to offer spiritual sacrifices:

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

This shows that fear of God is not passive—it leads to active faith, worship, and righteous living.

Biblical Examples: Where There Was No Fear of God

Abraham gives us a real-world example in Genesis 20 when he says:

“I said to myself, ‘There is surely no fear of God in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife.’” – Genesis 20:11 (NIV)

Here, Abraham links the absence of the fear of God with moral lawlessness. When people don’t fear God, they’re capable of anything—even murder. The same moral collapse is seen in:

“There is no fear of God before their eyes.” – Romans 3:18 (NIV)

This verse is part of Paul’s argument that all humanity is under sin—Jew and Gentile alike—without God’s intervention through Christ.

Today’s Relevance

In today’s world, much like in Gerar, Sodom, or Gomorrah, the fear of God has been widely abandoned. Many live as if God does not see or care. But Scripture warns us:

“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” – Galatians 6:7 (NIV)

The command to “tremble and do not sin” is a timeless call to cultivate a reverent heart—one that is grieved by sin and driven toward repentance and righteousness.

Personal Reflection

Do you fear God?
This is not about being afraid of punishment, but about having a heart that honors God deeply enough to turn away from sin. If the fear of God is in you:

  • You will turn away from drunkenness.
  • You will resist corruption and bribery.
  • You will flee from sexual immorality.
  • You will forgive, even when it’s hard.
  • You will seek to please God above all.

“Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’” – Hebrews 12:28–29 (NIV)

Conclusion

Psalm 4:4 is not just a poetic phrase—it’s a spiritual command: Tremble before God, and let that holy fear keep you from sin. In a world that has forgotten God, let us be those who remember Him, revere Him, and live for Him.

May the Lord help us to walk in His fear and holiness.

Maranatha — The Lord is coming!

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Why Did David Take Five Smooth Stones, and Not Just Any Stones?

Question:

Why did David choose five smooth stones, and what is the significance of each one? Why didn’t he just pick any stone?

Answer:
When David faced Goliath, the Bible tells us that he went down to a stream and picked five smooth stones. He used them to fight and defeat Goliath, a giant warrior from the Philistines.

1 Samuel 17:40
“Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones from the stream, put them in the pouch of his shepherd’s bag, and with his sling in his hand, approached the Philistine.”

The question arises: why five stones? What do they represent spiritually? Why smooth stones?

1. Faith and Trust in God’s Power

Some people believe David took five stones because he wasn’t sure one stone would be enough to defeat Goliath. However, this interpretation misses the deeper meaning. The reality is that David had great faith. In fact, his rejection of King Saul’s armor and weapons showed his trust in God rather than in earthly weapons or armor. David’s faith wasn’t weak, but rather rooted in God’s ability to provide victory. His actions spoke volumes about his trust in the God who had delivered him from the paw of the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:37).

Psalm 20:7
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”

David wasn’t relying on the weapons of man but on the Lord’s power. His faith in God’s provision, even in the face of overwhelming odds, was evident in his willingness to use what seemed like simple tools.

2. Spiritual Meaning of Five Stones

Other scholars believe that the five stones represent spiritual truths that David had in his heart:

  1. Faith: David knew that his victory would only come through faith in God, not his own strength.

  2. Obedience: He obeyed God’s call to confront Goliath.

  3. Service: As a servant of God, David’s actions were part of his calling to stand up for God’s glory.

  4. Prayer: David’s dependence on prayer, especially as expressed in his psalms, reflects his ongoing communication with God.

  5. The Holy Spirit: His victory was powered by the Holy Spirit, who enabled him to face a giant with courage and skill.

Ephesians 6:10-17
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

David’s stones were not just physical tools but spiritual representations of what we need to face spiritual battles. Like David, we are called to put on the full armor of God and use the resources He provides to defeat our spiritual enemies.

3. The Five Stones and the Defeat of the Giants

Some theologians connect the five stones with the five sons of the giant Rephaim, one of whom was Goliath (see 2 Samuel 21:15-22). The idea is that David, in confronting Goliath, was symbolically defeating the entire line of giants. This interpretation reveals that David wasn’t just fighting one enemy, but was standing against all forces of evil, declaring God’s supremacy over all.

2 Samuel 21:16-18
“And Ishbi-Benob, one of the descendants of the giants, whose bronze spearhead weighed three hundred shekels, who was armed with a new sword, thought to kill David. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to David’s rescue; he struck the Philistine down and killed him.

This shows that the battle against giants was ongoing, and David’s victory over Goliath was a statement of God’s ultimate triumph.

4. Five Stones and the Fivefold Ministry

Another interpretation ties the five stones to the fivefold ministry mentioned in Ephesians 4:11, which are key to the growth and maturity of the Church. These ministries help believers stand firm in their faith and bring about spiritual victory:

  • Apostles

  • Prophets

  • Evangelists

  • Pastors

  • Teachers

These five roles are foundational for building up the body of Christ and resisting the forces of darkness.

Ephesians 4:11-12
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”

Just as David used five stones to defeat the giant, the Church is equipped with the fivefold ministry to fight spiritual battles and bring victory in Christ.

5. Persistence in Prayer and Faith

David took five stones because he was prepared for a prolonged battle. If one stone missed, he was ready to try again. This teaches us about the importance of persistence in prayer and faith. Jesus encourages us to keep praying, even when the answer doesn’t come immediately. David’s multiple stones symbolize the need for ongoing faith and trust in God’s timing.

Luke 18:1-8
“Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”

In life, we may face trials where we pray and don’t see immediate results. But just as David had multiple stones, we are encouraged to keep praying, knowing that God will answer in His time.

6. The Stream of Living Water

David picked the stones from a stream of water, not just from any place. This stream represents the living water that flows from Jesus Christ. David knew that his faith needed to be grounded in God, the source of all life.

John 4:14
“But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

This stream of living water reminds us that our strength and faith come from Christ alone. Just as David drew from the stream, we must draw from the living water of Christ to sustain us in our battles.

7. Smooth Stones and Simple Faith

Finally, David chose smooth stones. These stones were not large or sharp but simple, round, and smooth. This is significant because it teaches us that even a small amount of faith, if rightly placed, can overcome great obstacles. The stone wasn’t powerful because of its size but because of the skill and faith of the one using it.

Matthew 17:20
“He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’”

It’s not the size of our faith that matters, but the object of our faith—Jesus Christ. A small, simple faith placed in Him is enough to move mountains.

Conclusion

David’s choice of five smooth stones wasn’t random. It was a purposeful act that reveals spiritual truths. He was prepared for battle with faith, obedience, prayer, and a reliance on God’s power. Just as David used the tools God gave him, we too are equipped for spiritual battle. Our victory doesn’t come from our own strength, but from our faith in the God who fights for us.

We can learn from David’s persistence, his trust in God’s provision, and his reliance on the living water of Christ. Like David, we must stand firm in faith, persist in prayer, and trust that even with a small measure of faith, God can bring victory.

Romans 12:3
“For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.”

David’s faith was enough to defeat Goliath. Likewise, whatever faith God has given you, use it to stand firm, knowing that with God, victory is assured.

Blessings,

Shalom.

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