Title 2023

  • Home   /  
  • 2023
    • ( Page11 )

Why Were Fish Without Fins and Scales Forbidden to Be Eaten?

Leviticus 11:9–12 (NIV)
9 “Of all the creatures living in the water of the seas and the streams you may eat any that have fins and scales.
10 But all creatures in the seas or streams that do not have fins and scales whether among all the swarming things or among all the other living creatures in the water you are to regard as unclean.
11 And since you are to regard them as unclean, you must not eat their meat; you must regard their carcasses as unclean.
12 Anything living in the water that does not have fins and scales is to be regarded as unclean by you.”

Under the Mosaic Law, dietary restrictions were part of God’s way of setting the people of Israel apart from the surrounding nations (see Leviticus 20:25–26). Clean and unclean animals symbolized purity and impurity teaching Israel how to discern between what was acceptable and unacceptable before God.

Fish with both fins and scales were considered clean because these physical traits enabled effective movement and protection. Spiritually, these features symbolize essential virtues of the believer: readiness and righteousness.

1. Fins: Symbol of Readiness and Direction

Fins enable fish to move swiftly, change direction, and navigate difficult currents. Spiritually, they represent mobility and purpose the believer’s readiness to live and move according to God’s will.

Ephesians 6:15 (NIV)
“…and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

In Paul’s description of the armor of God, spiritual readiness is pictured as footwear equipping believers to move forward, share the gospel, and stand firm. A Christian without “fins” is stagnant and aimless, much like a fish unable to swim.

We are not called to spiritual laziness or passivity but to mission and movement. The gospel calls us to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Without spiritual fins, we are unequipped for this calling.

2. Scales: Symbol of Protection and Righteousness

Scales protect fish from injury, parasites, and predators. In a spiritual sense, they represent the righteousness and covering of God, shielding believers from attacks by the enemy.

Ephesians 6:14–17 (NIV)
14 “Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place…
16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Without spiritual “scales” the righteousness of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21) we are exposed to the enemy’s deception, condemnation, and temptation.

Job 41:13–17 (NIV), describing the Leviathan (a powerful, armor-like creature), further illustrates this idea:

13 “Who can strip off its outer coat?
Who can penetrate its double coat of armor?
14 Who dares open the doors of its mouth,
ringed with fearsome teeth?
15 Its back has rows of shields
tightly sealed together;
16 each is so close to the next
that no air can pass between.
17 They are joined fast to one another;
they cling together and cannot be parted.”

Just as Leviathan’s scales cannot be penetrated, so too must the believer be fully clothed in the impenetrable righteousness of Christ.

3. The New Covenant Fulfillment

While Christians are no longer under Old Testament dietary laws (Romans 14:14, Colossians 2:16–17), these regulations still carry spiritual symbolism. The dietary laws pointed forward to moral and spiritual purity fulfilled in Christ, who cleanses us from sin and calls us to live holy lives.

Romans 14:17 (NIV)
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit…”

The prohibition on eating fish without fins and scales is no longer a binding legal requirement, but it remains a powerful metaphor for Christian living. It reminds us to pursue a life of spiritual discipline, moral integrity, and gospel readiness.

4. The Final Separation

Jesus uses the imagery of fishing to describe the coming judgment:

Matthew 13:47–49 (NIV)
47 “Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish.
48 When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away.
49 This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous.”

On the last day, God will separate the righteous from the wicked just as fishermen sort good fish from bad. Let us not be like the “unclean fish” that are cast away.

Be Spiritually Clean

Though we’re no longer under the ceremonial laws of Leviticus, the principles remain true:

  • Have fins: Walk in purpose, readiness, and mission.
  • Have scales: Clothe yourself with the righteousness of Christ and protect your spiritual life.

Romans 13:12 (NIV)
“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

Let us not live as spiritually unclean or unprepared believers. Let us be strong, purposeful, and protected ready for the day we are drawn into the final net of God’s kingdom.

Shalom.

Print this post

What Does the Name “Adam” Mean?

The name Adam comes from the Hebrew word ‘adamah’ (אֲדָמָה), meaning ground or earth. This name reflects humanity’s earthly origin, as God formed the first man from the dust of the ground.

Genesis 2:7 (NIV)  “Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.”

This act signifies two crucial truths:

  1. Man’s physical origin is from the earth.
  2. Life itself is a gift from God, imparted through His breath (Hebrew: ruach, meaning breath, spirit, or wind).

A Shared Name for Man and Woman

Surprisingly to some, the name “Adam” wasn’t exclusive to the first man. It was a shared name for both the man and the woman when God created them.

Genesis 5:1–2 (ESV)  “This is the book of the generations of Adam. When God created man, he made him in the likeness of God. Male and female he created them, and he blessed them and named them Man [Hebrew: Adam] when they were created.”

Here, “Adam” is used in a collective sense, representing all humankind. Theologically, this points to the unity and equality of man and woman in bearing God’s image (Imago Dei), and in being recipients of His blessing and purpose (Genesis 1:26–28).

The Legacy of Adam: Mortality and the Need for Redemption

All human beings born after Adam are considered his descendants “sons of Adam” and inherit both his earthly nature and his fallen condition due to sin (Romans 5:12). This explains why death and decay are universal human experiences.

Genesis 3:19 (NIV)  “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.”

This mortality is not just physical it is spiritual. Through Adam, sin entered the world, bringing separation from God. But through Christ the “Second Adam” a new kind of life is made possible.

1 Corinthians 15:22 (ESV)  “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.”

A New Body, A New Identity

For those who belong to Christ, there is a promised transformation. At the resurrection, we will receive heavenly bodies no longer limited by earthly weakness or corrupted by sin.

1 Corinthians 15:47–49 (NIV)  “The first man was of the dust of the earth; the second man is of heaven. As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven. And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man.”

Jesus confirms that the resurrected life is radically different. There will be no marriage, no procreation, no earthly desires. We will be like the angels holy and eternal.

Mark 12:25 (NIV)  “When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.”

Do You Have the Hope of a Heavenly Body?

This hope isn’t automatic. Scripture teaches that this transformation is only for those who are in Christ those who have believed the Gospel, repented of sin, and are living in obedience to Him.

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

Philippians 3:20–21 (ESV)  “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body…”

Do you have this hope? Are you living with the assurance that your earthly body will one day be exchanged for a glorified one?

That hope is found only in Jesus Christ the second and greater Adam who not only restores what was lost but also grants us eternal life with God.

Romans 6:23 (NIV)  “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

May the Lord bless you and lead you into the fullness of His truth and hope.

Print this post

SEEK WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE, UNDERSTANDING, AND DISCERNMENT

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Word of God together.

Proverbs 2:10–11 (ESV)

“For wisdom will come into your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul;
discretion will watch over you, understanding will guard you.”

There are four essential qualities that every believer should desire and cultivate in their walk with God:

  1. Wisdom – the God-given ability to make sound judgments and discern right from wrong.

  2. Knowledge – the understanding of divine truth and practical information rooted in God’s Word.

  3. Understanding – the deep comprehension of spiritual matters and the ability to apply them appropriately.

  4. Discernment (Discretion) – the foresight to recognize danger, avoid temptation, and choose the path of righteousness (cf. Proverbs 27:12, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty” NIV).

These four virtues do not originate from human intelligence or education but come from God alone:

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Let us now consider three significant spiritual benefits of receiving wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and discernment.

1. Deliverance from the Path of Evil

The first benefit is spiritual protection from wickedness and corrupt influences.

Proverbs 2:12–15 (ESV)

“Delivering you from the way of evil, from men of perverted speech,
who forsake the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness,
who rejoice in doing evil and delight in the perverseness of evil,
men whose paths are crooked, and who are devious in their ways.”

Evil paths are those that lead people into sin and rebellion against God. These include the moral and spiritual corruptions listed in Galatians 5:19–21:

“…sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these…” (ESV)

Such behaviors result from a lack of divine wisdom and spiritual discernment. The Holy Spirit, through God’s Word, equips the believer to resist these temptations and remain on the path of righteousness.

2. Protection from Sexual Immorality

Another benefit is deliverance from the snare of sexual sin, which is one of the most common and destructive traps.

Proverbs 2:16–19 (NIV)

“Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words,
who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God.
Surely her house leads down to death and her paths to the spirits of the dead.
None who go to her return or attain the paths of life.”

In biblical terms, the “adulterous woman” represents anyone—male or female—who engages in sexual immorality. This includes adultery, fornication, and any sexual behavior outside the bounds of biblical marriage.

Consider Joseph in Genesis 39. When Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him, Joseph fled, saying:

“How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9, ESV)

Joseph’s response was the fruit of godly wisdom and fear of the Lord. Had he lacked discernment and understanding, he could have easily fallen into sin, jeopardizing both his calling and his relationship with God.

Proverbs 6:32 (ESV) affirms this:

“He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.”

Wisdom and the fear of the Lord are safeguards against moral failure.

3. Guidance Toward the Path of the Righteous

God’s wisdom not only protects us from sin but also guides us into a life of righteousness among godly people.

Proverbs 2:20–22 (ESV)

“So you will walk in the way of the good and keep to the paths of the righteous.
For the upright will inhabit the land, and those with integrity will remain in it,
but the wicked will be cut off from the land, and the treacherous will be rooted out of it.”

The path of the righteous is distinct and intentional. It is not found by accident, but by divine guidance. The Holy Spirit uses wisdom and understanding to lead us into fellowship with those who live godly lives and to keep us rooted in the truth of God’s Word.

Psalm 1 paints a similar picture:

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked… but his delight is in the law of the Lord” (Psalm 1:1–2, ESV).

To find and stay on this path, we need the kind of wisdom that only comes from God.

How Then Can One Receive Wisdom, Knowledge, Understanding, and Discernment?

The answer is found in Job 28:20–28, where Job contemplates the value and source of wisdom:

Job 28:28 (ESV)

“And he said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’”

Wisdom is not merely intellectual—it is spiritual. It begins with the fear of the Lord, which is reverent awe, submission, and obedience to God’s will. Turning away from evil is the practical expression of true understanding.

If you desire to grow in wisdom:

  • Study the Word of God diligently

  • Fellowship with other believers

  • Commit to prayer, worship, and evangelism

  • Practice obedience to God’s commands

These spiritual disciplines position you to receive the fullness of God’s wisdom.

Maranatha!
Come, Lord Jesus!
Let us continue to walk in the light of His truth.

Print this post

Why Did Noah Curse Canaan Instead of His Son Ham, Who Was the One at Fault?

ANSWER:

This question often arises when reading Genesis 9:20–25, which records a puzzling episode in the life of Noah after the flood. The passage reads:

“Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard. When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent. Ham, the father of Canaan, saw his father naked and told his two brothers outside. But Shem and Japheth took a garment and laid it across their shoulders; then they walked in backward and covered their father’s naked body. Their faces were turned the other way so that they would not see their father naked. When Noah awoke from his wine and found out what his youngest son had done to him, he said, ‘Cursed be Canaan! The lowest of slaves will he be to his brothers.’”
— Genesis 9:20–25, NIV

From the text, we learn that Ham saw his father’s nakedness and exposed his shame by telling his brothers. In contrast, Shem and Japheth acted respectfully, covering their father without looking at him. When Noah awoke and discovered what had happened, he pronounced a curse—not on Ham, the one who committed the offense—but on Canaan, Ham’s son. This naturally raises a theological question: Why was Canaan cursed instead of Ham?

Possible Explanations:

  1. Ham Had Already Been Blessed by God
    According to Genesis 9:1, God had already blessed Noah and his sons after the flood:

    “Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth.'”

    Since Ham had received God’s blessing, it may have been spiritually inappropriate for Noah to curse someone whom God had blessed. As a result, the curse was redirected to Ham’s son, Canaan. This illustrates the principle that divine blessings are irrevocable (cf. Romans 11:29), and perhaps Noah, recognizing that, pronounced judgment where it could legally or spiritually apply.

  2. Prophetic Foreshadowing of the Canaanites’ Future
    Some biblical scholars argue that Noah’s curse was prophetic in nature. Moses, the author of Genesis, was leading the Israelites toward the Promised Land, which was inhabited by Canaan’s descendants—the Canaanites. These people later became notorious for their idolatry, sexual immorality, and child sacrifice (cf. Leviticus 18:24–25). Thus, Noah’s words can be seen as a divinely inspired prophecy foretelling the downfall and subjugation of the Canaanites at the hands of Israel (cf. Deuteronomy 7:1–2).

  3. Canaan as Representative of a Corrupt Lineage
    Although the text doesn’t say Canaan was present at the incident, some Jewish traditions and early commentators suggest that Canaan may have been involved or that Noah foresaw in him a legacy of corruption. In the ancient biblical worldview, a parent’s character and actions were believed to shape the destiny of their descendants (cf. Exodus 20:5). Thus, the curse on Canaan may reflect the principle of generational consequences tied to moral failure.

  4. Literary Emphasis and Intentional Highlighting
    The text deliberately emphasizes that Ham was “the father of Canaan” (repeated in verses 18 and 22), suggesting that Moses wanted readers to connect Ham’s sin with the moral downfall of the Canaanite peoples. This supports the view that Canaan’s name was singled out not randomly, but as part of a larger theological narrative—one that would be fulfilled centuries later during Israel’s conquest of Canaan.

  5. The Role of Honor and Shame in the Ancient World
    In ancient Near Eastern culture, honor and shame were central values. Ham’s act was not merely a passive mistake; it was an active dishonoring of his father, possibly mocking or gossiping about Noah’s vulnerability. In contrast, Shem and Japheth showed respect and discretion. Noah’s curse may have therefore extended to Ham’s legacy—through Canaan—as a reflection of how deeply dishonor can impact future generations.

Conclusion:

Noah’s curse on Canaan, though initially perplexing, aligns with broader biblical themes of generational responsibility, prophetic judgment, and divine sovereignty. It reveals how sin, especially dishonor and disrespect, can carry long-term consequences. The incident also sets the stage for understanding why the Canaanites later came under God’s judgment through Israel. Canaan’s curse was not merely personal—it was historical and theological, pointing to future events in redemptive history.

Shalom.

 

Print this post

SPIRITUAL COURAGE DOES NOT DEPEND ON EXPERIENCE

Grace and peace to you in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I warmly welcome you to reflect on the life-giving Word of God today.

Let us consider the nature of spiritual courage—a kind of bravery that does not depend on human experience, training, or status. Too often, we assume that only the experienced or the learned can be used mightily by God. But Scripture shows us a different reality.

A Nation in Crisis

In 2 Kings 6, the people of Israel faced an unimaginable crisis. The city of Samaria was under siege by the Aramean army (also known as the Syrians), and the siege caused a severe famine. The situation became so dire that people resorted to eating unclean things—even resorting to cannibalism (2 Kings 6:28–29). Dove dung was sold at a premium as food. The most trained warriors, overwhelmed by fear and hopelessness, stayed hidden within the city walls, unwilling to act.

Yet at this lowest point, God spoke through His prophet Elisha, declaring a sudden and supernatural breakthrough:

“Hear the word of the Lord. This is what the Lord says: About this time tomorrow, a seah of the finest flour will sell for a shekel and two seahs of barley for a shekel at the gate of Samaria.”
—2 Kings 7:1 (NIV)

This prophecy was shocking. The king’s officer scoffed, saying, “Even if the Lord opened the floodgates of the heavens, could this happen?” (v. 2). His doubt reflected a common human error: judging divine possibilities by human limitations. But Elisha replied with sobering certainty: “You will see it with your own eyes, but you will not eat any of it.”

The Leprous Outsiders

Enter the most unlikely heroes: four lepers—outcasts, weak, rejected by society, and positioned outside the city gate. According to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 13), lepers were to be quarantined to prevent defiling the camp. These men were sick, starving, and alone. Yet in their desperation, they made a decision that would change the fate of a nation.

“Why stay here until we die? If we go into the city, the famine is there, and we will die. If we stay here, we will die. So let’s go over to the camp of the Arameans and surrender. If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.”
—2 Kings 7:3–4 (NIV)

This was not only a practical decision—it was a step of faith. With no strength, weapons, or social value, they moved forward. And heaven moved with them.

God’s Power Behind the Scenes

As the lepers approached the Aramean camp at dawn, they found it deserted. Unknown to them, the Lord had caused the enemy to hear a supernatural sound:

“For the Lord had caused the Arameans to hear the sound of chariots and horses and a great army, so that they said to one another, ‘Look, the king of Israel has hired the Hittite and Egyptian kings to attack us!’ So they got up and fled in the dusk and abandoned their tents and their horses and donkeys. They left the camp as it was and ran for their lives.”
—2 Kings 7:6–7 (NIV)

The miracle was not in the strength of the lepers, but in the power of God who fought Israel’s battle. These four lepers—despised and broken—were used by God as vessels of deliverance. They gathered food, silver, and gold, and eventually reported the good news to the city (vv. 8–10). Because of their obedience, the prophecy was fulfilled exactly as God had said.

What Can We Learn?

  1. God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). He often uses the unlikely, the unqualified, and the broken to accomplish His divine purposes.

  2. Spiritual courage is not rooted in personal ability but in trusting God. The lepers had no credentials—only the willingness to move forward in faith.

  3. Fear paralyzes, but faith acts. While trained soldiers remained inactive, these outcasts stepped out. Faith in action brings breakthrough.

  4. Don’t wait to feel “ready” before you serve God. Whether you got saved today or decades ago, the Holy Spirit empowers you. Just as God used David—a shepherd boy with no military experience—to defeat Goliath (1 Samuel 17), He can use you, too.

  5. The Gospel must be shared. After experiencing God’s provision, the lepers said, “We’re not doing right. This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves” (2 Kings 7:9). Likewise, we must share the good news of salvation with a world in crisis.

Final Encouragement

You may feel unqualified, inexperienced, or too broken to serve. But remember: in the spiritual realm, God sees your faith, not your résumé. Your step of faith can shake the enemy’s camp. You may look like just one person—but in God’s eyes, you may be the answer to someone’s deliverance.

So rise up. Use the gifts God has given you. Speak the truth. Share the gospel. Serve boldly. Don’t underestimate what God can do through you. When you move in faith, heaven moves with you—and the enemy flees.

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord Almighty.
—Zechariah 4:6 (NIV)

God bless you.

Shalom.

 

Print this post

NO ONE WAS ALLOWED TO CARRY ANY VESSEL THROUGH THE TEMPLE

Welcome to today’s Bible study.

Today, we’re going to explore a practice that was taking place in the Temple of God—one that was displeasing to the Lord and that He decisively rebuked.

Let’s read:

Mark 11:15–16 (ESV)
“And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons.
And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple.”

This passage is well-known as the account where Jesus drove out those who were buying and selling in the Temple. But often overlooked is verse 16—Jesus also prohibited anyone from carrying any kind of object or vessel through the Temple courts.

What does this mean?

The “vessels” mentioned here were not sacred items belonging to the Temple. People were not stealing or moving Temple equipment. Rather, they were using the Temple grounds as a shortcut, carrying baskets, containers, tools—ordinary items used in daily life or trade.

Historically, the Temple in Jerusalem was constructed between two strategic areas:

  • On one side was Bethesda, a major sheep market.

  • On the other side was the Upper City, where many people lived and worked.

To save time, people began using the Temple courtyards as a pass-through route, going from the Upper City to the markets in Bethesda. In doing so, they treated the holy space like a public street. They carried merchandise, food, furniture, and even gambling tables through the Temple—completely disregarding its sanctity.

Over time, the Temple became polluted with all kinds of traffic:

  • Merchants looking for a faster path to market.

  • Thieves blending in with the crowds.

  • Gossipers and idlers using the Temple as a hangout.

  • People with impure motives walking through on their way to schemes.

This kind of irreverent activity deeply offended the Lord. Jesus didn’t just rebuke the merchants; He also shut down the flow of people misusing the Temple space. He stood guard at the entrances and stopped anyone from carrying vessels through the Temple.

In the same way, today we often see churches treated without reverence:

  • People walk in and out aimlessly, without focus or intention to worship.

  • Vendors sometimes set up near the sanctuary, selling snacks, shoes, or other products.

  • Children turn the worship space into a playground.

  • Some enter the church not to meet God, but to conduct business, make social connections, or promote personal agendas.

The House of God must be treated as holy ground.

Malachi 1:6 (ESV) says,
“‘A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If then I am a father, where is my honor? And if I am a master, where is my fear?’ says the Lord of hosts to you…”

Just as we protect and honor our own homes—ensuring guests behave respectfully—how much more should we treat the Lord’s house with reverence?

But the Temple of God is not just a building. Scripture also tells us that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit:

1 Corinthians 6:19–20 (ESV)
“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”

This means that our bodies are not to be used for anything unholy. They are not vessels for sin, impurity, or casual indulgence. Just as Jesus cleansed the physical Temple, He desires to cleanse our inner temples—our hearts, minds, and bodies—from all that is profane.

1 Corinthians 6:15–18 (ESV) adds:
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never!
Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh.’
But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him.
Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”

So just as Jesus would not allow the Temple to be treated as a mere passageway or place for unclean activity, we must not allow our bodies, which are temples of the Holy Spirit, to become pathways for sin. We must honor God both in His house and in ourselves.

Let us be vigilant in maintaining the sanctity of the physical places of worship—and even more, the holiness of our own lives.

Respect the house of God. Respect your body, the temple of the Spirit.

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Amen.

 

Print this post

What Does Proverbs 27:6 Mean? (“Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy”)

Question:
What is the meaning of Proverbs 27:6: “Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy”?

Answer:
The “friend” mentioned here is a true friend—someone who genuinely desires your well-being. When a friend wounds you with honest words, even if painful, it is far better than being flattered by people who are secretly your enemies.

The truth that hurts is actually a manifestation of genuine love, rooted in God’s love. Jesus Himself consistently spoke truth to all people, especially the Pharisees, exposing their hypocrisy (see Matthew 23). While many admired Him superficially in the marketplaces, deep down they rejected and hated Him because of His uncompromising truth.

Similarly, the Apostle Paul reproved the church in Galatia for their readiness to accept only comforting teachings while rejecting the true gospel (Galatians 4:16, ESV):


“Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?”


Paul’s sharp correction was necessary for their spiritual growth, even though it was painful for them.

On the other hand, Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus with a kiss, pretending to be a friend while leading Him to death (John 18:3-5). This illustrates how the kisses or flattering words of an enemy are deceptive and dangerous.

Theological Reflection:
The wounds from a friend represent loving correction—a vital part of Christian community and spiritual growth. Hebrews 12:6 (ESV) says,


“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”


This discipline is an expression of God’s perfect love, which often works through His people to bring repentance and restoration.

In contrast, flattery from an enemy is akin to spiritual deception. Proverbs 29:5 warns,
“A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.”
Flattering words without truth can lead one into sin and destruction.

Therefore, it is better to receive the painful but honest counsel of a true friend, grounded in love and truth, than to be deceived by smooth words that conceal harmful intentions.

Summary:
When a brother or sister in Christ lovingly rebukes or corrects you—even if it stings—that is a sign of true friendship and godly love. It builds character, promotes holiness, and leads to life (see Proverbs 27:17; Ephesians 4:15). However, receiving constant praise and flattering words from those who do not have your best interest at heart is dangerous and can lead to spiritual ruin.

May the Lord bless you with wisdom to discern true friends and embrace godly correction.

Shalom.

 

Print this post

Did Solomon Go to Heaven?

Answer: Yes, he did.

Solomon’s major failure was being influenced by his foreign wives to build altars for other gods (1 Kings 11:3, 13, NIV). However, the Scriptures do not indicate that this sin was continuous to the point of completely abandoning the Lord, nor that Solomon committed an unforgivable sin. It is clear that Solomon repented.

When we read the book of Ecclesiastes—written in his later years—we see a man reflecting honestly on his life. He acknowledges many things he once thought were worthwhile, only to realize in the end they were meaningless, “like chasing after the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14, ESV). This demonstrates Solomon’s spiritual growth and understanding that true fulfillment is found only in fearing God and keeping His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Moreover, Solomon is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:6-7), showing that he was not among the lost. Therefore, we cannot say Solomon went to hell, even though the Bible does not explicitly say where he repented.

The key lesson we learn from Solomon’s mistake is the importance of obedience. Scripture declares,

“To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22, NIV)

If Solomon had obeyed God’s command not to marry foreign women who would turn his heart away (Deuteronomy 7:3-4), he would have avoided this downfall.

Solomon was initially very wise, but in his old age, he was deceived by the enemy. Some sins are prepared by Satan over time, with early compromises paving the way for later downfall.

Therefore, obey every command of God—even the small or seemingly easy ones. God sees the end from the beginning, but we see only the present moment. Stand firmly on God’s Word, not on your own opinions or feelings. That is how you overcome the devil.

If wise men like Solomon were trapped, how much more reason for us not to neglect the conviction of the Holy Spirit urging us to repent and turn from sin.

May the Lord help us to obey and fear Him all our days.

Print this post

What Does the Bible Mean When It Says, “He Has Also Set Eternity in the Human Heart”?(Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Question:
What does the Bible mean when it says, “He has also set eternity in the human heart”? (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

Answer:


Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV) says,
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

This verse reveals a profound truth about human nature and our relationship with God. Unlike animals or other living creatures, humans are uniquely created with an innate sense of longing and awareness that transcends the physical and temporal world. While animals live by instinct and limited understanding, humans possess an insatiable curiosity and desire to know more, to understand deeper, and to seek purpose beyond what is immediately visible.

The phrase “He has set eternity in the human heart” means that God has placed within us a timeless longing—a spiritual hunger that points beyond this life to something eternal. This is not merely a thirst for knowledge but a divine imprint that invites us to search for God Himself, who is eternal and infinite. It is this eternal longing that drives human progress, discovery, and the quest for meaning.

However, despite this deep yearning, humans remain limited in their ability to fully comprehend God’s works or the fullness of His plan. Solomon acknowledges this truth when he says,


“I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind. What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.” (Ecclesiastes 1:14-15, NIV)


and also,


“No one can discover the work that God does from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11, NIV).

The infinite nature of God and His works mean that our understanding will always be partial. We may uncover many truths about the world or even about God’s creation, but we will never exhaust His wisdom or fully comprehend His eternal purpose. The human heart’s eternal longing serves as a reminder that our ultimate satisfaction is found not in earthly knowledge or achievements, but in God’s love and presence.

Theologically, this longing for eternity echoes the biblical teaching that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), designed for relationship with the Creator and eternal life through Jesus Christ (John 17:3). The “eternity in the heart” is an indication of our spiritual nature and destiny—it points to the reality of eternal life and the hope of resurrection.

Therefore, this verse calls believers to live in joyful trust and continual pursuit of God’s glory rather than becoming consumed by the temporary or merely intellectual pursuits. It challenges us to channel our endless curiosity towards worship, obedience, and fellowship with God, who alone fills the void in our hearts.

Reflection:
Have you acknowledged this eternal longing within you? Have you recognized that the search for meaning and purpose is ultimately a search for God? The Bible urges us to respond to this longing by turning to Jesus Christ, whose return is near (Revelation 22:12). Will you prepare your heart to meet Him?

Shalom.

Print this post

What does the Bible mean when it says “Cain went out from the presence of the Lord”? What is the significance of his departure?

ANSWER:
After Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy—because God accepted Abel’s offering but rejected his own—God confronted Cain and pronounced a curse on him. However, after this divine judgment, the Bible says Cain “went out from the presence of the Lord.” What does this expression mean?

Let’s look at the Scripture:

Genesis 4:9-16 (ESV)
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?”
And the Lord said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground.
And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand.
When you work the ground, it shall no longer yield to you its strength. You shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth.”
Cain said to the Lord, “My punishment is greater than I can bear.
Behold, you have driven me today away from the ground, and from your face I shall be hidden. I shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will kill me.”
Then the Lord said to him, “Not so! If anyone kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord put a mark on Cain, lest any who found him should attack him.
Then Cain went away from the presence of the Lord and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden.

Theological Explanation:

Cain’s departure “from the presence of the Lord” marks a profound spiritual separation. This is not simply a physical relocation or a pause in communication with God, but a definitive severing of fellowship with Him. Cain’s rebellion and murder broke the intimate communion with God that Adam and Eve once enjoyed in Eden.

By leaving “the presence of the Lord,” Cain symbolically and literally cut himself off from God’s protective and sustaining presence. This severance meant no more sacrifice, no more worship, no more seeking God’s favor. Cain chose to live apart from God, embracing a life focused on worldly achievements and self-reliance.

Interestingly, Cain’s descendants excelled in earthly skills—building cities, developing music, metalworking, and commerce (Genesis 4:20-22)—but these advances came alongside moral corruption and rebellion against God. This contrast between technological progress and spiritual decay foreshadows humanity’s ongoing struggle to balance material success with faithfulness to God.

On the other hand, Adam’s other line through Seth remained faithful and continued to “call upon the name of the Lord” (Genesis 4:25-26). This represents the godly lineage that sought to maintain covenant relationship and dependence on God’s grace.

Application and Reflection:

This story presents a timeless choice for all humanity: to live “in the presence of the Lord” or apart from Him. The descendants of Cain symbolize a life driven by human effort and worldly wisdom, but disconnected from God’s blessing. The descendants of Seth represent those who seek God’s mercy and grace, acknowledging their need for Him.

Where do you stand today? Your life’s direction reveals your spiritual position. Are you walking in God’s presence, seeking Him daily, or have you turned away, prioritizing worldly matters over your relationship with God?

We live in the last days; Jesus Christ is coming again (Hebrews 9:28). Now is the time to repent, return to God, and seek His face.
Maranatha—“Come, Lord Jesus.”

Print this post

Archives

Search

Archives

Migawanyo