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Is Sin Truly Removed?

Blessings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let’s learn from the Bible, the Word of God, which is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).

There is a crucial difference between forgiveness of sin and removal of sin.

When someone wrongs you—perhaps insults or steals from you—and asks for forgiveness, you can forgive them by letting go of the offense in your heart. However, forgiving does not necessarily mean that the person has stopped that sinful behavior. If the root cause of the sin is not removed, they may repeat the offense (Proverbs 26:11). Forgiveness in this case means releasing them personally, but not necessarily changing their nature.

The same applies to our relationship with God. We can receive forgiveness for our sins, but if the root of sin inside us remains, we will continue to struggle and fall into the same sins repeatedly (Romans 7:15-20). The root of sin must be removed, and this is why Jesus came—to deal with sin fully (Hebrews 2:14-15).

Jesus came not only to forgive sins but also to remove sin from our lives. Before Jesus, people asked God for forgiveness and were forgiven (Psalm 32:1-2), but sin was not removed from their nature or memory—it was covered, but not taken away (Isaiah 1:18). Because of this, they kept repeating the same sins. But when Jesus came, He provided a way for sin to be removed from the believer’s heart and life (Hebrews 8:12).

So how do we experience this removal of sin so that sin no longer rules or enslaves us?

First, it begins with repentance—turning to God and admitting we are sinners (Acts 3:19). This means confessing all our sins sincerely before God, both those we are aware of and those we aren’t (1 John 1:9). Genuine repentance leads to God’s forgiveness.

But repentance alone is not enough. The next essential step is to be baptized correctly. Baptism is the outward sign that completes repentance and brings the inner cleansing of sin (Acts 2:38).

Acts 2:37-38 says:

“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what shall we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”

Proper baptism in the name of Jesus Christ leads to forgiveness of sins and receiving the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live a new life free from the power of sin (Romans 6:3-7).

When repentance and baptism are heartfelt, the sinful habits that troubled us—such as sexual immorality—begin to die (Galatians 5:16-17). We gain victory over sin because its root has been removed (Colossians 3:5-10). The sinful nature that once controlled us is replaced by a new nature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

It is important to understand that not every baptism removes sin. Some baptisms are empty rituals that don’t bring real change (Matthew 7:21-23). The correct baptism involves full immersion in water (John 3:23) and is done in the name of Jesus Christ (Acts 19:5-6).

Do you want to stop being a slave to sin? Follow the teaching in Acts 2:37-38. God is faithful and will fulfill His promises (2 Timothy 2:13).

Shalom.

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HOW ARE YOU SERVING THE LORD?

A Special Teaching for Women.

Welcome, dear sister in Christ. Let’s take some time together to reflect on an important question:

Has the Lord ever done something great in your life?
Maybe He healed you, delivered you, opened a door for you, or gave you peace and salvation. You rejoiced and gave thanks—but what happened next? Did you simply move on with life, or did you take a step further and begin to serve Him?

Many believers stop at gratitude. But biblical faith produces action (James 2:17). Today, we’ll see how ordinary women—just like you—responded to Jesus not only with words but with their lives.

Women Who Served Jesus

In the Gospels, we see several women who were not apostles, pastors, or public figures—but their role in Jesus’ ministry was powerful.

Matthew 27:55–56

“Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.
Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.”

These women weren’t passive observers. The phrase “to care for His needs” implies active support and service. They traveled with Jesus not just to listen but to help sustain the ministry. They were disciples in deed, even if not in title.

They Gave What They Had

The Gospel of Luke gives more detail:

Luke 8:1–3

“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,
and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;
Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others.
These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”

They didn’t preach, but they financed the Gospel. They used their possessions, time, and influence to support Jesus and His disciples. This is a powerful reminder that giving is also ministry (2 Corinthians 9:6–11). God doesn’t only call us to the pulpit—He calls us to obedience in whatever form that takes.

Why Did They Serve?

These women had personally experienced Jesus’ power—deliverance from demons, healing from disease, and the peace of salvation. In response, they chose not just to believe, but to follow and serve. True gratitude is always expressed through action (Romans 12:1).

Even the Quiet Acts Count

Remember Peter’s mother-in-law?

Matthew 8:14–15

“When Jesus came into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever.
He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him.”

The moment she was healed, she served. She didn’t wait for a title or a ministry invitation. Her response was immediate and practical. That’s a model of what faithful service looks like—simple, sincere, and right where you are.

So, How Are You Serving the Lord?

Are you serving only with your lips, or also with your life? You don’t need a microphone or a platform to be useful to God. If you’re a woman—young or older—ask yourself:

  • Have I used my resources for God’s Kingdom?
  • Do I support ministries or fellow believers in need?
  • Am I using my home, my hands, or my influence for Christ?

You may not be a pastor like Paul, or a preacher like Peter—but you can be a faithful supporter like Mary Magdalene or Joanna. And God sees it. Your name, too, will be remembered in eternity (Hebrews 6:10).

Whatever you do for the Lord—big or small—He sees it all. Let your faith be seen through your service. Give what you can. Pray for others. Open your home. Support the work of the Gospel. Let your whole life become a thank-you to Jesus.

“Therefore, I urge you, 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 

May the Lord bless you as you serve Him faithfully.

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When Were Peter and Andrew Called by Jesus?

Question:

In Luke 5:1–7, we read that Jesus called Peter and Andrew while they were fishing by the Sea of Galilee. But in John 1:35–42, it seems they had already met Jesus earlier while following John the Baptist. Does this mean the Bible is contradicting itself?

Answer:
Not at all. What we have here are two distinct events in the lives of Peter and Andrew. The Bible does not contradict itself—rather, it offers complementary perspectives from different writers. Understanding the historical and theological context helps us see how these accounts fit together seamlessly.

Let’s look at the two passages:

1. The First Encounter – John 1:35–42

This event marks the initial meeting between Jesus, Andrew, and Peter.

“The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God!’
When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus…
Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus.
The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ).
And he brought him to Jesus…”
(John 1:35–42)

At this point, Andrew and another disciple (likely John, the Gospel writer himself) begin following Jesus out of personal interest and conviction, having heard John the Baptist declare Him as the “Lamb of God.” Andrew’s excitement leads him to bring his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus. This is their first introduction to Christ, but Jesus does not yet call them to full-time discipleship.

2. The Call to Discipleship – Luke 5:1–11

Later, Jesus meets Peter and Andrew again while they are fishing and gives them a specific call to follow Him.

“One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret… He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon…
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’
Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.’
When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break.”
(Luke 5:1–6)

After this miracle, Jesus tells them:

“‘Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.’ So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.”
(Luke 5:10b–11)

This moment marks a clear turning point—not just knowing Jesus, but committing to follow Him fully. Peter and Andrew’s decision to leave their nets reflects repentance, faith, and submission to Christ’s lordship. This aligns with Jesus’ pattern of progressive revelation and calling, as seen throughout the Gospels.

Harmonizing the Two Events

The Gospel of John shows us their initial faith and interest, while Luke shows us the moment of radical obedience and calling. These are not contradictory, but complementary.

This two-stage calling fits the biblical pattern:

  • God often prepares hearts before issuing a life-altering call (see Moses in Exodus 2–3, or Paul in Acts 9 and Galatians 1:15–17).
  • Discipleship is both a relationship and a mission. Peter and Andrew first met Jesus personally (John 1), then later surrendered to His purpose (Luke 5).

Far from being a contradiction, these two passages show us the grace of Jesus in meeting people where they are—first with an invitation to know Him, and later with a call to leave everything and follow Him. Just like Peter and Andrew, our walk with Christ often begins with curiosity, grows through relationship, and leads to a deeper commitment as we respond to His call.

Come, Lord Jesus!
(See Revelation 22:20)

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What Does “gentle rain” Mean?

In this context, gentle rain it refers to a soft, refreshing rainfall that gently waters the earth. While it may seem small or insignificant, this type of rain is essential for growth and renewal.

In Job 37:6 it is written:

“For He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth’; likewise to the gentle rain and the heavy rain of His strength.”

This verse reminds us that God is sovereign over creation. He commands even the smallest raindrop and the fiercest storm. The “gentle rain” reflects God’s tender provision—He sends what is needed at the right time and in the right measure.

Rain often symbolizes divine blessing and favor. Just as physical rain nourishes the land, God’s blessings revive and strengthen our spirits.

In Ezekiel 34:26, God promises:

“I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing.”

This is more than a promise of physical provision—it’s a declaration of God’s covenant love. The “showers of blessing” symbolize God’s faithful care for His people. When we walk in obedience and live in relationship with Him, we can trust that He will pour out what we need—spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Just as Israel depended on seasonal rains to bring fruitfulness, believers today depend on the spiritual “rain” of God’s Word, grace, and Spirit to thrive. The gentle rain reminds us that even the smallest move of God in our lives can bring great transformation. We may long for dramatic change, but sometimes God works in quiet, steady ways to grow our faith.

So let us stay close to Him, trusting in His timing and His faithfulness.

The Lord is coming!

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What Does “to gnaw” Mean? (Job 30:3)

Job 30:2–3

“Of what use was the strength of their hands to me, since their vigor had gone from them?
Haggard from want and hunger, they gnawed the dry ground in desolate wastelands at night.”

In this context, Job is describing people who are completely broken—poor, weak, and cast out. The image of them “gnawing the dry ground” paints a picture of people trying to survive in hopeless conditions, with nothing left but barren earth. It reflects suffering that strips away dignity, strength, and purpose.

This passage is more than just a description of physical suffering. It is symbolic of what happens to those who live outside of God’s presence—those abandoned to their own strength or forsaken by society. It echoes the spiritual consequence of putting trust in man rather than in God.

This idea is reinforced in Jeremiah 17:5–6 

5 “This is what the Lord says: Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.
6 That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes.
They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.”

When we trust in human strength alone—whether it’s our own or someone else’s—we separate ourselves from the source of life. Like the people Job described, we end up spiritually dry, empty, and struggling to find sustenance in lifeless places.

But when we trust in the Lord, we experience the opposite:

Jeremiah 17:7–8 

7 “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.
8 They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream…”

Let us not be like those who “gnaw the dry ground” in spiritual desolation. Instead, may we place our full trust in the Lord, who alone provides living water, strength, and restoration—no matter the season.

Come, Lord Jesus!

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Does God Dwell in Darkness? (1 Kings 8:12

Does God really dwell in darkness? (1 Kings 8:12)

Question: The Bible says that God dwells in light (1 Timothy 6:16, John 1:5), but it also mentions that God dwells in darkness (1 Kings 8:12). Does this seem contradictory?

Answer: Let’s carefully examine these verses and explore the theological context before explaining further.

1 Timothy 6:16

“Who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and might forever. Amen.”

This passage reveals a fundamental truth about God’s nature. He lives in “unapproachable light”—a light so pure and glorious that no human can fully comprehend or come near it. This highlights God’s transcendence and holiness, setting Him apart from all creation (1 John 1:5). Theologically, God’s light symbolizes His absolute purity, righteousness, and glory, which are beyond human reach or understanding.

1 Kings 8:12

“Then Solomon said, ‘The Lord said that He would dwell in thick darkness.’

13 I have indeed built a magnificent temple for you, a place for you to dwell forever.”

In this passage, Solomon reflects on the fact that, despite the magnificence of the temple he has built for God, God’s presence is still described as dwelling in “thick darkness.” This highlights the mystery of God’s immanence and transcendence. While God is in unapproachable light, He can also manifest His presence in ways that are beyond human comprehension—like in “thick darkness,” which often represents God’s holiness and the awe-inspiring nature of His presence. This darkness does not mean literal absence but rather points to the awe and reverence God demands in His presence.

Theological Explanation: No Contradiction

At first glance, these passages may seem contradictory—God is described as dwelling in light (1 Timothy 6:16) and in darkness (1 Kings 8:12). However, the Bible is consistent when we understand that God’s essence is beyond human comprehension and cannot be fully described by either light or darkness alone.

God’s Light: In His essence, God is light.

1 John 1:5 says,

“God is light; in Him, there is no darkness at all.”

This emphasizes that God, in His purest form, is light, representing His holiness, goodness, and righteousness. Theological scholars describe this as God’s transcendence—the idea that God is wholly other and cannot be fully grasped by human beings.

God’s Darkness: When Scripture refers to God dwelling in darkness, it is a metaphor for His holiness and the awe-inspiring mystery of His being. In the Bible, darkness often symbolizes God’s unapproachable majesty. For instance, in Exodus 20:21, when Moses approaches the mountain where God’s presence was, it is surrounded by thick darkness. This “darkness” is not negative but highlights God’s overwhelming glory and the need for reverence. It serves as a reminder that God’s presence is both near and far—He is present with His people, yet His full essence remains hidden.

The Role of Sacrifice and Offering to God

In the Bible, God consistently asks His people to offer Him their best because of the kind of relationship He desires with them. This is especially relevant in the context of the temple Solomon built. Theologically, the temple represents the physical manifestation of God’s dwelling among His people. Solomon’s desire to build a house for God, despite God’s infinite nature, is a reflection of God’s relationship with humanity—He wants to dwell with His people, but He also requires holiness and reverence.

Malachi 1:8 says, “

When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you offer lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?”

Here, God is showing that He deserves the best, just as earthly rulers would expect the best offerings.

2 Samuel 24:24 says, “

But the king replied to Araunah, ‘No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.'”

David’s heart here is key: when offering to God, it should come at a personal cost, symbolizing sincere devotion and honoring God’s greatness.

1 Kings 8:26-28

“Now, O God of Israel, let Your word that You promised Your servant David, my father, come true.

27 But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heavens, cannot contain You. How much less this temple I have built!

28 Yet give attention to Your servant’s prayer and his plea for mercy, O Lord my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that Your servant is praying in Your presence this day.”

Here, Solomon acknowledges the paradox of God’s presence. While the temple he built is magnificent, he humbly admits that even the heavens cannot contain God. God, in His immensity, cannot be confined to a building, no matter how grand. This understanding aligns with

Acts 7:48-50, where Stephen says,

“However, the Most High does not live in houses made by human hands

. As the prophet says: ‘

Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? says the Lord.'”

God transcends all created things, yet He still desires a relationship with His people and dwells among them in a way that is both near and awe-inspiring.

Theological Reflection: God’s Relationship with Us

Even though God cannot be contained in a temple or building, He still desires to dwell with His people. His “dwelling” with us is not about the physical space, but about the relationship He offers. Theologically, this points to God’s immanence—His presence with His people, even though He is also transcendent. God’s dwelling in the “thick darkness” symbolizes that while He is near to us, His full essence remains a mystery, reminding us of His holiness.

David and Solomon’s desire to build a temple was not about making God a home, but about creating a space that reflects the honor and reverence due to Him. Their actions teach us that even though God owns everything and needs nothing, we are called to honor Him with our best, acknowledging His greatness and holiness. The temple was a physical space that pointed to a greater spiritual truth: that God wants to dwell with His people, but this relationship requires holiness and reverence.

What Can We Learn from This?

God is great and transcendent, yet He desires a relationship with us. If we live in a beautiful home but our place of worship is dark, we must think twice. Don’t dismiss the importance of honoring God with our best, even when we know that He doesn’t need anything from us. Just like David and Solomon wanted to build a house for God, we are also called to give Him our best, as an act of love and reverence.

Deuteronomy 4:24 says,

“For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.”

This jealousy is not about selfishness, but a desire for His people to recognize His worth and give Him the honor He deserves.

Matthew 25:40 says,

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”

Our service to God is also reflected in how we honor Him through serving others.

Conclusion

Let’s reflect on how we treat the things that represent God in our lives. If we value our possessions and books, we must also value our relationship with God by giving Him the honor He deserves. The way we approach God’s Word, His house, and our offerings to Him speaks volumes about our reverence for His greatness.

Maranatha!
Please share this message with others.

 

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Why Did Moses and Elijah Appear to Jesus and Not Other Prophets?

QUESTION: On the high mountain where Jesus went to pray with His disciples, why did Moses and Elijah appear to Him and not other Old Testament prophets like Isaiah or Samuel?

ANSWER:

First, their appearance was not primarily for Jesus’ sake, but for the sake of the three disciples—Peter, James, and John—who accompanied Him. God orchestrated this moment to fulfill deep theological truths and prophetic expectations. The transfiguration served multiple divine purposes:

1. To Fulfill Key Messianic Prophecies

a) Jesus as the Prophet Like Moses

God had promised through Moses that He would raise up a Prophet like Moses—one whom the people must hear and obey:

Deuteronomy 18:15
“The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear.”

This prophecy created a Messianic expectation among the Jews that one day a new Moses-like figure would arise. When Moses appeared on the mountain, it was a divine confirmation that Jesus is that Prophet—the One foretold in the Law.

The Apostle Peter later affirms this in:

Acts 3:22–24
“For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me…’ Yes, and all the prophets… have also foretold these days.”

Thus, Moses’ appearance validated Jesus’ identity as the promised Redeemer under the New Covenant (Hebrews 8:6–13).

b) Jesus as the Fulfillment of Elijah’s Forerunner Role

Jewish scribes taught that Elijah would return before the coming of the Messiah (see Malachi 4:5–6). This created confusion among the disciples, who wondered if Jesus could truly be the Messiah if Elijah had not yet come.

When Elijah appeared during the transfiguration, it signified that the Elijah prophecy had been fulfilled—not literally, but through John the Baptist, who came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17).

Matthew 17:10–13
“And His disciples asked Him, saying, ‘Why then do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?’
Jesus answered… ‘Elijah has come already…’ Then the disciples understood that He spoke to them of John the Baptist.”

2. To Demonstrate That Jesus Is Greater Than All the Prophets

Earlier, Jesus had asked His disciples:

Matthew 16:13–14 
“Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”
They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

The people viewed Jesus as just another prophet, albeit a powerful one. But at the transfiguration, Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) both stood in submission before Jesus—highlighting that He is the fulfillment of both the Law and the Prophets (cf. Matthew 5:17).

Matthew 17:5
“This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!”

3. To Reveal the Nature of Jesus’ Death and Glorification

In Luke’s account, it says that Moses and Elijah were discussing with Jesus “His decease”—meaning His impending death and resurrection:

Luke 9:30–31
“And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.”

  • Moses represents those who die in faith and await resurrection.
  • Elijah represents those who are taken up to God without tasting death.

4. To Reveal That Glory Is Reserved for the Intimate Few

Matthew 17:1
“Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John… and led them up on a high mountain by themselves.”

Not all disciples witnessed this vision—only those closest to Jesus. This illustrates a timeless truth:

Only those who seek Jesus with deep intimacy and spiritual hunger will see His glory.

Jeremiah 29:13
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”

If you love Jesus, spend intentional time in His presence. There, you will encounter the depths of His glory and truth, just as the disciples did.

James 4:8
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

Shalom.

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“Give Me Neither Poverty Nor Riches”

Proverbs 30:7–9

“Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die:
Keep falsehood and lies far from me;
Give me neither poverty nor riches,
but give me only my daily bread.
Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’
Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.”
— Proverbs 30:7–9

1. A Prayer for Balance, Not Extremes

This prayer by Agur (the author of Proverbs 30) is a rare but powerful example of spiritual maturity. While many of us pray for abundance, Agur prays for just enough. He’s not asking out of fear or laziness—but from a heart that understands human weakness. Theologically, this prayer reflects the principle of dependence on God for daily needs, as echoed in Jesus’ prayer:

“Give us today our daily bread.” — Matthew 6:11

Agur’s concern is that too much might lead him to self-sufficiency—a kind of pride that forgets God. And too little might lead to sin out of desperation. This reveals a deep understanding of human depravity (Romans 3:23) and the dangers of both excess and lack.

2. The Idol of “Having It All” — Material and Spiritual

Most of us can easily pray not to be poor. But how many of us can honestly pray, “Lord, don’t make me rich”?

In today’s culture—both in the world and sometimes in the church—there’s a growing obsession with accumulating: more wealth, more status, even more spiritual gifts. But Scripture warns us:

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires…”
— 1 Timothy 6:9

And not just materially—this can apply spiritually too. Many people, even pastors or ministers, begin to crave all the gifts and all the titles. But Paul teaches that spiritual gifts are given by God according to His will, not our ambition:

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers…
Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers?”
— 1 Corinthians 12:27–30 

The answer is clearly no. Not everyone is called to have everything. Ministry is not about position or comparison, but about faithfulness in your assigned role.

3. Contentment Is Theological

Agur’s prayer also connects deeply with the theology of contentment. Paul says:

“I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances… whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”
— Philippians 4:11–12

This contentment is not passive resignation, but active trust in God’s provision and wisdom. We honor God not by having everything, but by trusting Him with what He’s given us.

4. A Servant’s Heart — Not a Self-Made Spirit

Even Elijah, a prophet full of God’s power, reached a point of deep humility and exhaustion:

“…He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. ‘I have had enough, Lord,’ he said. ‘Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.’”
— 1 Kings 19:4

Elijah didn’t see himself as superior—even after mighty victories. He knew the weight of his calling. That humility is what made him usable in God’s hands.

5. What Does This Mean for Us Today?

  • We must stop measuring success by what others have or by how much we lack.
  • God’s call on your life is unique, measured by His grace and wisdom—not your desire.
  • The more we accept and steward what God has already given us, the more fruit we bear.

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…”
— 1 Peter 4:10

Pray for Enough, Live with Purpose

Let’s ask God not just for abundance, but for what fits the calling He’s given us. Let us not chase wealth, position, or spiritual superiority—but seek to serve faithfully with what we have today. In doing so, we avoid pride, avoid sin, and honor the name of our God.

May the Lord give us grace to be content, faithful, and focused—today.
Shalom.

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HAS YOUR OBEDIENCE TO GOD BEEN FULFILLED?

Many believers struggle spiritually, not because God is far from them, but because their obedience to Him is incomplete. In Scripture, obedience isn’t optional—it is the gateway to spiritual power, intimacy with God, and victory over the enemy.

1. The Foundation: Obedience Unlocks Authority

Let’s begin with 2 Corinthians 10:3–6

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,
casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled.”

Paul is teaching that spiritual authority does not come from human strength, but from God’s divine power. Notice the condition at the end:

“…when your obedience is fulfilled.”

This shows that spiritual effectiveness depends on personal obedience. You cannot demolish strongholds, refute false ideologies, or discipline spiritual disobedience in others if your own obedience to God is lacking.

2. Biblical Theology of Obedience

The Bible consistently reveals that obedience is central to covenant relationship with God. From Genesis to Revelation, God blesses those who obey His voice and resist sin (Genesis 22:18, Deuteronomy 28:1-2, John 14:15).

In 1 Samuel 15:22, the prophet Samuel tells Saul:

“Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.”

This means God prefers a life surrendered to His will over external rituals. Without obedience, spiritual power is diminished—even if religious activity is present.

3. Incomplete Obedience Leads to Powerlessness

Let’s apply this practically:

  • If you refuse to stop sinning when God convicts you, how can you expect to have authority over spiritual oppression?

  • If you reject baptism—an act of obedience and identification with Christ (Acts 2:38)—how can you expect to break family curses or ancestral bondage?

  • If you ignore modesty, holiness, and godly conduct (1 Peter 1:15-16), how can you expect long-standing struggles to be resolved?

You cannot expect spiritual breakthrough while disobeying the very God you’re asking to intervene. Disobedience opens doors to the enemy, while obedience shuts those doors and invites God’s power.

4. Consistent Obedience Brings Transformation

Obedience must be ongoing and growing, not a one-time act. Paul’s phrase “when your obedience is fulfilled” (2 Corinthians 10:6) implies a process—a journey of growing surrender.

This aligns with James 4:7–8

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Spiritual victory follows submission to God. If you’re only resisting the devil without first submitting to God, your efforts will be in vain. Submission (obedience) is what activates resistance.

5. Obedience Is the Evidence of Faith

Jesus said:

“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” — John 14:15

Genuine faith is always accompanied by obedience. Obedience does not earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9), but it proves salvation (James 2:17). A faith that doesn’t obey is dead.

Fulfill Your Obedience—Then Watch God Move

If you’ve been struggling spiritually, take time to examine your level of obedience.

  • Have you obeyed the call to repent and believe the Gospel?

  • Have you been baptized in obedience to Christ?

  • Are you living daily in submission to His Word?

If not, start there. Complete obedience unlocks complete authority.

The Lord is coming!

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Understanding Proverbs 19:21 (NIV):”Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.

This verse highlights a profound biblical truth: human beings, in their finite understanding, often form numerous plans, dreams, and ambitions. These plans may appear good on the surface, but they are often shaped by personal desires, emotional wounds, pride, or selfish ambition.

Scripture acknowledges the complexity of the human heart.

Jeremiah 17:9 (ESV) tells us:
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?”

This means our intentions, no matter how sincere they may feel, can be rooted in flawed or even sinful motives.

For example, a person might pray for financial breakthrough or social success. However, underneath that request might be a desire to show off, to get revenge, or to indulge in worldly pleasures. These are not godly motivations, and as such, God may choose not to honor such requests.

This aligns with the teaching found in

James 4:2–3 (NKJV):
“You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.”

Here, the Apostle James makes it clear: not all prayers go unanswered because God is unwilling, but because we sometimes pray with wrong motives. When our desires are driven by selfish ambition rather than God’s glory, they fall outside His will.

In contrast,

Proverbs 19:21 reminds us that “the Lord’s purpose prevails.”

This means that God’s sovereign will ultimately overrules human intention. He sees the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10) and acts in perfect wisdom and love. His plans are not only higher than ours but are also always for our good and His glory.

Isaiah 55:8–9 (NIV) reinforces this idea:
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Application for Believers:

This verse calls us to humility in our planning. It is wise and biblical to make plans (Proverbs 16:9), but we must do so with a surrendered heart. True Christian maturity involves aligning our desires with God’s will and trusting that His purpose—no matter how different from our own—will always be for the best.

That’s why Jesus taught us to pray, “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). This is not a statement of resignation, but of faith and surrender.

Conclusion:
While it’s natural to dream and set goals, Christians are reminded that God’s sovereign plan is what ultimately comes to pass. Therefore, in all our desires and decisions, we should submit them to God’s will, knowing that His purpose will prevail—and it is always good (Romans 8:28).

Amen.

 

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