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What does it mean by prepare your work outside? (Proverbs 24:27)

Question: What does Proverbs 24:27 mean?

Proverbs 24:27 (ESV):
“Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”

Answer:

This verse offers practical wisdom rooted in a theological understanding of priorities, responsibility, and stewardship. In ancient Israelite society—where agriculture was central—this advice would have been very practical: make sure your fields are productive and your income secured before building a house or focusing on comfort.

Solomon, known for his wisdom, is reminding us that stability must come before expansion. In other words, build a firm foundation before reaching for outward success. The field represents your means of survival and income; the house symbolizes security, comfort, or even status. In a modern context, this could mean focusing on education, skill-building, or establishing a reliable source of income before indulging in luxuries or outward appearances.

Theological Insight:

The Bible frequently teaches the principle of order and timing in God’s economy. There’s a season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and wisdom involves discerning what to do and when. Acting out of order—even with good intentions—can lead to destruction, as illustrated in the story of Gehazi.

2 Kings 5:20–27 (ESV) recounts the story of Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. After Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was healed of leprosy, he offered Elisha lavish gifts. Elisha, knowing the healing came from God, refused them. However, Gehazi secretly chased after Naaman to take the gifts for himself. Elisha rebuked him, saying:

2 Kings 5:26 (ESV):
“Did not my heart go when the man turned from his chariot to meet you? Was it a time to accept money and garments, olive orchards and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male servants and female servants?”

Elisha’s question highlights a key spiritual principle: not everything that is good is appropriate at every moment. There is a time for receiving blessings—but there is also a time for waiting, working, and trusting in God’s provision.

This connects to 1 Timothy 6:5–6 (ESV), where Paul warns against those who think godliness is a means of material gain:
“…imagining that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Spiritual Application:

Today, many desire the rewards of a godly life—peace, prosperity, honor—without first embracing the discipline, service, and obedience that come before them. People seek titles in ministry without first serving in humility; they desire financial blessings without a spirit of stewardship and hard work.

Likewise, in daily life, people may prioritize external appearance over internal strength. For example, someone may purchase luxury items without first securing a stable income or financial foundation. This is poor stewardship, and it can lead to long-term hardship.

Practical Wisdom:

Establish your career, business, or skill set—then pursue material goals.

Invest in spiritual growth—then expect fruitfulness in ministry or calling.

Focus on long-term impact—before short-term comfort.

Conclusion:

Proverbs 24:27 teaches us that wisdom involves planning, preparation, and proper priorities. It warns against impatience and chasing comfort before establishing sustainability. In both spiritual and practical matters, God calls us to prepare the field before building the house.

May the Lord help us align our lives with His order, so we build wisely and live fruitfully.

Shalom.

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Why Did Thomas Want to Go and Die with Lazarus? (John 11:14-16, NIV)

Let’s examine the passage carefully:

John 11:14–16 (NIV):

“Then Jesus told them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead,
and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.’
Then Thomas (also known as Didymus) said to the other disciples, ‘Let us also go, that we may die with him.’”

At first glance, it may seem that Thomas wanted to die alongside Lazarus. However, this is a misunderstanding of the text.

Thomas did not intend to die with Lazarus himself. Rather, he was expressing a willingness to go with Jesus, even if it meant facing death with Him.

Context and Theological Significance

To fully grasp Thomas’s statement, let’s consider the wider context of John 11:5-16 (NIV):

Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus (John 11:5), demonstrating the deep personal relationships He had with them. When Lazarus fell seriously ill, Jesus delayed going to him for two days (John 11:6), which serves a greater divine purpose: to glorify God through the upcoming miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:4).

When Jesus announces He is returning to Judea (John 11:7), His disciples express fear because the Jews there recently tried to stone Jesus (John 11:8). Jesus’ reply about walking in the light or darkness (John 11:9-10) is rich in theological meaning: He is the Light of the world (John 8:12), and His followers, walking in the light, will not stumble.

Jesus refers to Lazarus as “sleeping” (John 11:11-13), using sleep as a metaphor for death, signaling that death is temporary and that He has power over it  a key Christological theme pointing to Jesus as the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25).

When Jesus plainly says Lazarus is dead (John 11:14), He expresses confidence that this event will serve to strengthen the disciples’ faith (John 11:15). Despite the danger, Jesus insists on going to Judea.

Thomas’s Response and Its Meaning

Thomas’s remark, “Let us also go, that we may die with him,” reflects his loyalty and readiness to face danger with Jesus (John 11:16). Theologically, this reveals several important points:

  1. Faith and Courage: Thomas shows a willingness to stand with Jesus even unto death, a hallmark of genuine discipleship (Luke 9:23). This anticipates the costly discipleship Jesus later teaches.
  2. Misunderstanding of Jesus’s Mission: Thomas, like the other disciples, does not fully grasp the nature of Jesus’s mission  that His death and resurrection would defeat death itself. Thomas sees the risk as physical death, not the victorious glory to come.
  3. Foreshadowing of Christ’s Passion: Thomas’s willingness prefigures the future trials the disciples will face after Jesus’s arrest and crucifixion (John 13:36, Acts 7:54-60).

A Lesson on Dependence on God’s Strength

Thomas’s readiness contrasts with Peter’s later failure (Luke 22:31-34), illustrating human weakness despite good intentions. The New Testament consistently teaches that our strength to serve and endure comes not from ourselves but from God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

This passage challenges believers to humility and dependence on God rather than self-confidence. True faith means recognizing our limitations and trusting God for strength, especially in the face of suffering and death.

Be blessed!

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Are there things God cannot do according to Judges 1:19?

Answer: Let’s explore this question carefully, using the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible.

Judges 1:19 (NIV) says,

“The Lord was with Judah, and He gave them victory, so they took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive out the people living in the plains, because they had iron chariots.”

At first glance, this verse might suggest a limitation on God’s power. However, the theological understanding is deeper: God’s inability here is not due to a lack of omnipotence but is related to the human response particularly the faith and obedience of His people.

To grasp this fully, let’s read the context starting from Judges 1:17-19 (NIV):

“Then Judah went with Simeon his brother and attacked the Canaanites living in Zephath, and they completely destroyed the city. So the city was called Hormah.
Judah also captured Gaza with its territory, Ashkelon with its territory, and Ekron with its territory.
The Lord was with Judah, and He gave them victory, so they took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive out the people living in the plains because they had iron chariots.”

Theological insights:

  1. God’s Presence and Human Faith: The phrase “The Lord was with Judah” confirms God’s presence and support in battle. God’s power is not limited, but His blessings are often contingent on the faith and obedience of His people (see Deuteronomy 11:26-28; Joshua 1:7-9). Here, Judah’s hesitation to fight the stronger tribes those with iron chariots reflected a lack of faith in God’s promise to give them the land (see Numbers 13-14 for similar episodes).
  2. Iron Chariots as a Symbol of Military Might: The Canaanites’ iron chariots symbolized advanced military technology and strength (Judges 4:3; 1 Samuel 13:5). For the Israelites, who relied on God’s help rather than superior weapons, these chariots represented a significant challenge. Judah’s fear indicates how human fear can hinder God’s deliverance.
  3. God’s Sovereignty and Human Responsibility: While God is sovereign and powerful (Psalm 115:3; Jeremiah 32:17), He often works through human agency and faith. The inability to drive out the inhabitants was not because God couldn’t, but because the people were unwilling to fully trust and act in faith. Hebrews 11:6 teaches, “without faith it is impossible to please God.”
  4. The Role of Faith in God’s Work: James 1:6-8 (NIV) warns against doubting faithfully.
  5. “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
  1. This applies here God cannot act on behalf of those who do not fully trust Him.
  2. God Does Not Act Apart From His Covenant People’s Faith: The episode demonstrates that God’s miracles and victories are often contingent on His people’s faithfulness. He is not limited in power but respects human free will and faith. This also points to the deeper biblical truth that sin and disobedience limit blessings and victory (Isaiah 59:1-2).

Additional cross-references:Joshua 17:17-18 (NIV) affirms that despite the presence of iron chariots, God’s people were to trust Him to drive out their enemies.Numbers 13:33 and Judges 4:3 show other instances where Israel feared stronger enemies, resulting in setbacks.Psalm 20:7 contrasts trust in weapons with trust in God: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”

May the Lord bless you.

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How do I know if my sins have been forgiven?

You Are Already Forgiven – Believe It

One of the most profound truths in the Christian faith is this: when you genuinely repent—turning away from sin with a sincere heart and placing your trust in Jesus Christ—you are fully and immediately forgiven by God. This forgiveness is not partial, delayed, or dependent on feelings; it is complete and based entirely on God’s grace through Jesus.

However, many believers struggle after repenting. They expect to feel a sudden emotional shift or spiritual experience, but when that doesn’t happen, they begin to question whether God truly forgave them. The thoughts of past sins continue to linger, and doubt creeps in. This is not unusual—but it is dangerous if left unaddressed.

This inner conflict is often exploited by Satan, the “accuser of the brethren” (Revelation 12:10). He uses guilt and shame to keep believers in bondage, making them feel as if their repentance wasn’t enough or that their sins were too great to be forgiven.

Many believers fall into a cycle of continually asking for forgiveness for the same sins, not realizing that God already forgave them the first time they truly repented.

The Nature of God’s Forgiveness

God’s forgiveness is both judicial and relational. Judicially, once we repent and believe in Christ, we are declared righteous—our sins are no longer held against us (Romans 8:1). Relationally, we are restored to fellowship with God as our Father (1 John 1:9).

Hebrews 8:12 (NIV) states:

“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

This is a quotation from Jeremiah 31:34, and it’s part of the new covenant—a covenant sealed by the blood of Jesus (Luke 22:20). When God says He “will remember their sins no more,” it doesn’t mean He forgets in the human sense, but rather that He no longer holds them against us. He chooses to not bring them up again.

Faith Is the Key

God’s forgiveness must be received by faith, not by emotion. When condemning thoughts arise—suggesting you’ve committed the unpardonable sin, or that your past is too dirty—you must resist them. The Apostle Paul says:

“Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

Declare with confidence: “I am forgiven by the blood of Jesus Christ!” (see Ephesians 1:7). As you continually affirm this truth, over time, you’ll experience the peace of God that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).

The Condition of Forgiving Others

There is, however, one critical condition to walking in God’s forgiveness: we must forgive others. Jesus clearly taught:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
— Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV)

Unforgiveness is a barrier that hinders our relationship with God. Holding grudges while seeking mercy from God is spiritually inconsistent. Therefore, examine your heart. If there’s someone you haven’t forgiven, release them today. It’s not just for them—it’s for your own freedom.

In Summary:

  • If you have sincerely repented, God has already forgiven you.

  • Don’t rely on feelings—stand on God’s Word.

  • Reject condemning thoughts; they are not from God.

  • Experience God’s peace by believing His promise.

  • Forgive others to fully enjoy the flow of God’s mercy.

God bless you as you walk in the freedom of His grace.
Shalom.

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He Arrived at the Field Jacob Gave to His son Joseph

(John 4:3–8, Genesis 48:21–22 — NIV)

During His earthly ministry, Jesus once undertook a long and physically exhausting journey from Judea to Galilee. Although there were many towns and villages along the way, Scripture tells us He didn’t stop to rest in any of them until He came to Samaria.

Now, Samaria was not a typical resting place for Jews. In fact, due to long-standing cultural and religious tensions, Jews avoided interactions with Samaritans (John 4:9). Yet, something about this location prompted Jesus to stop. He sat beside a well in a Samaritan town called Sychar, not by accident, but because that place held profound historical and spiritual significance.

John writes:

“So He left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now He had to go through Samaria. So He came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as He was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.”
(John 4:3–6, NIV)

This “plot of ground” was no ordinary piece of land. It was the field Jacob gave to Joseph his beloved son born to him in his old age (Genesis 48:22). In Jewish tradition, Joseph symbolized integrity, righteousness, and faithfulness, even under immense pressure and suffering (Genesis 39:2–9). Jacob blessed Joseph with a double portion, as seen in:

“And Israel said to Joseph, ‘I am about to die, but God will be with you and take you back to the land of your fathers. And to you I give one more ridge of land than to your brothers, the ridge I took from the Amorites with my sword and my bow.’”
(Genesis 48:21–22, NIV)

This blessing was both physical and prophetic. The land became a spiritual inheritance. Jesus, who embodies the fulfillment of all patriarchal blessings (Matthew 5:17), may have spiritually recognized the enduring anointing and covenant embedded in that land.

His choice to stop and rest there wasn’t merely due to physical fatigue it was purposeful. There, at Jacob’s well, Jesus initiated one of the most theologically profound encounters in the Gospels: His conversation with the Samaritan woman (John 4:7–26). Through it, He revealed:

  • That He is the source of living water (John 4:10),
  • That worship would no longer be confined to Jerusalem or a mountain, but would be “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23–24),
  • And that He is the promised Messiah (John 4:26).

This meeting led to the salvation of many Samaritans outsiders by Jewish standards showing that God’s grace reaches beyond boundaries (John 4:39–42).

Theological Reflection:

Why did Jesus stop specifically at Joseph’s field? Theologically, it symbolizes how righteousness leaves a legacy. Joseph’s life of integrity (Genesis 50:20) planted a spiritual seed that bore fruit even generations later. Jesus’ presence at that site may indicate that God honors the faithful, even posthumously. As Proverbs 10:7 (NIV) says, “The name of the righteous is used in blessings.”

Likewise, our lives today especially if we live in reverence to God can create spiritual blessings for future generations. If God has blessed your land, your work, or your legacy because of your righteousness, then like Joseph’s field, it may become a place where God Himself chooses to move.

Just as Elisha’s bones brought a dead man back to life (2 Kings 13:21), the righteousness of God’s servants carries spiritual weight even after death.

Final Thought:

What kind of legacy are you leaving? Are your actions today sowing spiritual seeds that will attract God’s presence tomorrow? If you walk in obedience and reverence like Joseph, your “field” whether your family, work, or influence may one day be the very place Christ visits to bring salvation to others.

May the Lord help us to live in such a way that our legacy draws His presence, now and for generations to come.

Shalom

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He Found No Place to Rest the Sole of His Foot”

Genesis 8:9, NIV

Blessed be the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Welcome to this Bible study, where we dive into the living Word of God.

In the days following the great flood, Noah sought to understand whether the waters had receded. To do this, he released two birds from the ark a raven and a dove.

Genesis 8:6–9 (NIV) says:

“After forty days Noah opened a window he had made in the ark
and sent out a raven, and it kept flying back and forth until the water had dried up from the earth.
Then he sent out a dove to see if the water had receded from the surface of the ground.
But the dove could find nowhere to perch because there was water over all the surface of the earth; so it returned to Noah in the ark. He reached out his hand and took the dove and brought it back to himself in the ark.”

The raven flew around and did not return, while the dove, finding no clean or stable ground, returned to Noah.

Why did the dove come back, but the raven did not?

This distinction holds deeper theological significance rooted in the Old Testament laws concerning clean and unclean animals.

1. Clean vs. Unclean Animals

Before the flood, God gave Noah specific instructions:

Genesis 7:1–3 (NIV):

“The Lord then said to Noah, ‘Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.
Take with you seven pairs of every kind of clean animal, a male and its mate, and one pair of every kind of unclean animal, a male and its mate,
and also seven pairs of every kind of bird, male and female, to keep their various kinds alive throughout the earth.’”

The raven belongs to the category of unclean birds:

Leviticus 11:13–15 (NIV):

“These are the birds you are to regard as unclean and not eat because they are unclean: the eagle, the vulture, the black vulture,
the red kite, any kind of black kite,
any kind of raven…”

The dove, on the other hand, is a clean bird, often used in sacrificial offerings as a symbol of purity and peace (e.g., Leviticus 1:14).

2. Spiritual Implications

Unclean birds like ravens are scavengers. They feed on anything, including dead flesh. Spiritually, they symbolize the sinful nature those who are comfortable in corrupt, defiled environments. That may explain why the raven did not return: it found decay to feed on.

The dove, however, represents those who are pure in heart those who cannot settle in a defiled world. Seeing that the earth was still unclean (covered in water), it returned to the safety of the ark.

Theologically, this mirrors the distinction between the carnal person (symbolized by the raven) and the spiritual person (symbolized by the dove). Just as the dove returned to the ark (a symbol of Christ as our refuge), so too do the righteous find no rest in a sinful world but seek safety in Christ.

2 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV):

“‘Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.’”

Romans 12:2 (NIV):

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

If you feel at home in a world filled with sin, corruption, and immorality if you delight in unrighteousness and have no conviction then spiritually, you resemble the raven.

But if your heart longs for purity, if you cannot rest in a sinful environment, and you continually return to the presence of God for refuge then you walk the path of the dove.

3. The Ark as a Type of Christ

The ark was a place of safety during judgment. Spiritually, it represents Christ our ultimate refuge from the wrath to come.

John 14:6 (NIV):

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

The dove found no place to rest in the judged world, so it returned to the ark. In the same way, believers those washed by the blood of Jesus find no lasting comfort in the pleasures of this world. Their rest is found in Christ alone.

So, which are you a dove or a raven?

If sin still rules your life, it’s time to turn to Jesus. Repent and surrender to Him. He will receive you, cleanse you, and give you the Holy Spirit, who empowers you to live a holy life.

Matthew 15:18–20 (NIV):

“But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.
For out of the heart come evil thoughts murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
These are what defile a person…”

Reject the spirit of the raven. Be like the dove pure, discerning, and drawn to the presence of God.

The Lord bless you.
Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus!

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Is Jesus God or a Prophet?

The Bible clearly shows that Jesus is both God and a Prophet. This might seem confusing at first, but consider this analogy: A country’s leader can be the President to the people, but to his family, he is a father or mother. One person can have multiple roles depending on the context. Similarly, Jesus holds multiple divine roles.

Jesus as God:
When Christ is in heaven, He is fully God eternal, sovereign, and divine. Scripture declares this in many places, affirming His deity. For example,

Titus 2:13 (NIV) says:
“while we wait for the blessed hope the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.”


This verse directly calls Jesus “our great God and Savior,” affirming His divine nature.

John 1:1 (NIV) also states:


“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”


The “Word” here refers to Jesus, showing His eternal existence and deity.

Jesus as Prophet:
On earth, Jesus was the promised Prophet foretold in the Old Testament.

Deuteronomy 18:15 (NIV) says:


“The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to him.”


Jesus fulfilled this prophecy by teaching God’s truth, performing miracles, and revealing God’s will.

Luke 24:19 (NIV) records:


“The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.”

 

Jesus as Son of God:
Jesus also revealed Himself as the Son of God, the unique and eternal Son who shares the Father’s divine nature.

In Matthew 16:15-17 (NIV), Jesus asks His disciples:


“Who do you say I am?”
Simon Peter answers,
“You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”


Jesus blesses Peter for this revelation, showing that this truth was revealed by God the Father.

Jesus as Savior and the Only Way to Heaven:
Jesus is not only God and Prophet but also our Savior. He came to save humanity from sin and death.

John 14:6 (NIV) says:


“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”


This confirms that salvation and access to God are possible only through Jesus.Jesus is fully God, fully man, the Prophet who reveals God’s word, the Son of God who reveals God’s nature, and the Savior who provides the only path to eternal life. No one can reach heaven except through faith in Him.

Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? If not, why wait?

May God bless you richly

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What does “Kalibu” mean? (Matthew 6:30, ESV)

Matthew 6:30 (ESV) says: “If God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?”

The word “kalibu” refers to a fiery oven a place used for burning dried grass, trash, or refuse. In the cultural context of Jesus’ time, after cleaning fields or homes, cut grass or waste was gathered and burned in such ovens to prevent pestilence and clear the land.

Jesus uses this vivid image to contrast the temporary nature of earthly things with the eternal care God provides. The “grass of the field” represents beauty and life that is transient alive today but destined for destruction tomorrow.

Theologically, this passage emphasizes God’s providence and care for His creation. If God so magnificently clothes something as seemingly insignificant as grass which is here only for a short time He will certainly provide for human beings, who are made in His image (Genesis 1:27) and hold eternal value.

This connects to the broader biblical theme of God’s sovereignty and faithful provision (Philippians 4:19). Jesus challenges His followers to live by faith, trusting that God knows their needs and will supply them, especially when they seek first His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33).

Luke 12:29-32 (ESV) expands this teaching:
“And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world

after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

Here, Jesus encourages believers not to be anxious about daily needs, but to place their trust in God’s good will and provision. The phrase “little flock” reminds us that God’s kingdom people may be few but are dearly loved and cared for by God.

In summary:

  • Kalibu = fiery oven used for burning grass and refuse, symbolizing the temporary nature of earthly things.

  • God’s care for creation is visible even in the brief life of grass, highlighting His power and love for humanity.

  • Believers are called to prioritize God’s kingdom above material concerns, trusting that God will provide all they need.

  • This teaches faith, hope, and dependence on God’s promises, which are sure and trustworthy.

Maranatha! — “Come, Lord”

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Let Purity Cover Your Gift

Leviticus 19:23-25 (NKJV) says:
“When you come into the land and plant any fruit tree for food, then you shall count its fruit as uncircumcised; three years it shall be as uncircumcised to you: it shall not be eaten. But in the fourth year all its fruit shall be holy, an offering of praise to the Lord. And in the fifth year you may eat its fruit, that its yield may increase to you: I am the Lord your God.”

I greet you in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Welcome! Let’s explore God’s Word together and understand His principles for bearing fruit in our lives and ministries.

The Desire to Bear Fruit

Every believer longs to bear much fruit for God to see spiritual gifts blessing others, to witness lives transformed, and to see the Kingdom of God grow. Yet many get discouraged early in ministry because they don’t see immediate results. They may question if their work is truly God’s calling.

This discouragement often comes from not understanding God’s process for growth and fruitfulness. Jesus taught this clearly

in John 15:4-5 (NKJV):

“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

True fruitfulness requires abiding in Christ and walking in His ways this is a process.

The Biblical Model of Fruitfulness: Three Stages

God instructed the Israelites on how to treat fruit trees when entering the Promised Land. This model is rich in spiritual meaning about how God’s gifts and ministries grow in us.

Stage 1: The First Three Years – Uncircumcised Fruit

The fruit produced in the first three years was “uncircumcised” (Lev. 19:23), meaning it was not yet suitable for eating or use. In agriculture, early fruit often lacks maturity, taste, or value, and is removed so the tree can grow stronger.

Spiritually, when you begin your walk with God or start a ministry, your early efforts may seem unproductive or weak. This period involves growth, testing, and perseverance. You may feel your work is fruitless or insignificant, but this is normal and necessary.

This stage represents sanctification in progress a believer is growing but not yet fully mature. Paul talks about the process of growth

in 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV):

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

You must remain faithful in this stage, even if results aren’t visible.

Stage 2: The Fourth Year – Holy Fruit

In the fourth year, the fruit is declared holy and must be dedicated to the Lord (Lev. 19:24). The Israelites were commanded not to consume this fruit but to give it as an offering of praise.

Spiritually, this means that your ministry or spiritual gift must be fully dedicated to God not for personal gain or comfort, but as a sacrifice. It involves self-denial, investment of time, resources, and energy.

This stage reflects the call to wholehearted devotion and stewardship. Paul exhorts believers

in Romans 12:1 (NKJV):

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”

Giving to God first is a principle of faith and obedience.

Stage 3: The Fifth Year – Abundant Harvest

From the fifth year onwards, the fruit could be eaten and enjoyed (Lev. 19:25). This represents the stage where God blesses the faithful servant with abundant fruit.

Spiritually, this is when the believer’s faithfulness and perseverance result in visible, lasting impact souls are saved, lives changed, and ministries prosper.

This corresponds to God’s promised blessing for faithfulness, as seen

in Galatians 6:9 (NKJV):

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

This blessing is the reward for persistent faith and obedience.

Summary and Encouragement

  1. Be patient in the early stages of growth, understanding it’s normal for initial fruit to be small or imperfect.
  2. Dedicate your gift fully to God, offering your time, talents, and resources as a holy sacrifice.
  3. Trust God for the increase, knowing that if you remain faithful, your efforts will bear abundant fruit in due time.

Don’t say, “One day I will get there,” without taking action now. Years can pass without fruit if you don’t follow God’s process of growth, dedication, and patience.

Final Thought

The presence of a prompting or passion to serve God is a sign of the gift God has given you. Act on that prompting faithfully, even when results aren’t immediately visible.

May the Lord help us understand these principles and empower us to bear lasting fruit for His glory.

Shalom.

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A Woman of Dignity Is Always Respected(Proverbs 11:16, ESV)

This message is part of special teachings about the character and honor of women according to Scripture.

Proverbs 11:16 (ESV)
“A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.”

This verse highlights that a woman’s dignity and grace lead to lasting respect. It’s not about outward appearance or wealth, but about inner character. This teaching is for you whether you are a daughter or a mother who desires respect from both God and people.

Understanding Respect

Respect is something that must be earned and preserved. It is not automatically granted by beauty, education, wealth, or social status. Instead, respect is rooted in your inner value the qualities God cultivates in you and which others recognize.

  • Why is respect hard to gain? Because it costs sacrifice, discipline, and commitment to godly living.
  • What is true respect? It is esteem based on moral integrity and reverence for God.

What Truly Brings Respect?

Many young women mistakenly believe that outward beauty or fashion such as makeup, wigs, and revealing clothing gives them honor. But the Bible warns against valuing external appearance over internal character.

  • 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV) says, “The LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”
    This means God values your heart and spirit far more than your physical looks.
  • Proverbs 31:30 (ESV) reminds us, “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”

Trying to gain respect by showing off the body or flashy fashion may attract attention, but it invites judgment and disrespect, not true honor.

Biblical Qualities That Earn Respect

The Bible highlights seven key qualities in women that lead to lasting respect:

  1. Fear of the Lord
    Reverence and trust in God form the foundation of a woman’s character (Proverbs 31:30).
  2. Good Manners (Decency)
    Proper behavior reflects self-respect and honors others (1 Timothy 2:9).
  3. Gentleness
    Strength under control, showing kindness and humility (1 Peter 3:3-4).
  4. Moderation
    Avoiding excess in behavior and appearance (Titus 2:3-5).
  5. Calmness
    Maintaining peace and tranquility in spirit (1 Timothy 2:11).
  6. Self-Control
    Discipline in thoughts, words, and actions (Galatians 5:22-23).
  7. Obedience
    Willingness to submit to God’s authority and wisdom (Ephesians 5:22-24).

Scripture Passages Supporting These Qualities

  • 1 Timothy 2:9-11 (ESV)
    “Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.”
  • 1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV)
    “Do not let your adorning be external the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”

Blessings of a Woman Who Lives by These Principles

When you live by these godly qualities, respect naturally follows. Whatever you ask from God whether a godly husband, a position of leadership, or spiritual gifts He will provide according to His perfect will.

  • Like Ruth, who found Boaz (Ruth 2:1-23), God honors faithfulness and humility.
  • As Proverbs 31 describes, a virtuous woman’s worth is “far above jewels” (Proverbs 31:10).

Most importantly, you will receive eternal life and be in the company of godly women like Sarah, Hannah, Deborah, and Mary the faithful women of the Bible who trusted God and lived with dignity.

A Warning

Rejecting these principles leads to the opposite outcome. Jezebel, a biblical symbol of ungodliness and rebellion (Revelation 2:20), serves as a warning. Following her example leads to spiritual ruin.

Final Encouragement

Do not lose your respect.
Value yourself as God’s creation and live according to His Word.

References:

  • Bible Version: English Standard Version (ESV)
  • Proverbs 11:16, 31:30
  • 1 Timothy 2:9-11
  • 1 Peter 3:3-4
  • Ruth 2
  • Revelation 2:20

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