Title October 2024

You Can’t Do It Alone — Ministry is a Team Effort

One important truth in life and ministry is this: you can’t do everything by yourself. God never intended for any one person to carry out His work alone.

Think about how a car is built. The person who designs the engine needs someone else to make the tires. And another expert is needed for the electrical system. A car only functions properly when many people contribute their unique skills. It’s the same in ministry.

Biblical Example: Philip, Peter, and John

In Acts 8, we see how God used different people at different stages in the lives of new believers. Philip went to Samaria and preached the good news of Jesus. Many believed and were baptized. But it didn’t end there. The apostles in Jerusalem sent Peter and John to pray for those new believers so that they would receive the Holy Spirit.

Acts 8:12-17 
“But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
…When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria.
When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit,
because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”

Notice: Philip preached and baptized, but Peter and John prayed for the infilling of the Spirit. This shows that ministry is multi-layered, and God assigns different tasks to different people. There’s no room for competition—just cooperation.

The Body of Christ

The Apostle Paul gives us a powerful theology of unity and diversity in the Body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:12, he writes:

“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.”

Paul emphasizes that every member has a role, and no one should think they can—or should—do it all. This truth also shows up in how Paul describes his ministry alongside others:

1 Corinthians 3:6-7 
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.
So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”

Here, Paul is saying: “I began the work, Apollos continued it—but God is the one who brings real results.” True spiritual growth is God’s work, even though He uses human vessels along the way.

Can You Let Others Build on What You Started?

If you’re a minister or servant of God, here’s a challenge:
Are you willing to allow someone else to continue the work you started?

This question is especially important today when many feel territorial about their ministry. But the early church worked through partnership, not ownership. If God sends another servant—whom you know to be genuine and biblical—can you allow that person to help grow those you first reached?

Of course, discernment is important. Not everyone who claims to be a servant of God truly is (see 2 Corinthians 11:13-15). But when someone is clearly walking in truth and humility, we must be willing to collaborate, just as the apostles did.

Ephesians 4:16 
“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

We Need One Another

Ministry is not a one-man show. It is the work of the whole body of Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and directed by God Himself.

When we recognize our limits and value the contributions of others, we reflect the unity of the early church—and more importantly, the heart of Christ.

May the Lord help us to serve with humility, to work in unity, and to celebrate the growth that only God can bring.

Print this post

Understanding Matthew 6:29

“Yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”

Question:
What does this verse mean?

Answer:
In Matthew 6:29, Jesus teaches about God’s providential care for His creation and His people. This passage highlights God’s sovereignty and His intimate involvement in providing for our needs. It assures believers that God values them immensely, far beyond earthly wealth or status.

Jesus uses the lilies of the field as an example of God’s creative care. These flowers bloom beautifully without toil or labor, and yet their beauty is temporary—they wither quickly (cf. Psalm 103:15-16). By saying even Solomon, known for unparalleled wealth and splendor, was not clothed as gloriously as the lilies, Jesus contrasts temporary human glory with God’s effortless and perfect provision for His creation.

Solomon’s glory was a symbol of earthly riches, dependent on human skill and materials (dyed fabrics that fade). The lilies, however, display God’s glory through their natural, unfading beauty. This points to the theological truth that God’s provision is gracious and surpasses human achievement.

Furthermore, the passage teaches trust in God’s providence (cf. Philippians 4:19), encouraging believers not to worry about material needs but to seek first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). God’s care for the lilies assures us He will care for us, who are of far greater worth (Matthew 10:31).

The natural fragrance of the flowers, which no human garment can replicate, symbolizes the unique and inherent blessings God bestows on His people. This beauty and provision are gifts of grace, not earned by human effort but given freely by God’s loving kindness.

In summary, this verse calls believers to trust God’s faithful provision, focus on spiritual priorities, and rest in the assurance that God values and cares for them deeply.


Key Scriptures Referenced:

  • Matthew 6:29
  • Psalm 103:15-16 — “As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone…”
  • Matthew 6:33 — “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
  • Matthew 10:31 — “Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”
  • Philippians 4:19 — “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

May the Lord bless you.

Print this post

Witchcraft Has a Price—Learn to Give to God

(A special teaching on the power and blessings of giving.)

Giving is a vital part of the Christian life. It is not only for church members but for all who serve in God’s kingdom—pastors, teachers, evangelists, and every believer regardless of age or income. The Lord Jesus commands giving, and this command carries both blessings and warnings.

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory… then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’” (Matthew 25:31–46)

This passage reminds us that how we give and serve impacts our eternal destiny.

The Power of Giving Rooted in God’s Word

Giving according to God’s Word is more than a financial transaction—it is a spiritual act that has power in the unseen realm. Offerings given with faith can overcome spiritual attacks and cancel out curses.

Consider Moses and Pharaoh’s magicians:

“Pharaoh summoned the wise men and the sorcerers, and they, the magicians of Egypt, did the same by their secret arts. Each man threw down his staff, and they became serpents. But Moses’ staff swallowed up their staffs.” (Exodus 7:11–12)

Moses had to first sacrifice and throw down his own staff before it could overpower the enemy’s staffs. Spiritually, this teaches us that breakthroughs often require sacrifice from our side first.

Sacrifice is Required for Victory

In Israel’s battles, victory came only after they made offerings and sought God’s guidance (Judges 20:20–40). Similarly, many breakthroughs in life and ministry come after faithful giving and sacrifice.

The Enemy’s Investment in Witchcraft

The Bible reveals that practitioners of witchcraft invest heavily in their craft. When they repent, the cost of abandoning their magic is enormous:

“Many of those who believed came, confessing and divulging their practices. And a number of those who had practiced magic arts brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted the value of the books… fifty thousand pieces of silver.” (Acts 19:18–19)

To grasp how significant this cost is, compare it with Judas’s betrayal of Jesus for 30 pieces of silver—an amount sufficient to buy a field (Matthew 27:3–7).

Doing the math shows that 50,000 silver coins could purchase over 1,600 fields. If one field costs about 1 million Tanzanian shillings, the total value of those books exceeded 1 billion shillings. The enemy’s kingdom is funded at great expense.

The Call to Generous Giving in God’s Kingdom

If those serving darkness are willing to pay so much to build their kingdom, how much more should we be willing to invest in God’s Kingdom?

The Bible teaches:

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7)

God calls us to give sacrificially and joyfully, trusting that He will bless us abundantly.

“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.” (Malachi 3:10)

The enemy is building his kingdom at great cost, and we must not be passive in building God’s kingdom. Let us give faithfully, generously, and joyfully to advance God’s work on earth.

May the Lord strengthen us in this calling.

Come, Lord Jesus.

Print this post

Preach the Gospel Everywhere — Because God Gives the Growth

“So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”

(1 Corinthians 3:7)


1. The Command to Preach Is Universal

The Great Commission is not optional. Jesus gave it to every believer, not just pastors or evangelists:

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…’”
(Matthew 28:18–19)

This mandate reflects God’s missional nature. God desires all people to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), so His followers are called to go beyond the church walls and engage the world. Evangelism is both a responsibility and an act of obedience.


2. No Setting Is Too Ordinary for the Gospel

Many assume that preaching only “works” in formal or quiet settings like churches or conferences. But Scripture teaches otherwise. Paul preached wherever people were—even in marketplaces:

“So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there.”
(Acts 17:17)

Jesus also ministered on the move:

“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God…”
(Luke 8:1)

The Gospel is contextually adaptable (1 Corinthians 9:22). God uses both quiet moments and public proclamations. What matters is faithfulness, not the setting.


3. Street Preaching Plants Seeds — Even in Resistance

Many people in public spaces aren’t ready to hear the Word. But that doesn’t make street preaching pointless. Sometimes, the mere hearing of the Word can convict, challenge, or begin a spiritual journey:

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

Even when people reject the message, God tells us to keep preaching:

“You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious.”
(Ezekiel 2:7)

This reveals the prophetic role of the Church. We are called not just to comfort but to confront the world with truth. The Gospel is both grace and judgment—it offers salvation, but it also holds people accountable (John 12:48).


4. Salvation Is Often a Process

Very few people respond to the Gospel the first time they hear it. Most go through a journey of hearing, wrestling, questioning, and eventually believing:

“Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet…”
(Isaiah 58:1)

Even if someone appears uninterested, the Word may bear fruit in time:

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
(Galatians 6:9)

Evangelism is sowing spiritual seed (Mark 4:14–20). We may not always see immediate results, but God works invisibly in hearts. Regeneration is the Spirit’s work, not ours (John 3:5–8).


5. There’s Joy in One Soul Saved

Preaching might seem thankless, but heaven rejoices over just one transformed life:

“There is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
(Luke 15:10)

Every soul is eternally valuable. The Gospel restores broken people into God’s family and redirects their eternal destiny. The mission is worth it—every single time.


6. Repeated Messages Become Testimony

If you’ve heard the Gospel over and over and still resist, know this: every message becomes evidence that God reached out to you:

“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
(Matthew 24:14)

“This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.”
(Romans 2:16)

The Gospel is both invitation and witness. When accepted, it brings life. When rejected, it becomes part of God’s righteous judgment (Hebrews 10:26–27).


Are You Saved?

Have you been hearing the Gospel but still haven’t surrendered to Christ? Don’t delay. Salvation is not just about hearing—it’s about responding:

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”
(Hebrews 3:15)


Closing Prayer

May the Lord help us to preach boldly, live faithfully, and respond humbly. Amen.

Print this post

The Conditions of God’s Grace

From the beginning, humanity has sought salvation through self-effort—good deeds, moral living, or religious rituals—but all fall short. No one can perfectly obey God’s law Romans 3:23

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”.

Even when people overcome one sin, others remain to accuse them (Romans 7:18-20).

Because God’s holiness requires absolute purity, no sinner can enter heaven on their own merit (Hebrews 12:14)

“Without holiness no one will see the Lord”.

Scripture confirms that no one naturally seeks God (Romans 3:11-12)

“No one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.”).

This shows the doctrine of Total Depravity—the idea that sin has affected every part of human nature, making people incapable of saving themselves (based on Romans 3 and 7).


Salvation by Grace through Faith

God’s grace is unearned favor, freely given through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus came to save sinners (1 Timothy 1:15)

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners”).

When we believe, we are declared righteous—justified—not by our works but by God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9)

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”.

This means that upon faith in Jesus, we are made holy in God’s eyes (1 Corinthians 1:30)

“Christ Jesus… has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption”.

Though we are not yet perfect, God credits us as righteous (justification). This is the heart of imputed righteousness.

Justification by faith alone (sola fide) declares believers righteous despite ongoing imperfection, differing from sanctification which is the process of becoming actually holy.


The Danger of Misunderstanding Grace

Grace is not a license to sin Romans 6:1-2

“What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means!”).

Misunderstanding grace can lead to moral laxity (antinomianism).

If people believe grace means freedom to continue sinful lifestyles without repentance or transformation, they misuse grace (Jude 1:4)

“They pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality.”).


Responsibilities After Receiving Grace

Receiving grace means being transformed into a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”).

True faith produces fruit (James 2:17)

“faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”.

Believers must avoid taking grace for granted (2 Corinthians 6:1,: “we urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain”). Those who refuse to change or bear fruit risk falling away (Hebrews 6:4-6. Like Esau who despised his birthright, some may lose the blessings of grace (Hebrews 12:15-17).


Grace and Sanctification

Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit (Philippians 2:12-13)

“work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you”).

Grace enables, motivates, and empowers holiness. It does not excuse sin but calls believers to live godly lives (Titus 2:11-12)

“Grace teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.”).

God’s grace is a precious, free gift, but it must be received with understanding and responsibility. Grace covers our sins and declares us holy, yet calls us to live holy lives.

Like receiving a free car, grace requires us to “fuel” it by cooperating with God’s Spirit. Valuing grace leads to protection, transformation, and assurance of eternal life (John 10:28: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish”).

Shalom.

Print this post

FOLLOWING GOD’S TRUE PRINCIPLE OF SALVATION

There are spiritual principles that anyone can follow, which produce real and visible results. However, these results do not necessarily lead to salvation or eternal life. Understanding this distinction is vital.

Legitimacy vs. Result

Consider pregnancy as an example: a woman can conceive under various circumstances—whether through forced relations, out of wedlock, or within marriage. In every case, a child is born. But which is legitimate before God and society? Clearly, only the child conceived within a lawful marriage is considered legitimate.

This distinction mirrors spiritual truths: producing visible spiritual results is not the same as possessing legitimate salvation before God.

Biblical Example: Abraham’s Children

Abraham had many children—his firstborn Ishmael from Hagar, six more from Keturah, and Isaac from Sarah (Genesis 16, 21, 25). All were human beings blessed by God (Genesis 17:20, 21:13). Yet, when it came to inheritance—the promise of God—only Isaac was the legitimate heir (Genesis 25:5-6)

“Abraham gave all he had to Isaac. But to the sons of his concubines Abraham gave gifts while he was still living, and sent them away from his son Isaac to the land of the east.”

This illustrates the difference between natural blessings and the divine promise—between results and legitimacy.

Spiritual Principles Accessible to All

Many spiritual laws apply universally. For example, faith activates God’s power:

  • Miracles in Jesus’ Name: Even those outside true faith can experience miracles by invoking Jesus’ name. This is because miracles respond to faith as a principle, not to one’s righteousness.

“Everything is possible for one who believes.”
Mark 9:23

During Jesus’ ministry, Gentiles sometimes received greater miracles than Israelites because of their greater faith (John 4:48).

  • Answered Prayer: Anyone who prays can receive answers. This is a spiritual principle of God’s general grace and response to human action.

“For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
—Matthew 7:8

Even Satan operates within this principle, as seen in Job 1:6-12, where Satan requests permission to test Job and receives it from God.

The Danger of False Assurance

However, receiving miracles or answered prayers does not guarantee salvation. Jesus warned about many who will do works in His name yet be rejected:

“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’”
—Matthew 7:22-23

Belief without a transformed life is like the demons’ belief—they acknowledge God but do not obey Him.

“You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.”
—James 2:19

Faith Must Be Accompanied by Works

True biblical faith is living faith—demonstrated through actions. James makes this clear:

“You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.”
—James 2:24

Paul also emphasizes the discipline and self-control required to avoid disqualification:

“I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”
—1 Corinthians 9:27

God’s Ultimate Standard: Salvation Proven by Righteousness

God’s true standard for recognizing someone as His child is salvation completed and evidenced by righteous living.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:23 show the ultimate measure:

“Depart from me, you who practice lawlessness.”
—Matthew 7:23

Therefore, mere faith without obedience and holy conduct is insufficient. Genuine salvation transforms behavior and character.

The Final Judgment and Rewards

At the final judgment, what will accompany the believer are their works:

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.”
“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”
—Revelation 14:13

Application and Encouragement

In these last days, many are tempted to focus on miracles, healings, and prophecy, neglecting the call to holy living. But on the day of judgment, your works will follow you.

Examine your life honestly and ensure it reflects your profession of faith. Pursue a life pleasing to God, marked by obedience and righteousness, so you may be recognized as a true heir of eternal life.


God bless you as you seek to live out His truth in spirit and in truth.

Print this post

What Does the Bible Say About Flattering Others? (Proverbs 29:5)

QUESTION: What is the message in

Proverbs 29:5?“A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.” 

ANSWER:
Proverbs 29:5 provides a cautionary message about the dangers of flattery.

In biblical theology, flattery is more than just excessive praise; it involves giving false admiration to someone with the hidden agenda of gaining personal benefit. The Bible warns against such behavior because it is manipulative and ultimately harmful.

Flattery is not given out of genuine appreciation but with the ulterior motive of seeking favor, position, or some form of reward. Proverbs 29:5 warns that when you flatter someone, you are essentially setting a trap for them:

“spreading a net for their feet” (Proverbs 29:5, ESV).

The net metaphor here is significant in biblical literature. A net, or snare, symbolizes entrapment and harm. In this context, the flattery is compared to a trap that entices someone to fall into it, leading to their downfall.

Flattery often involves overstating someone’s virtues, exaggerating their good qualities, or even keeping silent about their faults to make them feel good. This false praise is done with the goal of achieving something for oneself—whether it is to be favored, promoted, given special treatment, or to gain influence. The book of Proverbs warns that such actions are deceitful and will only lead to harm, both for the one who is being flattered and the one who is doing the flattering.

Biblical Examples of Flattery’s Danger:

  1. King Zedekiah and the False Prophets
    A powerful biblical example is the story of King Zedekiah of Judah, who listened to the false prophets instead of the true prophet, Jeremiah. The false prophets flattered Zedekiah with lies, telling him that God would give him victory and protect Judah, even though their message was not from God. Jeremiah, on the other hand, spoke the truth, warning Zedekiah of God’s judgment. The king refused to listen, and as a result, Judah was destroyed, and Zedekiah’s life was ruined. His eyes were gouged out, and he was taken into exile (Jeremiah 34-41).

    This story exemplifies the danger of listening to those who flatter for personal gain. The false prophets were more interested in maintaining their position of power by pleasing the king, rather than speaking the truth. The tragic result was that Zedekiah fell into a trap, leading to his destruction.

  2. King Ahab and the 400 False Prophets
    Another biblical example is King Ahab, who was deceived by 400 false prophets who flattered him by prophesying victory in battle, even though God had already condemned him (1 Kings 22:6-23). Ahab refused to listen to the prophet Micaiah, who spoke the truth, and instead trusted in the flattering words of the false prophets. The result was that Ahab was killed in battle, showing the consequences of relying on false praise and ignoring the truth.

Theological Significance of Proverbs 29:5

In Christian theology, flattery is viewed as a form of deceit that undermines genuine relationships. It distorts the truth and manipulates others for selfish purposes. Proverbs 29:5 serves as a reminder of the importance of truthfulness and integrity in our interactions. Jesus himself spoke against hypocrisy and deceit. In Matthew 23:27 (NIV), He condemned the Pharisees for their outward displays of righteousness while inwardly being corrupt, likening them to whitewashed tombs. This echoes the danger of flattery—it’s an outward show of praise that covers up true intentions, which can be harmful both to the individual and to the community.

The Role of Integrity in the Christian Life

Flattery goes against the biblical call for Christians to live with integrity, honesty, and love. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians about the need for sincerity in ministry:

“For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness.” (1 Thessalonians 2:5, ESV).

Paul emphasizes that his ministry was rooted in sincerity, not in manipulating others for personal gain. The same principle applies in our everyday lives: Christians are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15) and to avoid using others for selfish purposes.

What Can We Learn from Proverbs 29:5?

The Bible does not only warn us about others who may flatter us but also cautions us about engaging in flattery ourselves. While it can be tempting to use flattery to gain favor or avoid conflict, Proverbs 29:5 teaches us that this is ultimately a deceitful practice that leads to harm.

Flattering others may seem harmless at first, but it can lead to destructive consequences, both for the one who is flattered and the one who flatters. When we flatter someone, we may be leading them down a path of pride, false security, or even destruction. In this sense, flattery is not love; true love speaks the truth, even when it’s difficult.

Conclusion

Proverbs 29:5 teaches us to be wary of flattery, whether from others or from ourselves. Flattery is a form of deception that sets traps, and in the end, it leads to harm. The Bible calls us to embrace truth, integrity, and sincerity in our relationships, as exemplified by Jesus and the apostles. Instead of using flattery to manipulate others for personal gain, we are called to love others honestly and sincerely, helping them grow in truth and wisdom.

May the Lord bless you with wisdom and discernment.


 

Print this post

The Joy of the Lord Is Your Strength

Text: Nehemiah 8:10

“Then he said to them, ‘Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’”

Restoration After Exile

In Nehemiah 8, Israel had just completed rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem after returning from Babylonian exile. The physical restoration of the city was complete—but God’s concern was not only for the wall, but for the hearts of His people. Spiritual restoration was equally important.

Ezra the scribe read the Book of the Law (likely the Torah) aloud to the people. This was a public spiritual awakening. Many were hearing God’s Word for the first time in decades. Their immediate response was grief and weeping as they became aware of their sins. According to the Law, they had failed God repeatedly, and judgment had followed (cf. Deuteronomy 28).

Yet in that very moment, something profound happened. Nehemiah, along with Ezra and the Levites, urged the people not to weep. Why?

Because while conviction is necessary, God’s ultimate desire is not to shame or crush us—it’s to restore and empower us.


Joy as Strength

Nehemiah said, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” This isn’t mere encouragement—it’s a deep theological truth:

  • Joy is not a denial of sin, but a response to grace. After repentance comes renewal. The people were mourning their failures, but God wanted them to celebrate His mercy.
  • Joy is rooted in God’s character, not our performance. The Hebrew word for “joy” (chedvah) here refers to gladness that springs from God’s own delight in His people (cf. Zephaniah 3:17 — “He will rejoice over you with gladness…”).
  • Strength comes from joy, because joy restores confidence, hope, and spiritual energy. Guilt paralyzes, but joy empowers. When we rejoice in God’s mercy, we gain the strength to live righteously.

“Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” — Isaiah 12:3

This verse echoes the same theme: salvation is a well, but joy is the bucket that draws the strength from it.


Conviction vs. Condemnation

Too often, believers confuse conviction (from the Holy Spirit) with condemnation (from Satan). The Holy Spirit convicts to bring us back to the Father (John 16:8), while Satan condemns to drive us away from Him (Revelation 12:10).

That’s why when the Bible exposes sin in your life, your response should not be despair. It should be:

  1. Repentance — turning back to God in sincerity.
  2. Renewal — accepting His forgiveness and moving forward in faith.
  3. Rejoicing — celebrating the grace that restores.

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus…” — Romans 8:1

Even the psalmist found comfort in God’s discipline:

“I remembered Your judgments of old, O Lord, and have comforted myself.” — Psalm 119:52


Illustration: Like a Team Regrouping

Think of a football team that performs poorly in the first half. During halftime, they can either sulk and lose all motivation—or regroup, encourage one another, and come back stronger. Likewise, when God convicts you, it’s your spiritual “halftime.” Don’t stay in shame. Let His love revive you.


Let Joy Lead You to Obedience

When you delight in God’s Word—even His rebukes—you gain strength to obey:

“Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” — Psalm 119:165

You can’t obey what you don’t love. And you can’t love what you only fear. But when you see God’s correction as love, you respond not just with obedience, but with joyful obedience.


Strength Through Joy

The joy of the Lord is not optional—it is essential. It’s what fuels your Christian walk. When you understand God’s heart—full of grace and truth—you won’t stay stuck in sorrow. You’ll rise up in joy, and from that joy comes strength to live faithfully.

So the next time you feel convicted while reading Scripture, don’t give up. Don’t stay down.

Repent. Rejoice. Rise up.

Because the joy of the Lord is your strength.


Blessing

May the Lord fill your heart with His joy and renew your strength day by day.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Print this post

BE CAREFUL OF WILD GOURDS — THESE ARE THE LAST DAYS

📖 2 Kings 4:38–41 

“And Elisha came again to Gilgal, when there was a famine in the land. And as the sons of the prophets were sitting before him, he said to his servant, ‘Set on the large pot, and boil stew for the sons of the prophets.’
One of them went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine and gathered from it his lap full of wild gourds, and came and cut them up into the pot of stew, not knowing what they were.
And they poured out some for the men to eat. But while they were eating of the stew, they cried out, ‘O man of God, there is death in the pot!’ And they could not eat it.
He said, ‘Then bring flour.’ And he threw it into the pot and said, ‘Pour some out for the men, that they may eat.’ And there was no harm in the pot.”


1. Spiritual Famine Leads to Desperation

In this passage, Elisha and the sons of the prophets are in a famine. Food is scarce, and the hunger is real. One of the men goes out to gather something—anything—that seems edible. He finds wild gourds, which he assumes are good, but they are actually poisonous.

🔍 Just like physical famine leads to eating whatever is available, spiritual famine—a lack of sound teaching—can cause people to consume spiritual poison without realizing it.

Amos 8:11 
“Behold, the days are coming,” declares the Lord God, “when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.”

Today, we are in a time when many are spiritually hungry, but instead of turning to Scripture, people are turning to attractive, deceptive teachings that feel good but lack truth.


2. Not All “Good” Teachings Are Godly

The man in 2 Kings 4 had good intentions, but he lacked discernment. What he added to the pot looked edible—it even looked nourishing—but it brought death.

🛑 Modern Application:
This is how false teachings enter the church today. They appear biblical. They sound encouraging. But they are deadly because they distort or deny key truths about the Gospel.

Examples include:

  • Hyper-grace teaching: “You’re saved by grace, so your actions don’t matter.”
  • Prosperity gospel: “God wants you rich now; suffering isn’t part of God’s will.”
  • Universalism: “Everyone will be saved in the end, no matter what they believe.”
  • Denial of the end times: “There’s no rapture, no judgment; focus on success now.”

2 Timothy 4:3–4
“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”


3. False Teachers Often Appear Innocent

Jesus warned that false prophets would come looking innocent but inwardly be dangerous.

Matthew 7:15
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.”

Today’s false teachers may quote Scripture, wear collars, write books, or build mega-platforms. But if they don’t preach Christ crucified, repentance, and holy living, they are not feeding your soul—they’re poisoning it.


4. The Word of God Is the Cure

In the story, Elisha doesn’t throw away the pot of stew. He throws in flour, symbolizing the Word of God—and the stew is healed.

Psalm 107:20 
“He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction.”

Just as flour purified the poisoned pot, God’s pure Word can correct false teaching, restore spiritual health, and bring clarity where there’s confusion.


5. The Christian Life Requires Holiness and Watchfulness

Modern teachings that eliminate holiness, ignore judgment, and focus only on earthly success are like wild gourds. If you consume them, you risk spiritual death.

Hebrews 12:14 
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”

And Jesus reminded us to stay ready for His return:

Luke 12:35–36 
“Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks.”

Our focus must remain on Christ, on eternity, and on living lives that reflect His character.

Be Discerning in What You “Eat” Spiritually

When you’re spiritually hungry, be careful what you consume. Just because something is popular, well-presented, or “feels good” doesn’t mean it’s true. Always test the teaching by the Word of God.

1 John 4:1 
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.”

Not everything that fills you feeds you.
Beware of wild gourds.

Stay in the Word. Walk in holiness. Wait for Christ.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Print this post