Title September 2025

KANISA LILILOTAWANYIKA BADO LINAHUBIRI.

THE SCATTERED CHURCH STILL PREACHES

 

Do you know the true origin and calling of the Church of Christ? As a believer, it is essential to understand the journey of our faith, because the same pattern continues to shape our mission today.

The gospel that began in Jerusalem (Israel) eventually reached you and me. This was not by chance. It was carried through persecution, suffering, migration, and faithful witness. Understanding this helps us see that the gospel is meant to spread to every nation, every generation, and every place on earth—until all have heard.

The Beginning in Jerusalem

In the early days, the church gathered as one in Jerusalem (Acts 2:42–47). But when persecution arose, their gathering was broken apart. Saints were imprisoned, beaten, and even killed for their faith—Stephen being the first martyr (Acts 7:54–60). This forced many believers to flee Israel and scatter across surrounding nations.

Acts 8:1, 4 (ESV):
“And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles… Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word.”

Notice this: scattering did not silence them. Instead, the gospel spread even faster. What looked like tragedy became a divine strategy. The blood of martyrs became the seed of the Church.

The Mission Beyond Borders

When believers scattered, they carried Christ with them. They did not wait for apostles, pulpits, or church buildings. Every believer became a witness (Acts 1:8). Wherever they went—villages, towns, or foreign nations—they declared the risen Christ.

Jesus Himself had foretold this:

Matthew 28:19–20 (NIV):
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

The scattering was not the church’s downfall but its expansion. What the enemy meant for harm, God turned into victory.

Letters to the Scattered Believers

Even the apostles recognized that the church was no longer confined to Jerusalem. Peter addressed his letters to believers living as “exiles” across foreign lands:

1 Peter 1:1 (ESV):
“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia…”

The Greek word diaspora (dispersion) emphasizes that believers were spread out like seeds across the world. But seeds scattered are not wasted—they are planted for a greater harvest.

The Church is Not Bound by Geography

The gospel is not limited to one place, one culture, or one people. God’s presence fills the earth (Psalm 139:7–10). Wherever His people go, the Church goes.

Paul reminds us:

2 Timothy 2:9 (ESV):
“…the word of God is not bound!”

Your workplace, school, or even a foreign land is not a barrier—it is an opportunity. Just as the early believers preached Christ in their new environments, so should we today.

The Call for Today

People still move from place to place—for jobs, studies, family, or even because of war and displacement. The question is: Do you carry Christ with you into those new spaces? Do you witness boldly, or do you fall silent?

The early church did not allow new environments to silence their faith. Neither should we. For Jesus commanded:

Acts 1:8 (NIV):
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

This mission still stands. The scattering of the church—whether voluntary or forced—is part of God’s plan to fill the whole earth with His glory (Habakkuk 2:14).

Final Encouragement

Wherever you go, know this: the Spirit of God goes with you. The environment is not your limitation, it is your field. Every conversation, every relationship, every place you find yourself is a chance to shine the light of Christ.

So do not say, “I can’t witness here—it was easier back home.” That is not from God. Instead, pray for wisdom, boldness, and the right words. God will give you the grace to testify, just as He empowered the early church.

Shalom.
Share this message of hope with others, that the scattered church may still be a preaching church.

 

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HIVI UNAMTESA MWOKOZI WAKO?

ARE YOU PERSECUTING YOUR SAVIOR?

“Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?”Acts 9:4

There are things you may do that seem right in your own eyes but in truth, they deeply grieve Christ.

The Apostle Paul formerly known as Saul thought he was doing God’s work by opposing those who followed Jesus. He was zealous, believing he was defending the faith. But what he didn’t realize was that he was actually fighting against Christ Himself.

It wasn’t until his dramatic encounter on the road to Damascus that the truth was revealed:

“And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’ And he said, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said, ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.’”Acts 9:4–5, ESV

In the original Greek, the word translated as “persecuting” also carries the idea of “causing suffering” or “harassing.” Jesus was telling Saul: “You’re not just opposing people you are attacking Me.”

TWO GROUPS WHO PERSECUTE CHRIST TODAY

1. Unbelievers Who Oppose the Church

Paul is a prime example of a religious person who didn’t know Jesus, yet aggressively opposed those who did. He dragged Christians out of their homes, imprisoned them, and even supported their execution (see Acts 8:1–3).

Today, there are still people governments, communities, even individuals who:

  • Oppose true churches,
  • Speak against God’s servants,
  • Mock or physically harm believers.

But what they may not realize is that in doing so, they are persecuting Christ Himself.

“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”Matthew 25:40, ESV

If you’re in this category whether by actions, words, or attitudes repent today. Turn to Jesus and receive His mercy. Don’t continue fighting the very One who died to save you.

2. Believers Who Fall Away and Return to Sin

There’s another way people “persecute” Christ and it comes from within the Church.

This happens when someone has truly received salvation, experienced the Holy Spirit, and tasted the goodness of God’s Word but then willfully returns to their old sinful life.

“For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened…and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.”Hebrews 6:4–6, ESV

This is not just “backsliding” it is re crucifying Christ, treating His sacrifice as something cheap. It’s not just a mistake; it is spiritual rebellion.

When you, as a believer:

  • Go back to sexual immorality,
  • Indulge in drunkenness and worldly pleasures,
  • Treat sin casually…

…you are wounding the Savior who died for you.

It’s like a child striking his own father. Isn’t that a curse?

STOP PLAYING WITH SIN

Don’t grow comfortable in sin just because you’re “already saved.” The sins of a believer are not like the sins of the world they are acts of spiritual betrayal.

“If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left.”Hebrews 10:26, NIV

So ask yourself honestly:

Did you receive Christ just to wound Him again?

RETURN TO HOLINESS

Repent sincerely. Return to Christ before your heart becomes too hard to feel conviction.

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

Love righteousness. Pursue a holy life. Jesus didn’t die so we could live like the world. He died to set us free from sin.

  • Unbelievers persecute Christ when they attack His Church.
  • Believers persecute Christ when they return to sin after knowing the truth.
  • Whether you’re in the world or in the Church, if your life is grieving Christ, repent.
  • Choose holiness. Follow Jesus with sincerity. Don’t be the one who brings sorrow to the One who saved you.

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What Does John 17:20 Mean?

John 17:20 (ESV):
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word.”

Who Are “Those Who Will Believe Through Their Word”?

In John 17, we find a deeply intimate and powerful prayer that Jesus offers to God the Father, often referred to as the High Priestly Prayer. In the first part of this chapter, Jesus prays specifically for His disciples His apostles asking the Father to protect them, sanctify them in truth, and unite them as one.

But in verse 20, Jesus shifts His focus. He says:

“I do not ask for these only…”  meaning He is not praying only for the apostles who were with Him at that moment.

He continues:

“…but also for those who will believe in me through their word.”

This refers to all who would come to faith in Jesus through the message preached by the apostles. In other words, Jesus was praying not only for the original disciples, but also for every future believer including you and me who would hear and believe the gospel passed down from them.

The Ongoing Power of Christ’s Prayer

This means that every believer throughout history, from the early church to believers today, is a recipient of Jesus’ prayer in John 17. If you believe in Jesus because of the apostolic gospel the message of the New Testament then you are part of the answer to this very prayer.

Jesus didn’t only intercede while He was on earth. He continues to intercede for us even now:

Hebrews 7:25 (ESV):
“Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.”

Romans 8:34 (ESV):
“Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died more than that, who was raised who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.”

This assures us that there is a divine protection and covering over every believer. The enemy cannot overcome us, because Christ Himself is praying for our preservation.

Are You a Partaker of This Prayer?

The question each of us must ask is:

Am I included in this prayer?

You are if you have believed in Jesus Christ through the gospel.
But if you have not yet received Him, the invitation still stands. Jesus is ready to welcome you into the fold, to give you eternal life (John 17:3), and to include you in His ongoing intercession before the Father.

A Lesson in How to Pray

In this passage, Jesus also teaches us something profound about prayer. He didn’t just pray for His current disciples He prayed forward into the future. He prayed for generations yet unborn, for those who would hear and believe through the testimony of His followers.

Likewise, we should not limit our prayers only to what we see now. We are called to pray in faith for:

  • Future generations,
  • Future conversions,
  • And those who will come to know Christ through our witness.

If you are a believer in Christ, you are part of a great spiritual legacy that began with the apostles and continues today. Jesus prayed for you over 2,000 years ago, and He is still praying for you now. You are not alone.

John 17:20 (ESV):
“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word.”

May this truth encourage you to walk in obedience, knowing that Christ Himself is your intercessor.

If you have not yet received Jesus, don’t delay. The opportunity for salvation is still open:

John 1:12 (ESV):
“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

May the Lord bless you and strengthen your faith.

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Behold the handmaid of the Lord;

When Mary was visited by the angel and told of things that were humanly impossible, she responded in a most extraordinary way. She did not argue. She did not resist or oppose the purpose and plan of God for her life even though it far surpassed her human understanding. On the contrary, she embraced it. And not with shallow words or surface agreement, but with a confession of servanthood. She said:

“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”
(Luke 1:38, ESV)

In other words, she was saying: If this task requires me to serve as a slave, then so be it I am willing.

Let’s revisit the passage:

Luke 1:34-35, 38 (KJV)
[34] Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?
[35] And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

Mary becomes a perfect model not just for godly women but for the entire Church of Christ. Her example shows the kind of obedience the Lord desires from all who revere Him.

Despite the fact that this calling was, by human standards, impossible, and even though she knew it could bring shame and public disgrace, she still accepted God’s plan. She knew that becoming miraculously pregnant would make people assume the worst that she had committed adultery. She knew there were serious responsibilities ahead. Still, she received the purpose of God, a purpose far beyond her ability.

Mary didn’t make the mistake Moses did, telling God to “send someone else” (Exodus 4:13). She didn’t resist the calling like Jonah, fleeing to Tarshish (Jonah 1:3). Instead, she received the divine assignment with greater devotion than a slave she gave her whole self.

No wonder the Lord granted her such great grace.

God Looks for Willingness Over Ability

Dear brother or sister, the Lord is looking more at your willingness than at your natural ability. He values your obedience more than your age, experience, or qualifications.

Every believer today, under the New Covenant, has been called to do great things just as Mary did. There is no one who is exempt from the high calling of God, because our God is the God of the impossible:

“For nothing will be impossible with God.”
(Luke 1:37, ESV)

The only reason many do not see great results in their spiritual lives is because our faith is weak. What is required is a complete surrender to God.allowing Him to work through us, beyond our own understanding.

It doesn’t matter if you are a man or woman, young or old, educated or not, rich or poor.what matters is that you, like Mary, surrender yourself fully to whatever purpose God has for your life.

If you have the opportunity to pray for the sick, do it. If you can share the gospel on the streets, in marketplaces, at sports grounds, do it. In these moments, the Lord will reveal Himself to you in extraordinary ways and all glory will go to Him.

God Uses Weak Vessels

Never forget: God has chosen to use weak and ordinary vessels to fulfill His perfect purposes.

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty.”
(1 Corinthians 1:27, KJV)

So let us, like Mary, say from the heart:

“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

Amen.

May the Lord bless you.

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What Lineage Did Job Come From?

When we study the lives of the patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, their genealogies are carefully traced back through the family line of Adam, Noah, and Shem, all the way to their own time (Genesis 5; Genesis 10; Genesis 11). This clear lineage shows their connection to God’s covenant people.

But Job stands apart.

The Book of Job does not begin with a genealogy but with a simple introduction of his name and location:

There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job, and that man was blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.

 Job 1:1, ESV

Job lived in the land of Uz, a place outside Israel—likely in northern Arabia, Syria, or perhaps near Edom (Lamentations 4:21). His precise location is debated, but one thing is clear: Job was not an Israelite by bloodline.

Job’s Significance in God’s Plan

The fact that Job, a non-Israelite, is central in Scripture teaches us something profound about God’s character: His grace is not limited to one nation or genealogy.

Job is described as “blameless and upright,” which shows that righteousness before God is not inherited through ancestry but is received through faith and reverence for God. This truth is echoed throughout Scripture:

Romans 2:11 (ESV):

For God shows no partiality.

 

Acts 10:34–35 (ESV):

So Peter opened his mouth and said: ‘Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.

Job, like Abraham, lived before the Law of Moses. Yet both men demonstrate that God’s relationship with humanity has always been rooted in faith, not merely in rituals or ancestry. Abraham “believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6, ESV), and Job’s faith likewise was expressed in his integrity and fear of God.

Other Gentiles Accepted by God

Job is not alone in this. Scripture records other non-Israelites who found favor with God:

Ruth the Moabite — She left her people to follow the God of Israel, and by faith, she was grafted into the lineage of Christ (Matthew 1:5).

Naaman the Syrian — A Gentile military commander healed by God’s power when he humbled himself (2 Kings 5).

Cornelius the Centurion — A Gentile whose prayers and alms rose as a memorial before God, leading Peter to declare that God accepts all who fear Him (Acts 10:1–4).

These examples highlight that God’s covenant blessings extend to all nations, pointing forward to Christ, who came to redeem not only Israel but the whole world (John 3:16; Revelation 7:9).

Our Place in the Story

What does this mean for us today? It means that your background—whether you were born in a Christian family, a pastoral household, or into unbelief—does not determine your access to God’s grace. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8–9).

God does not ask about your ancestry but about your faith and obedience. Paul emphasizes this truth:

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Galatians 3:28, ESV

Conclusion

Job’s story teaches us that God is sovereign, impartial, and just. He receives anyone who fears Him, regardless of lineage or nationality. Like Job, the question we must ask ourselves is not “What family do I come from?” but rather:

Do I fear God and turn away from evil?

If the answer is yes, then you too are part of God’s family through Christ, counted righteous not by birth but by faith.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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MKUU WA ULIMWENGU AMEKWISHA HUKUMIWA.

THE RULER OF THIS WORLD HAS ALREADY BEEN JUDGED

Did you know that the judgment of the devil has already been passed? Understanding this truth is crucial so that we are not deceived into living in sin or being paralyzed by fear.

1. Satan’s Judgment is Final

John 16:11 (ESV)

concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

Jesus clearly states that Satan—the ruler of this fallen world—has already been judged. His sentence is final, and he will never stand trial again. The Greek word for “judged” (krinō) indicates that the verdict is decisive and irrevocable. Satan’s rebellion has already been fully accounted for in God’s eternal justice.

2. Satan’s Crime Was Rebellion, Not Deception

Many mistakenly assume that Satan’s punishment is because of deceiving mankind. In reality, the primary reason for his eternal condemnation was his prideful rebellion in heaven.

Isaiah 14:12–15 (ESV)

How you are fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! For you have said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God… I will make myself like the Most High.

Satan’s desire to overthrow God’s authority led to his expulsion. Revelation 12:7–9 confirms that he was cast out with his angels, and their fate was sealed in the lake of fire, prepared specifically for them before mankind was even created.

Matthew 25:41 (NASB)

Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’

Notice carefully: the lake of fire was originally prepared for Satan and his angels, not for humans. Yet, those who choose to follow him and reject God’s authority will share his fate.

3. Satan’s Work Continues, But His Judgment is Set

The fact that Satan continues to deceive and destroy does not mean his punishment is incomplete. Theologically, this demonstrates the principle of divine justice and free will: Satan’s judgment is complete, yet God allows him a measure of activity to test humanity (cf. Job 1:6–12; 1 Peter 5:8).

Even if he causes destruction, his punishment will not increase. His role in the world serves as both a warning and a testing ground for human obedience.

4. Humans Will Stand Alone Before God

On the Day of Judgment, it is humans who will be accountable for their deeds.

Revelation 20:11–15 (ESV) 

Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it… and the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done… Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

Notice: Satan is not present on that day to be questioned; he has no excuses, and his case is closed. Humans, however, will stand individually and answer for their choices. Our sin is our responsibility; blaming the devil will not save us.

5. The Call to Repentance

This reality calls for urgent repentance. Each person must take responsibility for their life before it is too late.

Ecclesiastes 12:7 (ESV)

and the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.

Time is limited. The devil’s power is real, but it is restricted by God’s sovereignty. Repent today, surrender your life to Jesus Christ, and walk in holiness. God’s grace is sufficient, and His Spirit empowers believers to resist the schemes of the devil (cf. Ephesians 6:10–18; James 4:7).

Key Theological Takeaways:

1. Satan’s eternal judgment is fixed; he cannot be redeemed.

2. The lake of fire was prepared for him and his angels before humanity existed.

3. Satan’s deception does not add to his punishment—it only fulfills God’s testing purposes.

4. Humans are individually accountable before God and will be judged according to their deeds.

5. Repentance and surrender to Christ are the only ways to escape judgment and share in Christ 

 

 

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Why Did Annas and Caiaphas Serve Together as High Priests?

The Question were Annas and Caiaphas both serving at the same time? Did God ever permit two high priests to minister simultaneously?

The Scriptural Account

Luke 3:2

During the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. (ESV)

At first glance, this verse seems strange, because the Law of Moses prescribed that there was to be only one high priest at a time, serving for life. Numbers 35:25, for example, shows that the high priest remained in office until death. Only then would another succeed him.

So why does Luke mention two?

Historical and Political Background

Originally, Annas was the high priest, appointed around A.D. 6. But under Roman occupation, sacred offices were manipulated for political purposes. The Romans understood that the high priest held immense influence over the Jewish people. To prevent rebellion, they refused to let anyone hold that position for life. Instead, they dismissed high priests at will and installed their own appointees.

Thus, Annas was deposed by Rome, and his son-in-law Caiaphas was appointed (John 18:13).

Yet in the eyes of the Jews, Annas remained the legitimate high priest, since the Law of God required that a high priest serve until death. This explains why Jesus, when arrested, was taken first to Annas, even though Caiaphas officially held the office (John 18:24). Both were respected: Annas by tradition and divine order, Caiaphas by political authority.

Theological Lessons

1. Man’s Interference Corrupts God’s Order

God intended the high priesthood to be a sacred office pointing forward to Christ, our eternal High Priest (Hebrews 9:11–12). But political interference corrupted the system. The Romans reduced it to a tool of control, while God had designed it to foreshadow salvation. This shows the danger when worldly power overrides divine order.

2. Religious Confusion Prepares the Way for Spiritual Blindness

With two high priests, along with competing sects—Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, and zealots—the Jewish faith was fractured. No wonder they failed to recognize the Messiah, though He stood among them performing miracles and fulfilling Scripture. Paul later wrote:

2 Corinthians 4:4

In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

3. Christ as the True and Eternal High Priest

Amid this corruption, Christ appeared as the perfect fulfillment of the priesthood. Unlike Annas and Caiaphas—whose authority was temporary and flawed—Jesus became our eternal High Priest through His own blood:

Hebrews 7:23–24

The former priests were many in number, because they were prevented by death from continuing in office, but he holds his priesthood permanently, because he continues forever.

Unlike the political appointees of Rome, Jesus was appointed directly by God:

Hebrews 5:5

So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you.

4. A Warning Against Divided Allegiances

The presence of two high priests illustrates the danger of divided spiritual authority. Jesus Himself said:

Matthew 6:24

No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.

The Jewish leaders honored both Annas and Caiaphas, but in doing so, they failed to honor the One true High Priest standing before them.

Application for Today

Just as in the time of Annas and Caiaphas, today’s religious landscape is filled with divisions, sects, and institutions, many claiming to represent God. Yet the critical question remains: Is Christ at the center?

The true High Priest, Jesus Christ, is not concerned with titles, denominations, or political power. He is concerned with setting captives free, proclaiming good news to the poor, and reconciling humanity to God (Luke 4:18–19).

Religious systems may shift, but Christ remains the only One approved by the Father. Of the three “high priests” in that generation—Annas, Caiaphas, and Christ—only one was chosen by God.

Therefore, as believers, we must look beyond human traditions and political structures, fixing our eyes on Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).

Conclusion

The case of Annas and Caiaphas reminds us that man’s interference creates confusion, but God’s plan remains unshaken. Annas was displaced, Caiaphas was politically installed, but only Jesus was divinely appointed. He is the eternal High Priest, our perfect mediator, and the One we must follow.

Amen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Consider It in Your Heart

Blessed be the name of our Lord JESUS.

God often speaks to us in our hearts, but many times we fail to pay attention to His voice. As a result, we end up in unnecessary troubles and hardships.

The consequences of ignoring God’s voice are serious. Let us learn from the story of the prodigal son, who demanded his inheritance from his father.

Luke 15:11–13

“Jesus continued: ‘There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them. Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living.’”

The son ignored the inner voice of wisdom and chose the path of self-indulgence. Scripture continues:

Luke 15:14–16

“After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.”

But then comes the turning point:

Luke 15:17–18

“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.’”

The phrase “when he came to his senses” or literally “when he considered in his heart” shows us that God had already been speaking to him inwardly for a long time. His conscience was warning him that the path he had chosen was wrong, but he kept ignoring it—until the day he finally decided to listen.

This is how God speaks to us today. Sometimes it is through His Spirit nudging our conscience, reminding us: “Do not go that way. Do not continue in that sin. Turn back to God.” But many of us harden our hearts and refuse to pay attention.

The Bible says:

Proverbs 23:26

“My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways.”

The Lord does not merely want our outward actions, but our hearts. When we ignore His voice, we walk into destruction. But when we yield, repent, and return to Him, we experience restoration—just like the prodigal son.

Think about the examples:

  • Jonah ignored God’s voice and ran away, only to face storms and the belly of a great fish (Jonah 1:3–17).

  • Israel ignored the prophets, and judgment came upon them (2 Chronicles 36:15–16).

But God is merciful. If you choose today to pay attention to His voice, He will welcome you back with open arms.

Hebrews 3:15

“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.”

So listen to the voice that urges you to pray, to fast, to study the Word, to forgive, to serve God, or even to leave a place or relationship that is not pleasing to Him. Ignoring that voice leads to pain, but obeying it brings life and blessing.

May the Lord help us to always consider His voice in our hearts.

If you desire to receive Jesus Christ into your life, open your heart to Him today.

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Strengthen Yourself in the Lord Your God

Shalom! Welcome, let us study the Word of God together.

There are difficult seasons every Christian will face—times of trials, tears, and hardships. These moments do not mean that God has abandoned you. Rather, they are part of our walk of faith. Scripture reminds us:

“…that no one be moved by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this. For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know.”
(1 Thessalonians 3:3–4, ESV)

So what should you do when you face trials or persecution—even when you know you are standing firm in the faith and have not turned back?

There is only one answer: Stand your ground and move forward. Do not give up! Tears may come, but tears alone cannot carry you through. What you need is courage and strength in the Lord to press on.

Learning from David’s Example

Before David became king, he faced one of the darkest moments of his life. Scripture tells us that when he returned to his city of Ziklag, he found it destroyed by the Amalekites, his wives and the wives of his men taken captive, and all their possessions stolen.

“And when David and his men came to the city, they found it burned with fire, and their wives and sons and daughters taken captive. Then David and the people who were with him raised their voices and wept until they had no more strength to weep.”
(1 Samuel 30:3–4, ESV)

Even David’s two wives had been captured (v. 5). After the men wept until no strength was left, things got even worse—his own men spoke of stoning him in their grief. Yet the Bible says something powerful:

“…But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.”
(1 Samuel 30:6, ESV)

Instead of remaining in despair, David turned to the Lord, sought His guidance, and was told to pursue the enemy. With God’s help, David defeated the Amalekites and recovered everything that had been taken (vv. 17–19).

The Power of Strengthening Yourself in the Lord

Beloved, there will be times when you feel drained and hopeless, but that is precisely when you must strengthen yourself in the Lord. As Paul wrote:

“…For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
(2 Corinthians 12:10, ESV)

If David had only continued weeping without seeking God, he would have lost everything. But because he found strength in the Lord, he rose up in faith and saw God’s deliverance.

Applying This in Our Lives

  • If you are facing health challenges—strengthen yourself in the Lord. Continue in prayer, live with courage as though you are healed, and you will witness God’s wonders.

  • If you are going through family struggles—strengthen yourself in the Lord. Keep praying, seek God’s wisdom, and He will make a way.

  • If your children or marriage are in crisis—do not despair, but take courage in the Lord.

  • If your ministry is under attack—strengthen yourself in the Lord and press forward.

  • If your finances are under trial—strengthen yourself in the Lord, keep praying, and trust Him to open doors. No matter how long it takes, remember trials are temporary, but the courage you show in the Lord is what carries you through.

Final Encouragement

May the Lord help us to always remember that our strength is not in ourselves but in Him. When we strengthen ourselves in the Lord, He gives us the power to overcome, just as He did for David.

“Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
(Galatians 6:9, ESV)

Beloved, share this good news with others. And if you have not yet received Jesus Christ into your life, we invite you to open your heart to Him today—He is ready to give you new life, hope, and strength.

The Lord bless you.

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What is the Biblical Difference Between Zeal and Diligence? (Romans 12:11)

Question:
What is the difference between zeal and diligence according to the Bible?

Answer:
Let us read…

Romans 12:11

“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (NIV)

“Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;” (KJV)

“Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” (ESV)

1. Understanding “Zeal” 

Zeal is an inner passion, an inward motivation or desire to do something. It is the fire within that pushes a person toward a goal. However, a person can be full of zeal and still lack diligence meaning they may have the desire but fail to act on it effectively.

🔹 Example:

Someone may be very zealous in planning or strategizing, but when it comes to execution, they lack commitment or consistency.

2. Understanding “Diligence” 

Diligence goes beyond internal motivation it involves action. It is about applying effort consistently to accomplish something. Diligence is the visible fruit of inner zeal.

🔹 Example:

A person may be zealous about farming excited to plan how they’ll cultivate their land but diligence is shown when they actually go into the field and do the work.

Another example: someone may be zealous to grow spiritually by buying many Christian books. But only when they actually read, study, and apply what they learn, are they showing diligence.

Zeal without diligence is unfruitful. True spiritual maturity is shown when inner zeal is matched by outer effort. This is why Scripture encourages both.

Romans 12:11 (Revisited)

“Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” (ESV)

Paul calls believers not only to be inwardly passionate but also to be diligent in serving the Lord. This implies a balance between inward fervor (zeal) and outward action (diligence).

Titus 2:14

“…who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” (NIV)

In Greek, the phrase “eager to do what is good” can be translated as zealous (with action) toward good works. This is zeal + diligence.

This verse shows that Christ saved us not only to believe, but to become people eager and diligent in doing good works.

1 Peter 3:13

“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good?” (NIV)

The Greek word here implies earnest effort diligence in pursuing righteousness.

1 Peter 4:8

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (NIV)

The phrase “love each other deeply” conveys the idea of persistent effort again, diligence. It is not enough to know love is important; one must practice it earnestly.

Do not be zealous only in thought or intention. Let your zeal be matched by diligence, especially in your spiritual life.

True spiritual growth happens when passion (zeal) is joined with action (diligence).

May the Lord help us not only to desire spiritual things but to pursue them actively and consistently.

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