Understanding the Difference Between “Time” and “Season” in the Bible
In biblical language, the words “time” and “season” carry distinct meanings. Recognizing the difference helps us better understand God’s workings in our lives and the world.
1. Time: A Specific Appointed Moment
“Time” in the Bible often refers to a specific, appointed moment designated for a particular purpose. It marks a set point in the flow of events.
Example:
If you decide to go to the market tomorrow at 1:00 PM, that hour—1:00 PM—is a set time for an action. Biblically, this could be referred to as an appointed time or a due time.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
This shows that God has arranged life in such a way that everything unfolds at the right time, even if we do not always understand His timing (see also Romans 5:6).
2. Season: A Broader Period with Divine Purpose
“Season” refers to a divinely orchestrated period in which certain events or patterns occur. It is not just about nature—it reflects God’s timing in His redemptive plan.
Examples of seasons:
- The rainy season (long rains)
- Fruit-bearing seasons, like mango season
- The cold season or dry season
In Scripture, the term “season” implies a God-ordained window of opportunity or process.
Genesis 8:22
“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”
Here, “season” is part of the ongoing rhythm that God established for creation. It implies consistency and divine structure.
3. Seasons and Times in God’s Redemptive Plan
“Times” and “Seasons” are not just natural—they are spiritual markers that reflect the movement of God’s will.
Ecclesiastes 3:1–4
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens…
a time to be born and a time to die…
a time to weep and a time to laugh…
a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
This passage reveals that God is sovereign over both chronos (chronological time) and kairos (divine opportunity or season).
4. The Season of Christ’s Return
One of the most important spiritual seasons in Scripture is the season of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Jesus made it clear that no one knows the exact time (chronos) of His return:
Mark 13:32-33
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.”
However, Jesus did give us signs to help us recognize the season of His return.
Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21 outline these signs:
- Widespread disease and plagues (like pandemics)
- Earthquakes and natural disasters
- Wars and rumors of wars
- False prophets deceiving many
- The increase of wickedness
- The love of many growing cold
These signs signal the SEASON—not the exact time—of His coming.
5. Watching the Season, Not the Clock
Just like we know it’s the rainy season even if we don’t know when it will rain, Jesus taught us to recognize spiritual seasons even if we don’t know the exact day or hour.
Luke 12:54–56
“He said to the crowd: ‘When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, “It’s going to rain,” and it does…
You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky.
How is it that you don’t know how to interpret this present time?’”
This rebuke was not just for the people of His day—it applies to anyone who ignores spiritual signs today.
6. How Should Believers Respond?
Jesus calls His followers to live with urgency, readiness, and spiritual alertness.
Romans 13:11
“The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.”
1 Thessalonians 5:6
“So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.”
We are now living in the season of His return. That means He could come at any moment.
Dear friend, the signs are all around us. The spiritual season of Christ’s return is here. Though we do not know the exact time, we are not in darkness—we have the seasonal signs to prepare ourselves.
Let us live with expectancy, holiness, and faith, keeping our lamps burning like the wise virgins (Matthew 25:1–13). Don’t ignore the season—we are closer to His return than ever before.
May the Lord bless you and give you wisdom to discern the times and seasons (Daniel 2:21), and grace to be ready for His return.
“What Are the Locusts in Joel 2:25?”
Key Scripture: Joel 2:25
“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten,
The crawling locust,
The consuming locust,
And the chewing locust,
My great army which I sent among you.”
In Joel 2:25, God speaks through the prophet Joel and mentions four types of locusts that caused destruction in Israel. While these insects were literal, they also symbolize spiritual and national decay, divine judgment, and ultimately, God’s promise of restoration.
Let’s examine who these locusts are—both naturally and spiritually—and what theological truths we can draw from them.
1. The Swarming Locust
- Natural Meaning: This refers to the large, visible locusts that come in massive swarms, devouring everything in their path. They move without a leader (see Proverbs 30:27), yet act with frightening coordination.
- Spiritual Meaning: These locusts symbolize sudden, overwhelming loss—financial crisis, political collapse, or spiritual decline that comes without warning.
2. The Crawling Locust
- Natural Meaning: Smaller than the swarming locusts, these feed on the leftovers. Though individually less destructive, they collectively continue the damage.
- Spiritual Meaning: They represent ongoing consequences of sin, the kind that follows initial loss—such as emotional wounds, bitterness, or relational breakdowns.
3. The Consuming Locust
- Natural Meaning: The tiniest grass-dwelling locusts, feeding on what remains—blades, stalks, and tender shoots.
- Spiritual Meaning: These reflect the loss of small but vital areas in life—peace of mind, joy, purpose, and spiritual vitality.
4. The Chewing Locust
- Natural Meaning: These are worm-like larvae, the immature form of locusts—almost invisible, yet very destructive.
- Spiritual Meaning: They symbolize hidden spiritual decay—pride, unbelief, secret sin. These work in the soul long before visible collapse.
A Pattern of Judgment
Joel 1:4 describes a cycle of destruction:
“What the chewing locust left, the swarming locust has eaten;
What the swarming locust left, the crawling locust has eaten;
And what the crawling locust left, the consuming locust has eaten.”
- This shows a progressive judgment: one wave after another, each worse than the last.
- It reveals God’s warning: if we continue in disobedience, we will experience deeper loss (Deuteronomy 28:15–24).
God’s Mercy and Restoration
But Joel 2 is not just about judgment—it is also about hope.
Joel 2:13 :
“Rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful…”
Joel 2:25
“So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…”
- God is not only a righteous judge but also a gracious Redeemer.
- He doesn’t just stop the damage—He restores what was lost, even lost years.
- This restoration includes spiritual renewal, peace, provision, and relationship with God.
The New Testament Fulfillment
In Christ, this restoration is fully realized. Through repentance and faith, we receive:
- Forgiveness of sin (Acts 3:19)
- New life in the Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- Restored joy and purpose (John 10:10)
Just as God promised to send “the former and latter rain” (Joel 2:23), He has poured out the Holy Spirit in this age (see Acts 2:16–21). What was lost through sin is regained through Christ.
Are you seeing the signs of locusts in your life—spiritually, emotionally, or materially?
- Do you feel like you work hard, yet have little to show for it?
(See Haggai 1:6–7) - Are you suffering loss without clear reason?
- Do you long for peace, purpose, and restoration?
Return to God through Jesus Christ. Repent. Believe. Let Him heal what’s been broken and restore what’s been eaten away.
Prayer of Response:
Lord, I recognize the locusts in my life. I repent for going my own way. Restore the years that have been lost. Heal my heart and my land. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I surrender to You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
May the Lord bless you richly, and may your years of loss be turned into seasons of abundance and purpose.
Avoid Wrong Company So Your Holiness Can Last
One of the enemy’s most subtle and effective tools for weakening believers—especially young Christians—is ungodly companionship. The people we surround ourselves with have a deep impact on our spiritual health, whether we realize it or not.
From a theological standpoint, this is rooted in the doctrine of sanctification. Once a person is saved (justified by faith in Christ), they begin a lifelong journey of being made holy (sanctification). But this journey requires intentional separation from worldly influences.
1. The Call to Discernment in Relationships
Spiritual maturity involves the ability to discern who we walk closely with. While the Bible commands us to love all people (Matthew 22:39), it does not command us to intimately associate with everyone.
2 Corinthians 6:14
“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?”
This verse teaches the theological principle of spiritual incompatibility. A believer and an unbeliever operate under two different masters (Romans 6:16) and value systems. Continued close fellowship will lead to compromise.
2. After Salvation, Comes Separation
Once you confess Christ, the next step is to set healthy spiritual boundaries. This is not an act of pride or rejection—it’s obedience to God’s call to live holy.
1 Peter 1:15-16
“But as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.'”
Sanctification requires separation from influences that pull you back into your old life. That includes old friends who encourage sin or live in habitual disobedience.
3. How Do You Let Go?
First, declare your faith openly. Let your friends know the change Christ has made in you. If they’re willing to change, walk with them in their spiritual growth. But if not, gracefully create distance for the health of your soul.
Proverbs 13:20
“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.”
Companionship is spiritually contagious. Holiness or compromise will spread based on who you walk with daily.
4. Avoid the ‘Superhero’ Mentality
Some believers think they can keep ungodly company and not be affected. This is prideful and dangerous. Even Peter, though bold, denied Christ under pressure (Luke 22:54–62). Prolonged exposure to ungodly influence always dulls spiritual sensitivity.
1 Corinthians 15:33
“Do not be deceived: ‘Evil company corrupts good habits.'”
This verse is not a suggestion; it’s a warning. You may start strong, but without the right spiritual environment, you’ll likely end up lukewarm—or worse, completely backslidden.
5. Build Godly Fellowship
Theology affirms the importance of Christian community (koinonia)—deep fellowship among believers who pursue Christ together.
Hebrews 10:24–25
“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together… but exhorting one another…”
Surround yourself with believers who value holiness, prayer, integrity, and the Word. That’s how spiritual fire stays burning.
6. Live the Gospel in Community
Whether you’re a young woman aiming to dress modestly and live honorably, or a young man fighting for purity and purpose—your companions matter. You are either being built up or torn down.
2 Timothy 2:22
“Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
The pursuit of holiness is not done in isolation. It’s a walk taken with those who sincerely seek God. This is the essence of discipleship and spiritual growth.
If you want to grow stronger in prayer, worship, purity, and purpose—intentionally choose godly friends. Break away from relationships that lead you into compromise. The journey of faith is too important to leave your influences to chance.
As Jesus said:
Matthew 7:13–14
“Enter by the narrow gate… Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
Choose the narrow path—and walk it with the right people.
Do Not Conform to the Pattern of This World
To God be the glory through Christ Jesus our Lord.
Welcome, beloved, as we once again reflect on the life-giving Word of God. Today, we focus on a vital message for every believer: rejecting the standards of this fallen world in order to embrace our true identity in Christ.
1. The World Has a Pattern — But It’s Not God’s
Let’s begin with Ephesians 2:1–2
“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.”
This passage reveals a spiritual reality: the world operates under a corrupt system influenced by Satan, the “ruler of the kingdom of the air.” Before salvation, we naturally followed this system. But when we came to Christ, we were rescued from that dominion (Colossians 1:13).
2. Culture Isn’t Always Innocent — It’s Often a Carrier of Sin
Many behaviors normalized around the world directly oppose God’s will. For example, in some countries, co-ed public restrooms are common. In others, marijuana use is legal and socially accepted. These may be “normal” by cultural standards, but cultural acceptance does not equal spiritual righteousness.
The Apostle Paul reminds us that we must evaluate practices not by social norms but by God’s Word. The Kingdom of God has its own standards — standards that do not shift with culture.
3. Christians Will Be Viewed as “Strange”
When you choose holiness, the world won’t always understand. This is not a sign that you’re wrong, but that you are on the narrow path:
1 Peter 4:3–4
“For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do… They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.”
The early church faced mockery for their moral values, just like we do today. But being “strange” in the world’s eyes means you’re aligned with the Kingdom of Heaven.
4. Peer Pressure Is Real — But You Don’t Have to Bow to It
Someone once told me, “If a man doesn’t enjoy football, women, or alcohol, he’s not a real man.” This is the world’s definition of masculinity — one shaped by lust, pride, and temporary pleasures.
Likewise, women are pressured to look a certain way, to act “modern,” and to lower their moral standards just to fit in. But Christian identity is not rooted in cultural trends — it’s rooted in Christ.
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
5. Heaven’s Standard Is Holiness
God does not call His children to live according to worldly expectations. He calls us to holiness — not legalism, but Spirit-led purity in thought, word, and deed.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
This transformation isn’t just about avoiding sin; it’s about learning to love what God loves and hate what God hates. It’s about living as citizens of heaven even while walking on the earth (Philippians 3:20).
6. You Can’t Love Both the World and God
God doesn’t accept divided hearts. If you’re trying to walk the line between faith and worldliness, Scripture says you’re in danger.
1 John 2:15–17
“Do not love the world or anything in the world… The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
God demands total devotion. He wants your heart, not just your behavior. If you try to mix God’s truth with worldly lifestyles, you risk spiritual lukewarmness.
Revelation 3:16
“So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
7. Choose Your Pattern: Heaven or Earth?
So the choice lies before you today — whose pattern will you follow?
Will you be shaped by heaven or by the world? You cannot stand in both. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24).
The way of the world is wide, easy, and popular — but it leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13). The way of Christ is narrow, sometimes lonely, but it leads to eternal life and joy.
Live for the Kingdom
Dear believer, be courageous. Don’t compromise to please people and lose your intimacy with God. Don’t seek acceptance from a world that rejected your Savior. Instead, embrace the beautiful, holy life God calls you to.
Let your life reflect the pattern of heaven, not the customs of a passing world.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen you to live set apart.
Shalom.
MAHANAIM — The Army of God
Bless the name of the Lord and our Savior Jesus Christ! Let’s study God’s Word together.
After Jacob left Laban, the Bible tells us that as he journeyed, he encountered the army of God’s angels.
In Genesis 32:1-2 it says:
“Jacob also went on his way, and the angels of God met him. When Jacob saw them, he said, ‘This is God’s camp!’ So he named that place Mahanaim.”
The word Mahanaim means “Two Camps.” Jacob named the place this because he realized he was not alone; he saw two camps—his own family and servants, and the heavenly army of God’s angels protecting him.
This teaches us God’s providence and protection over His people. Even when we face daunting challenges, God’s presence surrounds us with spiritual protection
(Psalm 34:7: “The angel of the Lord en camps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.”).
Jacob had been fearful of meeting his brother Esau, who once threatened to kill him (Genesis 27). His fear was very real, but upon recognizing God’s protection—this “Mahanaim”—he gained new courage to face his fears (Genesis 32:11).
Jacob’s story echoes the spiritual reality that God sends His angels to protect His people. The New Testament also affirms this:
“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14).
A similar event happened with the prophet Elisha. When Aramean soldiers surrounded him and his servant, Elisha prayed for God to open his servant’s eyes, so he could see the spiritual army of angels protecting them:
2 Kings 6:15-17
“The servant of the man of God got up and went outside early the next morning. Suddenly the city was surrounded by an army with horses and chariots. ‘Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?’ the servant asked. ‘Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered, ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ And Elisha prayed, ‘Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”
This reminds us of God’s sovereign power and the reality of spiritual warfare. While the enemy’s forces may appear overwhelming, God’s protection far exceeds any threat.
Ephesians 6:1
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”.
Today, God’s army still surrounds His people—those who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Though we may not see these spiritual realities with physical eyes, we can trust God’s promises that He is always with us
(Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”).
Jacob’s fear of Esau was overcome by his faith in God’s protection. This encouraged him to reconcile with his brother, transforming a dangerous enemy into a beloved relative (Genesis 33). Similarly, the spiritual protection around Elisha meant the enemy’s threats were never repeated.
If you have accepted Christ, be encouraged to move forward without fear. Remember that God’s army is greater than any enemy you face. Stand firm in faith, knowing you are not alone.
May the Lord bless you and strengthen your faith.
Do the Ministries of Apostles and Prophets Still Operate Today?
Question: Do the ministries of apostles and prophets continue to function in the church today? Some Christians argue that these ministries have ceased, often citing Paul’s words in
Ephesians 2:20
“…built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.”
Others believe these ministries are still active. What does Scripture actually teach?
Understanding the Ministries of Apostles and Prophets
To answer this, we first need to understand the roles and types of apostles and prophets in the Bible.
Old Testament Prophets: Two Categories
- Prophets Who Laid the Foundation:
These prophets were called and anointed by God to deliver His permanent revelation, much of which is recorded in Scripture. Examples include Isaiah, Jeremiah, Malachi, Joel, and others. Their prophecies laid a lasting foundation for God’s people (cf. 2 Peter 1:19-21, which affirms Scripture as inspired by the Spirit). - Prophets Who Confirmed the Foundation Temporarily:
These prophets spoke God’s Word relevant to specific times or events, whose messages were not necessarily permanent for all generations. Examples include Agabus (Acts 21:10-11) and others in the New Testament who served particular situations.
New Testament Apostles and Prophets
Similarly, in the New Testament:
- Foundational Apostles and Prophets:
These include apostles like Paul, Peter, John, James, and prophets whose teachings and writings form the core of the New Testament canon (cf. Ephesians 2:20). They were eyewitnesses or directly commissioned by Christ to lay the foundation of the Church. - Supporting Apostles and Prophets:
There were also individuals appointed to confirm and build on that foundation, such as Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25), who did not bring new revelation but supported the mission.
What Does “Built on the Foundation” Mean?
Ephesians 2:20 teaches that the Church is built on the foundational revelation given through the apostles and prophets, with Christ Himself as the cornerstone.
This means:
- The revelation given to the apostles and prophets, now recorded in the Bible, is the permanent foundation of the Church.
- No new foundation can be laid beyond this (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:11 “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.”).
Are There Apostles and Prophets Today Like the Original Ones?
The original apostles and prophets received direct, foundational revelation for the Church and were instrumental in establishing its doctrine and structure. Today, there are no apostles or prophets who have this kind of foundational role.
However, ministries that serve to build upon the foundation—such as church planters or teachers—do exist but must always align with the original revelation.
The Importance of Building on the Right Foundation
Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 that:
- Christ is the only true foundation.
- How we build on that foundation matters.
- Our work will be tested by fire on the Day of Judgment.
- Only what is built according to God’s truth will endure and be rewarded.
This emphasizes that ministries today must be faithful to Scripture and not introduce new doctrines or revelations outside the biblical foundation.
The ministries of apostles and prophets who laid the Church’s foundation were unique to the early church era. Today, we build on that foundation—the Bible—through faithful teaching and ministry, without expecting new foundational revelations.
May the Lord bless you as you build on His eternal Word.
A Wise Wife Is a Gift from the Lord
Question: What does Proverbs 19:14 mean?
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.”
Answer:
This verse highlights an important theological truth about the source of blessings in our lives. While material possessions such as houses, wealth, or status can be inherited through family lines, some blessings—especially relational and spiritual ones—come directly from God. A wise wife is not something that can be earned, bought, or inherited. She is a special gift granted by God’s sovereign will.
This reflects the biblical understanding that God is the ultimate giver of wisdom and good gifts (James 1:17). The “prudent” or “wise” wife here symbolizes more than just a life partner; she represents God’s provision of wisdom, character, and virtue in marriage.
Who is a Wise Wife?
The woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31 is often considered the biblical ideal of a wise wife. She is characterized by:
- Fear of the Lord: “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised” (Proverbs 31:30).
- Compassion and generosity: She cares for the poor and needy.
- Diligence and faithfulness: She manages her household well and supports her husband.
In 1 Peter 3:1-6, the apostle Peter exhorts wives to be respectful and gentle, “submitting to their own husbands,” not out of fear but as an expression of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight.
How to Find a Wise Wife:
The pursuit of a wise spouse is not about focusing on wealth, beauty, or status. Instead, it calls for seeking God’s guidance through prayer and trusting His timing. James 1:5 says,
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” By seeking God first, He will lead the right person to you.
Theological Parallel for Husbands:
The principle also applies to husbands. A wise husband is a man who fears God, loves his wife sacrificially, and leads his family according to God’s design. Ephesians 5:25 instructs,
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” Wisdom in marriage flows from a life submitted to God.
Marriage is a divine gift and calling. Neither a wise wife nor a wise husband can be found apart from God’s grace and blessing. Therefore, prayer and reliance on God’s wisdom are essential before making decisions about marriage.
Shalom.
Times We Must Go Through
In life, everyone experiences different kinds of days. Some mornings, we wake up feeling joyful, peaceful, and successful. Maybe we receive good news at work or in our family, and everything seems to be going well. But there are also mornings when things don’t look good—we might be sick, hurt by others, face losses, or experience hardships like accidents or bad news.
As humans created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), it’s natural to experience both joy and suffering. God allows these seasons so that we can mature spiritually and grow in our faith according to His perfect will (James 1:2-4).
Consider this biblical truth:
Ecclesiastes 7:14
“When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future.”
This passage shows God’s sovereignty over all seasons of life, both good and bad. We can trust that both are under His control and purpose.
Why Does God Allow Both Good and Bad Times? Here Are Three Theological Reasons:
1) To Cultivate Joy and Gratitude
God is the source of all joy (1 Peter 1:8). Even if we don’t always feel joyful, God promises to refresh and bless us in His timing (Psalm 30:5). Rejoicing in God during good times encourages a heart of thankfulness, which strengthens our relationship with Him.
“Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13,)
This teaches us that joy is not just an emotion but an act of worship and gratitude toward God.
2) To Foster Reflection and Dependence on God
Trials often bring humility and deeper reflection. When we face suffering, we recognize our limitations and the need for God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9). Instead of relying on ourselves, we learn to lean on God’s strength and wisdom.
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” (Romans 5:3-4)
This process deepens our faith and aligns our trust more fully with God’s promises.
3) To Teach Humility and Submission to God’s Will
God desires that we acknowledge His sovereignty daily. James reminds us to submit our plans with humility, recognizing that life is fragile and ultimately in God’s hands.
“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city… Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” (James 4:13-15)
Starting and ending each day with prayer and gratitude helps us submit to God’s timing and purpose.
God’s design for life is a rhythm of seasons, each with its divine purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 beautifully captures this truth:
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.”
This passage reminds us that all life experiences have meaning within God’s sovereign plan.
God allows both joy and hardship as part of our spiritual growth and dependence on Him. Whether in good times or bad, let us trust God’s sovereignty, rejoice with gratitude, reflect with faith, and humbly submit to His will every day.
May the Lord strengthen and guide us through every season we face.
Where Was Matthew Sitting When Jesus Called Him?
Matthew 9:9
“As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.”
This verse describes a life-changing moment for Matthew, also known as Levi. But to understand the significance of this moment, we need to first answer:
What is a “Tax Collector’s Booth”?
In biblical times, a tax collector’s booth was a small structure—often placed along roads, near city gates, or at ports—where tax collectors would sit to collect tolls, customs, and other taxes on behalf of the Roman government. These booths were often symbolic of greed and corruption, as tax collectors were known for charging people unfairly and keeping the extra for themselves (Luke 3:12-13).
Today, we can compare it to bank counters, revenue collection points, or even mobile money kiosks like booths—small, functional spaces where money is received and transactions take place.
What Makes This Moment So Important?
When Jesus called Matthew, he was at work—right in the middle of his duties as a tax collector. And yet, without hesitation, Matthew left everything to follow Him.
This shows something powerful about discipleship: it requires immediate and total surrender.
Jesus didn’t wait for Matthew to finish his shift, wrap up his business, or fix his life first. He simply said, “Follow me,” and Matthew responded in faith.
The Cost and Reward of Following Jesus
Matthew’s response illustrates a key truth of Christian discipleship—following Jesus involves leaving something behind, sometimes even something significant like a career, comfort, or social status.
Luke 14:33
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.”
Yet, Jesus never asks us to leave behind anything without promising something greater. When Peter asked what the disciples would receive in return for leaving everything, Jesus replied:
Matthew 19:27–29
Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?”
Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.”
This means that whatever we sacrifice for Christ will be repaid abundantly—not only in this life but in eternity.
What Can We Learn from Matthew?
Matthew teaches us that when Jesus calls, we shouldn’t delay. He didn’t wait for a more convenient time or cling to his income. He recognized that the call of God was greater than any earthly gain.
Even more, God used him powerfully. The very man who once sat at a tax booth wrote the first book of the New Testament: The Gospel According to Matthew.
So, let’s reflect:
- Is your work, your comfort, or your relationships stopping you from fully following Jesus?
- Are you postponing obedience because the timing doesn’t feel right?
Remember Matthew. He responded immediately. And because of that, his life was transformed—and through his writing, millions have come to know Jesus.
Don’t let anything hold you back. Jesus is still calling people today. His words remain the same: “Follow me.” Will you rise from your “booth” and follow Him?
May the Lord bless you and give you courage to respond to His call.
“There Was No Room for the Animal Under Me to Pass”
Greetings in the mighty name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Today, I invite you to reflect on a powerful lesson from the life of Nehemiah—a man who teaches us what it truly means to carry a divine burden, even when it means walking alone.
1. The Call to Rebuild What Is Broken
Nehemiah was not a prophet, priest, or king. He was a cupbearer to the Persian king (Nehemiah 1:11), yet his heart was burdened when he heard that the walls of Jerusalem were in ruins.
“As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven.”
—Nehemiah 1:4
Nehemiah’s story reminds us that calling does not always come with titles or public platforms. God often uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Just as He called Moses from the wilderness (Exodus 3), David from the sheepfold (1 Samuel 16), and the disciples from their fishing nets (Matthew 4:19), He also called Nehemiah from the king’s palace to the broken city walls. This is grace-driven mission—God placing His burden on our hearts for His purpose (Philippians 2:13).
2. Counting the Cost and Moving Quietly
When Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem, he didn’t immediately announce his mission. He spent three days in silence, then went out at night with only a few men to examine the damage.
“Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me. And I told no one what my God had put into my heart to do for Jerusalem.”
—Nehemiah 2:12
He surveyed the walls discreetly. Then came a critical moment:
“Then I went on to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but there was no room for the animal that was under me to pass.”
—Nehemiah 2:14
Here lies the heart of the message: There are places in the journey of faith where your “animal”—your resources, status, comfort, or support systems—cannot go with you. Like Jesus in Gethsemane (Luke 22:41), or Paul when “all deserted me” (2 Timothy 4:16), there are moments when the calling becomes deeply personal and solitary. God allows this to strip away reliance on anything but Him. Spiritual maturity involves stepping off the “animal” and walking in total obedience—even if no one else sees it or walks with you.
3. Standing in the Gap
After Nehemiah assessed the damage, he finally revealed his plan and encouraged the people to rebuild.
“You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.”
—Nehemiah 2:17
This echoes God’s own heart as revealed in the book of Ezekiel:
“And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none.”
—Ezekiel 22:30
Standing in the breach means stepping into places where others are absent. It is priestly intercession and prophetic action combined. This is what Christ ultimately did—He stood in the breach as our intercessor and sacrifice (Hebrews 7:25, Isaiah 53:5). Likewise, God still seeks people willing to stand for truth, holiness, and healing in a broken world.
4. Rebuilding Amid Resistance
When the work began, opposition followed. Nehemiah was mocked:
“Yes, what they are building—if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!”
—Nehemiah 4:3
But Nehemiah didn’t give up. The builders worked with weapons in one hand and bricks in the other (Nehemiah 4:17–18). This symbolizes the balance between building the Kingdom and guarding against spiritual attacks (Ephesians 6:11–17).
Ministry and mission are spiritual warfare. Rebuilding lives, families, churches, or truth-based teaching won’t come without resistance. But perseverance is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), and God’s grace empowers us to endure (2 Corinthians 12:9).
5. A Legacy That Endures
Despite the challenges, Nehemiah and the people completed the wall in just 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15). His legacy remains recorded in Scripture as a testimony of faith, courage, and obedience.
So what does this mean for us today?
There are broken “walls” all around us—youth losing faith, families without spiritual foundations, churches drifting from truth, communities filled with injustice. God is still looking for people to rebuild what has been broken, not just physically, but spiritually.
The question is: Will we rise and build—even if it means walking alone at times?
If so, let us be ready to:
- Walk in obedience even when others don’t understand.
- Let go of things that can’t follow us into the narrow paths of faith.
- Preach, pray, teach, serve, or stand for truth—no matter the cost.
Rebuilding has a cost—but it also has eternal rewards.
*“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that *in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
—1 Corinthians 15:58
May the Lord give us strength and boldness to walk where even the “animal” cannot pass.
Shalom.
