What’s the Difference Between Holiness and Glory?
Understanding the difference between holiness and glory is vital in grasping the nature of God and His work in our lives. Though these words are often used together, they are not the same. Let’s explore what each means and how they relate to each other from a biblical and theological perspective.
1. What is Holiness?
Holiness refers to moral purity, separation from sin, and dedication to God. The Hebrew word for holy (qadosh) means “set apart.” In the New Testament, the Greek term hagios carries a similar meaning.
To be holy means to be pure, undefiled, and separated for God’s purposes. This applies both to physical things (like the temple or sacrifices) and to people who follow God.
“As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”
— 1 Peter 1:14–15
A holy person is someone who has been cleansed by the blood of Jesus and chooses to live in obedience to God, rejecting sin.
2. What is Glory?
Glory (Hebrew: kabod; Greek: doxa) refers to the visible or manifest beauty, brilliance, or greatness of God. It is the radiance that results from His nature and holiness. In simple terms, glory is what shines out from holiness—the visible or tangible expression of God’s perfection.
To illustrate: when gold is purified, it shines. That shine is its glory. Similarly, God’s holiness results in an overwhelming radiance—His glory.
“And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother… and he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.”
— Matthew 17:1–2
Here, Jesus’ inner holiness was revealed outwardly as glory—a visible, radiant light.
3. Holiness Produces Glory
We must understand this principle: Holiness comes first, and glory flows from it. You cannot have true glory without holiness. When someone is holy—cleansed from sin, walking in the Spirit, and separated for God—the glory of God becomes evident in their life, even if it’s not visible in a physical sense.
Jesus, being perfectly holy, revealed the glory of God in everything He did. Likewise, believers who pursue holiness reflect God’s glory in their lives.
“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.”
— 2 Corinthians 3:18
4. God’s Glory Flows From His Perfect Holiness
God’s glory is inseparable from His holiness. In Isaiah’s vision, the seraphim declare God’s holiness repeatedly—and then say the earth is full of His glory:
“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.”
— Isaiah 6:3
Here, the holiness of God is the foundation of His overwhelming glory. Even the angels hide their faces from His radiant presence (Isaiah 6:2), showing that His glory is awe-inspiring and powerful.
5. Can Human Beings Reflect God’s Holiness and Glory?
Absolutely. Through the sanctifying work of Christ and the Holy Spirit, believers are called to live holy lives—and in doing so, they reflect the glory of God in a dark world.
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”
— 1 Peter 2:9
And in the Old Testament:
“As for the saints in the land, they are the excellent ones, in whom is all my delight.”
— Psalm 16:3
Holiness is not just possible—it is expected of all who belong to Christ. And through that holiness, God’s light (His glory) shines through us to the world.
Holiness is about being clean, pure, and set apart for God. Glory is the radiance that flows from that holiness. Without holiness, there can be no true glory. But if we walk in holiness, God’s glory will shine in us and through us.
Let us, therefore, pursue holiness—not just for personal piety, but that the glory of God might be revealed in our lives.
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
— Hebrews 12:14
May the Lord help us live holy lives that reflect His glory.
PRAY AT THE RIGHT TIME
In Zechariah 10:1, it says:
“Ask the Lord for rain in the time of the spring rains, for the Lord makes clouds, and he gives them showers of rain, to everyone vegetation in the field.”
This verse highlights the importance of praying in the right season. God’s providence is tied to the natural order and timing He has established (Genesis 8:22). Asking for rain during the rainy season aligns with His created rhythm and reflects faith in His timing.
Why does the scripture specify praying for rain during the spring rains and not during the dry season? Because the spring rains are the appointed time for rain. If rain fails to come then, it is an extraordinary situation that calls for prayer (James 5:17-18). But praying for rain during the dry season, when it is naturally less expected, is less effective because it is outside God’s ordained time.
This principle applies broadly to prayer and God’s blessings: there is a time and season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Praying in alignment with God’s timing is crucial for effective prayers.
For example:
- If you are a student, praying for academic success and wisdom (James 1:5) fits your current season better than praying for wealth or a spouse.
- If you are young and still dependent on your parents, praying for protection and good character is appropriate until you reach the season of marriage (1 Timothy 4:12).
When you pray for the right things in God’s appointed season, He responds with mercy and grace (Psalm 145:8-9). Even if answers seem delayed, God’s timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11), and His delays are for our good (Romans 8:28).
If you are in the right season but don’t yet see results, be patient and trust God’s promises (Hebrews 6:12). He will strengthen you daily (Isaiah 40:31).
Salvation also has its appointed season—and that season is now.
2 Corinthians 6:1-2 says:
“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
This underscores the urgency of responding to God’s grace. Salvation is a present reality offered through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9), but this opportunity will not last forever. Scripture warns that a time will come when the door of grace closes (Hebrews 10:26-27) and forgiveness is no longer available (Ecclesiastes 11:3).
Many today ignore God’s warnings about sin (Romans 1:18-32) and reject His offer of salvation. But God’s patience is not infinite (2 Peter 3:9), and judgment will come for those who persist in rebellion (Hebrews 10:31).
2 Chronicles 36:15-16 shows how God sent prophets to warn His people, but they rejected them until His wrath came and no remedy remained. This reminds us that ignoring God’s timing and warnings leads to judgment.
Pray in accordance with God’s timing, understanding the season you are in. Seek God’s guidance, protection, and provision relevant to your stage in life. Above all, respond to the urgent call of salvation today while God’s grace is available.
May the Lord help us discern the right seasons and respond faithfully.
Who Was the First to See the Risen Lord Jesus—Peter or Mary Magdalene?
Question: Between Simon Peter and Mary Magdalene, who was the first to see the risen Lord Jesus? Luke 24:34 says Jesus appeared first to Simon Peter, but Mark 16:9 says Mary Magdalene was the first. How can these two statements be reconciled?
Biblical Examination
Luke 24:33-34 states:
“They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together, saying, ‘The Lord has truly risen and has appeared to Simon!’”
This passage highlights that Jesus appeared to Simon Peter (also called Cephas).
On the other hand, Mark 16:9 records:
“When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.”
This clearly identifies Mary Magdalene as the first person to see the risen Jesus.
Sequence and Significance
There is no contradiction here because the passages emphasize different moments and theological meanings.
- Mary Magdalene as the First Witness:
Mark 16:9 and John 20:1-18 emphasize Mary Magdalene’s role as the first human witness to the resurrection. Theologically, this is significant because Mary represents the marginalized and forgiven sinner (Luke 8:2), demonstrating that the resurrection is a message of hope for all, not just the religious elite. - Peter as the First Apostle Witness:
Luke 24:34 stresses Jesus’ appearance to Simon Peter, who was the leader of the apostles (Matthew 16:18-19). Theologically, this establishes Peter’s authority in the early Church and affirms apostolic witness, crucial for the foundation of the Christian faith (Ephesians 2:20). - Sequence of Appearances:
Mary Magdalene’s encounter happened early, immediately after Jesus’ resurrection, as recorded in Mark and John. After informing the disciples, Jesus appeared to Peter (1 Corinthians 15:5), validating Peter’s role as an eyewitness and leader.
Supporting Scripture
John 20:14-18
Mary Magdalene weeps outside the empty tomb and is the first to see Jesus after His resurrection, highlighting the personal, relational nature of the risen Christ calling His follower by name.
1 Corinthians 15:3-8
Paul summarizes resurrection appearances:
“…that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time…”
This passage emphasizes the historical reality and communal testimony of Jesus’ resurrection, foundational for Christian faith.
Have you personally encountered the risen Jesus? The resurrection promises victory over death and eternal life (John 11:25-26). As we live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), the question remains: where will you be when Jesus returns? The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16)—don’t reject it as foolishness.
May the grace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ empower and guide us always.
JESUS IS THE ALPHA AND OMEGA
Let’s reflect deeply on the identity of our Lord Jesus Christ through Scripture.
The Reality of Jesus’ Divine Identity
Imagine a high-ranking person disguising themselves as a servant, wearing humble clothes beneath their status. Such a person would likely be mocked, despised, and rejected by others who don’t recognize their true identity. But if those who scorned him truly understood who he was, none would dare to disrespect or mock him; instead, they would honor and fear him.
This is exactly what happened to Jesus. Though He was crucified, His persecutors did not know His true identity. They assumed He was just a criminal or a mere prophet, but He is far greater — He is the Alpha and Omega, God Himself manifested in human flesh. Even the Apostle Paul acknowledges in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8
“But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”
This “hidden wisdom” is the profound truth of Jesus’ divinity and incarnation — that God became man, a mystery beyond human understanding but foundational to the Christian faith (cf. John 1:14).
Jesus as the Alpha and Omega
The book of Revelation reveals this divine identity clearly. In Revelation 1:8, God declares:
“I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord God, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.”
The titles Alpha and Omega (the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet) symbolize God’s eternal nature — He is the beginning and the end, existing outside of time. Jesus applies this title to Himself, making a clear claim to divinity (cf. Revelation 22:13).
Revelation 21:5-7 shows this Alpha and Omega actively working in history:
“And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”
Here, God promises new creation and eternal life freely to all who believe. The relationship of God and believer as Father and child is profound — a divine adoption through Jesus Christ (Romans 8:15).
The Mystery of the Incarnation
Paul describes this mystery in 1 Timothy 3:16:
“Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
The incarnation — God becoming flesh — is the cornerstone of Christian theology. Jesus is fully God and fully man, not a hybrid, but both natures united in one person (cf. John 1:1,14; Colossians 2:9).
Jesus’ Messianic Identity and Divine Lordship
Jesus also challenged religious leaders to rethink His identity (Matthew 22:42-46:
“What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The son of David.
He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying,
The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?
If David then call him Lord, how is he his son?
And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.”
Here Jesus exposes a divine paradox: He is the descendant of David (human Messiah), yet David calls Him “Lord” — a title for God Himself. This reveals Jesus’ dual nature as both human and divine.
Why This Matters
Knowing Jesus only as the “Son of David” or “Son of God” without understanding His full divinity limits our understanding of salvation. The Bible affirms that salvation comes through Jesus Christ, God incarnate, whose blood redeems us (Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7).
This truth can be difficult to grasp — just as it is hard to understand that God has no beginning or end (Psalm 90:2). But faith calls us to accept these mysteries by the Holy Spirit’s help.
Believing that Jesus is God in the flesh deepens our gratitude and reverence. It reminds us that our salvation is not from the blood of any mere man but from the blood of the eternal God who loved us enough to become human and die for us.
For Further Study
- Titus 2:13: “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” — A direct reference to Jesus as God and Savior.
- Isaiah 9:6: “For unto us a child is born… and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” — A prophecy of Jesus’ divine nature.
May the Lord help us all to grasp this profound truth and live in the power of Jesus Christ, the Alpha and Omega.
Stop Pretending You Don’t Know
Blessed be the name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us take time to learn and obey the Scriptures.
God holds us accountable for what we know (Romans 1:20; Hebrews 10:26-27). Pretending ignorance when you actually know the truth is dangerous because it is a form of testing God and rejecting His revealed will.
Biblical Example:
In Mark 11:27-33, religious leaders questioned Jesus’ authority. When Jesus asked them about John the Baptist’s baptism—which they knew was from God—they pretended ignorance out of fear. Jesus refused to answer their question because they were not sincere but testing Him.
Mark 11:27-33
“By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus replied, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John’s baptism—was it from heaven, or from men? Tell me!” They discussed it and said, “We don’t know.” Jesus said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.”
This shows that when we come to God with questions or prayers but ignore what He has already revealed, we are essentially testing God and may receive no clear answers.
Moral Clarity from Scripture:
The Bible clearly states what is sin:
- Stealing is sin (Ephesians 4:28)
- Adultery and sexual immorality are sin (1 Corinthians 6:18)
- Idol worship is sin (Exodus 20:3-5)
- Living with someone else’s spouse is sin (Hebrews 13:4)
When Scripture is clear, it is dangerous to keep doubting or asking God to confirm what is already revealed. Doing so tests God and may leave one spiritually confused.
Conscience and Divine Guidance:
Your conscience, when aligned with Scripture, guides you in right and wrong (Romans 2:14-15). If your conscience and the Bible clearly say an act is wrong, do not expect God to contradict His own Word.
James 4:17
“Anyone, then, who knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.”
The Authority of Scripture:
God’s Word is the final authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Bible is God’s clear and unchanging voice. If you want to hear God’s will, read the Bible instead of relying solely on dreams, visions, or human leaders.
Final Warning:
Stop pretending ignorance about eternal truths like Hell, sin, and God’s commands. Don’t ask God to justify actions you already know are wrong, such as selling alcohol or engaging in immoral behavior. The lack of answers does not mean God is silent—He has spoken clearly through His Word.
May God help us to obey His Word and live in truth.
What Kind of Gift Is This That We Can’t Fully Describe?
Main Question:
What is this gift that we can’t properly describe or praise enough?
Answer:
The gift is Jesus Christ Himself. Paul writes in:
2 Corinthians 9:15: “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”
The original Greek word translated as “indescribable” (“anekdiēgētos”) appears only once in the New Testament. It emphasizes something so wonderful and beyond comprehension that it cannot be fully expressed in words. Paul is pointing to God’s greatest gift—His Son, Jesus Christ, who encompasses the fullness of God’s grace.
Throughout Scripture, Jesus is consistently presented as God’s ultimate gift to humanity. He was not merely sent to save our souls but to restore the whole person—spirit, soul, and body—and to reconcile all of creation back to God (Colossians 1:19–20).
Romans 5:17
“For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!”
This verse shows that the gift of righteousness and grace through Christ enables us not only to be saved but to reign in life—to walk in spiritual authority, peace, and purpose.
Jesus: The All-Sufficient Gift
When Paul speaks in 2 Corinthians 9, he is addressing generosity and God’s provision. He highlights that God’s blessings—both spiritual and material—flow through Christ. As believers, we experience abundance, not for selfish gain, but to become channels of blessing.
2 Corinthians 9:11
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
This is rooted in Christ’s sufficiency. As Colossians 2:9-10 says:
“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness.”
In other words, Christ is everything. When God gave us Jesus, He held nothing back. In Him, we have all we need—for our salvation, daily provision, healing, wisdom, and eternal life.
Redemption Beyond the Spirit
Jesus’ redemptive work affects every aspect of life:
- Spiritually: We are saved, justified, and made righteous (Romans 5:1).
- Physically: He bore our sicknesses (Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:17).
- Emotionally: He gives peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).
- Socially and Economically: He teaches stewardship, compassion, and generosity (2 Corinthians 9:8–11).
- Cosmically: He reconciles all things in heaven and on earth to God (Colossians 1:20).
This makes Jesus truly indescribable—He is the all-sufficient, all-encompassing, eternal gift from God.
God’s wisdom saw that humanity didn’t need a thousand temporary answers—we needed one perfect Savior. That’s why:
1 Corinthians 1:30
“It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.”
So we say:
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:15)
Jesus is enough. He is our anchor, provider, healer, redeemer, and Lord. No one else compares to Him. We owe Him our lives, our worship, and our gratitude.
Share this good news with others. Let people know about the greatest gift ever given to humanity.
Glory, honor, and thanks be to God—forever and ever. Amen.
God bless you.
Understanding 2 Corinthians 9:11–12: God’s Purpose in Blessing Us
2 Corinthians 9:11–12
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”
Explanation
1. God is the Source of Both Spiritual and Material Blessing
Paul begins this section by reminding the Corinthian believers that God is the provider. In verse 10, he says:
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed…” (2 Cor. 9:10)
This echoes the truth found in James 1:17:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…”
This shows that everything we have—our resources, money, time, skills—are gifts from God, and He gives them with a purpose.
2. The Purpose of Blessing: Generosity, Not Self-Indulgence
Paul clarifies why God blesses us:
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion…” (2 Cor. 9:11)
The goal of prosperity is not luxury or selfish gain but kingdom generosity. Paul is echoing the Old Testament principle of caring for others, especially the poor and fellow believers (see Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord…”).
Paul affirms this again in 2 Corinthians 9:8:
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times… you will abound in every good work.”
Blessing always carries responsibility. God entrusts us with resources so we may reflect His character—especially His generosity and care for the needy.
3. Generosity Leads to Thanksgiving and Glorifies God
Our giving is not only practical but spiritual. It causes people to thank and praise God.
“Through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” (2 Cor. 9:11)
“…overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.” (2 Cor. 9:12)
This echoes Matthew 5:16:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Giving becomes a ministry that stirs worship in the hearts of others.
4. Giving is a Form of Worship and Obedience to the Gospel
Later in verse 13, Paul says:
“…because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ…” (2 Cor. 9:13)
Generosity is a fruit of genuine faith. It’s how we live out the gospel we confess. It’s not just a transaction; it’s a testimony.
5. Giving and Reaping: A Biblical Principle
Earlier in the chapter, Paul teaches the principle of sowing and reaping:
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Cor. 9:6)
This principle reminds us that God honors and multiplies what is given in faith (cf. Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you…”).
Conclusion and Exhortation
So, what is Paul teaching us in 2 Corinthians 9:11–12?
- God blesses us—both spiritually and materially—not for selfish gain but so that we may bless others.
- Our generosity meets needs, glorifies God, and demonstrates our faith in action.
- Giving is part of our obedience, worship, and witness to the gospel of Christ.
Let us therefore pray:
“Lord, make us faithful stewards of everything You have entrusted to us. May our giving always reflect Your generosity and bring glory to Your name.”
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Does the Lord Jesus Not Know the Day of His Coming? (Matthew 24:36)
Question:
Why does the Bible say that only the Father knows the day and hour of Jesus’ return, and not the Son? Especially since Jesus is God?
Answer:
Let’s carefully examine Matthew 24:36
“But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
The Doctrine of the Incarnation and Kenosis
Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man (John 1:14). In becoming human (the Incarnation), He voluntarily limited some of His divine attributes in what theologians call the kenosis—a self-emptying described in Philippians 2:6-8:
“Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.”
This means that during His earthly life, Jesus voluntarily refrained from exercising some divine prerogatives, including omniscience, to fully experience humanity.
Jesus’ Human Experience and Learning
Hebrews 5:7 highlights Jesus’ humanity and dependence on the Father:
“During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, He offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverent submission.”
Jesus experienced growth and learning just like any other human (Luke 2:46):
“After three days they found Him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking questions.”
Thus, it is understandable that Jesus did not know the exact time of His return while living in human flesh.
Jesus’ Divine Authority After Resurrection
After His resurrection, Jesus was exalted and given all authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:16-18):
“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.'”
This means Jesus now fully exercises divine knowledge, including the knowledge of His return.
Additional Scriptural Evidence
- John 21:22: Jesus said to Peter about John, “If I want him to remain alive until I come, what is that to you?” This indicates Jesus knew the timing of His coming.
- Revelation 3:3; 16:15; 22:12, 20 further affirm Jesus’ authority over His return and the final judgment.
The temporary limitation of Jesus’ divine knowledge during His earthly ministry aligns with the theological doctrine of kenosis—He humbled Himself to fully experience human life. However, after His resurrection and exaltation, Jesus possesses full divine authority and knowledge, including the exact time of His second coming.
May God bless you.
BEGIN THE YEAR WITH PURPOSE AND SPIRITUAL ALERTNESS
Greetings in the blessed name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we enter a new year, it’s important to pause and reflect—not just on our goals, but on the spiritual posture with which we begin the year.
One of the most sobering stories in Scripture is the account of King David’s fall into sin with Bathsheba. While David was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22), even he was not immune to temptation. The consequences of his choices were tragic, not just for him, but for others around him. And it all began with a small decision—one that seemed harmless on the surface.
2 Samuel 11:1 says:
“In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel. And they ravaged the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem.”
This single sentence sets the stage for David’s downfall. It was a time when kings went to war—but David stayed home. While his army was fighting, David was idle. That moment of spiritual passivity became an open door for temptation.
In verses 2–5, David notices Bathsheba, inquires about her, and eventually commits adultery with her. When she becomes pregnant, he tries to cover it up, and when that fails, he arranges for her husband, Uriah, to be killed. A single decision at the beginning of the year spirals into a chain of sins that brought deep grief and long-lasting consequences (2 Samuel 12:10–14).
This account teaches us a powerful theological truth: spiritual passivity leads to spiritual vulnerability. The Apostle Paul echoes this in Ephesians 6:11–13 when he writes:
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil… take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”
The beginning of a new year is not just a fresh calendar—it’s a critical spiritual season. It’s not a time to be idle, distracted, or disengaged. It’s a time to rise up in prayer, to re-align ourselves with God’s will, and to engage in spiritual battle.
In the Bible, beginnings matter. In Genesis, God sets order to creation at the beginning. In Exodus, God begins the nation of Israel’s deliverance in a specific season. And in the Gospels, Jesus begins His ministry by withdrawing for prayer and fasting (Luke 4:1–2). Starting well spiritually matters.
That’s why at the beginning of the year, we are called to:
- Engage in prayer and fasting (Matthew 6:6,17)
- Gather with God’s people in worship (Hebrews 10:25)
- Stand guard against spiritual laziness (1 Peter 5:8)
- Seek God’s guidance for the year ahead (Proverbs 3:5–6)
If David had chosen to go to battle with his men, as was customary for kings, he might have avoided the situation that led to his greatest moral failure. His story serves as both a warning and an encouragement for us to be spiritually alert and active—especially at key transition points like the start of a new year.
May the Lord help us not to coast into the new year, but to begin it with purpose, prayer, and power. Let us not stay behind when we are called to the frontlines of spiritual warfare. Let us press forward in faith, trusting in God’s grace and protection.
Shalom.
🌳 Why Did God Place Trees in the Garden—and Not Something Else?
Many people have wondered: why did God use trees in the Garden of Eden to represent life and death? Why not something seemingly more symbolic or enduring, like a rock?
🔍 The Significance of Trees
The answer lies in the nature of trees themselves. While many objects could symbolize permanence or strength, trees uniquely represent both life and death—and for one key reason: their longevity and fruitfulness.
Among all living creatures, trees live the longest. Elephants live up to 80 years, parrots and crows around 90, and tortoises up to 200. But trees can live for thousands of years. Some trees alive today are over 2,000 years old and still producing fruit.
What makes trees even more remarkable is that they remain rooted in one place while continuing to thrive and bear fruit. Their unchanging location and consistent productivity over centuries make them a powerful picture of something eternal—either eternal life or eternal separation from God.
Now, consider a rock. It might last just as long as a tree—or longer—but it’s lifeless. It doesn’t grow. It doesn’t bear fruit. It doesn’t change. In that sense, it more closely resembles spiritual death—a static, fruitless state.
So God’s choice of trees in the Garden wasn’t random. He was making a profound statement: our relationship with Him—whether it leads to life or death—has lasting, eternal consequences.
🌿 The Tree of Life and the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil
In Genesis 2:9 we read:
“And out of the ground the Lord God made every tree grow that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.”
These two trees were not just botanical specimens. They were spiritual signs—living illustrations of divine truth. One tree offered eternal life, the other led to spiritual death.
When Adam and Eve chose to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3), they introduced sin and death into the human story. Their choice separated humanity from the Tree of Life—and from God Himself.
🌟 The Tree of Life Is Jesus Christ
But the story doesn’t end in Eden.
Throughout Scripture, we see the theme of the Tree of Life re-emerge—not just as a literal tree, but as a person. That person is Jesus Christ.
In 1 Corinthians 1:23–24, Paul writes:
“But we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called… Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”
Now compare that to Proverbs 3:18:
“She [wisdom] is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.”
If Christ is the wisdom of God, and wisdom is described as the tree of life, then it follows theologically and biblically: Jesus Christ is the Tree of Life.
He is the source of eternal life. He alone restores what was lost in Eden.
✝️ Jesus: The Source of Eternal Life
The New Testament reinforces this idea repeatedly:
- Acts 3:15 – “[You] killed the Prince of life, whom God raised from the dead.”
- John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
- John 14:6 – “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”
- John 3:16– “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
- John 6:47– “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.”
There is no eternal life outside of Jesus. He is the fulfillment of the Tree of Life from Genesis, and we see Him again in Revelation 22:2, where the Tree of Life reappears in the New Jerusalem:
“In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits…”
The whole biblical story—from Eden to eternity—centers around our access to the Tree of Life, which is ultimately access to Jesus Christ.
🙏 Have You Found the Tree of Life?
The question, then, is not just theological—it’s deeply personal:
Have you received the life that Jesus offers?
If not, today can be your beginning. Receive Him. Trust in His death and resurrection. Let Him make you a new creation. Be baptized in His name (Acts 2:38) and start walking with Him.
Because in Jesus Christ—the Living Tree—there is not just life. There is eternal life.
Shalom.
