What Is the Mourning of Hadadrimmon?
The Question:
In Zechariah 12:11, we read:
“In that day there shall be a great mourning in Jerusalem, like the mourning at Hadadrimmon in the plain of Megiddo.”
What is this mourning about, and why is it compared to Hadadrimmon?
The Historical Context of Hadadrimmon
Hadadrimmon was a place located in the valley of Megiddo in Israel—a site historically known for major battles. It is most famously associated with the death of King Josiah, one of Judah’s most righteous and reformative kings. Josiah’s reign was marked by religious revival and the eradication of idolatry (2 Kings 23:1–25). He is celebrated for restoring the covenant with God and leading the nation back to true worship.
Josiah’s death came unexpectedly in battle against Pharaoh Neco of Egypt, even though God had not sent him into that conflict. The Bible says:
“In his days Pharaoh Necho king of Egypt went to the aid of the king of Assyria, to the River Euphrates; and King Josiah went against him. And Pharaoh Necho killed him at Megiddo when he confronted him.”
—2 Kings 23:29
The nation was devastated. The prophet Jeremiah and the people of Judah lamented Josiah’s death deeply. His mourning became a national memory.
“Jeremiah also lamented for Josiah. And to this day all the singing men and the singing women speak of Josiah in their lamentations. They made it a custom in Israel; and indeed, they are written in the Laments.”
—2 Chronicles 35:25
Thus, Hadadrimmon became symbolic of a moment of great national grief—the loss of a righteous king and a fading hope for the nation.
The Prophetic Meaning in Zechariah 12
Zechariah 12 is a prophecy pointing to a future national mourning in Israel, far greater than that of Josiah. This time, the grief will be spiritual and redemptive. God declares that He will pour out:
“…the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son…”
—Zechariah 12:10
This refers to Jesus Christ, the Messiah, whom the nation of Israel rejected and crucified (John 19:37). On this future day, the veil will be lifted from their eyes (2 Corinthians 3:14–16), and they will recognize Christ for who He is: their Messiah, the Son of God.
Their mourning will not just be for a fallen king like Josiah—but for the Messiah they pierced. This mourning will be personal, deep, and family by family:
“The land shall mourn, every family by itself: the family of the house of David by itself, and their wives by themselves…”
—Zechariah 12:12
This is not simply regret—it is repentance (Hebrew: teshuvah), a turning back to God through the convicting work of the Holy Spirit.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
Right now, we are living in the time of grace—a season when salvation through Jesus is available to all (Titus 2:11). But this age will not last forever. Jesus warned:
“Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.”
—Matthew 24:32
The fig tree represents Israel (Jeremiah 24). The rebirth of the nation in 1948 and the return of Jews to their land are signs that the end-time clock is ticking. God is preparing to fulfill His promises to His people.
Are You Ready?
The Gospel has now reached the ends of the earth. The next great prophetic event is the rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51–52). If you’re waiting for another sign or emotional push, understand this: the opportunity is now. The window is narrowing.
“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able.”
—Luke 13:24
If you’re saved, now is the time to live in holiness and readiness. If you’re not, don’t wait another day. God’s grace is available now—but one day, like in the days of Josiah, the nation and the world will mourn deeply. Don’t be among those who regret. Be among those who rejoice.
May the Lord open our eyes, soften our hearts, and help us recognize the times we are living in.
Does God Mock People?
At first glance, the idea that God could mock anyone might seem shocking—even offensive. After all, we’re used to associating mocking with cruelty or pride. But when we turn to Scripture, particularly Proverbs 1:26 and Psalm 59:8, we see that the Bible does indeed use such language to describe God’s response to persistent rebellion.
Let’s begin with the verses in question:
“I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you.”
(Proverbs 1:26)
“But you, O LORD, laugh at them; you hold all the nations in derision.”
(Psalm 59:8)
These verses describe a divine response to people who have continually rejected God’s wisdom and authority. The “mocking” here is not petty or vindictive. Instead, it expresses God’s holy disdain for stubborn rebellion—a rejection of His grace after repeated warnings.
God’s Mockery vs. Human Mockery
Human mockery is often rooted in pride, insecurity, or malice. It’s a way to tear others down and assert superiority. But God’s mockery, as shown in Scripture, is different. It’s a form of judicial irony—a way of showing how foolish it is to resist divine wisdom. Theologians refer to this as anthropopathic language—human emotions attributed to God so that we can understand His posture toward sin.
God’s “laughing” is not entertainment at human suffering—it’s a righteous response to the absurdity of rejecting His truth. As the apostle Paul says:
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”
(Galatians 6:7)
This aligns with the principle of divine justice—God warns, gives time for repentance, and then allows consequences to follow.
God’s Ultimate Purpose: Redemption, Not Ruin
Even in judgment, God’s goal is not destruction but repentance. Look again at the fuller context of Proverbs 1:
“Repent at my rebuke! Then I will pour out my thoughts to you, I will make known to you my teachings.”
(Proverbs 1:23)
Here, the offer of grace comes before the warning of judgment. God first calls people to turn and listen. Only after they repeatedly refuse does He pronounce judgment.
Likewise, in Lamentations 3:31–33, we see God’s heart behind discipline:
“For no one is cast off by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he will show compassion, so great is his unfailing love. For he does not willingly bring affliction or grief to anyone.”
(Lamentations 3:31–33)
This shows that even when God allows sorrow or discipline, it’s not from a place of delight, but of redemptive love. His justice is always paired with mercy.
What Should We Learn from This?
These passages challenge us to examine how we respond to God’s voice. Do we resist correction, or do we humbly turn back to Him?
God doesn’t desire to mock us. He desires to redeem us. But if we persist in ignoring Him, we may face the natural and divine consequences of that rejection.
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts…”
(Hebrews 3:15)
Mercy Still Speaks
God’s mockery is not the final word—His mercy is. The same God who laughs at rebellion also welcomes the repentant with open arms. If we respond now, before the “day of calamity” comes, we can receive His Spirit, His wisdom, and His peace.
Turn from sin. Seek the Lord while He may be found. He is not waiting to laugh at your fall—He is waiting to rejoice over your return.
Come, Lord Jesus!
Then It Goes and Brings Seven More Spirits”
Spiritual Emptiness and True Repentance
(Luke 11:24–26)
Jesus gives us a sobering warning about spiritual life and deliverance in Luke 11:24–26:
“When an impure spirit comes out of a person, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. Then it says, ‘I will return to the house I left.’
When it arrives, it finds the house swept clean and put in order.
Then it goes and takes seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that person is worse than the first.”
This passage reveals important truths about spiritual warfare, the danger of spiritual complacency, and the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit.
1. Dry Places Represent Spiritual Emptiness
When Jesus says the impure spirit goes through “arid places” or “waterless places,” He uses symbolic language. In Scripture, water often represents the Holy Spirit and spiritual life.
John 4:14
“But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Theologically, a “dry” or “empty” heart is one without the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. It may be morally reformed, but it’s not spiritually reborn (cf. Titus 3:5). Deliverance without transformation leaves a vacuum. Evil doesn’t just leave—it returns if the space is unoccupied.
2. Demons Seek Reinforcement and Re-Entry
In the parable, the spirit returns to find its former “house” empty, though clean and orderly. This shows that moral reformation without spiritual regeneration is insufficient.
Rather than returning alone, the spirit brings seven more wicked spirits. This number suggests completeness in evil (cf. Matthew 12:45), showing how evil multiplies in a soul not filled with Christ.
Why does it bring stronger spirits? Theologically, this is a strategy of the kingdom of darkness—to fortify demonic strongholds (Ephesians 6:12) in people who remain vulnerable.
This illustrates why true deliverance must be followed by discipleship, not just emotional experiences. A saved soul must be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18), rooted in the Word (Colossians 3:16), and walking in obedience.
3. The Danger of Lukewarmness
Revelation 3:16
“So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
A lukewarm Christian—half in the world, half in the faith—is vulnerable to spiritual attack. The story of Mary Magdalene reminds us of this.
Mark 16:9
“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.”
Mary had been deeply oppressed—likely due to an uncommitted, spiritually open lifestyle. But once she encountered Jesus, she followed Him faithfully (cf. Luke 8:2), showing that true discipleship is the only way to lasting freedom.
4. Religious Activity Without Repentance Is Dangerous
Attending church, giving offerings, and taking part in religious rituals while still living in sin (e.g., fornication, drunkenness, sorcery, etc.) is a contradiction. These acts do not protect against demons—in fact, they can provoke stronger spiritual retaliation.
2 Timothy 3:5
“Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.”
When you mix sin with spiritual activity, you don’t fool the enemy or God. Evil spirits react defensively, bringing more wickedness to fortify their hold when they sense their position is threatened. That’s why many people’s lives get worse after hearing the Word—but choosing not to obey.
5. The Way Forward: Genuine Repentance and Spirit-Filled Living
Matthew 11:12
“From the days of John the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been subjected to violence, and violent people have been raiding it.”
The call to salvation is a serious one. Satan is active because he knows time is short (Revelation 12:12), but God has given us the tools to overcome through Jesus Christ.
If you’re ready to start again, here’s a prayer of repentance:
Prayer of Repentance
Heavenly Father, I come before You recognizing that I am a sinner. I have lived apart from You and done things that grieve Your heart. I ask for Your mercy today.
I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for my sins, and rose again for my justification.
I repent of all my sins and invite Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior.
Wash me clean by His blood, fill me with Your Holy Spirit, and make me a new creation.
Thank You for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
6. What to Do After Praying
- Turn away from sin (Acts 3:19). Repentance is not just a prayer—it’s a change in direction.
- Be baptized—by immersion, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).
- Join a Bible-teaching, Spirit-filled church where you can grow through fellowship, teaching, and worship.
- Read the Bible regularly and build a personal relationship with Jesus through prayer and obedience.
Deliverance without discipleship is dangerous. The Holy Spirit must not just visit your life—He must dwell in it. Let Christ rule in your heart, and there will be no place left for demons.
Should Christians Observe the 40-Day Memorial or Visit Graves for Rituals After a Funeral?
Many believers wonder whether it’s right to observe the 40-day memorial after someone dies, or to visit graves to pray or perform rituals. These practices may feel respectful, but are they biblical? Let’s explore their origins and see what Scripture says.
1. The Origin of the 40 – Day Memorial
The tradition of the 40-day memorial did not begin with Christianity. It actually comes from ancient Egyptian practices. When a notable person (like a king) died, the Egyptians would embalm the body for 40 days—applying preserving substances daily to prevent decay. After 40 days, the body would be wrapped and placed in a special coffin designed to last for centuries.
The Bible describes how Joseph, while living in Egypt, followed this Egyptian custom when his father Jacob (Israel) died:
Genesis 50:2–3
“Then Joseph directed the physicians in his service to embalm his father Israel. So the physicians embalmed him, taking a full forty days, for that was the time required for embalming. And the Egyptians mourned for him seventy days.”
Important note: this was not an Israelite practice—it was Egyptian. Joseph used it because he had lived most of his life in Egypt and adapted to its customs. But after God gave the Law through Moses, embalming and similar rituals were never commanded among God’s people.
Yes, the use of perfume or spices (like myrrh and aloes) was practiced for honoring the dead (see John 19:39), but there’s no biblical instruction to do this for 40 days, or as part of a spiritual ritual.
2. How the Tradition Entered Christianity
Centuries later, some began to associate the 40-day memorial with the 40 days Jesus appeared to His disciples after His resurrection. Based on this, a belief developed that a person’s soul roams the earth for 40 days before going to its final destination.
This idea led to the belief that prayers and rituals offered during these 40 days could influence the fate of the deceased—helping them reach heaven or avoid hell. Some people feel guilty if they don’t participate, thinking they’ve failed their loved ones spiritually.
3. What Does the Bible Actually Teach About Death?
The Bible clearly teaches that when a person dies, their eternal destiny is immediately sealed. There is no waiting period and no second chance after death.
Hebrews 9:27
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…”
Luke 16:22–23 (The story of Lazarus and the rich man)
“The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up…”
In both examples, the souls of the dead immediately went to their final destinations—paradise or torment. There is no biblical evidence of a soul wandering for 40 days.
Moreover, Jesus’ 40 days after resurrection were not the actions of a spirit or ghost. He had a glorified, physical body (Luke 24:39), and His tomb was empty—not because His spirit left, but because He was alive.
Luke 24:39
“Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.”
So, equating Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances with 40-day soul wandering is theologically inaccurate and misleading.
4. Should Christians Participate in 40-Day Memorials?
The 40-day memorial is not a biblical command or Christian requirement—it’s a cultural practice. Participating in it as a spiritual ritual (to benefit the dead) is not supported by Scripture.
That said, if you’re invited to such a gathering by family or friends who don’t know the truth yet, you can choose to attend out of love—but do so with wisdom. Don’t participate in rituals for the dead. Instead, use the opportunity to show the love of Christ and, when possible, share the hope of eternal life in Jesus.
5. What About Visiting Graves?
Visiting graves is not wrong in itself. It can be a sign of respect, remembrance, and maintaining order (just like caring for a garden or home). However, visiting graves for the purpose of praying to the dead, seeking their blessing, or trying to change their eternal fate is unbiblical.
Deuteronomy 18:10–12 strongly warns against communicating with the dead:
“Let no one be found among you… who practices divination or sorcery… or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord…”
Our prayers are to be directed to God alone, not the departed.
Our hope is in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who conquered death and offers eternal life to all who believe in Him—now, not 40 days later.
John 11:25–26
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?'”
“Take Him Safely”
Have you ever made a decision thinking it was harmless, only to realize later that it caused much more damage than you ever expected? That’s what happened to Judas Iscariot—a man who walked with Jesus, saw miracles, heard truth from the source of life—and yet made a tragic choice that led to his death.
Judas’ Intention Wasn’t Murder—It Was Money
Many people assume Judas betrayed Jesus purely out of hatred. But Scripture paints a more complex picture. Judas’ betrayal stemmed from greed, not necessarily a desire to see Jesus die.
“Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, ‘What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?’ So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.”
— Matthew 26:14–15
The price Judas accepted was the cost of a slave (Exodus 21:32), signaling that he had already devalued Jesus in his heart.
But here’s what many overlook: Judas assumed that after Jesus was arrested, He would be rebuked or punished—but not killed. We see that in Judas’ own words during the betrayal:
“Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: ‘The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away safely.’”
— Mark 14:44
Those last three words—“lead him away safely”—show that Judas never intended harm on Jesus. He believed things would go differently.
The Tragedy of Misjudging Sin
But Judas had completely misjudged the seriousness of his actions. When he realized the religious leaders had already condemned Jesus to death, he was overwhelmed with remorse.
“When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver… ‘I have sinned,’ he said, ‘for I have betrayed innocent blood.’”
— Matthew 27:3–4
This moment is crucial theologically: Judas acknowledged Jesus’ innocence, fulfilling Isaiah 53:9
“…though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.”
— Isaiah 53:9b
But remorse is not the same as repentance. Judas felt guilty, but rather than returning to Jesus for forgiveness, he turned inward and ultimately took his own life.
“So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.”
— Matthew 27:5
His story mirrors 2 Corinthians 7:10:
“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”
— 2 Corinthians 7:10
Judas experienced worldly sorrow—pain without restoration—because he missed the one thing that could save him: returning to Jesus.
The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Judas’ story is a warning: sin often looks like a small, manageable decision. You might think, “I’ll just do this once. I can always repent later.” But sin doesn’t come with a warning label—it comes with a wage.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
— Romans 6:23
Notice, it says “wages,” not “punishment.” That means sin earns death as its natural result—not always immediately, but ultimately and inevitably.
Sin is not measured by how it feels or what you’ve gotten away with in the past. It’s measured by what God says it produces: spiritual death, brokenness, and separation from Him.
Even Samson, who thought he could toy with sin, found himself blind, chained, and broken (Judges 16). Just like Judas, he didn’t expect that moment to be his last.
Betrayal and Sovereignty
Though Judas acted out of free will and was held accountable, Scripture also affirms that Jesus’ death was not an accident—it was part of God’s sovereign plan for redemption.
“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death…”
— Acts 2:23
This paradox teaches us two things:
- God’s plan of salvation will not be stopped, even by betrayal.
- We are still responsible for the choices we make—even when we think we know how they’ll turn out
Don’t Underestimate Sin
You might be in a place where you’re tempted to “just sin once” and then repent later. But what if that sin leads you further than you planned to go? What if, like Judas, it introduces consequences you never saw coming?
Let me lovingly warn you:
That relationship you’re planning to compromise for, that secret sin you’re justifying in your heart—it could become the turning point of your spiritual downfall.
As one preacher said, “Don’t be afraid of the devil—be afraid of sin.”
Because Scripture never says the wages of the devil is death.
It says:
“The wages of sin is death.”
— Romans 6:23
Final Prayer
Lord Jesus, open our eyes to see the true cost of sin. Give us grace to resist temptation, strength to walk in obedience, and the wisdom to run to You—not away from You—when we fall. May we never trade temporary gain for eternal loss. Amen.
WHAT IS GENTLENESS?
Definition & Illustration
Gentleness is the ability to stay calm, kind, and nonviolent—even when you have the strength or right to respond otherwise. It is not weakness; rather, it is strength under control. It is the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and a reflection of Christ’s character.
Imagine the difference between a snake and a cow. The snake is small, weak, and limbless, but it’s quick to strike. A cow, however, is massive, strong, and horned—but we feel safer around it. Why? Because a cow is naturally gentle, whereas a snake attacks even without provocation.
This shows us that gentleness isn’t about physical strength—it’s about inner strength and self-control.
GENTLENESS IN SCRIPTURE: TWO BIBLICAL EXAMPLES
1. Jesus Christ – The Gentle Savior
Jesus Himself described His character:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
— Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus was gentle like a lamb (John 1:29). The Holy Spirit descended on Him in the form of a dove (Luke 3:22), symbolizing peace and purity. A dove won’t rest in a place of noise or chaos, nor on a fierce animal—it seeks stillness. That’s why the Spirit rested on Jesus: He was spiritually calm, pure, and obedient.
Although He is also called the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5)—a symbol of power—He chose to come in gentleness. That’s real meekness: possessing great power, but restraining it in love. Philippians 2:6-7 tells us that though Jesus was divine, He “did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage,” but humbled Himself.
His gentleness attracted people. It still does today.
2. Moses – The Humble Leader
Scripture says this about Moses:
“Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.”
— Numbers 12:3
The Hebrew word used here also implies gentleness. Despite his great authority and prophetic power, Moses did not boast or act harshly. He led a difficult people with patience and compassion. His closeness with God was deeply tied to his meekness.
This shows us that gentleness invites God’s presence and favor. It is not just a personality trait; it’s a spiritual posture that God honors.
GENTLENESS IS A FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Paul teaches in Galatians 5:22-23
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
Gentleness isn’t natural—it’s supernatural. It’s formed in us as we yield to the Holy Spirit.
HOW TO BECOME GENTLE
1. Humble Yourself
God honors humility. James 4:6 says:
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
Admitting weakness, accepting correction, and submitting to God are steps toward gentleness. Those who refuse to be led will never grow in this grace.
2. Control Your Anger
Proverbs 15:1 says:
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Gentleness is tested when you’re wronged. When you respond without retaliation, you reflect Christ. Practice silence over shouting, prayer over pride.
3. Stay in the Word and in Prayer
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Reading Scripture renews your thoughts and softens your heart. Prayer draws you closer to the Holy Spirit, who produces gentleness within you.
Gentleness is not optional for a believer—it’s a sign of spiritual maturity. Jesus was gentle. Moses was gentle. If we want to walk closely with God and be a light in this world, we must seek gentleness too.
Let us pray:
“Lord, make us gentle like Christ. Teach us to lead with humility, respond with patience, and walk in the Spirit daily. Amen.”
DORCAS, ALSO KNOWN AS GAZELLE
Acts 9:36
“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.”
In this short passage, we find profound theological truths hidden within a simple biography. Tabitha, or Dorcas, wasn’t just a kind woman—she was a symbol of what the Church is called to be: active, generous, and spiritually alert.
1. The Significance of Names in Scripture
When the Bible gives the meaning of someone’s name, it’s intentional. In ancient Jewish culture, names carried deep spiritual symbolism. Just as God changed Abram’s name to Abraham (Genesis 17:5), or Saul became Paul (Acts 13:9), names often reflected a person’s divine calling or character.
John 1:42
“And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas’ (which, when translated, is Peter).”
“Peter,” or “Petros” in Greek, means rock. Jesus uses this symbol to point toward the foundational revelation that Peter received about Him.
Matthew 16:18
“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”
This shows that name meanings can represent a person’s spiritual identity and destiny. Likewise, Tabitha is called “Dorcas,” meaning gazelle—a choice filled with spiritual meaning.
2. Why a Gazelle?
A gazelle is swift, agile, and graceful. In biblical symbolism, animals like gazelles (or deer) often represent spiritual readiness, strength, and mobility in God’s service.
2 Samuel 2:18
“Now Zeruiah’s three sons were there: Joab, Abishai and Asahel. Now Asahel was as fleet-footed as a wild gazelle.”
1 Chronicles 12:8
“Some Gadites defected to David at his stronghold in the wilderness. They were brave warriors, ready for battle and able to handle the shield and spear. Their faces were the faces of lions, and they were as swift as gazelles in the mountains.”
Habakkuk 3:19
“The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.”
Dorcas is likened to a gazelle not because of physical beauty or speed alone, but to emphasize her spiritual agility—she was quick to act in kindness, fast to serve, and always ready to help others.
3. The Gospel in Action
Dorcas’ lifestyle reflects the teachings of Jesus:
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
She practiced James 1:27
“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress…”
Dorcas wasn’t a preacher or apostle, yet her deeds carried the fragrance of the Gospel. She clothed the needy, cared for widows, and supported the Church—acts of mercy that reflected the heart of Christ.
4. Divine Response to Human Readiness
After she died, the community in Joppa did something remarkable—they sent for Peter. Other people may have died around the same time, but it was Dorcas they pleaded for. That shows her spiritual impact.
Acts 9:39–40
“Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up.”
God honored her life by resurrecting her, showing how He values the faithfulness of His servants.
Reflection
Are we like Dorcas—swift to give, help, and serve?
Do we need to wait for reminders, or are we spiritually agile—ready to respond to the needs around us?
Let us not delay in doing good, so that when we are in need, God also will be swift to act.
Hebrews 6:10
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Final Prayer
Lord, make our feet swift to obey, like the feet of Dorcas. May we reflect Your heart through our actions, and may Your Spirit make us ready and willing to do good at all times.
Shalom.
Let me know if you’d like this formatted as a sermon, devotional, or Bible study handout!
Is It Really Necessary to Partake in the Lord’s Supper?
Some believers may wonder: If I choose not to participate in the Lord’s Supper for personal reasons—perhaps discomfort or lack of desire—but I still follow other Christian teachings, will I still be saved?
This is a serious and important question, and the answer according to Scripture is clear: No—deliberately refusing the Lord’s Supper puts one’s salvation at risk.
1. Some Commands in Scripture Are Optional—Others Are Not
There are teachings in the Bible that are optional, like marriage. Scripture gives principles for marriage, but it does not require everyone to marry.
1 Corinthians 7:1–2
“It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.”
Choosing not to marry is a valid and acceptable choice. It does not violate any biblical command.
However, some practices are mandatory for all believers, and partaking in the Lord’s Supper is one of them. Others include baptism and, in some traditions, foot washing.
2. The Lord’s Supper Is a Command, Not a Suggestion
The Lord’s Supper—also called Communion—is not just a church tradition. It is a command given by Jesus Himself.
In John 6:53–54 in, Jesus says:
“Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.
Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.”
This is a strong and direct statement. Jesus ties eternal life and resurrection to participation in His body and blood—symbolized in the bread and the cup.
This is why deliberately avoiding the Lord’s Supper—even if you follow other commands—puts you outside the promise of eternal life. You are refusing a channel of grace and obedience that Jesus said is essential.
3. We Must Obey God on His Terms, Not Ours
The Christian life is not lived on personal preferences. We don’t get to say, “I don’t like bread,” or “I feel uncomfortable with wine,” and excuse ourselves from the Lord’s commands.
When Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper, He said:
Luke 22:19
“This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
“Do this” is a command. Just like baptism is not optional (Mark 16:16), the Lord’s Supper is not optional for those who have received Christ.
Avoiding these acts deliberately, even when you understand their importance, is a form of rebellion.
4. Willful Disobedience After Knowing the Truth Brings Judgment
There may be grace for people who have never heard or been taught about the necessity of the Lord’s Supper. But for those of us who have heard, understood, and still choose not to obey—we are without excuse.
Hebrews 10:26
“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins…”
To willfully reject the Lord’s Supper after knowing its importance is to knowingly reject one of Christ’s commands.
5. Examine Yourself Before You Partake—But Still Partake
Some avoid the Lord’s Supper out of fear that they are not “worthy.” But Scripture does not tell us to avoid it—it tells us to examine ourselves first and then participate.
1 Corinthians 11:27–29
“Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.
But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.
For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body.”
We should not be casual about the Lord’s Supper—but we also should not avoid it. The solution is repentance and preparation, not disobedience.
May we honor the Lord’s command, walk in humility, and remain faithful until the day of His return.
Grace and peace to you.
DO NOT BE AN ENEMY OF GOD
1. The Spiritual Reality of Allegiances
While traveling one day, I heard someone say on the radio:
“The friend of your enemy is also your enemy.”
It means that if someone supports your opponent—even unknowingly—they align themselves against you.
This might seem like a worldly saying, but it mirrors a powerful spiritual truth in Scripture: whoever chooses to be a friend of the world, becomes an enemy of God.
2. Friendship with the World Equals Opposition to God
James 4:4
“Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.”
The word “adulterers” here is spiritual—it refers to people who have committed spiritual infidelity, turning away from God to love the world. Friendship with the world is not neutral; it’s betrayal.
To be God’s friend, you must be separate from the world’s value system.
3. What Does “The World” Mean in Scripture?
The “world” in this context doesn’t refer to creation or people—it refers to a spiritual system of rebellion under Satan’s control. This includes ungodly desires, entertainment, pride, and materialism.
1 John 2:15–17
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.”
When we love what the world loves, we reject what God loves. The world is passing away—but the one who follows Christ will live eternally.
4. The Devil’s Influence Over the World
Luke 4:5–6
“Then the devil, taking Him [Jesus] up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.
And the devil said to Him, ‘All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish.’”
Satan offered Jesus the world’s kingdoms because they are under his influence. When people pursue worldly pleasures and values—fame, wealth, power—they unknowingly honor the devil’s system, not God’s.
5. Common Forms of Worldliness
Being a “friend of the world” can look like:
- Loving secular entertainment that glorifies sin
- Listening to music that promotes immorality or pride
- Watching films and shows filled with profanity and sexual sin
- Participating in gambling, betting, or violent sports
- Chasing fashion, social media fame, and material status
These things are not spiritually neutral.
They shape our hearts, desensitize us to sin, and turn our love away from God.
6. The Judgment Reserved for God’s Enemies
God is merciful—but He is also just. Those who remain in rebellion, as His enemies, face His judgment.
Jeremiah 46:10
“For this is the day of the Lord God of hosts, a day of vengeance, that He may avenge Himself on His adversaries…”
Nahum 1:2
“God is jealous, and the Lord avenges; The Lord avenges and is furious. The Lord will take vengeance on His adversaries, and He reserves wrath for His enemies.”
Hell is real, and God’s wrath is coming upon all who reject His lordship and embrace the world.
7. What Shall It Profit?
Jesus challenges us to think eternally:
Mark 8:36–37
“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”
No amount of worldly success is worth eternal loss. It’s time to choose whom you’ll serve—Christ or the world.
8. A Call to Repentance and Salvation
If you realize today that you’ve been a friend of the world and therefore an enemy of God, there is hope. Jesus died to reconcile enemies back to God (Romans 5:10).
Today, you can become His friend and follower by turning from sin and surrendering fully to Him.
Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come to You today. I realize I’ve lived in ways that made me Your enemy. I’ve loved the world and rejected Your ways. I repent of my sins—all the things I’ve done knowingly and unknowingly.
Lord Jesus, I believe You died for me and rose again. I accept You as my Savior and Lord. Forgive me and cleanse me. Today I renounce Satan, I reject the world and its desires, and I surrender my life to You.
Holy Spirit, come into my life. Strengthen me to walk in truth, and separate myself from everything that displeases God. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me. In Your name I pray, Amen.
9. What to Do After This Decision
If you prayed that prayer with sincerity and faith, welcome into God’s family. Here are the next steps:
a) Separate Yourself from Worldly Influence
Delete ungodly music, TV shows, gambling apps, and anything that tempts you to sin. Give the Holy Spirit room to work.
b) Surround Yourself with Godly People
Let go of friendships that pull you into sin. Seek those who talk about Christ, pray, and pursue righteousness.
c) Read Your Bible and Pray Daily
Start with the Gospel of John. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand.
d) Get Baptized in the Name of Jesus
According to Acts 2:38
“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
This is not a symbolic act—it is a step of obedience and covenant with Christ.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
MARRIAGE INSIGHTS: The Role of In-Laws in God’s Design
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. To Him be glory, honor, and power forever. Amen.
This message continues our teaching series on Christian marriage—focusing on a critical, yet often neglected, area: the role of in-laws, particularly your father-in-law and mother-in-law, in building a godly and fruitful marriage.
1. Marriage Is a Covenant That Extends Beyond the Couple
Marriage is not just a bond between two people. It’s a covenant that unites two families. This covenant comes with responsibilities—not just to your spouse, but to your spouse’s family. The Bible tells us:
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
—Genesis 2:24
While this verse speaks of leaving the parental home to form a new unit, it does not suggest cutting ties or neglecting responsibilities to extended family—especially in-laws. In fact, biblical examples show the exact opposite: relationships with in-laws can be channels of blessing or sources of unnecessary strife, depending on how we handle them.
2. THE MOTHER-IN-LAW: A Channel of Favor
Let’s consider the story of Ruth and Naomi, her mother-in-law.
When Ruth’s husband died, she had every reason to return home and remarry, as her sister-in-law Orpah did. But Ruth clung to Naomi, choosing loyalty over convenience:
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’”
—Ruth 1:16
This wasn’t just emotional loyalty—it was spiritual insight. Ruth recognized the spiritual covering and destiny connection with Naomi. That decision positioned her for divine favor. She eventually married Boaz and became the great-grandmother of King David—and part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 1:5–6).
Key Principle: As a married woman, your honor and spiritual growth are not only nurtured through your husband, but also through how you relate to your mother-in-law. Don’t overlook the blessings God may want to give you through her.
Even if she is not perfect, humility and honor can unlock divine favor. As Scripture says:
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
—James 4:6
3. THE FATHER-IN-LAW: A Source of Wisdom
Now, for the men: your wife’s father is not just your wife’s dad—he can be a vessel of divine wisdom. Consider Moses and his father-in-law Jethro (also known as Reuel).
Moses had direct access to God. He led the Israelites, performed miracles, and received the Ten Commandments. Yet, in Exodus 18, we see that Jethro provided a leadership model that even Moses hadn’t received from God directly.
“Moses’ father-in-law replied, ‘What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out… Select capable men from all the people… Have them serve as officials… That will make your load lighter.’”
—Exodus 18:17–22
Moses listened:
“Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.”
—Exodus 18:24
Despite being a prophet, Moses received practical help and divine order through his father-in-law’s counsel—a powerful reminder that wisdom can come through human relationships, even when you’re spiritually mature.
Key Principle: As a husband, don’t disregard your father-in-law. His advice may not come through prophecy or miracles—but God can use him to stabilize your home, guide your decisions, or even save you from unnecessary burdens.
4. In-Law Relationships Are Part of Your Spiritual Health
Honoring your in-laws is not just a cultural or emotional duty—it’s a spiritual principle. The command to honor is broader than just parents:
“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
—Exodus 20:12
This includes all parental figures who become part of your family through marriage. If you ignore or disrespect them, you risk cutting off a channel of blessing that God Himself established.
Final Encouragement
Your in-laws are not random additions to your life. They are part of God’s design in your marriage journey. Whether they are kind or difficult, wise or flawed, God can use them to mature you, bless you, and guide you—if you walk in humility, wisdom, and honor.
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”
—Romans 12:10
So whether you’re a husband or wife, don’t isolate your marriage from your in-laws. Embrace your new spiritual family and see what God will do through them.
May the Lord bless your marriage, give you discernment, and fill your home with peace and favor.
