Question: What exactly is the “Book of the Wars of the Lord” mentioned in Numbers 21:14?
The phrase appears in Numbers 21:14 (NIV):
“That is why the Book of the Wars of the Lord says: ‘…Waheb in Suphah and the ravines of the Arnon…’”
This is the only place in the Bible where this mysterious book is mentioned. It is cited during the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness as they approached the land of Moab, highlighting a historical moment when God fought on their behalf.
The Book of the Wars of the Lord is believed to have been an ancient historical record or songbook, possibly written by the Israelites, documenting the battles where God intervened directly for His people. It may have contained war songs, poetic recounting of divine victories, and testimonies of God’s power and justice during Israel’s conquests.
Though it’s not preserved in the biblical canon, the fact that it’s cited implies that it was well-known and respected among the Israelites at the time. This book, along with others that have not survived, such as:
The Book of Jasher (2 Samuel 1:18; Joshua 10:13)
The Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel and Judah (1 Kings 14:19, 14:29)
The Records of Nathan the Prophet, Gad the Seer, and Samuel the Seer (1 Chronicles 29:29)
…shows that the biblical writers often referenced broader written histories as authoritative and trustworthy.
Some may wonder why God allowed such books to disappear. Theologically, the Bible itself answers this question in principle. The Apostle John writes:
“Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book.”
(John 20:30, NIV)
And again:
“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.”
(John 21:25, NIV)
In other words, God, in His sovereignty, chose to preserve only what is essential for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible is not a comprehensive record of every divine action, but it contains all that is necessary for salvation and spiritual life.
The mention of books like the Book of the Wars of the Lord reminds us that God’s work in history is vast and expansive far beyond what is recorded. Still, we have been given exactly what we need.
Unfortunately, many today neglect even this preserved Word. Consider this: You may have read millions of words in newspapers, social media posts, textbooks, and novels but have you read the whole Bible even once?
“Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.”
(1 Timothy 4:13, NIV)
Paul’s words to Timothy apply to us all. Studying God’s Word is a spiritual discipline and a divine command. It doesn’t require perfection just consistency and hunger for God.
Though the Book of the Wars of the Lord no longer exists, its mention reminds us of God’s active role in history and His commitment to His people. The Bible remains the divinely preserved, sufficient Word of God pointing us to Christ, who is the fulfillment of all God’s promises.
Let us commit ourselves to reading it diligently.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.”
Hosea 4:6 (ESV)
The “knowledge” spoken of here is not referring to academic achievement or formal education. While earthly knowledge has its value, Hosea is speaking of the knowledge of God a deep, reverent, and obedient understanding of who God is, His laws, His nature, and His will.
In the original Hebrew, the word used for “knowledge” is daʿat (דַּעַת), which often refers to intimate, experiential knowledge the kind that comes from relationship, not just information.
This is reinforced in:
Proverbs 1:7 (ESV)
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
The “fear of the Lord” means reverent awe and obedience not terror. It’s the foundation of true knowledge. Without it, a person is spiritually blind, no matter how intellectually accomplished they may be.
In Hosea’s time, Israel was suffering moral and spiritual decay. They had rejected God’s law, worshiped idols, and lived in rebellion. The priests had failed in their duty to teach God’s Word. The result? National destruction.
This is why God says, “because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me…”
Rejection of divine knowledge leads to God’s rejection, not out of cruelty, but as a consequence of violating His covenant.
Compare with:
Isaiah 5:13 (ESV)
“Therefore my people go into exile for lack of knowledge; their honored men go hungry, and their multitude is parched with thirst.”
Destruction, as used in Hosea 4:6, is not just physical ruin it includes spiritual loss, moral collapse, and eternal separation from God.
The enemy (Satan) thrives on ignorance. When people do not know God’s Word or His character, they are easily deceived, manipulated, and destroyed.
Proverbs 4:13 (ESV)
“Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life.”
God’s wisdom is not optional it’s a lifeline.
Jesus echoes this in the New Testament:
Matthew 13:52 (ESV)
“Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.”
Here, Jesus speaks of the educated in the Kingdom of Heaven not worldly scholars, but those instructed in the things of God.
In Proverbs 1:24–33, we’re warned about the outcome of ignoring God’s voice:
Proverbs 1:29–30 (ESV)
“Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, would have none of my counsel and despised all my reproof…”
This shows that rejecting divine wisdom leads to ruin. Not because God is eager to punish, but because His wisdom is the only true protection against sin, chaos, and death.
Proverbs 1:33 (ESV)
“But whoever listens to me will dwell secure and will be at ease, without dread of disaster.”
Without spiritual knowledge:
We fear witches instead of fearing God.
We can’t discern the times or understand prophecy.
We are vulnerable to deception, false teachers, and spiritual traps.
We may live morally or religiously yet be eternally lost.
Jesus warned:
Matthew 22:29 (ESV)
“You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God.”
This was said to the Sadducees religious leaders who were “educated,” but lacked spiritual truth. The same can happen today.
God invites us not just to know about Him, but to know Him personally:
Jeremiah 9:23–24 (ESV)
“Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might… but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me…”
This is what we are called to pursue intimacy with God, not just theology or religion.
John 17:3 (ESV)
“And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”
The call is urgent. You can be a doctor, professor, engineer, or politician but without the knowledge of God, Heaven sees you as spiritually uneducated. And if this knowledge is rejected, the end is destruction in this life and the next.
Let us seek God’s truth, study His Word, and be filled with the knowledge of His will.
Colossians 1:9–10 (ESV)
“…that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord…”
May the Lord be with you.
To “fear God” doesn’t mean being terrified of Him like one would fear a tyrant. Biblically, the fear of the Lord refers to a deep reverence and awe for God recognizing His holiness, authority, and justice paired with a desire to obey and worship Him.
Fearing God is not just one aspect of Christian living; it is a foundational attitude that shapes every part of our spiritual life. It means:
Loving Him
Obeying His Word
Hating evil
Serving Him faithfully
Seeking His will
Worshiping Him with sincerity
As Ecclesiastes 12:13 (NIV) says:
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
Let’s explore the blessings that come from fearing God, as taught throughout Scripture.
Proverbs 14:27 (NIV)
“The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.”
This verse teaches that those who fear the Lord find a source of spiritual life and salvation. Fearing God leads us to repentance and a life of holiness, keeping us from sin and its consequences. Ultimately, it leads us toward eternal life in Christ (cf. John 17:3).
Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Genuine knowledge and understanding begin with acknowledging God as Creator and Lord. Without that foundation, all learning is incomplete. A reverent heart is teachable; a prideful heart is not.
Daniel 1:17, 20 (NIV) gives a real-life example:
“To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds… In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.”
This shows how fearing and honoring God produces supernatural wisdom that surpasses worldly knowledge.
Psalm 111:10 (NIV)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.”
Wisdom, in biblical terms, is not just knowledge it’s the ability to live rightly before God. King Solomon received divine wisdom because he first feared and honored God (1 Kings 3:5–14). When we fear God, He grants us discernment to navigate life and understand His Word more deeply.
James 1:5 (NIV) also assures us:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God… and it will be given to you.”
Proverbs 10:27 (NIV)
“The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.”
While not a guarantee of long physical life for every individual, the principle here is that a godly, disciplined, and morally upright life often results in better decisions, fewer destructive habits, and God’s providential care.
Examples: Abraham (Genesis 25:7–8), Job (Job 42:16–17), and Jacob (Genesis 47:28) all lived long lives, and they were known for fearing and obeying God.
Proverbs 14:26 (NIV)
“Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge.”
A life of faith and godliness creates spiritual covering for generations. Your fear of God can become the spiritual inheritance and foundation upon which your children build their lives, just as God blessed Abraham’s descendants because of Abraham’s faithfulness (Genesis 17:7; Psalm 103:17).
Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)
“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”
Godly prosperity is not just material wealth but includes peace, honor, and the fullness of life. It is a by-product of humility and obedience to God. When you seek first the kingdom of God, He promises to meet your needs (Matthew 6:33).
Jesus echoes this truth in Mark 10:29–30 (NIV):
“‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus replied, ‘no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age… and in the age to come eternal life.’”
Spending time in Scripture is key. The Bible reveals God’s character and teaches us how to live. God even commanded the kings of Israel to read the Law daily so they would learn to fear Him.
Deuteronomy 17:18–19 (NIV)
“He is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law… It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the Lord his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees.”
The fear of the Lord includes a hatred for sin and wickedness.
Proverbs 8:13 (NIV)
“To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech.”
We are called not only to avoid evil, but to oppose it as God does beginning with pride and rebellion, the root of all sin.
Regular prayer, worship, and reflection on God’s holiness help keep our hearts humble and submitted.
Hebrews 12:28–29 (NIV)
“…Let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’”
Sacrifice is central to the Christian faith. It is not just a ritual; it is a reflection of divine love and redemptive power. At the very core of Christianity lies the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who gave Himself completely for the salvation of mankind.
Ephesians 5:2 (NKJV)
“And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.”
Without the sacrifice of Jesus, humanity would still be lost in sin. His offering on the cross was not only substitutionary (He died in our place) but also propitiatory (He satisfied the wrath of God). He gave everything His blood, His body, and His life to reconcile us to the Father.
Hebrews 9:26 (NKJV)
“…but now, once at the end of the ages, He has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.”
This sets the divine precedent: if Jesus gave all for us, we, too, are called to live sacrificially for God and for one another.
Sacrifice in the biblical sense isn’t limited to money or material offerings. In fact, Scripture reveals a broader theology of sacrifice:
1 John 3:16 (NKJV)
“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”
However, this same passage points us to a deeper truth: while sacrificial love is noble, it must flow from a heart that is aligned with God’s Word.
We must be careful not to exalt sacrifice above obedience. This was King Saul’s grave error.
1 Samuel 15:22–23 (NKJV)
“So Samuel said: ‘Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams.
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.’”
Here we see that disobedience nullifies the value of sacrifice. Saul thought God would be pleased with extravagant sacrifices of livestock yet he disobeyed a direct command. His failure to obey revealed a deeper heart issue: he prioritized ritual over relationship.
This demonstrates the weakness of sacrifice it cannot compensate for willful disobedience. Sacrifices offered in disobedience become acts of self-justification, not worship.
Proverbs 21:3 (NKJV)
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
Some believers mistakenly think that generous giving, church attendance, or religious activities can cover for an unrepentant lifestyle. But Scripture firmly opposes this idea.
Malachi 1:13–14 (NKJV)
“You also say, ‘Oh, what a weariness!’ And you sneer at it,” says the Lord of hosts.
“And you bring the stolen, the lame, and the sick; thus you bring an offering!
Should I accept this from your hand?” says the Lord.
“But cursed be the deceiver who has in his flock a male, and takes a vow, but sacrifices to the Lord what is blemished.”
Even in Old Testament sacrificial law, the quality of the offering reflected the heart of the worshiper. A blemished sacrifice was a sign of dishonor to God and brought a curse, not a blessing.
Isaiah 1:13 (NKJV)
“Bring no more futile sacrifices; incense is an abomination to Me.”
This shows that without repentance, holiness, and submission to God’s Word, sacrifices even large or costly ones are meaningless before Him.
Jesus Himself taught that broken human relationships hinder our worship:
Matthew 5:23–24 (NKJV)
“Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you,
leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”
This passage highlights a critical truth: God values reconciliation and peace over religious performance. Giving without addressing bitterness or unresolved conflict makes the offering void in God’s eyes.
Romans 12:18 (NKJV)
“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”
No amount of giving can replace the command to live in peace. God is not moved by outward gifts alone; He weighs the motives and condition of the heart.
Some believe that sacrificial giving will secure their place in heaven, but the Bible is clear: only faith in Christ, evidenced by repentance and holy living, guarantees eternal life.
Galatians 5:19–21 (NKJV)
“Now the works of the flesh are evident… those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Revelation 21:8 (NKJV)
“But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”
Sacrifice cannot overwrite these judgments. Hell cannot be avoided through offerings it can only be escaped through repentance, faith, and obedience to Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 10:26 (NKJV)
“For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins.”
So, what kind of sacrifice does God accept?
Romans 12:1 (NKJV)
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.”
Psalm 51:17 (NKJV)
“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart these, O God, You will not despise.”
A truly acceptable sacrifice is:
Flowing from obedience
Accompanied by repentance
Given in humility
Offered in faith and love
You may have given many good and generous sacrifices and God sees that. But remember, no sacrifice can take the place of true surrender to Jesus Christ.
If you haven’t yet given your life to Jesus, now is the time. Salvation is not earned through giving it’s received through faith and repentance.
Acts 3:19 (NKJV)
“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.”
If you’ve already received Christ but your walk has grown lukewarm, reignite your passion for holiness. Jesus warned the lukewarm church:
Revelation 3:16 (NKJV)
“So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
Sacrifice is beautiful but obedience is better.
“Blessed be the name of the Lord!”
Welcome, and may our hearts be open as we reflect on the Scriptures and consider a vital question:
Do you truly value the Lord?
God’s Word is not only instruction it is illumination:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
(Psalm 119:105, ESV)
It directs our journey, not just for life on earth, but for the eternal road to heaven. But to walk in His light, we must first open our hearts to Him. This message invites us to evaluate whether we’ve truly made space real, practical, spiritual space for the Lord in our lives.
A foundational truth in Scripture is that God does not use people randomly He uses the prepared. He looks for availability before ability. Over and over in Scripture, the Lord chooses to work through those whose hearts are willing and yielded. Our refusal to be generous with what we have our time, energy, resources, homes often hinders what God desires to do through us and in us.
Let’s explore three biblical examples where the Lord chose people, not based on social status, but on the readiness of their hearts.
Mark 14:12–16 (ESV)
“And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, ‘Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?’
And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, ‘Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, “The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.’”
This man is unnamed in Scripture. Yet he plays a vital role in the most sacred meal in history the Last Supper. What do we know about him?
He had a home in Jerusalem with an upper room, which implies some measure of wealth or social standing (upper rooms were rare).
He was likely a disciple or silent follower of Jesus, as he instantly responds to the Lord’s request.
Most importantly, he had prepared the space before he was even asked.
Notice what Jesus says: “Where is my guest room?” (Mark 14:14, ESV). The Lord refers to the room as His own because when you dedicate something to God, it becomes His.
This man didn’t wait for a divine encounter to get ready he was already prepared. And because of his foresight and reverence, his house became the sacred site of the Lord’s final meal with His disciples, the institution of the New Covenant (Luke 22:19–20), and the setting for some of Jesus’ final teachings.
Mark 11:1–7 (ESV)
“And they went away and found a colt tied at a door outside in the street, and they untied it. And some of those standing there said to them, ‘What are you doing, untying the colt?’
And they told them what Jesus had said, and they let them go.”
Why did Jesus choose that donkey?
According to Zechariah 9:9, the Messiah was to enter Jerusalem riding on a donkey, not a warhorse symbolizing peace, not conquest.
“Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey…”
(Zechariah 9:9, ESV)
There were likely many donkeys in Bethphage and Bethany, but Jesus chose this one. Why?
Because the owners were willing. The disciples didn’t explain much just, “The Lord needs it.” And the owners didn’t argue or hesitate. Their response demonstrated faith, humility, and a readiness to serve, even in a small way.
Their seemingly ordinary donkey became part of an eternal moment Christ’s royal entry into Jerusalem.
Luke 4:25–26 (ESV)
“But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah… and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow.”
In 1 Kings 17, God sends Elijah not to a wealthy household in Israel but to a Gentile widow in a foreign land, who was gathering sticks to cook her last meal. Despite her poverty, she gave first to the prophet, and God multiplied her resources supernaturally (1 Kings 17:13–16).
Her faith and generosity in a moment of desperation made her household a place of miraculous provision.
In each story:
The people were not prominent or publicly recognized.
But they were ready with their hearts, homes, and resources.
because of that, their seemingly small acts were woven into God’s redemptive story.
The Lord is still looking:
“For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.”
(2 Chronicles 16:9a, ESV)
He’s not impressed by how much you have. But He is moved by how available you are. He’s looking for homes where He’s welcome, resources surrendered for His use, and hearts that say:
“Lord, all I have is Yours.”
In Matthew 25:31–46 (ESV), Jesus describes the final judgment. The righteous are invited into the kingdom not because of spectacular deeds, but because of simple acts of love feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, welcoming strangers.
“Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”
(v. 40)
The unrighteous, by contrast, are condemned not for what they did but for what they failed to do. They saw need, but ignored it. They had room, but never made it available.
If you are unwilling to surrender your “upper room” or your “donkey,” you cannot expect the presence and blessing of the Lord to rest on your life. God doesn’t dwell in unprepared places.
But if your heart says:
“Lord, I’ve prepared a space for You,”
“Lord, whatever I have is Yours,”
Lord, I value Your presence more than my possessions”
Then you’ve done something extraordinary in heaven’s eyes.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
(James 4:8a, ESV)
God isn’t asking for perfection He’s looking for preparation. He’s not requiring riches just a ready heart.
Be blessed!
Answer:
This is one of the most frequently asked questions in both philosophy and theology:
“If God created us, then who created God?” On the surface, it seems like a deep question but it actually rests on a mistaken assumption: that God, like everything else we know, must have a beginning.
Let’s start with a comparison. Imagine someone asking, “Since we eat to live, what does God eat to live?” The question sounds logical until you realize it applies human limitations to a being who is beyond them. God doesn’t need food, sleep, or energy. Why? Because He is self-existent He depends on nothing outside of Himself for His existence.
Scripture teaches clearly that God is eternal He has no beginning and no end. He was not created; He simply is.
“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
Psalm 90:2 (ESV)
“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 1:8 (ESV)
Every created thing needs a cause. But God, by definition, is uncaused. To ask “Who created God?” is to misunderstand what the word “God” even means in Christian theology. If something or someone created God, then that creator would be God instead.
One reason we struggle with this question is because our entire existence is bound by time we live in the realm of beginnings and endings. But God created time itself. He exists outside of time and space.
“With the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”
2 Peter 3:8 (ESV)
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”
Genesis 1:1 (ESV)
God existed before the beginning. He is the cause of all things but is Himself uncaused. This is what theologians call aseity God’s self-existence and independence from all else.
Our minds naturally seek causes for everything. That’s how science, logic, and daily reasoning work. But we are finite beings with finite understanding. God, on the other hand, is infinite, and He cannot be fully grasped by human logic.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.”
Isaiah 55:8 (ESV)
Trying to place God within our limited framework is like a phone trying to understand the life of the person who built it. Just as electronics run on batteries but their creators do not, we run on causes and effects but our Creator does not.
Even the fact that we are capable of asking this question points to the intentional design of our minds. God gave us the capacity to think deeply, question, and seek understanding. But not every question has an answer we can grasp. Some things remain mysteries not because they’re irrational, but because they’re beyond human reasoning.
“The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever…”
Deuteronomy 29:29 (ESV)
In Christian theology, God is the uncreated Creator. He alone is eternal, self-existent, and independent. To ask who created God is like asking, “What color is a square sound?” it’s a category error. It tries to apply the rules of creation to the One who made those rules.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made.”
John 1:1–3 (ESV)
Be blessed.
There are countless examples in Scripture of people who tried to reduce God to a transactional being someone they could consult only in times of trouble, without any relationship, repentance, or reverence. Tragically, many of these individuals ended up destroyed.
This is a critical warning to all believers: God is not a witch doctor. He is holy, and He demands holiness.
A witch doctor offers quick, impersonal solutions. Most who visit one don’t know them personally, don’t follow their teachings, and don’t intend to change their lifestyle. They simply want results answers, power, healing, or protection.
Unfortunately, this is how many people approach God today. They neglect Him in daily life, live in open rebellion, and harbor sin in their hearts but when a crisis hits, they run to Him for help. That is not faith. That is idolatry.
“Arise, go to Shiloh. Behold, Ahijah the prophet is there… But Ahijah could not see, for his eyes were dim… And the Lord said to Ahijah, ‘…Behold, the wife of Jeroboam is coming to inquire of you concerning her son…’”
1 Kings 14:2–5, ESV
King Jeroboam sent his wife, in disguise, to inquire of the prophet Ahijah about their sick son. Though the prophet had gone blind, God had already revealed the deceit. The message was not healing but judgment: their child would die, and disaster would fall on Jeroboam’s house.
Why? Because Jeroboam had led Israel into idolatry. He didn’t want relationship or repentance only results.
“And the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab, that he may go up and fall at Ramoth-gilead?’ … And the Lord said, ‘You are to entice him, and you shall succeed; go out and do so.’”
1 Kings 22:20,22, ESV
King Ahab wanted to go to war, and instead of seeking God sincerely, he listened to 400 prophets who falsely promised victory. These prophets were allowed by God to speak lies because Ahab had already rejected God’s truth long ago. He was fatally confirmed in his delusion.
This is a chilling example of divine judgment through deception (cf. Romans 1:24–25).
“God said to Balaam, ‘Go with the men, but only speak the word that I tell you.’ So Balaam went… But God’s anger was kindled because he went, and the angel of the Lord took his stand in the way as his adversary.”
Numbers 22:20–22, ESV
God allowed Balaam to go, yet He was angry. Why? Because Balaam’s heart was greedy (2 Peter 2:15). He wanted to serve his own interests while appearing obedient. The angel of the Lord stood in his path to kill him, and his donkey saw it before he did.
Permission is not always approval. Be warned.
“Son of man, these men have taken their idols into their hearts… Should I indeed let myself be consulted by them?”
Ezekiel 14:3, ESV
God told Ezekiel that even when people come outwardly seeking Him, if their hearts are filled with idols, He will not answer as they expect. In fact, He said:
“I the Lord will answer him myself… I will set my face against that man… And if the prophet is deceived, I the Lord have deceived that prophet.”
Ezekiel 14:4–9, ESV
God can, and sometimes does, deliberately allow deception as judgment especially when people persist in hypocrisy while seeking Him as a last resort.
Many modern believers behave the same way. They live in secret sin drunkenness, pornography, corruption, sexual immorality, idol worship, syncretism and yet go to church, request prayers, anointing oil, or prophecy. They want healing, financial blessings, and breakthroughs but not holiness or repentance.
This is spiritual adultery.
“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons.”
1 Corinthians 10:21, ESV
“Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.”
Hebrews 12:14, ESV
God is not interested in your church attendance, your offerings, or how many services you attend. He wants your heart and your holiness.
Maybe not physically at first, but spiritually you will die and eventually, if you persist, the judgment will follow.
“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.”
Galatians 6:7, ESV
“The wages of sin is death.”
Romans 6:23, ESV
If you’re still in sin, and you’re going to church, singing in the choir, or taking communion without repentance you’re not getting closer to God. You’re bringing judgment on yourself (1 Corinthians 11:27–30).
Return to the Lord. Seek Him with your whole heart. He is merciful to the truly repentant.
“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
James 4:8, ESV
Let go of religious games. Stop treating God like a witch doctor. Come to Him in spirit and truth because eternity is real, and God is not to be mocked.
Maranatha.
The Apostle Paul, writing to the Galatians, gives us two important and seemingly contrasting instructions:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
(Galatians 6:2, NIV)
“For each one should carry their own load.”
(Galatians 6:5, NIV)
At first glance, these verses might appear contradictory. However, upon closer examination, we see that they refer to two distinct aspects of Christian responsibility communal care and personal accountability.
The key lies in the original Greek words:
In Galatians 6:2, the word “burden” (Greek: barē) refers to heavy, overwhelming burdens those emotional, physical, or spiritual struggles that believers often can’t carry alone.
In Galatians 6:5, the word “load” (Greek: phortion) refers to a personal responsibility or duty like one’s own actions, moral accountability, and spiritual walk.
Interpretation:
While each believer is personally responsible for their own actions before God (Galatians 6:5; cf. Romans 14:12), the Christian community is called to assist one another in times of hardship (Galatians 6:2), fulfilling what Jesus called “the law of love”.
Paul says in verse 2 that by bearing one another’s burdens, we fulfill the law of Christ. What is this law?
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
(John 13:34)
The law of Christ is love sacrificial, active, and sincere love, modeled after Christ’s own life and ministry. It is the fulfillment of the moral law (cf. Romans 13:10), and it undergirds the entire New Covenant ethic.
The Apostle John challenges us not to settle for lip service in our faith:
“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
(1 John 3:17–18)
True Christian love is not passive. It is expressed in tangible ways through prayer, visitation, comfort, hospitality, financial help, and emotional support. Faith without works is dead (James 2:14–17).
Many believers underestimate the spiritual growth and increased grace that come from helping others:
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over…”
(Luke 6:38)
When you make it a lifestyle to help others, God’s grace increases over your life (2 Corinthians 9:8). As you continue to pour out, God continues to refill. You become a conduit of blessing, much like Abraham, who was blessed to be a blessing (Genesis 12:2).
When you withhold help whether due to fear, bitterness, envy, or selfishness you block the flow of grace through your life.
“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
(Proverbs 11:25)
Paul reminds us that self-sacrifice is the example Christ set:
“We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves… For even Christ did not please himself…”
(Romans 15:1–3)
Helping others is not optional; it is a mark of maturity and a sign that Christ is truly being formed in us (Galatians 4:19). The strong have a divine obligation to support the weak—whether spiritually, emotionally, or materially.
One of the greatest ways to carry someone’s burden is to share the truth of the gospel and any spiritual insight God has given you. Don’t hoard revelation:
“Every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.”
(Matthew 13:52)
God won’t give you more if you aren’t faithful with what He’s already revealed. Refusing to share what God has given—out of fear that others might outshine you or not credit you only closes your spiritual pipeline. But generosity in teaching and encouragement opens doors for more insight, influence, and spiritual impact.
If you know someone is struggling don’t wait for them to come to you. If you know how to help, step in. Whether it’s job connections, financial advice, or spiritual counsel, use your gifts for the benefit of the body of Christ.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
(1 Peter 4:10, ESV)
Don’t hold back help because someone is more successful than you. Remember: God rewards faithfulness, not competition. He sees your heart and will reward what is done in secret (Matthew 6:4).
Everything whether spiritual or practical must be rooted in the Law of Christ: Love.
To carry each other’s burdens is to fulfill this law, to live out Christ’s example, and to walk in the grace of God.
“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
(John 15:12)
Amen.
Question: Among us believers, if someone says, “Please pray for me, I have a problem,” but when you ask what the problem is, they won’t tell you saying it’s a secret in their heart should we still pray for that secret issue? Welcome, friends.
Answer: There are prayers we can offer for one another without needing to know the specific details. For example, we can pray that God protects our loved ones from harm, that He remembers them in His kingdom, grants them salvation, good health, strength to stand firm in faith, peace, love, and success. These are prayers we should regularly speak over all our brothers and sisters, both physically and spiritually. This aligns with the biblical teaching of intercession and mutual encouragement within the Body of Christ.
The Apostle Paul models this in his letter to the Colossians:
Colossians 1:9-10 (NIV)
“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.”
This passage highlights how prayer is empowered by the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and understanding, leading to growth and fruitful living.
However, there are situations where a person must openly share their burden for effective prayer support. James 5:16 (NIV) says, “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” This emphasizes the importance of honesty and confession within the community for healing to take place.
When Scripture commands us to “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2, NIV), it means we must understand the nature and weight of others’ struggles to support them effectively. If a person hides their burden, it limits how the community can pray and assist.
Consider someone suffering from a long-term illness who only says, “Please pray for me,” without explaining the condition. While others may pray, the lack of information can hinder specific intercession and practical support. But when the person shares details, it enables others to pray with greater faith and understanding, offer biblical encouragement (Romans 15:4), and help meet tangible needs, facilitating more effective healing and restoration.
Of course, sharing must be done wisely. Proverbs 11:13 (NIV) warns, “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” Sensitive matters such as serious illnesses like HIV/AIDS, or legal and moral issues should be entrusted to mature and faithful believers. Meanwhile, issues like everyday sickness, marital struggles, or conflicts should be shared with trusted members of the faith community for prayer and support.
In summary, while it’s possible to pray for others generally without all the details, for your own spiritual and emotional well-being, you should share your burdens with trusted believers. Prayer is most powerful when it is accompanied by transparency and mutual care.
Do not carry your struggles alone if you desire effective prayer and support from others.
God bless you.
QUESTION:
The Bible tells us to greet one another with a holy kiss. What exactly does that mean?
In 1 Peter 5:14 (ESV), it says:
“Greet one another with the kiss of love. Peace to all of you who are in Christ.”
Does this mean, for instance, that if a godly woman meets me, she should kiss me on the cheek as a greeting? Or if I meet your wife on the street, and since we’re both believers, I kiss her and say “Shalom” is that the kind of kiss the Bible refers to?
ANSWER:
To understand this properly, we need to consider both the biblical text and its cultural-historical context.
The phrase “holy kiss” or “kiss of love” appears in several New Testament passages:
Romans 16:16 “Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the churches of Christ greet you.” (ESV)
1 Corinthians 16:20 “All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (ESV)
2 Corinthians 13:12 “Greet one another with a holy kiss.” (ESV)
1 Thessalonians 5:26 “Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss.” (ESV)
These repeated instructions from the Apostle Paul and once from Peter show that this greeting was common among early Christians. But what exactly did it mean?
In the ancient Greco-Roman world, kissing on the cheek was a standard form of respectful greeting, not unlike shaking hands or hugging today. It was used:
As a sign of friendship
To show mutual respect
And as a way to affirm kinship or loyalty
In Jewish tradition as well, a kiss was often used between family members and close companions. It was not romantic but symbolic of affection, trust, and peace.
Therefore, the “holy kiss” in Scripture refers to a ritual gesture among believers meant to express Christian love (ἀγάπη / agapē), unity, and fellowship, not romantic or sexual affection (eros).
The term “holy” (Greek: hagios) means set apart, pure, and sacred. So a holy kiss implies a sanctified gesture, free from impure motives or social impropriety.
It stands in contrast to Judas Iscariot’s infamous kiss of betrayal:
Matthew 26:48–49 (ESV)
“Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, ‘The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.’ And he came up to Jesus at once and said, ‘Greetings, Rabbi!’ And he kissed him.”
Here, Judas uses a familiar greeting for sinister purposes. That kiss was anything but holy.
Paul, on the other hand, envisioned the holy kiss as an act that:
Promoted unity in the Body of Christ
Affirmed spiritual kinship
And symbolized the peace and love of God shared among believers
Paul’s instruction to greet one another with a holy kiss was not a doctrinal command or a permanent church ordinance (like baptism or communion). It was:
A cultural expression of genuine Christian affection
Not a universal requirement for all times and cultures
Subject to change based on cultural norms and sensitivity
In today’s world, physical gestures like kissing may carry very different implications, especially across genders or in certain regions. In many cultures today, kissing someone not related to you especially of the opposite sex could easily be misunderstood, making it counterproductive to its original intent.
If Paul were writing to the church today, he might say:
“Greet one another with a holy handshake” or “a godly embrace” whatever is culturally understood as pure and respectful.
In today’s churches, acceptable alternatives to a holy kiss may include:
A warm handshake
A brief hug between same-gender believers
A verbal blessing or peaceful greeting (e.g., “Shalom,” “God bless you,” “Peace be with you”)
As long as the spirit behind the greeting is holy, the specific form doesn’t matter.
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.”
“But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.”
So, if you meet a fellow believer who is a woman, simply offering a respectful handshake is more than enough. It conveys the same love and peace that the holy kiss symbolized without the risk of confusion or impropriety.
Be blessed!