Isaiah 61:1–3 (NIV) “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,because the Lord has anointed meto proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captivesand release from darkness for the prisoners,to comfort all who mourn,and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,the oil of joy instead of mourning,and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.They will be called oaks of righteousness,a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.”
Isaiah 61:1–3 (NIV)
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,because the Lord has anointed meto proclaim good news to the poor.He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,to proclaim freedom for the captivesand release from darkness for the prisoners,to comfort all who mourn,and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,the oil of joy instead of mourning,and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.They will be called oaks of righteousness,a planting of the Lord for the display of His splendor.”
In Scripture, ashes symbolize mourning, repentance, destruction, and loss. They represent what remains when fire has consumed everything valuable. In the Old Testament, those in deep sorrow or repentance would sit in ashes or cover themselves with them to express grief and humility before God. Job did this when he lost everything (Job 2:8), and Mordecai tore his clothes and sat in ashes when he heard of the decree against the Jews (Esther 4:1).
But the Lord, through Isaiah, declares a divine exchange — beauty for ashes. The Hebrew word translated as “beauty” is pe’er, meaning a “beautiful headdress” or “crown of glory.” This means God replaces our shame and mourning with dignity, honor, and purpose. He restores what life and sin have destroyed.
Jesus Himself fulfilled this prophecy. In Luke 4:18–21 (NKJV), Jesus read
Isaiah 61 in the synagogue and proclaimed, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
Isaiah 61 in the synagogue and proclaimed,
“Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”
He is the Anointed One sent to bring spiritual restoration — to lift humanity out of the ashes of sin, despair, and death, and to crown them with eternal life and righteousness. This exchange is not merely emotional healing but the total transformation of a life surrendered to Him.
Throughout the Bible, God specializes in turning ashes into beauty.
Joseph was thrown into prison and forgotten — the ashes of betrayal and rejection — but God exalted him to the throne of Egypt (Genesis 41:39–41).
Peter denied Christ three times, yet through repentance, he was restored and became a foundational leader in the early Church (John 21:15–17).
Ruth, once a grieving widow, became the great-grandmother of King David, part of the lineage of Christ (Ruth 4:13–17).
These examples reveal that no matter how hopeless a situation appears, God can bring forth something glorious from what seems destroyed.
The divine exchange described in Isaiah 61:3 reflects the essence of the Gospel — the great substitution. Christ bore our sins, sorrows, and shame on the cross so that we might receive His righteousness, joy, and peace.
As 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
As 2 Corinthians 5:21 (NIV) says,
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”
This exchange of ashes for beauty is therefore both spiritual and practical — a transformation of the soul that manifests in renewed purpose, peace, and praise.
When Christ redeems a person, He does not merely remove their pain — He gives them a new identity. Believers are called “oaks of righteousness” — strong, deeply rooted, and enduring. This speaks of stability and divine planting. God restores us not only for our sake but so that His glory might be displayed through our lives (Isaiah 61:3b).
This means every testimony of restoration — every life raised from ashes — becomes a living witness of His grace and power.
True restoration begins when one surrenders to Christ. The beauty He offers cannot be found in the world but only in relationship with Him. As
Jesus said in John 15:5 (NIV), “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
Jesus said in John 15:5 (NIV),
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
If you are walking through the ashes of brokenness, loss, or sin, know this: Christ is ready to exchange your pain for His peace, your mourning for His joy, and your ashes for His beauty.
If you would like to receive this exchange today, pray from your heart:
“Lord Jesus, I come to You with my ashes — my pain, my failures, and my sins. I believe You died for me and rose again to give me new life. Today, I surrender my life to You. Clothe me with Your righteousness, fill me with Your Spirit, and make my life a testimony of Your beauty. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
May the Lord turn your ashes into beauty, your sorrow into joy, and your mourning into praise.
As Romans 8:28 (NIV) reminds us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
As Romans 8:28 (NIV) reminds us:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Your ashes today can become your crown tomorrow — if you are in Christ Jesus.
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One day, as Jesus was teaching in a certain house, a large crowd gathered there. Suddenly, some people brought a man who was completely paralyzed and could do nothing for himself. They laid him before Jesus, hoping that He would heal him. However, Jesus’ response was different from their expectations. He did not lay hands on the man and tell him to rise and walk. Instead, He said to him,
“Friend, your sins are forgiven.”(Luke 5:17-20)
Luke 5:17-20 (NKJV)[17] Now it happened on a certain day, as He was teaching, that there were Pharisees and teachers of the law sitting by, who had come out of every town of Galilee, Judea, and Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them.[18] Then behold, men brought on a bed a man who was paralyzed; whom they sought to bring in and lay before Him.[19] And when they could not find how they might bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the housetop and let him down with his bed through the tiling into the midst before Jesus.[20] When He saw their faith, He said to him, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.”
The human eye may see healing as a physical miracle, something external, something that can be visibly observed. But in God’s eyes, true healing begins with the forgiveness of sins. Once sins are forgiven, everything else follows.
The forgiveness of sins comes when we believe in Jesus Christ and truly repent. It is in this moment that we receive the forgiveness of our sins and, consequently, the healing of all other areas of our lives.
Colossians 1:13-14 (NKJV)[13] He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,[14] in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
Acts 26:18 (NKJV)[18] “to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.”
It is astonishing to see how people come to Jesus with their ailments some with physical paralysis, others with the paralysis of their careers, families, or personal lives hoping for healing in the ways they expect. Yet, when they encounter the Gospel of salvation and the message of repentance, they often shy away and run towards prayer and anointing oil, hoping for a quick fix.
Every issue we face whether physical, emotional, financial, or relational has its root in sin. When your life is laid bare before the Lord, and His light shines on it, true healing is found.
Do not run from this truth. Do not seek shortcuts or temporary solutions. First, receive forgiveness for your sins, and everything else will follow. Accept salvation, embrace life, and receive healing. What good is it if you gain the whole world, your health, your peace, and yet in the end, face eternal destruction in hell?
Mark 8:36-37 (NKJV)[36] For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?[37] Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
If you have not yet accepted Christ into your life that is, if you have not received the forgiveness of your sins then the time is now. Reach out to us at the contact number provided for guidance on how to receive Jesus as your Savior.
May the Lord bless you.
Shalom.
Matthew 20:6 (ESV) “And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’”
Matthew 20:6 (ESV)
“And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’”
Jesus told a parable in Matthew 20 that not only described the Kingdom of Heaven but also revealed a powerful truth about our role in God’s mission. The parable describes a landowner who hires laborers for his vineyard at different times throughout the day — early morning, 9 a.m., noon, 3 p.m., and finally, 5 p.m. (the eleventh hour).
Even with just one hour left in the workday, the master was still hiring.
He found people standing idle and asked a piercing question:“Why do you stand here idle all day?”
In this parable, the landowner represents God, the vineyard represents His Kingdom, and the workers represent believers who are called to serve. The different hours of the day represent different moments in life or history when people are called into ministry.
God is always calling laborers into His harvest field — no matter the time or circumstance.
Jesus said in another place:
Matthew 9:37–38, ESV “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”
Matthew 9:37–38, ESV
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”
The problem is not a lack of work — it’s a lack of willing workers.
Some may think, “It’s too late for me to serve God. I’ve wasted too much time.”But the parable teaches that even those who join the work late in the day — the eleventh-hour workers — are still welcome and still rewarded.
God’s grace isn’t bound by time.What matters is your obedience when you hear the call.
Romans 11:29, ESV For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” —
Romans 11:29, ESV
For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” —
Here are some of the most common reasons people delay or avoid serving in God’s vineyard — and what Scripture says in response.
Many feel they are not qualified:“I’m too young,” “I’m not educated,” “I don’t know the Bible,” “I’m shy,” “I don’t speak well.”
But God doesn’t call the equipped — He equips the called.
1 Corinthians 1:27, ESV “But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.”
1 Corinthians 1:27, ESV
“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.”
Look at Moses — he said:
Exodus 4:10 Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and of tongue.”
Exodus 4:10
Oh, my Lord, I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and of tongue.”
But God answered:
Exodus 4:11–12, ESV “Who has made man’s mouth?… Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth.”
Exodus 4:11–12, ESV
“Who has made man’s mouth?… Now therefore go, and I will be with your mouth.”
If God can use Moses, He can use you.
Some believers delay ministry, thinking they need a dramatic calling or special moment to serve. But the Great Commission has already been given to all believers:
Matthew 28:19, ESV Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”
Matthew 28:19, ESV
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…”
There is no need to wait for a voice from heaven.The time is now.
“2 Corinthians 6:2, ESV, Behold now is the favorable time; now is the day of salvation.” —
“2 Corinthians 6:2, ESV,
Behold now is the favorable time; now is the day of salvation.” —
You were called the moment you were saved.Don’t wait for permission — you already have it in Christ.
Worries about money, jobs, relationships, or personal security often distract believers from God’s mission.
Jesus warned us about this:
Matthew 13:22, ESV “But the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”
Matthew 13:22, ESV
“But the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.”
In Haggai’s time, people neglected rebuilding God’s temple to focus on their own homes and lives:
Haggai 1:4, ESV “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?”
Haggai 1:4, ESV
“Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?”
Don’t wait until you’re “settled” to serve God. That day may never come.
Matthew 6:33, ESV “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33, ESV
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
Let’s be honest — sometimes the issue is simply lack of motivation.We want results without effort. We prefer comfort over sacrifice.
But serving God costs something. Jesus said:
Luke 9:23, ESV “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Luke 9:23, ESV
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
The Gospel does not advance on autopilot. It spreads through intentional prayer, sacrifice, and action.
We are living in the eleventh hour — near the end of the age. There’s no time to waste.
John 9:4, NIV “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.”
John 9:4, NIV
“As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.”
The church doesn’t just need more listeners — it needs more laborers.
You have something to contribute:A testimony, a gift, a word of encouragement, a prayer.
You may not preach from a pulpit — but you can witness to a neighbor.You may not be a missionary overseas — but you can be one in your workplace, school, or community.
In the parable, all the workers — whether hired in the morning or at the eleventh hour — received the same reward (Matthew 20:10).
God doesn’t reward based on how long you’ve worked, but how faithfully you respond when He calls.
Start with what you know — Share your testimony, a Bible verse, or what you’ve learned in church.
Pray for opportunities to serve and witness.
Join your local church’s ministry or outreach — even small roles matter.
Don’t wait for a perfect moment — the time is now.
Corinthians 15:58, ESV “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
Corinthians 15:58, ESV
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
Don’t be content with being a churchgoer. Be a kingdom worker.
It’s not too late.It’s not too little.You are not too weak.God can and will use you — if you say yes.
Pass this message on to someone else. Be a witness.Be a worker in God’s vineyard.
If you want to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior, or you need guidance in your spiritual walk, please reach out to us using the contact information below.
God bless you.
One afternoon, while walking through a busy marketplace, I noticed a young man suddenly bend over and begin to vomit violently. His face showed deep pain and discomfort, and I was moved with compassion. Anyone who has ever experienced that level of sickness knows how unbearable it feels—it drains your strength and leaves you weak and helpless.
That vivid picture reflects what God feels toward spiritual lukewarmness. When believers live half-committed lives—neither fully surrendered nor completely rebellious—it nauseates Him. This is not a light matter; it reveals how seriously God values spiritual fervor and genuine devotion.
Jesus addressed the same issue in His message to the church in Laodicea:
Revelation 3:15–16, NKJV “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
Revelation 3:15–16, NKJV
“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
In the city of Laodicea, the water supply was known for being lukewarm—neither refreshingly cold like that of Colossae nor hot and healing like that of Hierapolis. The believers there mirrored their environment: complacent, self-satisfied, and spiritually indifferent.
Jesus used that physical reality to illustrate a spiritual truth. He detests half-hearted devotion. The Lord would rather have us cold (fully rejecting Him and knowing it) or hot (fully devoted to Him) than comfortably in-between—appearing religious but lacking true passion.
Lukewarm Christianity is deceptivel because it appears moral and active. A person may attend church, serve in ministry, and even use Christian language, yet remain spiritually dead inside. It’s the same hypocrisy Jesus rebuked in the Pharisees when He said:
Matthew 15:8, NIV “These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me.”
Matthew 15:8, NIV
“These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me.”
A lukewarm believer is religious but not transformed, moral but not holy, busy but not fruitful. They are like the fig tree that had leaves but bore no fruit, which Jesus cursed (Mark 11:13–14). Outwardly impressive, but inwardly barren.
Paul warned Timothy that in the last days, many would “have a form of godliness but deny its power” (2 Timothy 3:5, ESV). That is the essence of lukewarm living—religion without relationship, confession without conversion, and worship without obedience.
Jesus doesn’t just rebuke the Laodiceans; He also offers them a way back:
Revelation 3:18, NKJV “I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”
Revelation 3:18, NKJV
“I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”
This represents genuine faith that has been purified through trials (1 Peter 1:7). True spiritual wealth isn’t measured by possessions or success but by faith proven through obedience and endurance.
These symbolize righteousness through Christ. The Laodiceans were “naked,” meaning exposed in their sin. Only the righteousness of Jesus can clothe our spiritual shame (Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21).
This represents spiritual discernment. They thought they could see, but they were blind to their true condition. The Holy Spirit opens our eyes to see truth, convicting us of sin and guiding us into repentance (John 16:8–13).
Revelation 3:19, NKJV “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”—
Revelation 3:19, NKJV
“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”—
Christ’s rebuke is an expression of His love. God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6). His desire is not to condemn but to awaken us from spiritual sleep. He stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20), longing for renewed fellowship with His people.
Many think that once they confess Jesus as Lord, their journey is complete. But salvation is both a moment and a process. We are justified instantly, but sanctified continually.
Paul wrote:
Philippians 2:12–13, NKJV “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”
Philippians 2:12–13, NKJV
“Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”
A genuine Christian life is marked by growth, change, and spiritual fruit. Jesus said, “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire” (Matthew 7:19). To remain the same year after year without transformation is evidence of spiritual lukewarmness.
Today’s culture makes it easy to live a double life. Many believers maintain a Christian image on Sundays but indulge in worldliness throughout the week.
They post inappropriate content online yet speak of grace and blessings.
They sing gospel songs yet feed their souls with worldly entertainment.
They preach purity but secretly live in sin.
This contradiction deeply grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). True repentance is not lip service—it’s a complete change of direction (Acts 3:19).
If you’ve recognized lukewarmness in your life, Jesus is still knocking at the door of your heart. His promise remains:
1 John 1:9, KJV “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9, KJV
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Repentance isn’t about emotion—it’s about transformation. It’s turning fully to Christ, surrendering your will, and rekindling the fire of devotion through prayer, the Word, and obedience.
These are the last days. The signs of Christ’s return are unfolding before us, and the Rapture is drawing near. Jesus is coming for a bride that is pure, watchful, and spiritually alert—not one that is lukewarm or compromised.
Matthew 24:44, ESV “Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Matthew 24:44, ESV
“Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Only those who are spiritually hot—alive in faith and burning in devotion—will be caught up with Him. Those who remain lukewarm will be left behind.
Lord Jesus,I confess that I have not been fully devoted to You. Forgive my lukewarm heart and cleanse me from all compromise. Restore my passion for You and fill me with the fire of Your Holy Spirit. Teach me to live in holiness and truth, and to walk faithfully until You return.In Your precious name I pray, Amen.
Friend, God desires your whole heart, not half of it. Just as lukewarm water is tasteless, a lukewarm Christian is ineffective. But when the fire of the Holy Spirit burns within you, your life becomes a sweet aroma before God (2 Corinthians 2:15).
Let your heart burn again for Christ. Live for Him boldly, walk in purity, and be counted among those who are hot—for only those will see the Lord when He returns in glory.
Romans 12:11, NIV “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Romans 12:11, NIV
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
This teaching is especially intended for leaders in the Body of Christ whether pastors, elders, or anyone overseeing a group of people, even as few as two or three. If you have a flock under your care, this message is for you.
Exodus 32:9-10 (ESV): “And the Lord said to Moses, ‘I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them, in order that I may make a great nation of you.’”
When God called Moses to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt, He already knew the kind of people Moses would be dealing with. Moses may have assumed he was delivering a grateful and humble people. But the reality was far from it.
Despite witnessing astonishing miracles like the parting of the Red Sea, manna falling from heaven, water coming out of a rock, and the pillar of fire guiding them at night the Israelites still hardened their hearts. They crafted a golden calf and declared,
“This is your god, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 32:4).
They grumbled, gossiped, rebelled, and even formed factions against their God appointed leader.
At some point, every genuine servant of God will face a season like Moses did leading people who seem ungrateful, rebellious, and resistant to spiritual authority.
Many leaders reach a breaking point and say, “If this is what ministry looks like being betrayed, misunderstood, and repaid with rebellion then I might as well quit.” If you’ve thought that, it simply means you’re not alone, but it doesn’t mean you should quit.
God knew what kind of people Moses was dealing with“a stiff necked people.” And yet, He still gave them a shepherd. Even Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet He still allowed him to walk closely with Him and be counted among the twelve.
To be “stiff necked” is to be stubborn, resistant to correction, and unwilling to submit. It’s like an ox that refuses to accept the yoke from its master. These are people who, even after seeing great signs and wonders, still cling to gossip, pride, disobedience, and rebellion. And yet God entrusts such people to shepherds.
Moses dealt with idolaters, complainers, and those who quickly forgot the goodness of God.
Instead of abandoning them, Moses interceded for them. Even when God was ready to destroy the people and start over with Moses, Moses pleaded for mercy.
Exodus 32:32 (ESV): “But now, if you will forgive their sin, please do; but if not, please blot me out of your book that you have written.”
This is true leadership. A godly leader does not abandon their flock when they fail but goes to God in prayer, asking for grace and restoration.
A true shepherd is even willing to sacrifice himself for the sake of those under his care just as Jesus, the Good Shepherd, laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11).
True leadership is not about leading perfect people. It’s about leading imperfect people toward a perfect God. A faithful leader balances grace and truth (John 1:14).
Yes, Moses interceded, but not always. There were times he allowed the judgment of God to fall. When the golden calf was made, Moses called for those on the Lord’s side to separate themselves and those who remained in rebellion were judged by the sword (Exodus 32:25–28).
This teaches us that sin should never be tolerated in the house of God. At times, correction and even separation must take place for the health of the church. Just as Paul taught:
1 Corinthians 5:13 (ESV): “Purge the evil person from among you.”
Yet, through all this, a true leader must remain prayerful, patient, and courageous correcting in love, but also standing firmly for righteousness.
Ministry comes with hardship, rejection, and pain but the reward outweighs the cost. Leading God’s people is one of the highest honors and the greatest expressions of love toward God.
Proverbs 14:4 (KJV): “Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.”
Yes, the pen is messier when oxen are present, but they bring increase. Likewise, shepherding people is messy but it brings great eternal fruit.
To every pastor, leader, and overseer: Don’t give up. Lead with grace. Intercede like Moses. Correct when needed. And love the flock even when they have stiff necks.
This is what it means to be a faithful shepherd.
1 Peter 5:2-4 (ESV): “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you… And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.”
May the Lord strengthen you to shepherd His people faithfully.
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Blessed be the Name of the Savior JESUS, our Strong Tower (Proverbs 18:10).
We have not been called to love only ourselves, or to love only those who share our faith or belong to our families. Instead, we have been called to love even those who are distant from our faith, our culture, and even our ideologies. These are the people the Bible refers to as our “neighbors.”
Jesus teaches that love should not be confined to those who already love us. In His Sermon on the Mount, He clearly explains:
“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”— Matthew 5:46–48 (NIV)
In the Old Testament, people commonly understood their “neighbor” to mean someone from their own tribe, religion, or nation. As a result, the Israelites avoided association or fellowship with people from other nations, often viewing them as enemies. At the time, they weren’t necessarily wrong, because they didn’t yet have the full revelation of God’s love.
But when Jesus Christ came — the Mediator of the New Covenant (Hebrews 12:24) — He brought the full truth and clarified that our neighbor is not just someone of the same tribe or faith.
Jesus corrected the limited interpretation of neighborly love and taught a new, radical commandment:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good,and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.”— Matthew 5:43–45 (NIV)
This kind of love reflects the character of our heavenly Father — love that reaches both the just and the unjust, the good and the wicked.
One day, a lawyer tried to test Jesus by asking how to inherit eternal life. When Jesus told him to love God and love his neighbor, he sought to justify himself by asking:
“And who is my neighbor?”— Luke 10:29
Jesus answered with the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37), where a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho was attacked by robbers. A priest and a Levite (both fellow Jews) passed him by. But a Samaritan — considered an outsider and religious enemy by the Jews — stopped, cared for his wounds, and ensured his recovery.
Jesus then asked:
“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.’”— Luke 10:36–37 (NIV)
This parable powerfully illustrates that being a true neighbor means showing mercy, not just to those within our faith or tribe, but to anyone in need, regardless of differences in background or belief.
Jesus was teaching the Jews — and us today — that just as God makes the sun rise on the evil and the good, we too must shine the light of love, kindness, and generosity on all people — whether they are like us or not.
Limiting love based on religion, tribe, political affiliation, or race closes us off from experiencing and reflecting the fullness of God’s grace.
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High,because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”— Luke 6:35 (NIV)
Let’s be honest — loving our enemies or people completely different from us is not easy. In our human strength, we can’t do it. But God hasn’t left us alone.
He has given us the Holy Spirit to empower us and help us overcome our natural limitations.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”— Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
Let us, therefore, pray for grace, so that we can love beyond borders, and be perfect just as our Father in heaven is perfect.
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Blessed be the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Build a habit of reading the Bible. In these last days, the devil is putting extra effort into keeping people from reading or understanding the Word. Instead, people are encouraged to just listen to sermons or receive prayers, but not to read for themselves.
The truth is: if we want to hear God’s voice clearly, the way is to read His Word. If we want to see God, the solution is to read His Word. If we want to understand God on deeper levels, the answer is to read the Bible. If we want to live a life that pleases God, it is only through reading Scripture. Never neglect it.
Let us learn from the Lord Jesus when He met the lawyer. Consider what He said:
Luke 10:25-28 (ESV/NIV)
“And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, ‘Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him, ‘What is written in the Law? How do you read it?’ And he answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.’ And he said to him, ‘You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live.’”
Notice the words in verse 26: “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?”
I wonder why Jesus didn’t give him a direct answer. Instead, He returned the question: “What is written in the Law? How do you read it?”
The meaning is clear: if the lawyer did not know, Jesus wouldn’t have given him an answer outright. He would have told him to search the Scriptures. Even today, many of us ask the Lord questions whose answers are already in the Bible.
When we ask God something that’s already in His Word, He might answer us the same way He did the lawyer: “What is written in the Bible? How do you read it?”
We cannot force God to speak something He has already spoken in Scripture. When we ask for something that is already in the Bible, the response can only point us back to it: “What is written in the Bible? How do you read it?”
The one thing Satan wants us to ignore is God’s power—especially God’s power revealed in Scripture. How do we see this?
Mark 12:24 (ESV)
“Jesus said to them, ‘Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God?’”
Set a schedule for studying the Bible, child of God. Don’t stop at just listening to sermons or prayers—read, read, read! There will be times when you don’t know what to do or what to pray. Those are the moments to read the Bible, and you will discover what to do and how to pray.
The prophet Daniel was wise because he studied Scripture. He knew what to do through the Word, not just by visions or dreams.
Daniel 9:2-4 (ESV/NIV)
“In the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the Lord given to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years. Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking Him by prayer and pleas, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes. I prayed to the Lord my God and made confession, saying, ‘O Lord, great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him and keep His commandments.’”
Notice: reading the Bible is not just about finding a “verse of the day” to live by. Let the Word of the day be a summary of the greater portion you’ve studied.
May the Lord help us.
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DON’T GIVE YOUR CHILD EVERYTHING RIGHT AWAY(A Biblical Guide for Raising Godly Children)
As a parent, the best way to raise your child is not by indulging every desire immediately. Even if they deserve it, resist giving them everything just because you can. Godly parenting requires foresight: investing in your child’s character, discipline, and spiritual foundation now so they can stand firm tomorrow. Overindulgence can ruin not only their character but also their spiritual destiny.
Many parents fail to recognize a key biblical principle: even though a child is an heir, they must first live under guidance and discipline.
📖 Galatians 4:1–2 (NKJV)“Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a slave, though he is master of all, but is under guardians and stewards until the time appointed by the father.”
God’s design is that children learn to obey and grow in wisdom before inheriting wealth or authority. A child who receives everything too soon may grow proud, irresponsible, or spiritually weak.
A wise parent does not measure love by how much wealth they spend on their child today. True love seeks to build a life rooted in God’s wisdom.
Consider the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–31, NIV). The younger son demanded his inheritance early, left home, and squandered it in reckless living. Only when he reached rock bottom did he repent and return home. The father welcomed him with open arms, showing God’s heart of forgiveness and mercy.
Meanwhile, the older son, who had faithfully served, became resentful. Even though he had been obedient, he felt unappreciated. This illustrates that obedience and faithfulness are often tested before blessing, a principle God uses to shape character and faith.
📖 Romans 8:17 (NIV) — “Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”
Just as God’s children must endure discipline and trials, so too must human children learn responsibility before fully inheriting privileges.
Sadly, many modern parents do the opposite. They spoil their children with wealth and convenience — hiring staff to cook, clean, and serve, while the children spend hours on entertainment. This may seem loving, but it can produce modern prodigals: children who are entitled, spiritually weak, and unprepared for life.
When children misbehave, some parents hesitate to discipline them, fearing they might “suffer.” But the Bible teaches:
📖 Proverbs 13:24 (NIV) — “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” 📖 Hebrews 12:7–11 (NIV) — “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. … No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
📖 Proverbs 13:24 (NIV) — “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.”
📖 Hebrews 12:7–11 (NIV) — “Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. … No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”
Discipline is an act of love that prepares children for spiritual and moral strength. Without it, children remain vulnerable to sin and poor choices.
It is not necessary to give your child gourmet meals or satisfy every whim. Sometimes they should eat simple food — plain ugali and beans — to develop patience, gratitude, and humility. Let them experience small hardships; these are the building blocks of strength and resilience.
During school holidays, instead of beaches or parties, take your child to the village. Let them experience simple living: eat local food, fetch water, help with farming, or tend animals. Let them observe God’s creation, understand responsibility, and learn the dignity of work.
Meanwhile, a wise parent quietly prepares for the child’s future — saving, providing education, and building spiritual foundations. When the child matures, they will be capable, disciplined, and compassionate leaders, able to serve God and humanity faithfully.
True parenting is about making your child a servant today so they can become a king tomorrow. If you make them a king today, you may end up serving them tomorrow — like the elder son in the parable.
📖 Proverbs 22:6 (KJV) — “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
📖 Ephesians 6:4 (NIV) — “Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
May the Lord bless you as you raise your children in wisdom, discipline, and godly love. Share this teaching to inspire other parents to build strong, Christ-centered families.
When the Apostle Paul was arrested in Jerusalem and brought before kings to be judged, we see his remarkable boldness. Instead of using that opportunity to defend himself legally, he boldly preached the gospel. His message was so powerful that King Agrippa was almost persuaded to believe in Christ. Such courage is truly worth imitating.
**Acts 26:25–29 (NIV)**25 Paul replied, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus. What I am saying is true and reasonable.26 The king is familiar with these things, and I can speak freely to him. I am convinced that none of this has escaped his notice, because it was not done in a corner.27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.”28 Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?”29 Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray to God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains.”
We notice something important here: King Agrippa was deeply moved by Paul’s words and was fully persuaded in his heart, yet he stopped short of surrendering to Christ. He ended at being “persuaded” but never truly converted. The truth is, anyone in that position is still unsaved.
This is similar to what happens today. Many people hear the gospel—they respect it, enjoy it, and are touched by it. Some even feel sorrow for their sins. But the question remains: **Have they truly accepted it and obeyed it?**
You will often hear people say:
* *“I’ve been blessed today.”** *“That was a powerful word.”** *“God help me, I’ve been touched today.”*
But, dear friend, those words do not mean you are saved. You are no different from Agrippa.
Those who are genuinely convicted by the Word always take the next step. They ask: **“Brothers, what shall we do?”**
**Acts 2:37–42 (NIV)**37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Did you notice? They didn’t just say, *“Thank you Peter for the word,”* or *“Be blessed, pastor.”* Instead, they responded with action—repenting, getting baptized the very same day, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and continuing steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching. These are the people who later carried the gospel across the world.
This is what we need to see today—a generation of believers who don’t stop at being “persuaded,” but who fully surrender to Jesus with all their hearts and lives. Not like Agrippa, who admired the message but never obeyed it.
The time for salvation is **now**. Don’t say, “Tomorrow I will give my life to Christ.” There is no salvation tomorrow—only today. Do not deceive yourself. The Lord requires action now. To whom much is given, much will be required (Luke 12:48). So don’t just enjoy sermons and emotional moments. The real question is: **Have you been saved? If Christ returned today, would you go with Him?**
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Saul (later the apostle Paul) was on his way to Damascus with the intent of arresting and persecuting the saints. As we know from the story, Jesus met him on the road. A brilliant light struck his eyes, and he lost his sight. He was then led by the hand into the city, completely blind.
But while he was there, Saul was not in a normal state. He was in deep spiritual anguish. He ate no food and drank no water—he was fasting. More than that, he was praying earnestly.
After this, something remarkable happened. A man named Ananias was visited by the Lord in a vision and was instructed to go and find Saul. And the place he was told to go to was a street called Straight.
That is, the straight road.
Acts 9:8–12 (NIV)
8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus.9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”“Yes, Lord,” he answered.11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
You might ask yourself: Why that street?Why call it Straight, and not “Main Street,” or “Good Street,” or any other name?
Because spiritually speaking, Christ places His people on the straight path—the path that is made right.
Before this encounter, Paul was walking on a corrupted path: a path of opposing Christ, violence, slander, sin, and death.But when he met Jesus, he was taken off that broken road and placed onto the straight path of his calling and service.
It is striking to see how many people today resist Christ and refuse salvation, thinking that religion will straighten their paths, that money will level their valleys, or that education will remove their mountains.
They do not realize that the only straight path is life in Christ. Everywhere else leads to valleys and mountains—and in the end, to the pit and to death. There is no rest outside of Christ.
John the Baptist understood this and cried out loudly, saying:
John 1:23 (NIV)
23 John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness,‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”
To believe in Jesus is to make the way of the Lord straight.
So let me ask you: Are you on the straight path?
Be saved today, dear brother, dear sister. Remember, outside of Christ you are lost—there is no debate about this; it is the truth. There is no hope unless Jesus saves you. Hurry and repent today. Believe in the finished work of Christ’s redemption accomplished for you on the cross. Time is short; the door of grace will not remain open forever.
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