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Prepare Your Life and Legacy

Greetings to you in the powerful name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome to this teaching from God’s Word.

It is vital for every believer to understand God’s expectations before their earthly life comes to an end. Consider the example of King Hezekiah. Just before his death, God spoke to him through the prophet Isaiah and instructed him to put his house in order because his death was near.

Isaiah 38:1

“In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, ‘This is what the LORD says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.’”

Notice that God did not say, “Rest and don’t worry.” Instead, He told Hezekiah to prepare his affairs. This instruction highlights a biblical principle: God calls His people to be intentional and responsible stewards of their lives, especially as they approach the end (see also Psalm 90:12

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”).

This shows that salvation is not just about a moment of decision but involves an ongoing, active faith that bears fruit (James 2:17). God desires that we live with purpose and prepare to meet Him, knowing that each life must give an account (Romans 14:12).

Sadly, many people take salvation lightly, thinking entering heaven is as simple as boarding a bus with a ticket. But Scripture teaches us that entrance into the Kingdom of God requires preparation and faithful stewardship of what God has entrusted to us.

Jesus emphasized this in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). Here are key verses

“The one who had received five talents brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five talents; see, I have gained five more.’ His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” (Matthew 25:20-21)

The servant who hid his talent was rebuked for laziness and unfaithfulness (v.26-30). This parable illustrates the theological truth of stewardship—that believers are entrusted with spiritual gifts, opportunities, and resources to invest for God’s Kingdom. Faithfulness in these areas is evidence of genuine salvation and readiness to enter heaven (2 Corinthians 5:10).

Where do your possessions, knowledge, skills, and spiritual gifts stand in building God’s Kingdom? If you are a follower of Christ, where is your heart in prayer? How are you applying the Word you read? Has your spiritual growth stalled?

Do not be complacent. The Bible warns that the time to prepare is now because life is short and uncertain. We will all stand before God’s judgment seat to give an account of how we lived (Hebrews 9:27, 2 Corinthians 5:10).

Therefore, this moment calls for deep self-examination and repentance (2 Corinthians 13:5). Earth is a temporary home, and we do not know the hour of our departure or Christ’s return (Matthew 24:36).

If you have not prepared yourself well spiritually, entry into heaven will be impossible (Matthew 7:21-23). The Lord wants us to live fruitful, faithful lives so that we may hear His commendation: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

May the Lord empower us to walk in His will, grow in faith, and prepare our legacy both for eternity and for those who come after us.

Shalom.

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Not Everything Permitted is Beneficial

(A Biblical Reflection on the Use of Perfume and Christian Modesty)

As followers of Christ, it’s important to recognize that not everything that is allowed is necessarily good or appropriate. Just because something is accepted in culture or popular among many doesn’t mean it’s spiritually healthy or pleasing to God.

The Apostle Paul addresses this principle in:

1 Corinthians 10:23
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.

In other words, freedom in Christ is not a license to follow every trend or cultural practice. We are called to live with discernment, guided by the Holy Spirit and the truth of Scripture.

Perfume Use: Harmless or Harmful?

One area that often goes unquestioned is the use of strong perfume. While using fragrance in moderation is not a sin, the intention behind its use matters greatly.

If you’re wearing perfume so strong that someone 10 meters away can smell it, it’s worth asking yourself:

“What am I trying to communicate? Who am I trying to attract or impress?”

This may seem like a small thing, but Scripture reminds us that our outward behavior often reflects the inward condition of our hearts.

A Biblical Example: Perfume and Purpose

In Mark 14:3–8, we find the story of a woman who poured expensive perfume on Jesus. This act was misunderstood by many around her, but Jesus saw a deeper meaning.

Mark 14:3
“…a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head.”

Mark 14:8 
“She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial.”

Though others thought the perfume was being wasted, Jesus revealed that it was a prophetic act—an anointing in preparation for His death.

This points to Christ’s role as the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53), and it connects to ancient Jewish customs of anointing bodies before burial (John 19:40). The perfume wasn’t for glamour—it was for sacrifice.

This challenges the way we often think about fragrance, fashion, and self-presentation.

The Spiritual Implication

While the woman in Mark 14 acted out of reverence and humility, many today may use strong perfumes or cosmetics to draw attention, feed vanity, or stir sensuality.

In some cases, these external displays may unknowingly open doors to spiritual dangers such as:

  • A spirit of seduction (Proverbs 7:10, Revelation 2:20)
  • A spirit of pride or self-exaltation (1 John 2:16)
  • Even associations with spiritual death (Romans 8:6 – “to set the mind on the flesh is death…”)

This does not mean that perfume or fashion is inherently sinful. But when used without self-examination, they can reflect a deeper spiritual disconnection.

God’s Standard of Beauty

God is not against beauty—but He defines it differently than the world does. The Bible is clear:

1 Peter 3:3–4
“Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—
but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”

This passage isn’t condemning all outward adornment, but it calls us to prioritize inner character over external appearance.

1 Timothy 2:9
“…women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control…”

Christian beauty is rooted in holiness, humility, and godly character—not how attractive we appear to others.

Practical Reflection

Dear sister (or brother), next time you reach for that perfume or piece of clothing, ask yourself:

  • Am I wearing this for God’s glory—or for attention?
  • Is this drawing others to Christ—or to me?
  • Does my outward presentation align with my inner devotion?

As Christians, we are the fragrance of Christ to the world—not just through scent, but through our lives:

2 Corinthians 2:15
“For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.”

Not everything culturally accepted is spiritually beneficial. We must walk wisely, not by sight, but by the Spirit. Beauty, in God’s eyes, is found in a pure heart, not in a designer fragrance.

Let us pursue modesty, holiness, and discernment—reflecting Christ in every area of our lives, from the inside out.

May the Lord bless you with wisdom, grace, and a heart that seeks to honor Him in all things.

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How to Overcome Mental Stress and Depression

What Is Mental Stress?

Mental stress is a state of emotional or psychological strain that arises when life’s pressures feel greater than our ability to cope. It’s not just a lack of peace—it’s often a heavy burden caused by fear, guilt, hopelessness, or overwhelming responsibility.

Though many believers think stress is a sign of weak faith, the Bible shows us otherwise. Even strong men and women of God faced distress, despair, and breakdowns. But they overcame it—not by denying their pain, but by surrendering it to God.

Is It Unspiritual to Feel Overwhelmed?

No. Even mature Christians experience seasons of discouragement. Jesus Himself was “sorrowful and troubled” in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:37). Stress is part of our human condition, especially in a broken world.

Yet the difference is this: We don’t carry our burdens alone. Christ invites us to bring them to Him.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
— Matthew 11:28

Biblical Figures Who Faced Mental Distress

1. Elijah – The Prophet Who Wanted to Die

After defeating the prophets of Baal, Elijah fled into the wilderness, overwhelmed and suicidal.

“I have had enough, Lord… Take my life.”
— 1 Kings 19:4

But God didn’t condemn Elijah. He restored him—with rest, food, a fresh revelation, and a reminder that Elijah wasn’t alone (1 Kings 19:5–18). This shows us that God meets us in our breakdown—not with rebuke, but with renewal.

2. David – A Man After God’s Heart, Yet Crushed in Spirit

David frequently expressed anguish in the Psalms:

“I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flood my bed with weeping.”
— Psalm 6:6 

“Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck.”
— Psalm 69:1

David teaches us that God can handle our honesty. Emotional pain doesn’t disqualify us from His presence—it invites us deeper into it.

3. Job – The Suffering Servant

Job lost his wealth, children, and health. He cursed the day he was born (Job 3:1), and cried:

“If only my anguish could be weighed… it would surely outweigh the sand of the seas.”
— Job 6:2–3

But Job didn’t lose his faith. Even in silence, he remained in dialogue with God. In the end, God vindicated and restored him (Job 42:10–17).

4. Peter and Judas – The Weight of Failure

Both Peter and Judas sinned grievously—Peter denied Christ, Judas betrayed Him. Yet only Peter repented and was restored (John 21:15–17), while Judas was overcome by despair and took his own life (Matthew 27:5).

Lesson: Failure is not final when grace is received. Guilt should lead us to God, not away from Him.

5. The Disciples – Locked in Fear

After Jesus’ crucifixion, the disciples hid in fear.

“On the evening of that first day of the week… the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders.”
— John 20:19

Yet the risen Christ met them there and said, “Peace be with you.” (v. 19)

Even in isolation and anxiety, Jesus comes through closed doors to bring peace.

What Helped Them Overcome?

They trusted in God’s promises and His presence.

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
— 1 Peter 5:7

They turned to God, even when their hearts were breaking. They understood that healing might not be instant—but God’s faithfulness is eternal.

“For I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.”
— Jeremiah 29:11

What Should You Do When You Feel Overwhelmed?

Here are spiritual practices rooted in Scripture and Christian theology that can help:

✅ Pray Constantly

Prayer is not just about solutions—it’s about surrender.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation… present your requests to God.”
— Philippians 4:6

✅ Worship and Give Thanks

Praise shifts your focus from your pain to God’s power.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18

✅ Immerse Yourself in God’s Word

Scripture reminds you of God’s character and track record.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
— Psalm 119:105

✅ Rest Your Mind in God

Be still. Trust His timing. Avoid overthinking and chasing too many voices.

“Be still, and know that I am God.”
— Psalm 46:10

✅ Speak Truth Over Yourself

Declare God’s promises aloud. When anxiety whispers lies, speak God’s truth.

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer… I will not be shaken.”
— Psalm 18:2, 62:6

Final Encouragement

Stress is real, but so is God’s peace. Don’t let shame or pride keep you from turning to the only One who can carry your burdens.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18

God’s healing may not come immediately, but it will come. He doesn’t waste pain—He uses it for growth, for compassion, and for His glory.

In Christ, There Is Hope Beyond Stress

Whether your stress is spiritual, emotional, financial, or relational, remember:

“When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”
— Psalm 61:2

Jesus is that Rock.

So keep praying. Keep trusting. Keep worshiping. God hasn’t forgotten you—and He will bring you through.

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”
— Philippians 1:6

May the peace of Christ guard your heart and mind.

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How Can You Know If You’re Truly a Servant of God and If Christ Is with You?

(Special lessons for servants)

Praise be to the Savior, JESUS CHRIST, forever and ever.

Have you ever wondered how to truly evaluate whether you’re a servant of God and if Christ is walking alongside you?

Do you think that signs and miracles are the only proof that Christ is with you?

Let me clarify something: No! Signs and miracles are not the first indication that Christ is with you. The Bible tells us that John the Baptist performed no signs at all, yet he was greater than all the prophets who came before him.

In John 10:41 (New International Version), it says: “And many came to him, they said, ‘John did no miraculous sign, but everything John said about this man was true.’”


This scripture teaches us that the truth of God’s word is more significant than signs and wonders. John the Baptist’s life and ministry were marked by his faithful proclamation of the truth, not by miraculous signs.

So, performing miracles or signs isn’t the primary sign of Christ’s presence in your life. Faithfulness to good God’s word is paramount.

There are also people who will perform signs, yet Christ will not recognize them.

Jesus warns in Matthew 7:22-23 (NIV):
“Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons, and in your name perform many miracles?’
Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'”

In these verses, Jesus makes it clear that performing signs and wonders, while powerful, does not guarantee that a person is truly walking with Him. The key is a relationship with Christ and living according to His will, not just performing religious activities.

So, what is the true proof that we are walking with Jesus in our service to God?

The answer is found in the following scriptures:

John 12:26 (NIV): “Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant will also be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.”


Here, Jesus emphasizes that service to God involves following Him. This means a life that imitates Christ’s example of humility, obedience to the Father, and love for others. It’s not just about doing tasks in His name, but about living as He lived.

Jesus is telling us that if we want to serve Him, we must follow Him. And wherever He is, His servant will be there too. In simple terms, “He is with those who follow Him.”

So, how do we follow Jesus?

Let’s look at what the Bible says in Luke

9:23-24 (NIV):
“Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.
For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.'”

This passage presents three key elements of following Jesus:

  1. Denying oneself: This means surrendering our personal desires and priorities to God’s will. Jesus calls us to die to self-centeredness and to prioritize God’s kingdom over our own comfort and ambitions.

  2. Taking up our cross daily: This refers to accepting the challenges and sacrifices that come with following Christ. The cross symbolizes suffering, rejection, and the cost of discipleship. It means we are willing to endure hardship for His sake, just as Jesus endured the cross for us.

  3. Following Jesus: This involves imitating His life of obedience, love, and service. It is a call to actively live out His teachings and lead a life of holiness.

To be true servants of God, we must deny ourselves daily and take up our cross. This means that for Jesus to be with us, we must make a daily commitment to surrender our own desires and comfort for His sake.

Have we truly denied ourselves? Or are we still holding on to our selfish desires and worldly habits?

You cannot serve God if you’re unwilling to give up your traditions, the love of the world, or your sinful behaviors. You can’t serve God while still holding onto things that go against His teachings, like living in sin or mocking others.

In James 4:4 (NIV), James warns: “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”

It’s important to understand that even if you experience signs or miracles in your life, Christ is not with you if you’re living in sin or disobedience. This is in line with the words of Jesus Himself.

The principle of walking with Christ remains the same forever—and it is to deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Him

. As Hebrews 13:8 (NIV) says:

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

This is not for His benefit—it is for ours. As it says in Job 35:7 (NIV),

“If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?”

Our obedience to God is for our own benefit, not His, because in denying ourselves, we align ourselves with God’s eternal purposes and experience the true joy and peace that comes from being in relationship with Him.

You may have already accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, which is great! But it’s still not enough. You must also deny yourself. And once you do that, prepare for the trials that will come because of your faith.

Prepare to be mocked, looked down upon, misunderstood, and even considered foolish. But don’t be afraid these are the same things that Jesus experienced. In

Galatians 6:17 (NIV), Paul talks about bearing the marks of Jesus in our lives: “From now on, let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.”

Jesus Himself said in

John 16:33 (NIV): “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

May the Lord bless you.

Please share this message with others.

 

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WHAT KIND OF VILLAGE ARE YOU IN?

There are places that are not conducive to the healing and well-being of your life, both physically and spiritually.

There are certain towns, villages, and neighborhoods where it’s difficult to receive anything from God unless He Himself has directly instructed you to live there. However, if there’s no clear divine leading, be cautious about where you choose to settle—whether it’s a street, town, or village. The spiritual atmosphere of your surroundings can have a significant impact on your personal and spiritual life.

You may ask: How can you know?

Think back to the blind man who was brought to Jesus for healing. The Bible specifically tells us that Jesus “took him out of the village before healing him” (Mark 8:23). After the healing, Jesus warned him not to return to the very village he had come from.

Mark 8:22-26: “They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him.

23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When He had spit on the man’s eyes and placed His hands on him, He asked, ‘Do you see anything?’

24 The man looked up and said, ‘I see people; they look like trees walking around.’

25 Once more, Jesus put His hands on the man’s eyes. Then his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.

26 Jesus sent him home, saying, ‘Don’t even go into the village.

Why did Jesus take him out of the village?

The key point here is that the spiritual environment of that particular village was not conducive to the man’s healing. It wasn’t about the people’s hostility or violence (as some might think), but rather about the spiritual atmosphere that prevailed in the place. The village itself may have been a spiritual stronghold, filled with unbelief or rejection of God’s works. Jesus understood that the man’s healing required an environment that was spiritually prepared, and that was outside the village.

This principle still holds today. There are places in the world where spiritual warfare is more intense, where the forces of darkness seem to have a stronger influence, and where people are more resistant to the gospel. As children of God, we are called to be discerning, and we must allow the Holy Spirit to lead us to places that are aligned with God’s will for our lives.

Pay attention to these types of places:

Places with people who have no fear of God.

The Bible frequently speaks of the importance of the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). If you find yourself in a place where there is no fear of God—where people are indifferent to the gospel, or even openly hostile to it—be cautious. A lack of reverence for God often leads to a culture of disregard for morality and justice.

Jesus warned His disciples in Matthew 10:14-15:

If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet when you leave that home or town. Truly I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.

This passage underscores the spiritual danger of being in a place that rejects the gospel. Such places are often under spiritual condemnation and may experience various forms of judgment, including economic hardship, disease, and even natural disasters. The Bible speaks of the consequences of rejecting God’s message: “They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good” (Psalm 14:1).

Places with high levels of witchcraft and immorality.

Witchcraft and immorality are strongholds of the enemy. These two forms of idolatry—witchcraft and sexual immorality—are among the most pervasive in Satan’s arsenal to deceive, destroy, and enslave. Both are condemned in the Scriptures, and places steeped in these practices are often filled with spiritual darkness.

Galatians 5:19-21 warns: “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

Similarly, Deuteronomy 18:10-12 describes how witchcraft and occult practices defile a land: “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

Such places are spiritually dangerous. The enemy uses them to bind people in spiritual darkness, often leading to generational curses, broken families, and destroyed lives. The apostle John also warned against participation in such places in Revelation 18:4: “Then I heard another voice from heaven say: ‘Come out of her, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive any of her plagues.'”

Spiritual Warfare and Discernment

As believers, we must remember that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). In places where witchcraft and immorality dominate, the spiritual atmosphere can become a battlefield for the soul. If the Holy Spirit leads you to live in such areas, trust that He will protect and guide you. However, if you are not led by the Spirit, it’s better to avoid these environments in order to safeguard your spiritual health and the well-being of your family.

Psalm 91:1-2 gives us comfort: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.

 

 

 

 

 

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HOW TO CARRY LIFE’S HEAVY BURDENS

Every person carries some kind of burden. The burdens I’m referring to here aren’t sins or moral failings—but the responsibilities of everyday life: earning a living, paying rent, school fees, education, building a home, and so on. These burdens can easily rob us of peace and inner calm.

The reality of burdens

The Bible acknowledges that life involves burdens and challenges. Jesus Himself said, “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33, NIV). But He immediately encourages us with peace: “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This shows us that while burdens are real, victory and peace are possible through Christ.

Facing burdens one day at a time

Often, our mistake is trying to carry all our burdens at once or solve every problem in a single day. No wonder life feels overwhelming. The Apostle Paul reminds us that God’s grace is sufficient “for each day” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV), implying that divine strength is given daily, not all at once.

For example, imagine trying to cover a whole year’s food expenses in one day, worrying about future school fees for several years, trying to complete many educational courses in an unrealistic timeframe, and at the same time building houses for your children—all at once. This approach inevitably leads to burnout and despair.

God’s provision is daily

God invites us to trust Him for daily provision. Jesus teaches us to pray, “Give us today our daily bread” (Luke 11:3, NIV), emphasizing reliance on God one day at a time.

Similarly, in Matthew 6:31-34 (NIV), Jesus says:

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

This passage highlights a key spiritual principle: our priority is to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first. When we do this, God promises to supply our needs. Worrying about the future robs us of peace and faith in His provision.

Wisdom in dividing responsibilities

Breaking down responsibilities into manageable parts is a biblical wisdom principle. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” We are not meant to carry all burdens simultaneously but to handle them in God’s appointed time.

Trusting God’s timing

God’s timing is perfect. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) urges us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we trust God with our burdens, He directs us and provides peace.

Practical application

So, no matter the challenges—whether it’s providing food, paying school fees, or investing in the future—break your burdens down day by day. Trust God for today’s provision. Be thankful for what He has given you now, and trust Him to provide for tomorrow.

Remember, God did not create us to carry burdens that crush us, but to walk by faith, trusting Him daily.

In conclusion

Life’s burdens are real, but so is God’s grace and provision. When we learn to rely on God day by day rather than trying to carry all our burdens at once, we live in peace and joy.

Shalom.

 

 

 

 

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LET US HOLD FIRMLY TO OUR CONFESSION OF FAITH

Hebrews 4:14 

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.”

In Christianity, confession is not just a religious ritual—it’s a personal declaration of faith. It involves openly acknowledging Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and admitting our need for His grace and forgiveness. It’s both a statement of what we believe and a commitment to live according to that belief.

1. What Does It Mean to Confess Our Faith?

According to Romans 10:9–10:

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

This passage shows that salvation involves both internal belief and external confession. Theologically, this highlights justification by faith (cf. Ephesians 2:8–9), where the heart trusts in Christ’s resurrection, and the mouth testifies to His Lordship. This confession is not a one-time act—it marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and obedience.

But confession doesn’t stop at the altar or in prayer—it must be held onto and lived out daily. As Hebrews 4:14 exhorts, we are to hold firmly to our profession of faith. This implies perseverance, especially in the face of trials, doubts, or temptation.

2. How Do We Hold Firmly to Our Confession?

Let’s read 1 Timothy 6:12–13:

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession…”

This passage offers two ways we remain faithful to our confession:

A. Fight the Good Fight of Faith

Christian life involves a spiritual battle. The Apostle Paul calls it a “good fight” because it is worthwhile—it leads to eternal life and God’s glory.

Ephesians 6:11–12 helps us understand the nature of this fight:

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

This speaks of spiritual warfare. Christians are called to resist Satan’s schemes through faith, prayer, truth, righteousness, and the Word of God (Ephesians 6:13–18). We do not fight with physical weapons, but with spiritual ones empowered by God.

B. Take Hold of Eternal Life

We are not only called to profess faith—we are called to possess eternal life through an ongoing relationship with God.

John 17:3 defines eternal life clearly:

“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”

Eternal life isn’t just about life after death; it begins now in intimate knowledge of God. This speaks to sanctification—the process by which we grow in holiness and deeper fellowship with Christ. The more we seek Him through Scripture, prayer, and obedience, the more that eternal life becomes a present reality, not just a future hope.

If we drift from pursuing God, our spiritual vitality weakens. But as we grow in knowledge and grace (cf. 2 Peter 3:18), eternal life becomes more tangible in our daily walk.

3. Are You Holding Firm to Your Confession?

Ask yourself:

  • Am I still living by the faith I once confessed?
  • Am I resisting the enemy’s attacks or compromising under pressure?
  • Am I growing in my knowledge and love of God?

Holding fast to your confession is not about perfection—but persistence. It’s about returning to Christ daily, choosing Him again and again, no matter the cost.

May the Lord Strengthen Us

We are not alone in this journey. Jesus, our High Priest, intercedes for us (Hebrews 7:25). The Holy Spirit empowers us (Romans 8:26–27). And God’s grace sustains us.

Let us remain faithful in our confession—fighting the good fight and pursuing eternal life with all our hearts.

Come, Lord Jesus! (Revelation 22:20)

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Bible Study Summary – Part 14: The Books of Joel and Obadiah

Glory be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Welcome back to our journey through Scripture. Today, we study two short but deeply prophetic books: Joel and Obadiah. Though brief in length, their spiritual depth and relevance are profound.

📝 Note: This is a summary meant to guide your study. Always read the full Bible texts and ask the Holy Spirit to open your understanding (John 16:13).

📖 THE BOOK OF JOEL

Author: Joel (Hebrew: Yo’el – “Yahweh is God”)
Date: Likely during the reign of King Uzziah (ca. 800s BC)
Main Theme: The Day of the Lord – Judgment and Restoration
Chapters: 3

🔹 Chapter 1: A Warning Through Disaster

Joel opens by describing a devastating locust plague, symbolizing God’s judgment on Judah (Joel 1:4). The plague left nothing untouched—signifying that sin has total consequences if unrepented.

Joel 1:4 – “What the locust swarm has left the great locusts have eaten…”

This is a type of divine chastisement. God often used natural disasters in the Old Testament as physical signs of spiritual decay (see Amos 4:9–10). Joel calls everyone—from priests to common people—to repentance.

Joel 1:14– “Consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly… and cry out to the Lord.”

🔹 Chapter 2: God’s Call to Repentance and Promise of Restoration

Joel warns of an approaching “Day of the Lord”, portrayed as an invading army (Joel 2:1–11), but this symbolizes more than just Babylon or Assyria—it’s a prophetic picture of final judgment.

Yet God extends grace:

Joel 2:12–13– “’Yet even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart… Rend your hearts and not your garments.’”

True repentance involves inner transformation, not just outward rituals (see Psalm 51:17). God desires brokenness over sin, not empty ceremony.

God then promises restoration:

Joel 2:25– “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten…”

And also gives a messianic and Pentecostal prophecy:

Joel 2:28– “I will pour out my Spirit on all people…”
Fulfilled in Acts 2:16–17 – Peter confirms, “This is what was uttered through the prophet Joel…”

This is a key passage linking Old Testament prophecy to New Testament reality. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit marks the beginning of the Church Age.

🔹 Chapter 3: Judgment for the Nations, Restoration for Israel

God proclaims judgment on the nations who harmed His people (Joel 3:2–8), particularly for crimes like enslavement, division of land, and desecration of God’s temple.

Joel 3:2– “I will gather the armies of the world into the Valley of Jehoshaphat… for harming my people.”

God is just—He will judge both individuals and nations. This foreshadows the final judgment (cf. Revelation 20:11–15).

But God also declares the ultimate restoration and deliverance of His people, pointing to both the post-exilic return and the millennial kingdom under Christ.

Joel 3:16–17– “The Lord also will roar from Zion… So you shall know that I am the Lord your God…”

📖 THE BOOK OF OBADIAH

Author: Obadiah (means “Servant of Yahweh”)
Chapters: 1
Main Theme: Judgment on Edom and the Sovereignty of God

🔹 Background on Edom

Edom descended from Esau, Jacob’s twin brother (Genesis 25:30). Despite this family bond, Edom held a long-standing hostility toward Israel.

Obadiah rebukes Edom for:

  • Rejoicing over Israel’s fall,
  • Aiding foreign invaders (likely Babylon),
  • Betraying survivors.

Obadiah 1:10 – “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.”

Obadiah 1:12– “You should not have gloated when they suffered such misfortune…”

Edom’s sin was rooted in pride and betrayal. God abhors treachery, especially among those with close relational ties (see Proverbs 6:16–19).

🔹 God’s Judgment on Edom

Edom trusted in its high mountainous cities and alliances, thinking they were untouchable.

Obadiah 1:3–4 – “You who live in the clefts of the rock… Though you soar aloft like the eagle… I will bring you down.”

Pride is the root of many sins (Proverbs 16:18). Edom became a symbol of human arrogance, and its downfall is a warning to all who oppose God’s purposes.

🔹 The Day of the Lord and Final Restoration

Obadiah echoes Joel in declaring the Day of the Lord as a time when all nations will be judged.

Obadiah 1:15– “For the day of the Lord is near, against all the nations.”

Obadiah ends on a note of hope: Israel will be restored, and God will reign.

Obadiah 1:21– “And the kingdom shall be the Lord’s.”

God’s sovereignty will be fully established. The messianic kingdom, ruled by Christ, will fulfill this prophecy (Revelation 11:15).

If you’d like this in a printable guide, PowerPoint slide, or group Bible study format, feel free to ask—I’ll gladly prepare it for you.

Let us keep growing in God’s Word and be ready for the Day of the Lord—not in fear, but in faith.

🕊️ “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.”
— Revelation 22:20

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Understanding Philippians 4:8 

 

Philippians 4:8 (NIV):


“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

This verse serves as a powerful summary of how believers should shape their thoughts and daily focus. The repeated use of the word “whatever” emphasizes that God has given us freedom to explore and engage in many forms of goodness—not just those directly written in Scripture.

1. Not Every Good Work is Listed in the Bible

The Bible is not an exhaustive manual listing every possible good deed. John 21:25 (NIV) supports this idea:


“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.”


This tells us that Scripture gives us guiding principles, not an itemized list of acceptable actions.

For example, you won’t find a direct command saying, “sing in the church choir” or “evangelize through drama.” Yet, when such activities are done with a heart to glorify God and within sound doctrine, they align with biblical values like those found in Philippians 4:8.

2. Creativity and Innovation in Ministry Are Valid

God has given us creativity and wisdom to serve Him in ways that suit our generation and context. Colossians 3:17 (NIV) reminds us:


“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

So whether it’s using social media, gospel films, public street evangelism, or even technology like microphones and sound systems—these are tools that, when used righteously, support the mission of the Church.

3. Discernment is Key

Paul encourages believers to meditate on what is true, noble, right, and pure. This is a call for discernment. Not everything that is popular or modern is necessarily good—but we are free to engage in whatever promotes God’s glory, aligns with Scripture, and uplifts others.

Romans 12:2 (NIV) also urges believers to use transformed minds:


“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

4. Every Believer Has a Role

Ministry isn’t just about preaching from a pulpit. It includes how you live, how you work, how you treat others, and how you use your skills for God. Whether you’re a teacher, artist, student, businessperson, or stay-at-home parent—you have something valuable to offer the Kingdom.

1 Peter 4:10 (NIV):


“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Final Thoughts

Philippians 4:8 is not just about positive thinking—it’s a call to active reflection and intentional living. It reminds us to fill our minds and hearts with things that reflect God’s nature, and to act in ways that draw others to Him.

Take a moment to think: What gifts has God given me? How can I use them to glorify Him and build His Kingdom?
Ask Him for wisdom—He promises to give it generously (James 1:5).

May the Lord bless you as you reflect and act on these things.

Share this message with others.

For prayers, guidance, or questions (WhatsApp available):
Comment below or call:
+255789001312 / +255693036618

 

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Will the Old Covenant completely disappear according to Hebrews 8:13?

Let’s carefully examine Hebrews 8:13:

“By calling this covenant ‘new,’ he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear.”

The word “obsolete” means something that has become outdated, worn out, or no longer fully effective. The verse shows that the Old Covenant—the covenant God made with Israel through Moses—is now surpassed by the New Covenant established by Jesus Christ.

Does this mean the Old Covenant is completely discarded or invalid?

No. Jesus clearly taught in Matthew 5:17-18:

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”

This means Jesus did not reject or nullify the moral and spiritual truths of the Old Covenant. Instead, He fulfilled them—perfectly obeying the Law and fulfilling its purpose (Romans 10:4).

Why, then, does Hebrews say the Old Covenant will vanish?

The Bible is consistent; the apparent tension arises from different perspectives on the covenants. The Old Covenant was preparatory and partial; it pointed forward to Christ (Hebrews 10:1). When Jesus came and established the New Covenant through His death and resurrection, the Old Covenant’s system of sacrifices, priesthood, and laws became incomplete and obsolete.

An analogy is helpful:
A company releases a car model that serves well for years. Later, it releases a newer, better version of the same car. The first model becomes obsolete and is eventually discontinued. The new model doesn’t reject the idea of a car; it improves and fulfills it.

Similarly, the New Covenant fulfills and perfects the Old Covenant. It does not reject God’s moral law but deepens its meaning.

For example:
The Old Covenant commanded, “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). Jesus deepened this in Matthew 5:27-28:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

Likewise, the commandment “You shall not murder” was expanded to include anger and hatred in the heart (Matthew 5:21-22).

Thus, the New Covenant intensifies the moral demands of the Old Covenant, calling believers to inward righteousness, not just outward conformity.

When did the Old Covenant become obsolete?

With the first coming of Jesus Christ, the mediator of the New Covenant (Hebrews 9:15). The sacrificial system and priesthood of the Old Covenant were shadows pointing to Christ’s perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1-14). When Christ offered Himself once for all, the Old Covenant rituals lost their effectiveness and faded away.

Today, Christians do not practice animal sacrifices or Old Testament rituals because Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate atonement (Hebrews 9:12). The Old Covenant’s ceremonies now belong to the past, fulfilled in Christ (Colossians 2:14).

We live by the Spirit, not by the letter of the law (2 Corinthians 3:6). Jesus’ teaching calls us to holiness of heart, empowered by the Holy Spirit, worshiping God “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24)

May the Lord bless us and help us live in the fullness of His New Covenant!

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