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What does it mean by prepare your work outside? (Proverbs 24:27)

Question: What does Proverbs 24:27 mean?

Proverbs 24:27 (ESV):
“Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”

Answer:

This verse offers practical wisdom rooted in a theological understanding of priorities, responsibility, and stewardship. In ancient Israelite society—where agriculture was central—this advice would have been very practical: make sure your fields are productive and your income secured before building a house or focusing on comfort.

Solomon, known for his wisdom, is reminding us that stability must come before expansion. In other words, build a firm foundation before reaching for outward success. The field represents your means of survival and income; the house symbolizes security, comfort, or even status. In a modern context, this could mean focusing on education, skill-building, or establishing a reliable source of income before indulging in luxuries or outward appearances.

Theological Insight:

The Bible frequently teaches the principle of order and timing in God’s economy. There’s a season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and wisdom involves discerning what to do and when. Acting out of order—even with good intentions—can lead to destruction, as illustrated in the story of Gehazi.

2 Kings 5:20–27 (ESV) recounts the story of Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. After Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was healed of leprosy, he offered Elisha lavish gifts. Elisha, knowing the healing came from God, refused them. However, Gehazi secretly chased after Naaman to take the gifts for himself. Elisha rebuked him, saying:

2 Kings 5:26 (ESV):
“Did not my heart go when the man turned from his chariot to meet you? Was it a time to accept money and garments, olive orchards and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male servants and female servants?”

Elisha’s question highlights a key spiritual principle: not everything that is good is appropriate at every moment. There is a time for receiving blessings—but there is also a time for waiting, working, and trusting in God’s provision.

This connects to 1 Timothy 6:5–6 (ESV), where Paul warns against those who think godliness is a means of material gain:
“…imagining that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

Spiritual Application:

Today, many desire the rewards of a godly life—peace, prosperity, honor—without first embracing the discipline, service, and obedience that come before them. People seek titles in ministry without first serving in humility; they desire financial blessings without a spirit of stewardship and hard work.

Likewise, in daily life, people may prioritize external appearance over internal strength. For example, someone may purchase luxury items without first securing a stable income or financial foundation. This is poor stewardship, and it can lead to long-term hardship.

Practical Wisdom:

Establish your career, business, or skill set—then pursue material goals.

Invest in spiritual growth—then expect fruitfulness in ministry or calling.

Focus on long-term impact—before short-term comfort.

Conclusion:

Proverbs 24:27 teaches us that wisdom involves planning, preparation, and proper priorities. It warns against impatience and chasing comfort before establishing sustainability. In both spiritual and practical matters, God calls us to prepare the field before building the house.

May the Lord help us align our lives with His order, so we build wisely and live fruitfully.

Shalom.

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How do I know if my sins have been forgiven?

You Are Already Forgiven – Believe It

One of the most profound truths in the Christian faith is this: when you genuinely repent—turning away from sin with a sincere heart and placing your trust in Jesus Christ—you are fully and immediately forgiven by God. This forgiveness is not partial, delayed, or dependent on feelings; it is complete and based entirely on God’s grace through Jesus.

However, many believers struggle after repenting. They expect to feel a sudden emotional shift or spiritual experience, but when that doesn’t happen, they begin to question whether God truly forgave them. The thoughts of past sins continue to linger, and doubt creeps in. This is not unusual—but it is dangerous if left unaddressed.

This inner conflict is often exploited by Satan, the “accuser of the brethren” (Revelation 12:10). He uses guilt and shame to keep believers in bondage, making them feel as if their repentance wasn’t enough or that their sins were too great to be forgiven.

Many believers fall into a cycle of continually asking for forgiveness for the same sins, not realizing that God already forgave them the first time they truly repented.

The Nature of God’s Forgiveness

God’s forgiveness is both judicial and relational. Judicially, once we repent and believe in Christ, we are declared righteous—our sins are no longer held against us (Romans 8:1). Relationally, we are restored to fellowship with God as our Father (1 John 1:9).

Hebrews 8:12 (NIV) states:

“For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

This is a quotation from Jeremiah 31:34, and it’s part of the new covenant—a covenant sealed by the blood of Jesus (Luke 22:20). When God says He “will remember their sins no more,” it doesn’t mean He forgets in the human sense, but rather that He no longer holds them against us. He chooses to not bring them up again.

Faith Is the Key

God’s forgiveness must be received by faith, not by emotion. When condemning thoughts arise—suggesting you’ve committed the unpardonable sin, or that your past is too dirty—you must resist them. The Apostle Paul says:

“Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

Declare with confidence: “I am forgiven by the blood of Jesus Christ!” (see Ephesians 1:7). As you continually affirm this truth, over time, you’ll experience the peace of God that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7).

The Condition of Forgiving Others

There is, however, one critical condition to walking in God’s forgiveness: we must forgive others. Jesus clearly taught:

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
— Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV)

Unforgiveness is a barrier that hinders our relationship with God. Holding grudges while seeking mercy from God is spiritually inconsistent. Therefore, examine your heart. If there’s someone you haven’t forgiven, release them today. It’s not just for them—it’s for your own freedom.

In Summary:

  • If you have sincerely repented, God has already forgiven you.

  • Don’t rely on feelings—stand on God’s Word.

  • Reject condemning thoughts; they are not from God.

  • Experience God’s peace by believing His promise.

  • Forgive others to fully enjoy the flow of God’s mercy.

God bless you as you walk in the freedom of His grace.
Shalom.

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Dealing with Recurring Illness: Faithfulness in Weakness

 

 

1 Timothy 5:23 (ESV)
“No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for the sake of your stomach and your frequent ailments.”

These words from the Apostle Paul to Timothy may seem like simple advice, but they carry deep spiritual and practical implications. They remind us that even the most devoted servants of God are not immune to physical affliction—and that our weakness does not disqualify us from being used by God.

Timothy’s Condition and Faithful Service

Timothy was Paul’s trusted companion and spiritual son (1 Corinthians 4:17). He was a young leader whom Paul had mentored and entrusted with significant responsibilities in the early church (Philippians 2:19–22). Yet Paul acknowledges in his letter that Timothy suffered from frequent health issues—specifically stomach problems and recurring ailments.

It’s important to note that Paul, a man through whom God worked extraordinary miracles (Acts 19:11–12), didn’t simply lay hands on Timothy or declare healing over him. Instead, he offered practical medical advice appropriate for their time: to take a little wine for the sake of his stomach. In the ancient world, wine was commonly used medicinally to purify water and treat digestive issues. Paul recognized that divine healing and medical wisdom can coexist.

A Theology of Suffering and Weakness

Paul understood that God sometimes allows physical weakness for His divine purposes. In 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 (ESV), Paul himself writes:

“So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me… Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

This passage teaches that God’s grace is not only sufficient in our weakness—it is perfected there. Rather than removing every affliction, God often chooses to work through our suffering to accomplish His purposes.

The Example of Elisha

We see a similar theme in the life of the prophet Elisha. Despite being used powerfully by God—even raising the dead—Elisha died from an illness.

2 Kings 13:14 (ESV)

“Now when Elisha had fallen sick with the illness of which he was to die, Joash king of Israel went down to him and wept before him…”

This shows that sickness is not always a sign of spiritual failure or lack of faith. Elisha remained faithful to God to the very end. And astonishingly, even after his death, God used Elisha’s bones to bring a man back to life (2 Kings 13:21), proving that divine power transcends human weakness and even death.

Don’t Let Sickness Stop Your Calling

If you’re facing recurring illness today—ulcers, migraines, diabetes, cancer, or any other condition—this message is for you. Your affliction does not disqualify you from God’s service. Timothy didn’t wait to be healed before he preached. Elisha didn’t stop being a prophet when he became ill. Paul didn’t stop writing or traveling despite his “thorn in the flesh.”

God does not always remove the suffering—but He always provides sufficient grace to endure and remain faithful.

Take your medicine, pray with perseverance, and serve God with all your strength. Whether healing comes or not, your life can still bring glory to God.

God Is Glorified in Our Weakness

Romans 8:18 (ESV)

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”

Philippians 1:29 (ESV)

“For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake.”

Some of the greatest saints in Scripture and church history experienced severe physical suffering—Job, Paul, Epaphroditus (Philippians 2:25–30), and even the Lord Jesus Himself (Isaiah 53:3–5). But God used their suffering for eternal purposes.

Be Encouraged—Keep Moving Forward

Whatever you’re facing, don’t let your illness slow your spiritual momentum. Serve God boldly in your weakness, just as Timothy and Elisha did. Let your life be a testimony that God is greater than your condition—and that His power is made perfect in you.

2 Corinthians 12:10 (ESV)

“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

God bless you—and keep serving faithfully.

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He Arrived at the Field Jacob Gave to His son Joseph

(John 4:3–8, Genesis 48:21–22 — NIV)

During His earthly ministry, Jesus once undertook a long and physically exhausting journey from Judea to Galilee. Although there were many towns and villages along the way, Scripture tells us He didn’t stop to rest in any of them until He came to Samaria.

Now, Samaria was not a typical resting place for Jews. In fact, due to long-standing cultural and religious tensions, Jews avoided interactions with Samaritans (John 4:9). Yet, something about this location prompted Jesus to stop. He sat beside a well in a Samaritan town called Sychar, not by accident, but because that place held profound historical and spiritual significance.

John writes:

“So He left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now He had to go through Samaria. So He came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as He was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.”
(John 4:3–6, NIV)

This “plot of ground” was no ordinary piece of land. It was the field Jacob gave to Joseph his beloved son born to him in his old age (Genesis 48:22). In Jewish tradition, Joseph symbolized integrity, righteousness, and faithfulness, even under immense pressure and suffering (Genesis 39:2–9). Jacob blessed Joseph with a double portion, as seen in:

“And Israel said to Joseph, ‘I am about to die, but God will be with you and take you back to the land of your fathers. And to you I give one more ridge of land than to your brothers, the ridge I took from the Amorites with my sword and my bow.’”
(Genesis 48:21–22, NIV)

This blessing was both physical and prophetic. The land became a spiritual inheritance. Jesus, who embodies the fulfillment of all patriarchal blessings (Matthew 5:17), may have spiritually recognized the enduring anointing and covenant embedded in that land.

His choice to stop and rest there wasn’t merely due to physical fatigue it was purposeful. There, at Jacob’s well, Jesus initiated one of the most theologically profound encounters in the Gospels: His conversation with the Samaritan woman (John 4:7–26). Through it, He revealed:

  • That He is the source of living water (John 4:10),
  • That worship would no longer be confined to Jerusalem or a mountain, but would be “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23–24),
  • And that He is the promised Messiah (John 4:26).

This meeting led to the salvation of many Samaritans outsiders by Jewish standards showing that God’s grace reaches beyond boundaries (John 4:39–42).

Theological Reflection:

Why did Jesus stop specifically at Joseph’s field? Theologically, it symbolizes how righteousness leaves a legacy. Joseph’s life of integrity (Genesis 50:20) planted a spiritual seed that bore fruit even generations later. Jesus’ presence at that site may indicate that God honors the faithful, even posthumously. As Proverbs 10:7 (NIV) says, “The name of the righteous is used in blessings.”

Likewise, our lives today especially if we live in reverence to God can create spiritual blessings for future generations. If God has blessed your land, your work, or your legacy because of your righteousness, then like Joseph’s field, it may become a place where God Himself chooses to move.

Just as Elisha’s bones brought a dead man back to life (2 Kings 13:21), the righteousness of God’s servants carries spiritual weight even after death.

Final Thought:

What kind of legacy are you leaving? Are your actions today sowing spiritual seeds that will attract God’s presence tomorrow? If you walk in obedience and reverence like Joseph, your “field” whether your family, work, or influence may one day be the very place Christ visits to bring salvation to others.

May the Lord help us to live in such a way that our legacy draws His presence, now and for generations to come.

Shalom

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A Woman of Dignity Is Always Respected(Proverbs 11:16, ESV)

This message is part of special teachings about the character and honor of women according to Scripture.

Proverbs 11:16 (ESV)
“A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.”

This verse highlights that a woman’s dignity and grace lead to lasting respect. It’s not about outward appearance or wealth, but about inner character. This teaching is for you whether you are a daughter or a mother who desires respect from both God and people.

Understanding Respect

Respect is something that must be earned and preserved. It is not automatically granted by beauty, education, wealth, or social status. Instead, respect is rooted in your inner value the qualities God cultivates in you and which others recognize.

  • Why is respect hard to gain? Because it costs sacrifice, discipline, and commitment to godly living.
  • What is true respect? It is esteem based on moral integrity and reverence for God.

What Truly Brings Respect?

Many young women mistakenly believe that outward beauty or fashion such as makeup, wigs, and revealing clothing gives them honor. But the Bible warns against valuing external appearance over internal character.

  • 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV) says, “The LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”
    This means God values your heart and spirit far more than your physical looks.
  • Proverbs 31:30 (ESV) reminds us, “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”

Trying to gain respect by showing off the body or flashy fashion may attract attention, but it invites judgment and disrespect, not true honor.

Biblical Qualities That Earn Respect

The Bible highlights seven key qualities in women that lead to lasting respect:

  1. Fear of the Lord
    Reverence and trust in God form the foundation of a woman’s character (Proverbs 31:30).
  2. Good Manners (Decency)
    Proper behavior reflects self-respect and honors others (1 Timothy 2:9).
  3. Gentleness
    Strength under control, showing kindness and humility (1 Peter 3:3-4).
  4. Moderation
    Avoiding excess in behavior and appearance (Titus 2:3-5).
  5. Calmness
    Maintaining peace and tranquility in spirit (1 Timothy 2:11).
  6. Self-Control
    Discipline in thoughts, words, and actions (Galatians 5:22-23).
  7. Obedience
    Willingness to submit to God’s authority and wisdom (Ephesians 5:22-24).

Scripture Passages Supporting These Qualities

  • 1 Timothy 2:9-11 (ESV)
    “Likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness.”
  • 1 Peter 3:3-4 (ESV)
    “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.”

Blessings of a Woman Who Lives by These Principles

When you live by these godly qualities, respect naturally follows. Whatever you ask from God whether a godly husband, a position of leadership, or spiritual gifts He will provide according to His perfect will.

  • Like Ruth, who found Boaz (Ruth 2:1-23), God honors faithfulness and humility.
  • As Proverbs 31 describes, a virtuous woman’s worth is “far above jewels” (Proverbs 31:10).

Most importantly, you will receive eternal life and be in the company of godly women like Sarah, Hannah, Deborah, and Mary the faithful women of the Bible who trusted God and lived with dignity.

A Warning

Rejecting these principles leads to the opposite outcome. Jezebel, a biblical symbol of ungodliness and rebellion (Revelation 2:20), serves as a warning. Following her example leads to spiritual ruin.

Final Encouragement

Do not lose your respect.
Value yourself as God’s creation and live according to His Word.

References:

  • Bible Version: English Standard Version (ESV)
  • Proverbs 11:16, 31:30
  • 1 Timothy 2:9-11
  • 1 Peter 3:3-4
  • Ruth 2
  • Revelation 2:20

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Where Can You Encounter the Angel of the Lord?

A Message of Restoration and Divine Encounter

Greetings to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. All glory, honor, and power belong to Him forever. Amen.

Today, let us take a fresh look at the story of Hagar, Sarai’s maidservant, found in Genesis 16. Her story is not just a historical event but a spiritual lesson about where and how we meet God in our distress.

Hagar’s Wilderness Experience

Hagar found herself in a desperate situation. After becoming pregnant by Abraham, at Sarai’s request, conflict arose. Sarai mistreated her so harshly that Hagar fled into the wilderness.

“Your slave is in your hands,” Abram said. “Do with her whatever you think best.” Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her.”
(Genesis 16:6, NIV)

The wilderness, in biblical terms, is often a symbol of isolation, testing, and divine encounter. Hagar, alone and pregnant, represents many of us who, when overwhelmed, seek to escape. Yet, even in the wilderness, God sees.

The Angel of the Lord Appears at the Spring

Hagar wandered into the desert, but Scripture highlights a significant detail:

“The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur.”
(Genesis 16:7, NIV)

This “spring” is more than just a physical location it symbolically represents a place of divine refreshment, revelation, and encounter.

Only at the spring did the Angel of the Lord approach her and speak:

“Then the angel of the Lord told her, ‘Go back to your mistress and submit to her.’”
(Genesis 16:9, NIV)
“The angel added, ‘I will increase your descendants so much that they will be too numerous to count.’”
(Genesis 16:10, NIV)
“You shall name him Ishmael, for the Lord has heard of your misery.”
(Genesis 16:11, NIV)

Theologically, many scholars interpret “the Angel of the Lord” here as a Christophany a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, because He speaks with divine authority and promises blessings only God can give.

Why the Spring Matters Today

This story reveals a pattern: God’s messengers and answers often come when we draw near to “living water” a symbol of Christ Himself.

Jesus declared:

“Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
(John 4:13–14, NIV)

We live in a time when many people cry out to God:
“Lord, help me!”
“Lord, heal me!”
“Lord, bless me!”

But just like Hagar, if we are not spiritually located near the “spring” that is, in Christ we may miss the encounter.

What Is the “Spring” for Us Today?

In practical terms, drawing near to the spring means:

  • Spending time in the Word of God (Psalm 1:2–3)

  • Living in obedience to Christ’s teachings (John 15:10)

  • Maintaining a consistent prayer life (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

  • Fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25)

  • Worship and sacrificial devotion (Romans 12:1)

We cannot expect angelic visitations, breakthroughs, or divine direction while we dwell far from Christ. The angel met Hagar at the spring not in her comfort zone or rebellion, but in a place of need, humility, and refreshment.

A Wake-Up Call to Believers

Many of us are busy in our careers, social media, entertainment, or weekend parties, but neglect the things of the Spirit. We cry out to God in trouble but fail to dwell near the source of life Jesus, the Living Water.

The Bible warns us about spiritual complacency in the Laodicean church, representing the final church age:

“I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot… So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”
(Revelation 3:15–16, NIV)

We are living in the final days. All prophetic signs concerning the return of Christ have been fulfilled (Matthew 24). The Church of today must return to the spring—Jesus Christ.

Are You Ready?

  • Have you given your life to Christ?

  • Are you walking in daily fellowship with Him?

  • Do you want to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, as done in the book of Acts (Acts 2:38)?

If your answer is yes or if you’re seeking guidance on how to grow spiritually or join a fellowship please feel free to contact us:

Phone:
+255 693 036 618 / +254 789 001 312

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Join our channel here:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaBVhuA3WHTbKoz8jx10

May the Lord bless you richly. Shalom.

 

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THIS IS THE CHARACTER OF THE PEOPLE OF KEILA — DO NOT IMITATE THEM

(1 Samuel 23:1-14, ESV/NIV)

Keila was a small town in Israel (1 Samuel 23:1, ESV) that suffered greatly under repeated attacks by the Philistines (1 Samuel 23:2). The Philistines would raid their grain and oppress the people, leaving them helpless and vulnerable. During this time, David   who was hiding and fleeing from King Saul   passed through Keila (1 Samuel 23:4). He heard the distress of the townspeople and was deeply moved by their suffering (v.5).

Despite his precarious situation, David showed compassion and courage. He called his small band of men and told them of his intention to defend Keila (v.6). David sought God’s guidance, asking whether he would succeed if he fought for Keila’s people (v.7-8). God assured him of victory (v.10-12). This illustrates the biblical principle of seeking divine direction before taking action (Proverbs 3:5-6).

The people of Keila rejoiced to hear that David  their deliverer  was coming to their aid (v.11). David defeated the Philistines, liberated the captives, and restored their property (v.13-14). Their response was joyful celebration, showing gratitude for God’s deliverance through David (v.13).

However, the story takes a tragic turn. Saul, intent on killing David, heard of his presence in Keila and sent troops to capture him (v.7-8). David prayed again, asking if the people of Keila would betray him to Saul (v.9-12). God revealed that they would (v.12), demonstrating a sobering reality: even those we help may turn against us (Psalm 41:9).

Faced with this, David left Keila and went into hiding once more (v.13-14). This shows David’s dependence on God’s protection despite human betrayal (Psalm 27:1-3).

 

  1. God’s Sovereignty and Guidance:
    David’s habit of consulting God before battle (1 Samuel 23:9-12) shows a model for believers today to seek God’s will in all decisions (James 1:5). The certainty of God’s promises (v.11) encourages faith even in difficult situations.

  2. Human Frailty and Betrayal:
    The people of Keila feared the consequences of protecting David (1 Samuel 23:12). This reveals human tendency to prioritize safety over loyalty, paralleling Jesus’ own experience with Judas’ betrayal (John 13:21-27).

  3. Faithfulness Amid Trials:
    David’s faith and courage despite repeated dangers (1 Samuel 23:14) exemplify perseverance in trusting God’s deliverance (Hebrews 12:1-3).

New Testament Parallel:

The reaction of the people of Keila foreshadows the rejection Jesus experienced. Despite his miracles, teachings, and healing power, many Israelites turned against Him when His mission brought danger (John 11:47-50, NIV):

“If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.” (John 11:48)

Caiaphas’s grim counsel that “it is better for one man to die for the people” (v.50) led to Jesus’ crucifixion  a voluntary sacrifice for the salvation of humanity (John 10:17-18).

Application for Believers Today:

  • Like David, we should seek God’s guidance in every decision and trust His protection even in the face of betrayal (Psalm 32:8).

  • We must be aware that loyalty is not guaranteed from others, but God remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13).

  • Let us not abandon Jesus when trials come, as some did with David and as many did with Christ (Luke 22:54-62).

  • Instead, we should love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind (Mark 12:30), holding fast to our faith regardless of opposition.

May the Lord 

 

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Is it okay to have sex while fasting?

Understanding Fasting and Its Purpose
Fasting is a spiritual discipline where a believer voluntarily refrains from something often food or drink for a specific period to draw nearer to God (Matthew 6:16-18, NIV). The purpose of fasting is not merely physical abstinence but to foster spiritual intimacy through prayer, repentance, and focused devotion.

People fast from various things depending on their spiritual goals: some avoid eating or drinking, others may abstain from sleep, work, or even communication. The key is to remove distractions so you can deepen your relationship with God.

Sexual Relations During a Fast
The question arises: Is it permissible to engage in sexual relations during a fast?

The Bible does not explicitly forbid sexual intimacy during fasting. Since the traditional fast usually involves refraining from food and drink, engaging in sexual relations is not inherently contradictory to fasting.

However,

1 Corinthians 7:3-5 (ESV) gives important guidance on marital intimacy:

“The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”

This passage highlights mutual consent and temporary abstinence for prayerful focus but warns against prolonged withholding, which can lead to temptation.

Application

  • If both spouses mutually agree to abstain from sexual relations during a fast to devote more time to prayer and spiritual focus, this is commendable and biblically supported.
  • If one partner does not agree, the other should not refuse intimacy because marriage involves mutual authority over each other’s bodies. Refusing without mutual consent is discouraged (1 Corinthians 7:4, NIV).
  • Sexual intimacy during fasting, therefore, does not break the fast unless your fast’s specific purpose includes abstaining from sex as part of your spiritual discipline.

Fasting is ultimately about seeking God’s presence and strengthening spiritual discipline (Joel 2:12-13, NIV). Marital intimacy is a God-ordained good (Hebrews 13:4, ESV), designed to strengthen the marital bond and should be handled with love, respect, and mutual agreement.

Engaging in intimacy during a fast is not sinful or a violation of fasting unless your personal or mutual fast explicitly includes it. It’s essential that the fast enriches your walk with God without causing unnecessary conflict in your marriage.

Summary

  • Fasting = voluntary abstinence primarily from food/drink for spiritual focus.
  • Sex during fasting = permitted unless mutually agreed to abstain.
  • Mutual consent and love in marriage are biblical mandates.
  • Scripture encourages prayerful abstinence only for limited times.
  • Your fast should bring you closer to God and strengthen your marriage, not cause division.

May God richly bless you as you seek Him with all your heart.

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She Broke the Alabaster Jar and Poured It on His Head

When Jesus was in the house of Simon the leper, a woman came and did something that shocked and angered many who were present. As the Scriptures tell us, she brought an alabaster jar filled with very costly perfume—pure nard—worth about a full year’s wages (Mark 14:3).

But notice what she did: she didn’t merely open the jar and pour out a little perfume—she broke it completely. By breaking it, she made it clear that this perfume would never be used for anything or anyone else. It was a total act of surrender and devotion.

The fragrance filled the entire house, and those who witnessed it began to complain, saying, “Why this waste? This perfume could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor!” (Mark 14:4–5).

But Jesus defended her, saying:

“Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them anytime you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could; she poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.”
— Mark 14:6–8

And then Jesus gave this profound promise:

“Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”
— Mark 14:9

The Spiritual Lesson
This story is not only about that one woman. Everyone has their own “alabaster jar.” It represents something precious—your time, your money, your gifts, your heart—that you hold dear. The question is: what or whom are you pouring it out for?

Some people “break their jars” for worldly pleasures—lavish lifestyles, entertainment, fame, or relationships that do not honor God. Just as others criticized the woman, today people may criticize someone who gives generously to God’s work or serves wholeheartedly in ministry. But Jesus sees the heart and calls such devotion beautiful.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
— Matthew 6:21

Breaking Your Jar for Jesus
Giving to God is not a loss—it is an act of worship. When the woman broke her jar, she gave her best to Jesus. Likewise, we are called to give Him our best: our lives, our energy, our time, and our possessions.

It may seem costly. You may even be misunderstood or mocked. But what you pour out for Christ will never be wasted.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
— Romans 12:1

Some people can sacrifice everything for their children’s education, medical treatment, or personal ambitions—but hesitate to give to God’s Kingdom. That shows where their “jar” is broken. We all give our best to what we love most.

A Call to Reflection
Can you, like this woman, break your alabaster jar for Jesus?
Can you give Him your best—your heart, your worship, your devotion, your sacrifice?

She had no idea that her act of love would echo through generations, but Jesus made sure her story would live forever. Likewise, your sincere devotion to Him will never be forgotten before God.

“God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.”
— Hebrews 6:10

When you give yourself fully to Jesus, your life becomes a sweet fragrance before the Lord (2 Corinthians 2:15).

So—break your jar. Pour it all out for Him. You will never regret it.

Shalom.

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Your Role as a Mother for Your Children and Grandchildren

Your Role as a Mother for Your Children and Grandchildren

Praise be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us learn from the Word of God.

The Scripture says:

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) –

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

When you train your child in the proper way, he or she will not stray from that path even in adulthood. This also means that when your child becomes a parent, your grandchildren will benefit from the values and teachings you instilled. What you taught your child, he or she will pass on to the next generation. In this way, your family can remain holy and blessed for multiple generations.

If you notice challenges in a grandchild, understand that such challenges often begin with the grandparents, continue with the parents, and eventually reach the grandchildren. But if the grandparents raise their child in the fear of God, in love and obedience to Him, that child will also teach their children the same path. Consequently, the grandchildren born into such a family will grow with godly character and a desire to please God.

Biblical Example:

Consider the example of a grandmother who raised her child properly, resulting in her grandchild growing up to be righteous.

This woman was Lois, whose daughter Eunice gave birth to Timothy, who became a servant of the Lord.

2 Timothy 1:4-5 (NIV) –

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.”

Here, Paul reminds Timothy of the source of his faith—his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice. Timothy’s love for God did not begin with him alone; it was nurtured by the faith of his grandmother. That is why Timothy was able to embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ early and eventually serve as a pastor in many churches.

Timothy was not fully Jewish; his mother was Jewish, and his father was Greek. Nevertheless, the spiritual upbringing he received from his grandmother and mother made him stand out among his peers.

Acts 16:1-3 (NIV) –

“Paul came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was Jewish and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. The believers at Lystra and Iconium spoke well of him. Paul wanted to take him along on the journey, and he circumcised him because of the Jews who lived in that area, for they all knew his father was Greek.”

As a parent or grandparent, what legacy will you leave your children and grandchildren? Is mere academic education enough?

If your child receives only worldly education without God in their life, you risk losing them, regardless of how successful or wealthy they become.

Grandmother Lois foresaw the glory of her grandchild’s future and ensured that he became a faithful servant of God. She taught her daughter Eunice well, and Eunice, in turn, taught Timothy the right way.

History is full of highly educated and wealthy young people whose names are forgotten, but the story of Timothy still blesses millions. God gave Timothy an enduring legacy.

If we also train our children in the right way, our legacy will continue through our children, grandchildren, and generations yet to come.

Practical Steps:

Teach your children the Bible.

Don’t teach them about Jesus as if He were a subject like math—teach them His commandments, the importance of prayer, and the power of worship in daily life.

If you put God first in their lives, He will take the first place in all areas of their lives.

May God bless us all. Maranatha!

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