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LOST STARS

In the Bible, those who lead others toward righteousness are often compared to stars.

Daniel 12:3 (NKJV):
“Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars forever and ever.”

The Apostle Paul also mentions that there is a difference in glory between stars, emphasizing the uniqueness of each one’s brilliance.

1Corinthians 15:41 (NIV):
“The sun has one kind of glory, the moon another, and the stars another; and star differs from star in glory.”

Some stars shine brightly, while others are dimmer. Similarly, some appear larger than others, and some smaller. However, we know that Jesus Christ is the brightest and most glorious star. He is referred to as the Morning Star in the Bible, which stands out among all the stars.

Revelation 22:16 (NKJV):
“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”

Just like the morning star rises before the sun, signaling the coming of the light, Jesus shines as the ultimate source of truth and salvation. When the sun rises, other stars fade away, but Jesus—the Morning Star—remains forever.

However, the Bible also warns about lost stars. These are people or leaders who may appear to shine for a time, but ultimately fade into darkness.

Jude 1:12-13 (NKJV):
“These are spots in your love feasts, while they feast with you, without fear, serving only themselves. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees without fruit, twice dead, pulled up by the roots; raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame; wandering stars for whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.”

These lost stars are people who once appeared to be guiding lights but are ultimately unreliable and without direction. They lead others astray by serving only their own selfish desires, instead of guiding people to truth and righteousness.

In ancient times, stars that did not follow a specific, predictable path were called wandering stars or lost stars. Sailors could not depend on them for navigation because they did not follow a regular pattern. These stars would appear for a moment, and then disappear, never to be seen again. This mirrors the behavior of false teachers today. They may seem bright for a short time, but their light quickly fades, and they lead people nowhere.

2 Peter 2:1-3 (NIV):
“But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories.”

These lost stars are the false teachers who appear promising but lead people away from God’s truth. They are not rooted in the gospel and bear no lasting fruit for God’s kingdom. They might shine for a short time, but their influence is fleeting, and those who follow them are led astray.

Now, compare this to the fixed stars, such as the Pleiades and Orion, which are mentioned in Scripture. These constellations were well known in ancient times and remain constant in the sky, guiding people across the ages. These stars symbolize the enduring truth and guidance found in God’s Word.

Amos 5:8 (NIV):
“He who made the Pleiades and Orion, who turns midnight into dawn and darkens day into night, who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out over the face of the land—the Lord is His name.”

Job 9:9 (NKJV):
“Who made the Bear, Orion, and the Pleiades, and the chambers of the south?”

These constellations symbolize God’s sovereignty over the heavens and His unchanging nature. Unlike the lost stars, these constellations follow a fixed pattern, just as God’s truth is unchanging and reliable.

In contrast to the wandering stars—the false teachers—true believers in Christ remain constant in their faith. True stars in God’s kingdom, like the fixed constellations, lead others to salvation, pointing them to Jesus Christ, who is the true light of the world.

Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV):
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Just as the morning star (Jesus Christ) shines brightly to guide us, we are called to be lights in this world, shining brightly with the truth of the gospel. But we must be cautious of the lost stars, the false teachers who appear to shine but lead people into darkness.

Now, in this age of deception, where false teachers are rising, we must be vigilant. The way to eternal life is narrow, and it becomes even narrower as more people are misled.

Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV):
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

The time is now to carefully examine where we’re being led. Many stars shine for a while, but only those who remain faithful to Christ’s truth will endure. As the Bible warns, false teachers lead many astray, but the true followers of Christ, like the fixed stars, will remain steadfast.

2 Peter 3:17-18 (NIV):
“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

There are many stars, but there are also many lost stars. As believers, we must ensure that we are following the true light—the one that lasts forever, Jesus Christ, the Morning Star.

Finally, the Bible also tells us that Israel will play a key role in the end times, and grace will shift toward them. This means the Rapture will soon take place, and if you do not have the Holy Spirit, you won’t be part of it.

Romans 11:25-27 (NIV):
“I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, and in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob.’”

What are you waiting for? Christ is calling you. He died for you. If you turn to Him, He will accept you and make you His own. Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and you will receive the forgiveness of your sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:38 (NIV):
“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.’”

Be greatly blessed.

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How Does God Punish the Sins of Our Fathers According to Exodus 20:5–6?

Question:

In Exodus 20:5–6, God says He punishes children for the sins of their fathers. For example, if a man steals his neighbor’s wife and murders the neighbor, will God punish that man’s children for his actions?

Answer: Understanding God’s Justice in Context

To answer this, we must read Exodus 20:4–6 in its full context and interpret it alongside other Scripture:

“You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.” – Exodus 20:4–6 (NIV)

1. God Punishes Repeated Sin, Not Innocence

Notice the critical phrase: “of those who hate me.”
God’s judgment is not arbitrary. He does not punish children just because of what their fathers did. Instead, He punishes those who continue in their fathers’ sins—those who walk the same rebellious path and persist in hating God.

This is consistent with God’s nature as just (Deuteronomy 32:4) and not someone who condemns the innocent.

“The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father, nor the father suffer for the iniquity of the son.” – Ezekiel 18:20 (ESV)

This verse makes it clear that God holds each person individually accountable. Children are not condemned for their fathers’ sins unless they adopt and persist in those sins.

2. Generational Consequences vs. Generational Guilt

God’s warning in Exodus 20:5 highlights generational consequences, not guilt. Sinful patterns, especially idolatry and rebellion, often pass through generations—through example, culture, and influence. When children embrace these same sins, they inherit not only the spiritual curse but also its earthly consequences.

This was the case with ancient Israel. Despite seeing the idolatry and sin of their forefathers, later generations did not repent but copied those same practices. As a result, they fell under the same judgment and were exiled to Assyria and Babylon (see 2 Kings 17 and 2 Chronicles 36).

3. God’s Mercy Breaks the Cycle

In contrast to generational judgment,

Exodus 20:6 reveals the heart of God:

“But showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.”

This is a powerful reminder that God’s mercy far outweighs His judgment. While judgment may reach three or four generations, His love and mercy extend to a thousand generations of the faithful. Even if you come from a sinful background, if you turn to God, He gives you a new identity and covers you with grace.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)

4. Every Generation Has a Choice

God gives every generation—and every individual—a chance to choose between blessing and curse, life and death.

“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses… that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” – Deuteronomy 30:19 (NIV)

This shows that our choices matter, regardless of our background. You may come from a line of idol worshippers or immoral ancestors, but your personal relationship with God defines your destiny—not your bloodline.

Conclusion: God Is Just and Merciful

To summarize:

  • God does not punish innocent children for their parents’ sins.

  • He does punish those who continue in their parents’ sinful ways, especially idolatry and rebellion.

  • But anyone who turns to God in repentance and obedience breaks that generational pattern and receives mercy.

  • God delights in showing love to thousands of generations of those who seek Him.

This theological truth is echoed from Exodus to Ezekiel, and fulfilled in Christ, who invites all people—regardless of background—into a new life of forgiveness and grace.

“For the Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.” – Psalm 103:8,10

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Will There Be Eating and Drinking in Heaven?

Many believers wonder what life in heaven will be like, especially when it comes to basic human experiences like eating and drinking. While the Bible does not give a detailed picture of all that will happen in heaven after the rapture, it does provide glimpses that help us understand what to expect.

1. Our Knowledge Is Partial—for Now

The Apostle Paul reminds us that some spiritual truths remain mysterious for now:

“For we know in part and we prophesy in part.”
(1 Corinthians 13:9, ESV)

This means God has not revealed everything about the life to come. But He has given us pieces—hints through Scripture—that point to certain realities, including the possibility of eating and drinking in the eternal kingdom.

2. Jesus Spoke of Drinking in God’s Kingdom

During the Last Supper, Jesus told His disciples:

“Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”
(Mark 14:25, ESV)

This was not just a symbolic statement. Jesus was referring to a real event in the future—the marriage supper of the Lamb (see Revelation 19:9). His words suggest that in the kingdom of God, there will be a celebratory meal involving real eating and drinking, not just spiritual symbolism.

3. Jesus Ate in His Glorified Body

After His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples in a glorified body—a body no longer subject to death, pain, or aging. In one encounter, He asked:

“Have you anything here to eat?” They gave Him a piece of broiled fish, and He took it and ate before them.
(Luke 24:41–43, ESV)

Jesus didn’t eat because He was hungry, but to show that His resurrection body was real and physical—not just spiritual or ghost-like. This is significant because:

4. We Will Be Like Christ in the Resurrection

John writes:

“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him as He is.”
(1 John 3:2, ESV)

This tells us that our resurrected, glorified bodies will be like Jesus’ body. If His glorified body could eat, ours will likely be able to as well.

5. Eating Is Not a Result of Sinful Nature

It’s important to remember that eating is not inherently sinful or earthly. In fact, God designed it before the fall. Adam and Eve, in their original, perfect state in Eden, were instructed to eat freely:

“You may surely eat of every tree of the garden.”
(Genesis 2:16, ESV)

This shows that even in a perfect, sinless condition, eating was part of human life. So the act of eating is not tied to corruption but to God’s original design.

6. The Marriage Supper of the Lamb

Revelation gives us a glimpse into the future celebration awaiting believers:

“Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.”
(Revelation 19:9, ESV)

This event isn’t likely to be a symbolic “meal” only. Given all the previous evidence—from Jesus’ words, His resurrected body, and the Edenic pattern—this is most likely a real feast, full of joy and communion with God.

Conclusion: What We Know and What We Hope For

While the Bible doesn’t give us every detail, it’s clear that eating and drinking will not be excluded from heavenly life. Our glorified bodies will not need food to survive, but they may still be able to enjoy it—especially in fellowship with Christ and the saints.

The most important thing is to prepare our hearts now:

“But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.’”
(1 Corinthians 2:9, ESV)

Let us live lives that please God so we will not miss the glory and joy that await us—including the great heavenly feast.

Be blessed.

 
 

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Is It Right for a Christian to Go to the Hospital or Use Herbal Medicine When Sick?

 Answer:  Some Christians wonder whether seeking medical treatment or using herbal remedies shows a lack of faith. But when we look at Scripture, we see that taking care of our physical health is not only acceptable—it is also consistent with God’s provision and wisdom.

  1. Jesus Affirmed the Role of Doctors

In Mark 2:17 (NIV), Jesus said:

“It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Jesus used the role of a physician to explain His mission, implying that it is natural and right for sick people to seek help from doctors. By doing so, He affirmed the value of medical care. Going to the hospital does not mean a Christian lacks faith—it simply means they are making use of the resources God has provided.

  1. God Uses Natural Means for Healing

Many modern medicines are derived from plants that God created. In the Old Testament, God instructed His people to use natural elements in healing. For example:

Ezekiel 47:12 (NIV):

Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.”

Revelation 22:2 (NIV):

And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.”

This shows that God has placed healing properties in creation. Using herbal remedies like neem (mwarobaini) or aloe vera is not unspiritual; it is using God-given wisdom—as long as it is done with the right motives and without involving ungodly rituals.

  1. Avoid Mixing Medicine with Idolatrous Practices

What God strictly forbids is associating healing with unbiblical spiritual practices. When someone is told to sacrifice an animal, chant incantations, or place herbs under the bed as a ritual, they are entering the realm of idolatry. These practices violate the first commandment:

Exodus 20:3 (NIV):

“You shall have no other gods before me.”

Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NIV):

Let no one be found among you who…practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft…Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

A Christian must not rely on or mix their faith with superstitions or occult practices. However, preparing and using herbs at home while praying in the name of Jesus is entirely acceptable.

Colossians 3:17 (NIV):

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.”

  1. Faith for Healing Without Medicine Is Also Valid

There are believers who trust God for healing without any physical means—choosing not to go to a doctor or use medicine. Their faith rests entirely in God’s supernatural power.

Matthew 8:17 (NIV):

He took up our infirmities and bore our diseases.”

Psalm 103:2–3 (NIV):

Praise the Lord, my soul…who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.”

This too is acceptable, because God can heal both through natural means and by His divine power. The key is that each believer should act in faith, according to their conviction, not out of fear or superstition.

Romans 14:23 (NIV):

“everything that does not come from faith is sin.”

Conclusion:

Whether through hospitals, herbal remedies, or supernatural healing, God is the ultimate source of all healing. What matters is that we trust Him, act in faith, and avoid anything that dishonors Him.

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV):

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”

Be blessed and stay grounded in the Word.

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What Did Jesus Mean When He Said We Must “Hate” Our Families to Be His Disciples?

Luke 14:26 (NKJV):

“If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.”

Understanding the Meaning:
 Jesus’ use of the word “hate” in this passage is not a call to animosity or hostility, which would contradict His command to love others — including one’s enemies (Matthew 5:44). Instead, He uses hyperbolic language (a common Jewish teaching method) to emphasize the cost of discipleship and the priority of loyalty to Him over all other relationships.

This idea is supported

 in Matthew 10:37 (NKJV):
 “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.”

Here, Jesus clarifies His meaning: our love for Him must surpass our love for family — not eliminate it. This means that if there’s ever a conflict between God’s will and our family’s expectations, our obedience to Christ must come first.

1. Obedience to God Over Family Traditions

Deuteronomy 18:10–12 (NKJV):
 “There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer… For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord.”

Even if family or cultural traditions demand participation in sinful practices like divination, ancestral rituals, or drunkenness, a true disciple must stand firm in God’s truth. Seeking to please family at the cost of disobeying God is idolatry — putting others before Him.

Galatians 1:10 (NKJV):
 “For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.”

2. True Baptism and the Fear of Man

Some resist biblical baptism — by full immersion in the name of Jesus Christ — due to pressure from family or religious traditions. Yet Scripture clearly teaches:

Acts 2:38 (NKJV):
 “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”

John 3:5 (NKJV):
 “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Obeying Christ must take precedence over denominational loyalty or family expectations. Jesus warned about those who reject the will of God because of fear of others:

John 12:42–43 (NKJV):
 “Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.”

3. The Cost of Discipleship

Following Christ requires sacrifice. Jesus never promised that discipleship would be easy or socially accepted. In fact, He made it clear:

Luke 14:27 (NKJV):
 “And whoever does not bear his cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.”

This means dying to self, enduring rejection, and being willing to lose everything — even relationships — for the sake of the Gospel.

Philippians 3:8 (NKJV):
 “Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”

4. Final Exhortation

Discipleship demands full surrender. We must not let the fear of family, culture, or human opinion prevent us from obeying the commands of Jesus. He alone is Lord, and His Word is final.

Colossians 3:23–24 (NKJV):
 “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”

May the Lord grant us grace and courage to obey Him fully — even when it costs us dearly.

Amen.

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Tonight They Want Your Soul!” — Who Are These People?

 

Question:

In Luke 12:20 (NKJV), it says:

“But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’“

But who are these that “require” or “demand” his soul?

Context:

In Luke 12:13–21, Jesus tells a parable in response to a man concerned about inheritance. Jesus warns against greed (choyo) and the false belief that life’s security comes from wealth.
 The rich man in the parable had such a great harvest that he planned to build bigger barns to store it all. He told himself to relax — eat, drink, and be merry — thinking he had secured his future.

But God calls him a “fool” — not because he was rich, but because he trusted in his wealth instead of God. He thought he controlled his life, but in reality, he was blind to the spiritual reality that life and death are in God’s hands

(see Job 1:21 — “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; Blessed be the name of the Lord.“).

This suggests that more than one party was involved in demanding his soul:

  • Angels of death could have been sent to claim his life (Hebrews 9:27 — “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment“).

  • Spiritual forces of darkness could also have been awaiting his downfall, especially because of his sin of idolatry — trusting riches more than God (John 10:10 — “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.“).

  • Human enemies — thieves, assassins, or jealous opponents — could have been plotting physical harm.

  • The justice of God itself demands the soul of those who are unrepentant and live for themselves instead of God (Romans 6:23 — “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.“).

In short, it’s not just “one” — it’s the combination of spiritual and physical forces moving under God’s sovereign allowance to bring judgment.

warning message :

Like that rich man, many today put their trust in wealth, careers, insurance, medicine, and human systems, but forget their ultimate security comes only from God.
 The Bible warns us

 in Proverbs 11:4 (NKJV):“Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.“

It’s dangerous to live without being “rich toward God” — meaning to invest your heart, time, and treasures into God’s Kingdom and purposes

Matthew 6:19–21 — “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also“).

The rich man stored up earthly goods but had no heavenly investment. When the time came, his riches couldn’t save him.
 Psalm 49:6-7 (NKJV) says:

“Those who trust in their wealth and boast in the multitude of their riches, none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him.“

Only a relationship with Jesus Christ can guarantee eternal life.
 That’s why Hebrews 2:3 urges us:

“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…“

And remember what Psalm 127:1 (NKJV) says:

“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.“

Final Thoughts:

Every day we live, unseen forces are at work. Only God’s mercy keeps us safe.
 Let’s be wise — not fools — by living every day in trust, obedience, and relationship with Him, rich toward God, not just rich in the things of this world.

Be blessed.
 Trust in Jesus.
 Stay ready.

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what does proverb 14:4 mean??

 

Proverbs 14:4 (ESV) says:

“Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.”

At first glance, this proverb speaks about a simple truth from everyday life:

  • An empty stable stays clean — without oxen, there’s no mess (no dung, no feed to clean up). There is no burden of maintenance.
  • However, without oxen, there is also no strength for labor — meaning no plowing, no harvest, no productivity.
  • In contrast, where oxen are present, though the stable gets messy, their strength produces an abundant harvest. The inconvenience brings much greater rewards.

Thus, cleanliness without productivity is meaningless; while accepting some “mess” leads to fruitfulness and blessing.

Spiritual meaning:

This verse offers a profound spiritual principle Many people desire spiritual fruit — such as effective ministry, personal growth, or a deep relationship with God — but they shrink back when they realize that such fruit requires sacrifice, effort, and endurance.

Jesus made this clear

in Luke 14:25-27 (ESV):

“Now great crowds accompanied Him, and He turned and said to them, ‘If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.'”

Following Christ demands putting Him first, even above our closest relationships and personal comfort. True discipleship involves carrying our cross — embracing sacrifice and hardship for the sake of the Kingdom.

Jesus then continues 

in Luke 14:28-30, teaching about counting the cost:

“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
“Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’”

Just like having oxen means accepting the responsibility and mess for the sake of harvest, following Christ requires embracing the cost for the sake of eternal rewards.

spiritual lesson:

  1. Fruitfulness Requires Labor:
    Spiritual growth does not happen by accident.
    “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
    — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)
  2. Enduring Hardship:
    Hardship and sacrifice are normal parts of Christian maturity.
    “Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”
    — 2 Timothy 2:3 (ESV)
  3. Reward After Labor:
    God promises that faithful labor will not be in vain.
    “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
    — Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Summary:

  • A life without commitment, responsibility, or sacrifice may seem “clean” and “easy,” but it remains unfruitful.
  • A life that embraces the cost — even when messy, difficult, and challenging — will produce abundant spiritual harvests.
  • In God’s Kingdom, labor leads to reward, sacrifice leads to fruitfulness, and faithfulness leads to eternal glory.

Therefore, let us embrace the “mess” that comes with meaningful service, knowing that it results in an abundant harvest for the glory of God.

Amen.

 

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who are eunuchs?

In Matthew 19:12 (NKJV), Jesus explains that there are three types of eunuchs:

“For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother’s womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.” (Matthew 19:12, NKJV)

Let’s break this down simply:

1. Eunuchs Born That Way

These are people who, from birth, cannot have children or marry. God created them like this for His own reasons, often setting them apart for special purposes.

Example: Some biblical figures, like Daniel and his friends, were possibly in this category (Daniel 1:3–7), serving in royal courts without focusing on marriage.

2. Eunuchs Made That Way by Others

In ancient times, especially in royal courts, some men were physically altered (castrated) to serve kings without distractions from women.

Example: Servants who looked after royal harems were often made eunuchs (see Esther 2:3, 2:14).

3. Eunuchs by Personal Choice for God’s Kingdom

These are people who choose to remain unmarried so that they can serve God without the distractions and responsibilities of marriage.

Example: Apostle Paul speaks about this choice:

“(1 Corinthians 7:8, NKJV)

But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am.” 

 Paul chose a single life to serve the Lord with complete focus.

Jesus Himself was also unmarried, fully dedicating His life to the mission of salvation.

Examples of Spiritual Eunuchs

Jesus Christ – remained unmarried for the sake of His mission (Luke 19:10; Hebrews 4:15).

Apostle Paul – chose singleness to focus on preaching (1 Corinthians 7:32–35).

Barnabas – served with Paul and also stayed unmarried (Acts 13:2–3).

Possibly John the Baptist – lived a life of complete dedication (Luke 1:15–17).

Daniel and companions – served in the king’s court with total devotion (Daniel 1:8).

Important Note;

It’s a calling, not a command. Not everyone is called to live unmarried. Jesus said, “He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.” (Matthew 19:12b).

 Paul also wrote that marriage is good, but singleness can be better if someone feels called (1 Corinthians 7:7, 1 Corinthians 7:17, NKJV).

It’s a spiritual gift. The ability to live a celibate life peacefully and happily comes from God — it is a gift (1 Corinthians 7:7). Not everyone has this grace.

Freedom to serve God fully. Staying unmarried gives more freedom to focus on God’s work:

“But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:32, NKJV).

Women, too, can have this calling.

 Just like men, women who choose to stay unmarried to dedicate themselves to God are spiritually seen like “eunuchs” — meaning fully consecrated for God’s work.

Summary

Eunuchs, according to the Bible, are people who either:

Were born unable to marry,

Were made that way by others,

Or chose by themselves not to marry — all for the purpose of serving God better.

This life of singleness is a special calling. It is not for everyone, but for those who have the gift, it brings incredible freedom to serve God with undivided hearts.

“He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.” (Matthew 19:12, NKJV)

Be blessed as you seek to understand and walk in God’s unique calling for your life!

 

 

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What is the meaning of “ELOHIM”?

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The Spirit is Willing, But the Flesh is Weak

 “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41, NIV)

. This phrase encapsulates the tension we often experience between our spiritual aspirations and our physical limitations. While we may have a strong desire to align with God’s will, our bodies often become weary, distracted, or resistant.

Context:

After a full day of ministry with His disciples, Jesus didn’t have the opportunity to rest. Instead, He went to a designated house for the evening, where He continued teaching and preparing them for what was to come. He shared important teachings, including the institution of the Lord’s Supper, and spent time in fellowship with them. It was in this context that Jesus washed His disciples’ feet as an example of humility and service (John 13:1-17). They stayed up very late, and around 8:00 PM, when they should have been resting, Jesus called them to pray with Him.

The key lesson here is that despite being physically exhausted, Jesus asked His disciples to stay awake and pray with Him. This request highlights a significant challenge: the ability to push through physical tiredness to fulfill spiritual duties. Jesus understood this challenge, which is why He said, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” This statement is a recognition that, while our spiritual desires may be strong, our bodies often struggle to keep pace with those desires.

The Struggle of the Flesh:

In theological terms, the “flesh” refers to our sinful human nature—those aspects of our being that are prone to selfishness, laziness, and disobedience. The term is often used in Scripture to describe the part of humanity that resists God and is inclined toward sin. The “flesh” doesn’t just refer to our physical bodies, but to our sinful tendencies.

Romans 7:18 (NIV): “I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.”

Galatians 5:16-17 (NIV): “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.”

This battle between the spirit and the flesh is a central theme in Christian life. While the spirit desires to follow God, the flesh is weak and prone to distraction or sin.

Overcoming the Flesh:

In the Christian tradition, overcoming the flesh involves not denying the legitimate needs of the body but rather learning how to submit those needs to God’s will. The desires themselves—hunger, sleep, pleasure—are not inherently sinful. God designed our bodies with these needs for a purpose: to sustain us and help us enjoy life in this world. However, after the fall of humanity (Genesis 3), these desires became twisted by sin, and they can lead us astray if they are not controlled by the Spirit.

Sleep and Hunger:

Psalm 127:2 (NIV): “In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.”
God created the need for sleep to restore our energy. If we didn’t need sleep, we would burn out quickly. Similarly, hunger is not a sin.

Matthew 6:25 (NIV) tells us not to worry about our bodily needs because God will provide: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink.”

These desires are part of God’s provision for us to enjoy life and thrive.

However, in a fallen world, these desires can lead to excess and selfishness, which is where the problem arises. For instance, excessive indulgence in food (gluttony), or rest (idleness), can hinder spiritual growth.

The Desire to Enjoy the World:

After Adam and Eve’s fall into sin, the world became corrupted. What was once a paradise filled with beauty and harmony became a place where evil and temptation abound.

1 John 2:15-16 (NIV): “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”

God intended for us to enjoy the world, but now, because of sin, our enjoyment can lead to idolatry, selfishness, and separation from God. The desires of the flesh have become entangled with sinful temptation, and therefore, we must be cautious and avoid things that draw us into sinful patterns.

How Do We Overcome the Flesh?

Overcoming the flesh is not about rejecting our physical needs but about surrendering those desires to God. The key is to understand that spiritual discipline and reliance on the Holy Spirit are essential to living victoriously over the flesh.

  1. Avoid Temptation:
    To resist the desires of the flesh, we must avoid situations that provoke those desires. For example, if you want to avoid overindulgence in food, stay away from places where food is a constant temptation. If you struggle with lust, avoid watching inappropriate content or exposing yourself to situations that feed that desire.

  2. Overcoming Sleep:
    Jesus didn’t tell His disciples to rebuke the “spirit of sleep”; He simply told them to pray (Matthew 26:41). The remedy for sleepiness during spiritual activities, like prayer or Bible study, is not supernatural rebuke, but discipline. Keep busy, stay active, and focus on the importance of the task. Recognize that sleep is not a demon, but a physical need.

  3. Discipline and Focus:
    It’s essential to develop spiritual habits that can help you stay disciplined and focused. If you find it difficult to stay awake during prayer or Bible study, recognize the importance of these practices and remind yourself why they matter. Overcoming the flesh involves a conscious decision to prioritize spiritual activities over physical distractions.

Walking by the Spirit:

Paul emphasizes the need to “walk by the Spirit” in order to overcome the flesh. Walking by the Spirit means living in daily dependence on the Holy Spirit’s power, allowing Him to guide us and give us the strength to resist temptation.

Galatians 5:16 (NIV): “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

The Spirit provides the power we need to resist the pull of the flesh. In our own strength, we cannot overcome these desires, but through the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to live godly lives.

The Final Battle:

The battle against the flesh is ongoing. We are called to deny our fleshly desires and live according to the Spirit. The ultimate goal is not to reject the body or its needs, but to use them in service to God, submitting them to His will.

Romans 8:13 (NIV): “For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”

Conclusion:

The battle is real, but the victory is assured for those who walk by the Spirit. The more we grow in our relationship with God, the more we can overcome the weaknesses of the flesh. Remember that the flesh is weak, but through the Spirit, we can live a life that pleases God.

Philippians 4:13 (NIV): “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Let us stay close to God in prayer, reading His Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit to help us navigate the challenges of the flesh. And, by avoiding the temptations of the world, we will continue to grow stronger in the faith and honor God with our lives.

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