The Sign of the Laodicean Church
Welcome to today’s Bible study. We’re focusing on a vital question: Could today’s Church be the final Church described in the book of Revelation—the Church of Laodicea?
Understanding the Seven Churches in Revelation
In Revelation chapters 2 and 3, Jesus gives messages to seven churches located in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey): Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea (Revelation 1:11).
These churches were literal congregations in the first century, but theologically, they are often viewed as symbolic of different periods or conditions of the universal Church throughout history. This interpretation aligns with historic premillennial and dispensational eschatology, which sees these churches as a prophetic timeline of the Church Age.
Laodicea: The Final Church?
Laodicea is the seventh and final church. In Scripture, the number seven symbolizes completion or fullness (Genesis 2:2; Revelation 1:20). Thus, Laodicea may represent the final spiritual condition of the Church before Christ returns.
Here’s what Jesus says about it:
“I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.”
— Revelation 3:15–16
This rebuke reveals a spiritual condition of compromise and self-deception. The Laodicean Church believed it was wealthy and had need of nothing, but Christ says it is spiritually “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” (v. 17).
Parallel with the Last Days
The New Testament consistently warns that in the last days, spiritual and moral decay will increase:
- “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves… lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1–5).
- said, “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man” (Luke 17:26).
Just like in the days of Noah and Lot, people will be preoccupied with daily life, yet spiritually indifferent or rebellious. In Genesis 19, Sodom and Gomorrah’s destruction followed rampant immorality and the rejection of righteousness. Jude confirms this, saying:
“…Sodom and Gomorrah… are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.”
— Jude 1:7
So, Sodom and Gomorrah symbolize the moral condition of the world in the last days, while Laodicea symbolizes the spiritual condition of the Church—worldly, lukewarm, and unaware of its need for repentance.
Today’s Church: A Laodicean Mirror?
Many aspects of today’s Christian culture reflect the Laodicean condition:
- Compromise between holy living and worldly entertainment
- Half-hearted devotion, such as attending church but not living transformed lives (see Romans 12:1–2)
- Materialism and self-sufficiency, rather than spiritual dependence on Christ
This is not a condemnation of all believers but a wake-up call to examine whether we are following Christ with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37).
Hope for the Faithful Remnant
Though Laodicea is rebuked, Christ still offers grace:
“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”
— Revelation 3:19
This mirrors God’s pattern throughout Scripture: even in times of judgment, He always calls a remnant to faithfulness—Noah, Lot, the faithful in Elijah’s day (1 Kings 19:18). Likewise, God is calling a remnant Church today to stay faithful, set apart, and spiritually alert (Matthew 25:1–13).
The Next Prophetic Event: The Rapture?
In Revelation 4:1, after the message to Laodicea, John is caught up to heaven:
“After these things I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven… And the first voice… said, ‘Come up here, and I will show you things which must take place after this.’”
— Revelation 4:1
Many theologians interpret this as a symbol of the rapture of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). After the Church Age, God will remove His faithful people and then allow judgment (the Great Tribulation) to unfold.
Be “Hot” for Christ
Jesus would rather we be cold (clearly outside the faith) or hot (fully committed) than lukewarm. Why? Because lukewarm believers can appear spiritual but are deceiving themselves—a dangerous place to be (James 1:22).
So if you’ve decided to follow Christ, do it wholeheartedly:
- Let your life reflect true transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- Reject cultural Christianity and worldly compromise (1 John 2:15–17)
- Embrace holiness and spiritual fervor (Hebrews 12:14, Romans 12:11)
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him…”
— Revelation 3:20
Jesus is at the door. Let’s not miss the call.
DON’T AVOID FELLOWSHIP WITH THE ALTAR OF CHRIST
Fellowship is more than just spending time together—it is a spiritual practice that deeply shapes who we become. The term fellowship comes from the idea of sharing, and whatever you consistently share in, you begin to absorb its nature. This spiritual law applies in both the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness.
The Principle of Fellowship in the Spiritual Realm
Many people don’t realize that the term witchcraft is derived from—to participate or share in something. Those involved in witchcraft are actually partaking in spiritual fellowship with demonic powers. Why? To receive spiritual influence—whether it’s power, success, or favor—through unholy means.
For example, a person may visit a witchdoctor to get a charm or potion intended to attract customers to their business. What’s really happening is spiritual fellowship with a demonic spirit. That spirit may bring some temporary success, but in the end, it turns against the person. Why? Because the devil’s ultimate mission is to “steal, kill and destroy” (John 10:10). Without participating in that fellowship, the demonic influence wouldn’t take effect.
Fellowship in God’s Kingdom Works the Same—But in Righteousness
This same principle works in the Kingdom of God, but in a holy and life-giving way. If you’re in the church but only attend passively—coming and going without truly connecting to God or His people—you’re not partaking in the spiritual strength and character that comes through godly fellowship.
When we actively engage in the life of the church, we begin to take on the nature of Christ. As Paul wrote in Romans 8:29
“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…”
This transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in fellowship.
Three Key Aspects of Christian Fellowship
- Serving the Body of Christ
When you serve in church—whether by teaching, cleaning, giving, building, or helping in any way—you’re not just doing a job; you’re engaging in spiritual partnership with God’s people. In doing so, you receive spiritual strength, encouragement, and growth.1 Corinthians 12:27 says:
“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.”
- The Lord’s Table (Holy Communion)
Communion is not just a ritual—it’s a profound act of spiritual fellowship with Christ. Paul explains this powerfully:1 Corinthians 10:16–17
“Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf.”
Taking communion unites us with Christ and with one another. Jesus emphasized this in John 6:53
“Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.”
2.Washing One Another’s Feet (Humility and Love)
Jesus modeled servant-hearted fellowship by washing His disciples’ feet. When we serve others humbly, we receive grace to love more deeply and genuinely.
John 13:14–15
“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Why Fellowship Is Essential to Spiritual Growth
The Christian life isn’t meant to be lived alone. If you want to grow in the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness (Galatians 5:22–23)—you must remain in regular, active fellowship with Christ and His body, the Church.
The early Church is our model. After 3,000 people were saved on the day of Pentecost, Scripture tells us:
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
They didn’t just attend church—they built lives of deep, shared community rooted in Christ.
So don’t avoid the fellowship of the Lord.
It’s not just beneficial—it’s vital. It brings life, transformation, and spiritual power. Outside of that fellowship, we remain spiritually disconnected and weak. But within it, we grow strong in Christ and reflect His nature to the world.
May the Lord bless you and draw you deeper into fellowship with Him and His Church.
Why is it not biblical to pray for the dead?
The Bible does not teach or show anywhere that praying for the dead is effective or commanded. The only related story is the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 which actually illustrates why prayers for the dead are not effective.
In this story, a rich man who died and was in torment in Hades (the place of the dead) asks Abraham to send Lazarus, a poor man now comforted with Abraham, to warn his living brothers so they won’t also come to this place of torment. Abraham replies that the brothers have Moses and the Prophets (the Scriptures) and should listen to them. The rich man argues that a warning from someone risen from the dead would convince them, but Abraham says:
“If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.”
(Luke 16:31)
This indicates that after death, there is no second chance or intervention that can change a person’s eternal destiny. The rich man’s plea for his brothers to be spared is denied because God’s revealed Word is sufficient, and human testimony—even from the dead—would not change hardened hearts.
Further, Abraham explains there is a fixed chasm between those in torment and those in comfort:
“Between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.”
(Luke 16:26)
This theological point stresses the permanence of eternal destinies after death: the saved are separated from the lost with no crossing back or forth. This directly challenges any notion that prayer can move souls between heaven and hell after death.
If prayers for the dead were valid, logically there would also be biblical prayers to remove someone from heaven and send them to hell—but such prayers do not exist in Scripture.
Praying for the dead or asking saints to intercede for deceased loved ones has no biblical foundation and cannot affect their eternal state. Instead, we are called to prepare for eternity now by trusting Christ and repenting from sin.
May the Lord grant us wisdom and faithfulness to live for Him every day.
Let’s Find One Voice and Build God’s Tower
Greetings in the glorious name of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I invite you to reflect on these life-giving words.
Today, I want to share a powerful truth from the Bible that, if embraced, can bring great transformation to our world. Many assume that people today are more intelligent than those who lived long ago. However, Scripture and history reveal that ancient peoples accomplished remarkable feats—such as the pyramids of Egypt (one of the ancient wonders)—that modern technology still cannot replicate. This shows that God’s providence and human unity can produce extraordinary outcomes.
The Tower of Babel: Unity and Pride
In Genesis 11:1-9 , we read the story of Babylon and the Tower of Babel. The people spoke one language and decided to build a city and a tower “with its top in the heavens” to make a name for themselves (Gen 11:4). Their goal was self-glorification and unity under their own terms.
This reflects human pride and rebellion against God (cf. Proverbs 16:18 “Pride goes before destruction…”). Their unity was powerful but misdirected because it sought to exalt human achievement instead of honoring God.
God’s response was to confuse their language and scatter them (Gen 11:7-8), breaking their unity. This act demonstrated that true power lies not just in unity but in unity aligned with God’s purposes. The “voice” or “speech” in the passage symbolizes shared intention and covenant. Their failure was not in their unity, but in their self-centered aim.
One Voice Restored in the Church
Fast forward to the New Testament Pentecost event in Acts 2:1-12, where the Holy Spirit reverses Babel’s confusion. Believers, once divided by language, are now filled with the Spirit and speak in tongues understood by all nations. This signifies God’s redemptive plan to unite diverse peoples into one body in Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
This restoration of “one voice” or unity is the foundation for the explosive growth of the early Church. Their unity was spiritual and mission-focused, centered on glorifying God rather than self.
Church Unity and Humility
Today, the Church often suffers division because we pursue personal agendas rather than God’s glory. Jesus’ call in Luke 14:27-29 reminds us to count the cost of discipleship—to carry our cross and follow Him fully. Without humble obedience and unified purpose, the Church cannot manifest the fullness of God’s glory.
The Church is not a social club or organization but the manifestation of God’s kingdom on earth (Ephesians 2:19-22). As members of Christ’s body, we must commit personally to unity through obedience and love.
May the Lord help us live in this unity and build His tower of glory on earth.
Shalom.
What is the difference between witnessing and preaching?
Answer:
Witnessing comes from the idea of giving a testimony—sharing what you have personally seen or experienced. For example, if someone witnesses a car accident and then tells others exactly what happened, they are giving a testimony or bearing witness to that event.
In Christian, witnessing (or bearing witness) is sharing firsthand experience of Jesus Christ—His character, His works, and His impact in one’s life. This is a vital part of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), where Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples.” Sharing your testimony about Jesus’ love and power is a powerful way to introduce others to Him.
Preaching, however, is a broader ministry that includes witnessing but also involves teaching, exhorting, warning, and explaining God’s Word. It is a more comprehensive proclamation of the Gospel message.
For instance, if the person who saw the car accident not only describes what happened but also teaches how to prevent such accidents and warns others about the dangers, they are preaching. In the same way, when a Christian moves from simply sharing personal experiences about Jesus to explaining the significance of His death and resurrection, calling people to respond in faith and repentance, they are preaching.
Preaching involves not just telling what Jesus has done but also calling for a response, emphasizing salvation, repentance, and obedience (2 Timothy 4:2,
“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”).
As believers, we are called both to witness—to share personal testimonies—and to preach, to proclaim the full Gospel message.
2 Timothy 4:5 reminds us:
“But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.”
Is it Right for a Christian to Receive Money from Someone Involved in Illegal Activities?
This is a serious and relevant question in today’s world, especially for believers in ministry, church leadership, or even just in everyday Christian living. Can a Christian accept money from someone whose income is derived from illegal activities like drug trafficking, robbery, or fraud?
Biblically answer is no.
1. Participation in Sin by Association
Accepting money from someone involved in sinful or illegal work makes you a participant, even if indirectly. The Bible is clear that believers are called to be holy and separate from wickedness:
Ephesians 5:11
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
When a believer receives money from an unlawful source, they are no longer exposing evil—they’re benefiting from it.
2. You Can’t Separate the Fruit from the Tree
You cannot claim to disapprove of someone’s sinful lifestyle and at the same time receive the benefits of that lifestyle. Jesus used the imagery of trees and fruit to show that what comes from a corrupt source is also corrupt:
Luke 6:43–44
“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit.”
If the “tree” (the person’s source of income) is bad, then the “fruit” (the money they earn) is also bad. You can’t accept one without endorsing the other.
3. God Rejects Sacrifices from the Wicked
Scripture makes it clear that God is not interested in offerings or sacrifices that come from unclean hands. No matter how big the amount, if it’s gained through evil, God detests it.
Proverbs 15:8
“The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.”
Proverbs 21:27
“The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable—how much more so when brought with evil intent!”
Deuteronomy 23:18
“You must not bring the earnings of a female prostitute or of a male prostitute into the house of the Lord your God to pay any vow, because the Lord your God detests them both.”
This shows that God is not only concerned with the act of giving but also with the source and the heart behind the giving.
4. Repentance Comes Before Giving
If someone involved in illegal work wants to support the church or give to a believer, the right step is to first repent—to turn away from that lifestyle and receive Christ fully.
Only after their heart and life have changed can their resources be considered clean. As Jesus said, when the tree is made good, the fruit will also be good.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This means their source of income should reflect their new life in Christ. Honesty, integrity, and righteousness are marks of a true believer.
5. Spiritual Consequences of Accepting Unclean Money
Many people who accept money from criminal or sinful sources often find that it brings more harm than good. That’s because the money comes not only with physical value but also with spiritual baggage—often tied to greed, deceit, oppression, and even demonic influence.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
This verse doesn’t just speak of the love of money—it highlights how chasing or benefiting from unrighteous wealth can lead people into spiritual ruin.
As Christians, we are called to live in holiness—not just in our words and actions, but also in the sources of our resources. Whether you are in ministry or not, it is never right to accept money earned through illegal or sinful means. That includes tithes, offerings, or donations.
Instead, call the giver to repentance and encourage them to seek lawful, honest work that reflects their new identity in Christ. Only then will their giving be a blessing, both to them and to others.
May the Lord give us discernment and integrity in all areas of life—including the money we receive.
Come, Lord Jesus!
Was Jesus Crucified on a Cross or a Tree?
Question: Galatians 3:13 says Jesus was “hung on a tree,” yet John 19:19 states that He was crucified on a cross. So which is it? Was it a literal tree, a vertical stake, or a traditional cross made of two beams? And does it even matter?
Answer: Let’s start by examining the Scriptures.
Galatians 3:13 (ESV) “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree.’”
Paul here is quoting Deuteronomy 21:22–23, where it was written in the Law of Moses:
Deuteronomy 21:22–23 (ESV): “And if a man has committed a crime punishable by death and he is put to death, and you hang him on a tree, his body shall not remain all night on the tree, but you shall bury him the same day, for a hanged man is cursed by God.”
By referencing this passage, Paul is emphasizing the theological truth that Jesus bore the curse of sin in our place. The phrase “hung on a tree” (Greek: xylon) doesn’t necessarily mean a literal tree; rather, it refers to anything made of wood. The term was used in Greek literature to describe wooden instruments of execution, including crosses and stakes.
John 19:19 (ESV) “Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.’”
Here the Greek word for cross is stauros, which historically referred to an upright stake, but by the Roman period, it commonly denoted the two-beamed structure known as a crucifix. Roman crucifixions were widespread and well-documented, and they typically used a crux immissa a cross formed by two beams intersecting like a “+” or “t.”
Historical Context of Crucifixion
The Roman Empire, which ruled Judea during Jesus’ earthly life, practiced crucifixion as a public, torturous, and shameful method of execution reserved for slaves, revolutionaries, and the most despised criminals. According to Roman historian Tacitus, crucifixion was designed to maximize suffering and humiliation.
Most historical evidence shows that the Romans used a two-beam cross: a vertical post (stipes) permanently fixed in the ground, and a horizontal beam (patibulum) which the condemned would carry to the site of execution. Once there, they would be affixed to the patibulum, which was then hoisted onto the stipes to form the cross.
Matthew 27:32 (ESV) “As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. They compelled this man to carry his cross.”
This likely refers to the patibulum, the horizontal beam, which Jesus was too weak to carry after being scourged.
Theologically, the shape or design of the cross is not what carries weight what matters is who was crucified and why.
- Isaiah 53:5 (ESV) “But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.”
- 1 Peter 2:24 (ESV) “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
The phrase “on the tree” in Peter’s epistle echoes Deuteronomy and Galatians, reinforcing that Jesus’ crucifixion fulfilled the curse of the Law so that sinners might be redeemed.
Does the Shape of the Cross Matter?
Some groups, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, argue that Jesus died on a single upright stake. However, the shape of the wood is not a requirement for salvation. The central tenets of the Gospel are:
- Jesus died for our sins according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3),
- He was buried,
- He rose again on the third day,
- And He will come again in glory (Acts 1:11, Revelation 22:12).
Whether one envisions a single vertical post or a traditional cross does not impact salvation. What is essential is faith in the redemptive work of Christ, repentance from sin, and new life through Him.
Secondary Matters vs. Essential Doctrine
Knowing the type of wood used, the size, or the exact appearance of the cross doesn’t affect our standing before God. Just as knowing what Jesus looked like physically adds nothing to our salvation, neither does knowing the precise design of the instrument on which He died.
As Paul writes:
1 Corinthians 2:2 (ESV) “For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.”
The message of the cross is what matters not its shape.
Jesus was most likely crucified on a two-beamed wooden cross, consistent with Roman practices. Yet, theologically, what matters is that He was crucified not the shape of the wood. Believers should focus not on the external instrument, but on the internal reality of the atonement, resurrection, and return of Christ.
Let us continue in repentance, walk in holiness, and wait in hope.
Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
Fathers, Do Not Provoke Your Children
A parent’s responsibility is to raise their child in the right way, because God’s wisdom teaches that a child trained according to His ways will not depart from them, even into old age.
Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
This verse highlights the principle of early spiritual formation and the lasting impact of godly instruction. Training a child in the “way they should go” involves instilling moral values, faith, and character based on Scripture.
However, while nurturing children in a godly manner, Scripture also warns parents especially fathers not to provoke or discourage their children. Provoking here means causing unnecessary anger, resentment, or discouragement that can hinder their spiritual and emotional growth.
Ephesians 6:4 (NIV)
“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
The Greek word translated “exasperate” or “provoke” (παροργίζω, parorgizō) implies stirring up wrath or irritation. Paul instructs fathers to avoid harshness that leads to anger, and instead to nurture children through patient teaching and loving discipline grounded in God’s Word.
Colossians 3:21 (NIV)
“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.”
Here, “embitter” similarly carries the idea of causing resentment or despair. A child’s heart can be deeply wounded by unfair treatment or harshness, which can quench their spirit and damage their desire to obey and grow.
What Does It Mean to Provoke Your Children?
To provoke your children means causing them to become angry or discouraged without just cause. This can manifest in several harmful ways:
- Excessive Harshness
Parents who frequently lose their temper or react with anger over minor issues risk alienating their children. Such behavior teaches children fear rather than love, undermining the biblical principle of nurturing in gentleness (Galatians 6:1). According to Scripture, provoking a child in this way is harmful to their emotional and spiritual development. - Unfair or Frequent Punishment
Discipline is important, but it must be just and purposeful. Proverbs 13:24 (NIV) says, “Whoever spares the rod hates their children, but the one who loves their children is careful to discipline them.” However, discipline should not be excessive or inconsistent. Over-punishing for small faults can lead to bitterness and discouragement, which Scripture warns against. - Humiliating the Child
Shaming or humiliating a child publicly damages their dignity and self-worth, contrary to the biblical call to honor and respect one another (Romans 12:10). Encouragement and affirmation build a child’s confidence and help them develop a healthy identity in Christ.
God’s design for parenting balances discipline and grace. As a reflection of God’s own character, parents are called to be both just and merciful. Discipline without love can provoke; love without discipline can lead to neglect. Therefore, the biblical model is one of loving guidance, firm yet gentle, always aiming to reflect God’s patience and kindness (2 Timothy 1:7).
Ultimately, the goal is to raise children who love God, respect others, and live responsibly in the world. This requires parents to be mindful of their words and actions, seeking the Spirit’s wisdom in every interaction.
May God bless you as you lovingly raise and guide your children according to His Word.
DO NOT BE BITTER TOWARD HER
(Special Teaching for Married Couples The Husband’s Role)
Colossians 3:19 (NKJV)
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them.”
This short yet profound verse provides two divine imperatives to every Christian husband:
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Love your wife.
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Do not be bitter toward her.
These are not mere suggestions; they are commands from God, rooted in His design for marriage and reflective of the covenant between Christ and His Church.
1. Love Your Wife as Christ Loved the Church
Biblical love is not simply emotional affection; it is a deliberate, self-sacrificing, covenantal commitment. God’s Word calls husbands to mirror the love of Christ Himself.
Ephesians 5:25 (NKJV)
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”
This means loving your wife unconditionally, sacrificially, and consistently from the day you say “I do” until death separates you. Christ’s love for the Church was not dependent on her merit but was rooted in grace. Likewise, a husband’s love must not fluctuate with moods or circumstances.
When love seems to wane, it is a call to spiritual action: seek God in prayer, repent of apathy, and actively rekindle that love. The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) includes love, patience, kindness, and self control all crucial for a thriving marriage.
2. Do Not Be Bitter Toward Her
Bitterness is a spiritual toxin. The Greek word used for “bitter” in Colossians 3:19 (pikrainō) implies a deep seated resentment or sharpness of spirit. Scripture warns that unchecked bitterness can defile relationships and hinder fellowship with God.
Hebrews 12:15 (NKJV)
“Looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled.”
Why might a husband become bitter? Scripture acknowledges that women like all human beings have flaws. Mismanagement of finances, indiscretion with private matters, emotional responses, or recurring mistakes may test a husband’s patience. However, bitterness is never the solution. It is sin, and it grieves the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 4:31 (NKJV)
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.”
Understanding the Weaker vessel
God calls men to lead with understanding and compassion, not dominance or emotional detachment.
1 Peter 3:7 (NKJV)
“Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.”
The phrase “weaker vessel” does not imply inferiority but rather delicacy and vulnerability. Just as fine china is more delicate than a cooking pot, both serve essential but different purposes. Husbands are called to recognize this distinction and respond with honor, gentleness, and support not frustration or control.
Failing to treat your wife with understanding and honor, Scripture warns, may hinder your prayers. That is a serious spiritual consequence one that no godly man should take lightly.
A Call to Christlike Leadership
Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. It reflects Christ’s relationship with His Bride, the Church. As such, the husband’s role is one of sacrificial leadership, spiritual covering, and emotional strength.
Let every husband ask himself:
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Am I loving my wife as Christ loved the Church?
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Have I allowed bitterness to take root in my heart?
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Do I honor her as a fellow heir of God’s grace?
Let us repent where we’ve fallen short, and pursue God’s perfect design for marriage.
Maranatha! The Lord is coming.
Live Joyfully with the One You Love. Ecclesiastes 9:7–10
Ecclesiastes 9:7–10 (ESV)
Ecclesiastes 9:7–10 (ESV)
“Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do.
Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head.
Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun.
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.”
The Book of Ecclesiastes, traditionally attributed to King Solomon, is one of the most philosophically rich books in the Old Testament. It reflects on the fleeting nature of life (“vanity of vanities” – Ecclesiastes 1:2) and the pursuit of meaning in a world that often seems unpredictable and unjust.
Ecclesiastes 9:7–10 urges us to enjoy life’s simple blessings not from a place of indulgence or escapism, but from a position of godly contentment. The Preacher (Qoheleth) acknowledges that much in life is mysterious and out of our control, but there are things we can embrace joyfully, especially when we know our lives are aligned with God’s will.
1. God Has Already Approved Your Works
“…for God has already approved what you do.”
This phrase points to the grace of God. The Preacher encourages believers to live freely and joyfully, knowing that God has accepted their lives and labor. This is echoed in the New Testament through justification by faith (Romans 5:1), where believers are made right with God, not by works, but by trusting in Christ. When you walk with God, your life is already pleasing to Him.
2. White Garments and Anointed Head
“Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head.”
In biblical symbolism, white garments represent purity and joy (Revelation 3:5; Isaiah 1:18). Oil often signifies blessing, joy, and the presence of the Holy Spirit (Psalm 23:5; Isaiah 61:3). This verse reminds us to live in a state of spiritual readiness and celebration, marked by holiness and God’s anointing.
3. Enjoy Life with the One You Love
“Enjoy life with the wife whom you love…”
Here, we see God’s design for marriage as a source of joy and companionship (Genesis 2:18, Proverbs 5:18-19). Life is short and sometimes difficult, so God’s gift of a loving spouse should be treasured and celebrated.
4. Do Your Best with What You Have Now
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might…”
This is a call to diligence and purpose. Since life is temporary and death certain, we are encouraged to make the most of our time. The apostle Paul echoes this in Colossians 3:23 (ESV):
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
Balancing Joy and Reverence
While Ecclesiastes calls us to enjoy life, it also warns against living without God. Life apart from God leads to vanity (Ecclesiastes 1:14), but life with God at the center brings meaningful joy (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
This is echoed in Ecclesiastes 8:15 (ESV):
“And I commend joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful…”
And Ecclesiastes 4:6 (ESV) reminds us of balance:
“Better is a handful of quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind.”
These passages teach contentment, gratitude, and a healthy detachment from worldly striving.
Live Wisely, Live Joyfully
God has given us life, love, and work as gifts. When we live in reverence of Him, we are free to enjoy these gifts fully with thankfulness, humility, and balance. Joy is not the opposite of holiness; it is often the fruit of walking closely with God (Galatians 5:22).
So let us eat with joy, love deeply, work faithfully, and live meaningfully all under the watchful care of our Creator.
Shalom.
