We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
Corinthians 5:6–7
“So we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord.
For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
1. What Does It Mean to Walk by Faith?
To “walk by faith, not by sight” means to live our lives based on trust in God and His Word rather than relying on what we can physically see or experience. This is the foundation of the Christian life (Hebrews 11:1). Our spiritual journey is governed by unseen realities and eternal truths.
“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
— Hebrews 11:1
2. Human Sight Is Limited
Many people assume that seeing is the most reliable way of knowing the truth. But physical sight is flawed and limited. For example, your eyes can see food, but cannot tell if it’s salted—you need your taste to confirm that. Similarly, spiritual truths cannot be confirmed by natural eyes alone.
“But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
— 1 Corinthians 2:14
3. Why Doesn’t Jesus Appear to Everyone Physically Today?
Some Christians fast and pray to have a physical encounter with Jesus. While God is sovereign and such things can happen, it is not His normative way of revealing Himself today. Seeking visible signs can actually hinder spiritual growth.
Jesus corrected Thomas when he believed only after seeing:
“Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed.
Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’”
— John 20:29
Faith that is built solely on appearances is immature. Jesus Himself told the disciples that it was better for Him to go, so the Holy Spirit could come.
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away;
for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.”
— John 16:7
4. The Holy Spirit: God’s Chosen Way to Reveal Christ Today
Instead of appearing physically, Jesus now reveals Himself through the Holy Spirit, who dwells in all believers. The Holy Spirit teaches, guides, and glorifies Christ within us.
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth;
for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak;
and He will tell you things to come.
He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.”
— John 16:13–14
When we have the Holy Spirit, we have intimate fellowship with Christ—even without physical sight.
5. Rejecting the Holy Spirit Is Rejecting Christ’s Presence
Many say they want to see Jesus, yet they ignore or grieve the Holy Spirit through disobedience or unbelief (Ephesians 4:30). Without the Spirit, we cannot fully experience the presence of Christ in our lives.
“Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.”
— Romans 8:9
It is spiritually dangerous to pursue visible signs while neglecting the invisible Spirit who brings Christ to us fully.
6. How Do We Receive the Holy Spirit?
Receiving the Holy Spirit does not require money, special training, or long prayers. It simply requires sincere repentance and baptism in the name of Jesus Christ. This is the biblical pattern established from the very beginning.
“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.
For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off,
as many as the Lord our God will call.’”
— Acts 2:38–39
This promise is still available today—for you and for everyone who turns to the Lord.
7. Choose the Better Way
Let’s stop chasing physical signs and instead embrace the better way God has given us—walking by faith through the Holy Spirit. If you haven’t yet repented and been baptized in Jesus’ name, today is the perfect time.
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”
— 2 Corinthians 6:2
Let us walk by faith and not by sight—trusting in the Spirit who reveals Christ to our hearts.
The Lord is coming!
LET’S KEEP BEING STRONG IN THE LORD
Shalom, beloved in Christ!
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let’s reflect together on a vital truth from Scripture that speaks to the Christian life and the spiritual battles we face daily.
📖 Main Scripture
Ephesians 6:10
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.”
The Apostle Paul wrote this while imprisoned, addressing believers in Ephesus. He concludes the letter by urging them to draw their strength from God—not from themselves—because the Christian life is a spiritual battle, not a casual walk. Paul emphasizes two essential aspects:
🔹 1. Being Strong in the Lord
This means anchoring your faith, love, and commitment entirely in God. Strength in the Lord is not emotional zeal or physical effort, but a deep dependence on God’s presence, grace, and truth.
Mark 12:30
“And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.”
This verse reminds us that to be strong in the Lord is to love Him completely—with our emotions (heart), our spirit (soul), our understanding (mind), and our effort (strength). This is not passive belief but active discipleship. It’s the foundation for growing in spiritual maturity (Hebrews 5:14).
🔹 2. Being Strong in the Power of His Might
This speaks of God’s divine strength working through us as we engage in spiritual warfare. The Christian’s battle is not against people but against spiritual forces of darkness.
Ephesians 6:11–12
“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Our fight is not physical, but spiritual. We are called to be spiritually alert, aware, and ready—using God’s resources, not our own.
🛡️ The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:13–17
Paul outlines six essential components of spiritual warfare:
- The Belt of Truth – Live by God’s truth, not feelings or opinions.
- The Breastplate of Righteousness – Walk in holiness through Christ’s righteousness.
- The Gospel of Peace (on your feet) – Be ready to share Christ’s peace.
- The Shield of Faith – Trust God completely, especially when facing attacks.
- The Helmet of Salvation – Guard your mind with assurance of salvation.
- The Sword of the Spirit – Know and rightly handle the Word of God.
These are not optional accessories. Without them, we are spiritually exposed. Being strong in the power of God means knowing how to use these weapons.
⚔️ Spiritual Readiness Requires Skill
Just as a soldier must be trained to use a sword, we must learn how to use the Word of God effectively. A believer without knowledge is like a soldier holding a sword but unable to fight.
Jesus demonstrated this when tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Every time, He responded with Scripture: “It is written…” (see Matthew 4:1–11). He used the Word accurately and with authority.
Similarly, Apollos is described as “mighty in the Scriptures”:
Acts 18:24
“Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus.”
To become spiritually strong, we must study, understand, and apply God’s Word correctly.
🎓 Handling the Word with Wisdom
2 Timothy 2:15
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
This verse speaks of theological accuracy. As believers, we are called to rightly handle Scripture—not twisting it for convenience, but understanding it within context and truth. This is discipleship and sanctification—growing in grace and knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18).
❓Are You Spiritually Equipped?
- Have you clothed yourself in God’s armor?
- Are you strong in your relationship with Christ?
- Are you prepared to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes?
1 Corinthians 16:13
“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.”
This is a call to alertness, perseverance, courage, and strength. The Christian walk requires intentional growth, not spiritual passivity.
🙏 Final Encouragement
Let us not grow weary but continue to grow strong—both in our walk with the Lord and in how we apply His Word. True strength comes from being rooted in Christ and prepared for the spiritual battles ahead.
May the Lord bless and strengthen you.
Amen.
Have You Fulfilled All Righteousness?
Matthew 3:13–15 (NKJV):
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.
And John tried to prevent Him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?’
But Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he allowed Him.”
In this short exchange, Jesus uses two crucial phrases we must reflect on deeply:
“It is fitting for us”
“To fulfill all righteousness”
1) “It is fitting for us”
Jesus did not say,
“It is fitting for me to fulfill all righteousness,” but rather, “It is fitting for us.”
This distinction matters. Jesus includes others in the act of fulfilling righteousness not only Himself. He is laying a foundation for His followers, showing that righteousness is something we must all walk in, not just admire from afar. It is a shared call.
As believers, we are united with Christ (Romans 6:5), and therefore we must walk as He walked (1 John 2:6). If He submitted to baptism to fulfill righteousness, so must we. He is our example in all things (1 Peter 2:21).
2) To Fulfill All Righteousness
There is a difference between practicing righteousness and fulfilling all righteousness.
You fulfill righteousness when:
You believe in Jesus Christ (Romans 10:10)
You partake in the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:26)
You proclaim the gospel (Mark 16:15)
You live a holy life (1 Peter 1:15–16)
But all righteousness includes an essential act many overlook: baptism in water.
Even though Jesus was sinless (Hebrews 4:15), He still underwent water baptism not because He needed cleansing, but because it was the righteous thing to do in God’s redemptive plan. By doing so, He endorsed baptism as an act of obedience and alignment with God’s will (Luke 7:29–30). To refuse baptism is to reject the counsel of God.
So if Jesus, the sinless Son of God, chose baptism to fulfill all righteousness how much more should we?
Why Water Baptism Matters
In the New Testament, baptism is never presented as optional. It is commanded by Jesus (Matthew 28:19) and preached by the apostles as essential for salvation and identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
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.'”
Romans 6:3–4 (NKJV):
“Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
Biblically, true baptism involves:
Full immersion in water, symbolizing burial and resurrection (Mark 1:9–10; John 3:23)
In the name of Jesus Christ, reflecting apostolic teaching (Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5)
Sprinkling or pouring does not reflect the biblical pattern. Jesus wasn’t sprinkled Scripture says, “He came up from the water.” John baptized in places where much water was available (John 3:23).
What If I Haven’t Been Baptized Properly?
This is a serious question. If you’ve never been baptized, or if your baptism doesn’t align with the biblical example (full immersion in the name of Jesus), and yet you have come to know the truth can you still be saved?
The sobering answer is: Not according to Scripture.
James 4:17 (NKJV):
“Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”
God may show mercy to those who never had the chance to hear or understand the full truth (Acts 17:30). But once truth is revealed, we become accountable (Hebrews 10:26).
The Enemy’s Strategy
In these last days, Satan aims to keep believers from fulfilling all righteousness. He doesn’t mind if you do some things just as long as you don’t do everything. He wants people to settle for partial obedience because partial righteousness still leaves room for disobedience.
But Jesus is coming back for a blameless bride (Ephesians 5:27) a people who have embraced His full counsel, including repentance, faith, holiness, and baptism.
So now, the most important question remains:
Have You Fulfilled All Righteousness?
Not just believed.
Not just prayed.
Not just attended church.
Have you followed the Lord into the waters of baptism, as He did so that together, with Him, you fulfill all righteousness.
Maranatha.
What Is the Agony of Death, Biblically?
Acts 2:23–24 (NIV)
“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.
But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.”
Understanding the Agony (or Pains) of Death
The phrase “agony of death” (or “pains of death” in other translations such as the KJV) refers to the torment and finality of death particularly a death without hope of resurrection or eternal life. In the biblical worldview, death is not merely physical cessation but spiritual separation from God. The Greek word used here, ōdinas (ὠδῖνας), can also be translated as “birth pains” or intense anguish, suggesting deep suffering associated with death (see Romans 8:22).
Before the resurrection of Jesus Christ, death was a terrifying reality for humanity. As Paul says in Romans 5:12 (NIV):
“Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”
Humanity was under the curse of death, both physically and spiritually. All who died before Christ were subject to corruption (decay) and separation from the presence of God. This included the righteous, who waited in the realm of the dead sometimes referred to as Sheol (Hebrew) or Hades (Greek) a holding place awaiting redemption (Luke 16:22–23).
Christ’s Victory Over Death
But Jesus Christ, the sinless Son of God, broke the power of death. Though He truly died, He did not remain in the grave or see corruption.
Acts 2:31 (ESV)
“He foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption.”
Unlike all others before Him, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3–4). His resurrection marked the defeat of death’s finality.
Revelation 1:18 (NIV)
“I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.”
It was impossible for death to hold Jesus, because He is the Author of Life (Acts 3:15). His divine nature and perfect obedience rendered death powerless against Him.
What Does This Mean for Believers?
Christ’s resurrection is not just historical it’s personal. For all who place their faith in Him, the agony of death no longer holds power.
2 Timothy 1:10 (NIV)
“…but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”
When believers die, their spirits do not descend into torment or unconsciousness. Instead, they are taken immediately into the presence of the Lord.
2 Corinthians 5:8 (NIV)
“We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”
This is why Matthew 27:51–53 speaks of saints rising at Christ’s resurrectiona foretaste of what all believers will experience.
Furthermore, the resurrection of believers is guaranteed by Christ’s own resurrection.
1 Corinthians 15:20–22 (NIV)
“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.
For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”
We await the redemption of our bodies at the Second Coming (Romans 8:23), when we will receive glorified bodies fit for eternity (Philippians 3:20–21).
A Solemn Warning for Those Outside of Christ
However, for those who die in sin outside of Christ the agony of death is just the beginning. Upon death, the soul enters a state of conscious torment, awaiting final judgment.
Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)
“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment…”
The story of the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31) offers a vivid picture of this reality: the rich man dies and finds himself in torment, separated from God, unable to cross the chasm between himself and paradise.
Eventually, both body and soul will be reunited at the final resurrection, but for judgment.
Revelation 20:14–15 (NIV)
“Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.
Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.”
This is the full weight of what it means to be held by the agony of death eternal separation from God, under divine judgment.
A Call to Reflection
Are you still living in sin? Are you spiritually lukewarm? Scripture warns us that we do not know the day or hour of our departure from this life.
James 4:14 (NIV)
“Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”
If today were your last day, whose presence would you find yourself in Christ’s or that of eternal separation?
The answer lies not just in your heart but in the truth of the Gospel. Repent and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved (Acts 16:31).
Shalom. Peace be upon you as you consider these eternal truths.
EZEKIEL AND THE PROPHECY OF THE DRY BONES: A MESSAGE OF HOPE AND RESTORATION
What does the prophecy of the dry bones mean for us today, both spiritually and practically?
The prophet Ezekiel, who lived during the Babylonian exile (6th century BC), was shown a vision by God that profoundly illustrated Israel’s spiritual condition and God’s promise of national and spiritual restoration (Ezekiel 37:1-14). The dry bones represent the people of Israel, who had been “dead” in captivity, feeling hopeless and cut off from their homeland and from God’s presence.
This vision is not only a literal promise of physical restoration God bringing Israel back from exile but also a powerful metaphor for spiritual revival. The bones “very dry” (Ezekiel 37:2, NIV) symbolize utter hopelessness and death, both physical and spiritual. The question God poses, “Can these bones live?” (v. 3, NIV), invites Ezekiel and through him, all believers to trust in God’s power to restore life.
(Ezekiel 37:1-14)
Ezekiel 37:1-14 (NIV)
“The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry.”
God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, symbolizing the Spirit’s power to bring life to what is dead (v. 4-6). When Ezekiel obeys, the bones come together, sinews and flesh appear, and breath (the Hebrew ruach, meaning breath, wind, or spirit) enters them, bringing them to life (v. 7-10). This reveals a profound truth: life is impossible without the Spirit of God (cf. John 6:63; Ezekiel 37:14).
God explicitly identifies the bones as “the whole house of Israel,” who feel hopeless, “Our bones are dried up, and our hope is gone; we are cut off” (v. 11, NIV). But He promises restoration, resurrection, and a renewed relationship: “I will put my Spirit in you, and you will live… Then you will know that I am the Lord” (v. 14).
This passage beautifully connects with several biblical themes:
- Resurrection and Spiritual Renewal: The dry bones vision prefigures both the national restoration of Israel and the spiritual resurrection of God’s people. The New Testament echoes this life giving Spirit in Jesus Christ (John 11:25-26; Romans 8:11).
- God’s Sovereignty and Faithfulness: Despite Israel’s apparent hopelessness, God’s power to restore is absolute. This assurance strengthens faith and encourages believers who feel spiritually or physically “dead.”
- The Role of Prophecy and the Spirit: Ezekiel’s obedience to prophesy illustrates that God’s Word and Spirit are essential instruments of life and renewal (2 Timothy 3:16-17; John 20:22).
Connection to Abraham’s Faith
The message of hope through faith is echoed in Hebrews 11, where Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac demonstrates trust in God’s power to give life (Hebrews 11:17-19, NIV):
“By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had received the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son… Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive Isaac back from death.”
This links perfectly with the dry bones vision, emphasizing faith in God’s life giving power.
Application Today
Many people may feel like dry bones today hopeless, broken in health, faith, or circumstance. Whether facing chronic illness, depression, loss, or spiritual dryness, God’s promise remains: He can restore, revive, and breathe new life.
If you feel this way, the call is to trust God’s Spirit and His Word. God’s power transcends death and despair.
Suggested Prayer of Renewal and Faith
Kneel or sit quietly, raise your hand, and pray sincerely:
Prayer:
Father God,
I acknowledge that You alone are the Almighty God, full of power and mercy. I believe that through Jesus Christ, You can bring life to what seems dead in my life whether body, mind, or spirit.
Please forgive my sins, both known and unknown. Cleanse me through the blood of Jesus Christ, and renew me with Your Holy Spirit.
(Here, name your specific need or struggle.)
Revive me, strengthen me, and help me walk in Your will all the days of my life.
Thank You for Your forgiveness, Your help, and Your freedom.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Repeat this prayer until you feel peace in your heart and trust that God is at work in your life.
May God bless you richly as you trust in His power to restore and renew!
Can Satan Know What You’re Thinking?
This is an important question that every Christian should understand clearly, especially in the context of spiritual warfare and our relationship with God.
1. Satan Cannot Read Your Mind
The Bible does not teach anywhere that Satan has the power to read human thoughts. That ability belongs only to God.
1 Kings 8:39 (NIV) says:
“Forgive and act; deal with everyone according to all they do, since you know their hearts (for you alone know every human heart).”
Only God knows the secrets of the heart. Even angels, despite their power and presence in the spiritual realm, are not described in Scripture as having the ability to access human thoughts.
Satan, though a powerful fallen angel, is not omniscient (all-knowing). He is a created being with limitations. He cannot “hack” into your mind or perceive your inner thoughts unless you express them through words or actions.
2. So How Does Satan Seem to Know Our Weaknesses?
Though Satan cannot read our minds, he is an expert observer. He has studied human behavior for thousands of years—since the time of Adam and Eve.
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV) warns:
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”
Like a skilled hunter, he watches for patterns, weaknesses, and tendencies. Just as you might guess what someone is thinking based on their body language or past behavior, Satan makes calculated assumptions. He sees our reactions to situations, hears our words, and draws conclusions. This is not mind-reading—it’s strategic manipulation.
3. The Born-Again Believer is Spiritually Unpredictable
Here’s the good news: Satan cannot easily read or predict the actions of someone who is truly born again through the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said in John 3:8 (NIV):
“The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
This means that a person led by the Holy Spirit doesn’t follow a predictable path based on human patterns. The Holy Spirit brings transformation, wisdom, and discernment that baffle Satan’s strategies. What the enemy thinks will defeat you may actually strengthen you.
Isaiah 54:17 (KJV) promises:
“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn…”
4. Contrast: The Unregenerate Person is Easily Manipulated
In contrast, someone who has not been born again is more susceptible to fear, manipulation, and spiritual attacks. Satan can plant lies and fuel fear through circumstances, dreams, or even through other people.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) reminds us:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
A person without the Holy Spirit lacks this divine anchor, and therefore is more easily moved by threats, temptations, or discouragement.
5. Have You Been Born Again?
This leads to the most crucial question: Have you been born again by the Spirit of God?
Jesus said clearly in John 3:3 (NIV):
“Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.”
Being born again means turning away from sin, believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, and receiving the Holy Spirit. It’s not just a church affiliation or outward behavior—it is a supernatural change of heart and spirit.
Conclusion: Stand Firm in Christ
Satan is real, and he is active—but his power is limited, especially over those who belong to Christ.
James 4:7 (ESV) tells us:
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
When we walk in the Spirit, Satan’s strategies lose their grip. He may try to attack, but he will fail. The more we yield to God, the more unpredictable—and victorious—our lives become in the spiritual realm.
Maranatha—Come, Lord Jesus!
Please share this message with others. These are truths every believer should know.
Why Did Jesus Weep, Even Though He Is God?
Many people ask: If Jesus is truly God, why did He weep at Lazarus’ tomb?
Let’s first look carefully at the event as recorded in the Bible.
John 11:32–37 (NKJV):
32 Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, she fell down at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”
33 Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled.
34 And He said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.”
35 Jesus wept.
36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!”
37 And some of them said, “Could not this Man, who opened the eyes of the blind, also have kept this man from dying?”
1. Jesus Did Not Weep Because of Lazarus’ Death
At first glance, it might seem Jesus was mourning Lazarus. However, Jesus knew He would soon raise Lazarus back to life (John 11:25 – “I am the resurrection and the life…”).
Thus, His weeping was not driven by helpless grief like the others, but out of compassion for human sorrow and frustration at their unbelief.
Jesus wept because of the deep spiritual blindness and the pain that sin and death had caused humanity.
Theologically: Jesus’ tears reveal His full humanity (Hebrews 4:15) — He fully entered into human suffering — and at the same time, His divinity, as He prepared to conquer death itself.
2. Jesus Was Grieved by Their Unbelief
Though they had witnessed His miracles, many still doubted that Jesus had power even over death. Their despair reflected a failure to believe in His true identity as the Son of God.
John 11:40 (NKJV):
Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?”
Faith was (and still is) key to experiencing the glory of God.
Without faith, it is impossible to please Him. (Hebrews 11:6)
3. Jesus’ Deep Emotions Show God’s Heart Toward Human Suffering
Again in John 11:38 (NKJV):
Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it.
This phrase “groaning in Himself” (Greek: embrimaomai) suggests a strong inward agitation, possibly anger against the tyranny of death and unbelief.
Jesus stands not as a distant deity but as Emmanuel — “God with us” (Matthew 1:23), who deeply feels our pain.
4. Jesus Was Also Sorrowed by Hard-Heartedness Before
This was not the first time Jesus was grieved by human stubbornness:
Mark 3:5 (NKJV):
And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored as whole as the other.
Jesus’ emotional responses reveal God’s holy sorrow over humanity’s persistent rejection of His truth.
5. Even Today, Jesus Is Grieved by Unbelief
Today, whenever we doubt God’s promises, or when we trust more in what we see than in what He says, we continue to grieve His heart.
Faith is not optional — it is essential.
Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV):
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
The Call:
Let us live lives of unwavering faith, pleasing the heart of God, trusting completely in His power, even when situations seem hopeless.
Conclusion: Jesus’ Tears Were Tears of Love and Truth
- Jesus wept not because of despair, but because of His compassion for humanity,
- His sorrow at their unbelief,
- And His deep hatred of sin and death — enemies He came to destroy.
Maranatha! (The Lord is coming!)
Please share these good news with others!
HOW DOES SATAN HINDER THE GOSPEL?
You might wonder: Can Satan really prevent people from preaching the Gospel?
The answer is yes. Scripture clearly shows this reality.
1 Thessalonians 2:17–18 (NIV) says:
“But, brothers and sisters, when we were separated from you for a short time not in person, but in heart we were eager with great longing to see you again. We wanted to come to you certainly I, Paul, did, more than once but Satan blocked our way.”
Here, Paul explicitly reveals that Satan actively obstructed his mission to preach the Gospel. This underscores a key theological truth: Satan is the adversary of God’s redemptive plan, specifically targeting the spread of the Gospel (the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ).
Satan’s Opposition to the Gospel
Satan, often called the accuser or enemy (see John 8:44, Revelation 12:10), works tirelessly to stop the message of salvation from reaching people. He knows the Gospel carries the power to save sinners
(Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” NIV)
and so he fights against its proclamation.
His ultimate goal is to keep people in sin, separated from God, so they perish (John 10:10). He wants to prevent anyone from hearing the life changing message of Jesus and being reconciled with God.
How Satan Hinders the Gospel
Satan hinders Gospel work by causing obstacles and hardships that derail those who go to preach. These obstacles can be natural, logistical, physical, or spiritual.
For example, Paul and his companions’ journey to Thessalonica was blocked by circumstances beyond their control such as lack of transport, storms, sickness, or theft (see Acts 17 for the Thessalonica mission).Paul describes these kinds of trials vividly in 2 Corinthians 11:25–27 (ESV)
“Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure.”
These sufferings show the reality of spiritual warfare behind missionary work. The shipwrecks and beatings were not just physical hardships but attacks from Satan seeking to thwart God’s mission.
Biblical Example: Jesus’ Disciples and the Storm
Similarly, when Jesus’ disciples crossed the sea to the region of the Gadarenes, Satan tried to prevent their mission by sending a violent storm (Matthew 8:23–27, NIV):
“Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples woke him and said, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’ He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.”
This story illustrates Satan’s attempts to stop the advance of God’s kingdom, especially when deliverance and salvation are imminent as with the two demon possessed men living among the tombs who were about to be set free (Matthew 8:28–34).
What Can We Do?
Prayer is the primary weapon Jesus gave us to overcome Satan’s hindrances. Jesus commanded His disciples to pray to avoid falling into temptation (Luke 22:40, 46). Prayer weakens Satan’s power and clears the way for the Gospel.
Jesus Himself, though fully God, often withdrew to pray (Mark 1:35, Luke 6:12), modeling the vital importance of prayer in spiritual warfare.
The Role of Every Christian
Prayer for the Gospel is not just the responsibility of preachers, pastors, or missionaries. It’s the calling of every believer (Ephesians 6:18):
“Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (NIV)
Your prayers support and protect those who go out to preach. When you pray and fast for Gospel workers, you help dismantle Satan’s plans whether sickness, theft, or other attacks and become an active part of advancing God’s kingdom.
The Danger of Neglecting Prayer
If you say, “I’m not a preacher or evangelist; this isn’t my role,” and neglect prayer and support for the Gospel, you inadvertently strengthen the forces of darkness.
Paul knew this well. After explaining how Satan hindered his journey, he urged the Thessalonians:
1 Thessalonians 5:25 (NIV):
“Brothers and sisters, pray for us.”
And in his second letter:
2 Thessalonians 3:1 (NIV):
“Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.”
Satan actively works to block the preaching of the Gospel through various means natural obstacles, persecution, and spiritual attacks. But God has given us prayer as a powerful weapon to overcome these barriers.
Will you join in prayer for the Gospel to advance?
May the Lord bless and strengthen us all as we labor together in His mission.
The Symbolism of Carnelian and Jasper in the Bible
What Are Carnelian and Jasper?
Carnelian, known in ancient texts as Sardius, is a reddish gemstone resembling a ruby. It was highly valued in the ancient Near East for its deep red, almost blood like hue, symbolizing passion, power, and sometimes sacrifice.
Jasper is another type of gemstone, often appearing in brown, green, or red tones. In Scripture, it’s frequently associated with clarity and strength. Both stones were commonly used in priestly garments (Exodus 28) and are rich in biblical symbolism.
In modern gemology:
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Carnelian Sardius
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Jasper retains the same name.
Biblical Significance of Carnelian and Jasper
These stones appear multiple times in Scripture, often used symbolically to describe the glory, majesty, and holiness of God and His dwelling place.
1. God’s Glory Described as Jasper and Carnelian
In Revelation 4:2–3 (NIV), the Apostle John describes a heavenly vision:
“At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne.”
This description doesn’t claim God is made of these stones, but rather uses metaphor (“the appearance of…”) to convey His splendor in terms that human beings can grasp. The jasper here may symbolize purity, brilliance, and divine perfection, while carnelian (sardius) may represent God’s righteous judgment, power, and sacrifice.
The emerald like rainbow surrounding the throne adds to the imagery, often interpreted as a symbol of God’s mercy and covenant faithfulness (cf. Genesis 9:16).
2. The New Jerusalem Adorned with Precious Stones
In John’s vision of the New Jerusalem, these stones are again prominent:
Revelation 21:18–20 (ESV):
“The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, like clear glass.
The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel.
The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,
the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite…”
This vivid picture reveals that the heavenly city is not just functional but glorious a place adorned with divine craftsmanship and beauty. The use of these stones shows that God values beauty, order, and holiness, and that the environment He creates for His people is resplendent.
The jasper foundation may suggest stability and eternal light, while carnelian again points to the redemptive work of Christ and the righteous foundation of His kingdom.
3. Lucifer’s Former Glory Before His Fall
The prophet Ezekiel describes the pre-fall splendor of Lucifer (often interpreted as a symbolic description of the king of Tyre or Satan):
Ezekiel 28:13 (NIV):
“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald, topaz, onyx and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared.”
This passage reflects the heavenly origin and glory of Lucifer before iniquity was found in him (Ezek. 28:15). The inclusion of carnelian and jasper among his adornments reinforces their symbolic association with divine beauty and privilege.
Yet, despite being adorned with such glory, pride led to his downfall reminding us that external beauty does not equate to righteousness.
The consistent use of jasper and carnelian throughout Scripture points us to several important truths:
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God’s glory is indescribable. Earthly materials even the most precious ones are mere shadows used to help us understand heavenly realities (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:12).
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Heaven is real and beautiful, not metaphorically but tangibly a city prepared by God (Hebrews 11:16).
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God adorns His people and His place with beauty, because He Himself is beautiful in holiness (Psalm 96:9).
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These stones also point to the ministry of Christ His sacrifice (symbolized in carnelian’s red) and His eternal reign (reflected in jasper’s brilliance).
Don’t Miss Heaven
Heave is described with such splendor not just for poetic effect, but to awaken in us a deep longing for eternity with God. As 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV) reminds us:
“What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived the things God has prepared for those who love Him.”
We may lose many things in this life, but we must not lose heaven. These stones jasper and carnelian serve as reminders that what God has planned is far more beautiful, eternal, and satisfying than anything this world can offer.
May the Lord bless and guide us as we set our hearts on eternal things.
What Is an Emerald?
What Is an Emerald?
An emerald is a precious green gemstone, valued both for its beauty and rarity. In the world of gemstones, it stands alongside ruby and sapphire as one of the most treasured stones, often used in making fine jewelry such as rings, necklaces, watches, and ornamental pieces.
But emeralds are not only significant in earthly fashion they also hold deep symbolic and spiritual meaning in Scripture.
Emeralds in the Bible
Emeralds are mentioned several times in the Bible, particularly in descriptions of holiness, majesty, and heavenly beauty. These references reflect God’s splendor and the glory of His heavenly kingdom.
One of the most powerful images comes from Revelation 4:3 (NIV):
“And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and ruby. A rainbow that shone like an emerald encircled the throne.”
This passage offers a heavenly vision of God’s throne. The rainbow around the throne “shining like an emerald” suggests peace, covenant, and divine beauty beyond earthly comprehension. The emerald-like appearance emphasizes tranquility, life, and majesty.
Note: The text says “like an emerald,” indicating that earthly language falls short in describing the splendor of heaven. Scripture uses these rich, earthly symbols to give us a glimpse into spiritual realities.
Biblical Mentions of Emeralds and Precious Stones
Emeralds appear in other important biblical contexts, often associated with sacred garments and symbolic representations:
Exodus 28:18 (NIV) – In the high priest’s breastplate:
“…the second row shall be turquoise, a lapis lazuli, and an emerald.”
Here, emeralds symbolize one of the twelve tribes of Israel and signify the priest’s role in bearing the people before God.
Exodus 39:11 – A repetition of the breastplate design as it was carried out.
Ezekiel 27:16 – In a prophecy against Tyre:
“‘Aram did business with you because of your many products; they exchanged turquoise, purple fabric, embroidered work, fine linen, coral and rubies for your merchandise.’”
Some translations substitute emerald for rubies, depending on the Hebrew term used.
Ezekiel 28:13 (NIV) – A description of the fallen guardian cherub (commonly interpreted as Lucifer or the king of Tyre):
“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald…”
Emerald here highlights the original beauty and splendor of this being before pride led to his fall.
Revelation 21:19 (NIV) – Describing the foundations of the New Jerusalem:
“The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald…”
This symbolizes the eternal, radiant beauty of God’s heavenly city a place prepared for His people.
Heaven: A Place of Unimaginable Beauty
The Bible uses precious stones like emeralds not to boast of wealth, but to give us a foretaste of the glory of heaven a place no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no human mind has conceived (see 1 Corinthians 2:9). Earthly beauty, as stunning as it is, is only a shadow of the real thing.
Emeralds, pearls, and gold serve as divine metaphors tools to help us imagine the majesty of God’s presence.
Are You Ready for Heaven?
The Bible teaches that entrance into heaven is not based on wealth, works, or religious rituals but on a relationship with Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Salvation is a gift of grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, ask yourself honestly:
Are you sure you’ll spend eternity with God?
If not, today is the time to seek Him. Heaven is too glorious to miss and hell is too real to ignore.
Maranatha!
