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Obstacles are things that prevent the continuation of something that has already started or hinder something from even beginning. For example, if you are traveling and suddenly come across a river too wide to cross, that’s an obstacle. Or if you are cooking and the gas runs out before the food is fully prepared, that’s an obstacle.

Similarly, in the spiritual realm, obstacles can prevent a believer from continuing their journey of faith or hinder their progress in seeking God. Recognizing and avoiding these obstacles is essential to the life of faith.

The Bible outlines three main categories of obstacles:

• Obstacles that come to God’s people from their loved ones
• Obstacles that come to God’s people from unbelievers
• Obstacles that come to unbelievers from God’s people

1) Obstacles from Loved Ones to God’s People

The “loved ones” mentioned here are those who may not have fully committed to God’s truth or those whose faith is weak. These are the people Jesus warns about in Luke 17:1-4 (ESV):

And he said to his disciples, ‘Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him; and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.’

Biblical Explanation:

Here, Jesus acknowledges that temptations (or obstacles) will inevitably come, but He emphasizes the great responsibility believers have not to be the source of these temptations to others, especially the “little ones”—those who are weaker in faith. This passage highlights how believers must be careful in their interactions, words, and behavior because we have a responsibility to encourage each other in faith, not hinder one another.

How do loved ones cause believers to stumble?

Sometimes, a fellow believer may be weak in faith and may be hurt by negative words or actions. For instance, if someone gossips or speaks ill of another believer, the offended person may feel discouraged or even tempted to abandon their faith altogether. This is why Proverbs 18:21 (ESV) states:

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.

The power of our words is significant. If we use our words to gossip or slander, we can easily discourage or damage a fellow believer’s faith. We must avoid becoming stumbling blocks to others by guarding our speech and showing love and grace.

Spiritual Understanding and Knowledge

In Romans 14:13-21 (ESV), Paul discusses how even our knowledge can become a stumbling block:

Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother… If your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died.

This passage teaches us that our freedoms, including the knowledge we have, must not become stumbling blocks to weaker believers. While we may know that something is permissible (like eating food sacrificed to idols), we must consider how our actions affect those who may not have the same level of spiritual maturity. For the sake of love, we must avoid causing others to stumble in their faith.

2) Obstacles from Unbelievers to God’s People

Unbelievers often create obstacles for the gospel. They can try to stop the preaching of the gospel, persecute Christians, or even imprison them, as seen throughout the New Testament. For example, in Acts 12:1-4 (ESV), we read:

About that time King Herod laid violent hands on some who belonged to the church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword, and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also.

Biblical Explanation:

Throughout history, pagans and authorities hostile to the gospel have created obstacles for Christians. In the early church, Herod’s persecution of Christians was a direct attempt to stop the spread of the gospel. Similarly, in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (ESV), Paul explains how Christians often face affliction from unbelievers:

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.

Obstacles from unbelievers—whether in the form of physical persecution, rejection, or societal opposition—have been present throughout church history. However, these trials do not stop the gospel from advancing. Instead, as Paul declares, they often serve to refine believers’ faith and perseverance.

3) Obstacles from God’s People to Unbelievers

Sadly, sometimes Christians themselves can be an obstacle to unbelievers. When non-believers witness hypocrisy, sin, or immorality in believers, it can lead them to reject the gospel. As Romans 2:23-24 (ESV) warns:

You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. For, as it is written, ‘The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.

Biblical Explanation:

When Christians live in a way that is inconsistent with the gospel they preach, they become an obstacle to others coming to faith. Hypocrisy, sin, and poor conduct can lead unbelievers to say, “If that’s what Christianity is, I’d rather stay where I am.” Jesus Himself warned against this in Matthew 5:16 (ESV):

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

When we live according to God’s standards, we reflect His light to the world, leading others to glorify Him. But when our actions don’t align with our faith, we hinder others from seeing God’s true character.

Conclusion

As believers, we must strive to avoid becoming obstacles for others—whether for fellow Christians or for unbelievers. James 1:12 (ESV) assures us:

Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

If you have stumbled or been caused to stumble by a fellow believer, don’t give up on your faith. The Bible encourages us to rise again and continue. Proverbs 24:16 (ESV) says:

For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.

Jesus, in John 16:33 (ESV), reminds us:

In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Obstacles will come—both from within the church and from outside. But we can overcome them by clinging to Christ, walking in His strength, and helping others to do the same.

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John 19:13 (NKJV)

When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus outside and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called the Stone Pavement, or in Hebrew, Gabbatha.

So, what exactly is the Stone Pavement/Gabbatha?

The term Gabbatha appears in John 19:13, where Pilate, after hearing the accusations against Jesus, brings Him outside to a raised platform called “Gabbatha.” The name itself means “a raised place” or “an elevated area.” It was a platform in front of Pilate’s palace, likely used for public trials and judgments. The area was also referred to as the “Stone Pavement” because the floor was paved with large stone slabs, a structure that would have been both functional and symbolic. In Roman culture, elevated platforms were used to signify the authority and power of the one who sat in judgment.

This is the very place where Pilate would announce his judgment on Jesus, the Messiah. Here, Jesus, who was without sin (2 Corinthians 5:21), stood trial before a flawed and unjust human court. Pilate, the Roman governor, symbolized earthly power, yet he was powerless to prevent the ultimate divine plan of salvation from unfolding. In this moment, the innocent Lamb of God (John 1:29) was condemned for the sins of the world.

The Humility of God in Judgment

One of the most striking aspects of this event is the humility of Jesus Christ. Though He is the Creator of all things (John 1:3), He submitted to the judgment of fallen humanity. The fact that the righteous God chose to stand before an unjust human tribunal speaks volumes about His divine humility. This is a profound theological truth: God humbled Himself, taking on the nature of a servant, and became obedient to the point of death (Philippians 2:8).

This moment also foreshadows the reality that human judgment, no matter how authoritative it may seem, is inherently flawed and often unjust. Pilate himself acknowledged this when he declared, “I find no fault in Him at all” (John 18:38). Despite his own acknowledgment of Jesus’ innocence, Pilate bowed to the pressure of the crowd and sentenced Jesus to be crucified. This serves as a reminder that human judgment is limited, biased, and imperfect.

However, the supreme Judge of the universe—Jesus Christ—will one day sit in judgment of all humanity. Unlike Pilate, who was swayed by external pressures, Jesus will judge with perfect justice (Psalm 9:8, Romans 2:16).

The Future Judgment: A Day of Justice

Revelation 20:11-15 (NKJV)

11 Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them.

12 And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.

13 The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works.

14 Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire.

15 And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.

In contrast to Pilate’s judgment seat, the final judgment will take place before the great white throne of God, where Christ Himself will be the righteous Judge (John 5:22). The Book of Life will be opened, and each person will be judged according to their deeds, whether good or evil (Matthew 16:27, 2 Corinthians 5:10). The unsaved will be cast into the lake of fire, a place of eternal separation from God (Revelation 21:8).

It is important to realize that God’s justice is perfect and impartial. There will be no room for human bias, favoritism, or corruption. As Jesus warned in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”

Are You Ready to Meet the Righteous Judge?

The truth is that every human being will one day stand before God’s judgment seat, and each will give an account of their life (Romans 14:12). So the question arises: Are you prepared to meet the righteous Judge?

Remember, no one can be saved through their own efforts. Salvation is a gift of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), and it is only through faith in Jesus Christ (John 14:6, Acts 4:12) that anyone can be reconciled to God. Jesus is the only way to salvation because He is the only one who has paid the penalty for sin through His death on the cross (Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:24). Through His sacrifice, the wrath of God is averted for those who trust in Him (Romans 3:25).

John 3:16 (NKJV)

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

If you are ready to accept Christ as your Savior and Lord, now is the time to repent of your sins and receive forgiveness (Acts 3:19). Only then can you experience true peace with God.

Prayer of Repentance

If you’re ready to surrender your life to the Lord and accept His free gift of salvation, click here for the Prayer of Repentance >>> GUIDED PRAYER OF REPENTANCE.

Please, share this message with others. The time to prepare for the coming judgment is now.

Final Thoughts on Judgment

In the end, everyone will stand before the righteous judge, and the outcome will depend on whether their name is written in the Book of Life (Revelation 20:15). Those who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life, while those who have rejected Him will face eternal separation from God. The cross of Christ is the turning point, and it’s through Him alone that we can escape the judgment to come (John 3:36).

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Throughout Scripture, God often uses symbols and imagery to help us grasp spiritual truths. One such image is the position of “sitting at the right hand” of God. In ancient times, when a king or ruler elevated someone to sit at their right hand, it was not only a sign of great honor but also a powerful indication of trust, authority, and rule.

When a ruler invites someone to share their table or sit beside them, it signifies a high level of respect and authority granted to that individual. So when the Bible states that Jesus is seated at the “right hand” of God, it carries a much deeper meaning—expressing not only His honor but also His supreme authority, position, and role in the kingdom of God.

1. Honor

In ancient courts, sitting at the right hand of a king was the highest honor one could receive. The “right hand” symbolized a place of privilege, dignity, and proximity to the king. This was an exclusive position, given only to those the king deeply trusted.

When the Bible says that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, it means that Jesus holds the highest honor in heaven and on earth. He is the preeminent one, elevated above all creation, angels, and even the most honored humans.

Scriptural Reference:

Hebrews 1:3 – The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After He had provided purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.

This passage speaks to Jesus’ divinity, His unique role in salvation, and the honor He now possesses as the Son of God, seated at the right hand of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11 – Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Jesus’ exaltation to the right hand of God is not just about His status but also affirms His Lordship over all creation. This is a statement of ultimate honor, reflecting His unique relationship with the Father and His role in God’s redemptive plan.

2. Authority

The position of being at the right hand of a ruler is also a symbol of authority. A king would often place a trusted advisor or a powerful general at his right hand because that person shared in his authority and had the right to make decisions on his behalf.

When the Bible declares that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God, it signifies His sovereign authority over the universe. Jesus is not only the one who was given authority to rule but also the one who actively exercises His power in the heavenly and earthly realms.

Scriptural Reference:

Ephesians 1:20-22 – …He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way.

This passage highlights that Jesus’ authority is not limited to a specific time or place. He is positioned far above all other powers and dominions, ruling with ultimate sovereignty over all creation, especially over His Church, which He governs and nurtures.

Matthew 28:18 – Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Here, Jesus declares that all authority has been given to Him after His resurrection. His position at the right hand of God is the fulfillment of this authority, and it underscores His role in fulfilling the will of the Father.

Romans 8:34 – Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life— is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.

As the one with authority, Jesus intercedes for believers, actively working on our behalf. This shows His role as both Judge and Advocate, having the final say in all matters concerning our salvation.

3. Protection

The right hand of the king not only symbolizes authority and honor but also serves as a place of protection. In ancient times, being seated at the king’s right hand meant that you were secure, safe, and under the king’s direct protection. No harm could come to you while you were in this privileged position.

When God the Father places Jesus at His right hand, He is essentially declaring that Jesus has supreme dominion over all enemies, and that His protection over the Kingdom of God is invincible.

Scriptural Reference:

Psalm 110:1 – The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.

This messianic prophecy shows that God has placed Jesus at His right hand in a position of power and authority, with the ultimate goal of placing all His enemies under His feet. It’s a promise of ultimate victory and protection for those who belong to Christ.

Colossians 3:1-4 – Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.

Being “seated with Christ” implies that we, too, share in His victory and protection. Just as Christ is safely seated at the right hand of the Father, so believers are spiritually united with Him, under His protection and care.

4. Intercession

Jesus’ position at the right hand of God is not only a symbol of His authority and honor but also of His intercessory role. As High Priest, Jesus continually intercedes on behalf of believers, advocating for us before the Father.

Scriptural Reference:

Hebrews 7:24-25 – But because Jesus lives forever, He has a permanent priesthood. Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.

Jesus’ ongoing intercession means that He is actively working to ensure that we are always in a right relationship with the Father. His role as our mediator between God and humanity is vital for our salvation and ongoing sanctification.

5. Theological Implications for Believers

For Christians, the truth that Jesus is seated at the right hand of God carries profound implications. It not only assures us of His ultimate victory and authority but also promises us that He is actively involved in our lives. He is the one who gives us access to the Father, who intercedes for us, and who ensures that we are under His protection.

The Bible repeatedly points out that, in Christ, we have a privileged position of access to God, authority in Christ to live victoriously, and the promise of His protection and care.

Scriptural Reference:

Romans 8:31-39 – “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things? Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”

This passage beautifully captures the essence of the security and power believers have in Christ, who is at the right hand of God, interceding on our behalf.

Conclusion

The theological significance of Jesus sitting at the right hand of God is multifaceted. It speaks to His exaltation, His authority, His role as our High Priest, and His ultimate victory over all opposition. As believers, this truth provides assurance of our salvation, the power to live in victory, and the protection of Christ over our lives.

If Christ is at your right hand, then you are assured of His honor, authority, and protection, and you have the privilege of living under His intercession. It’s a powerful reminder of the greatness of Christ and the security believers have in Him.

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QUESTION: On the first day, God created light, but where did it come from when we know that the sun, which is the source of light, wasn’t created until the fourth day? (Genesis 1:14-19)

Genesis 1:3-5 (NIV)

[3] And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. [4] God saw that the light was good, and He separated the light from the darkness. [5] God called the light “Day,” and the darkness He called “Night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.

Theological Reflection:

In the opening chapter of Genesis, we see God creating the heavens and the earth and bringing order to the chaos. The first act of creation is the command for light to exist. This is significant because light symbolizes more than just physical illumination—it represents the presence and holiness of God. When God says, “Let there be light,” He is declaring the arrival of order in the cosmos, as well as the manifestation of His own divine nature.

In the ancient world, darkness often symbolized chaos, evil, and death. The act of separating light from darkness is an image of God bringing His righteous order to a disordered world. 1 John 1:5 (NIV) says, “God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all.” This not only refers to God’s nature but also to His truth and purity. From the very beginning, light represents the revelation of God to the world.

ANSWER: God, being sovereign and transcendent, does not depend on created sources like the sun for His power. Unlike humans, who need material causes to create things, God is self-sufficient and can create without any external help. This is a key distinction. When God creates light, it is not necessarily a physical light in the same sense we understand it, but a divine light that precedes the creation of the sun, moon, and stars. Psalm 104:2 (NIV) describes God as “the one who wraps Himself in light as with a garment.”

God, in His omnipotence, is able to illuminate the universe with His presence even before the sun was created. This is not surprising when we understand that God exists outside of time and space. In fact, the entire universe, including light itself, was made by Him. John 1:3-4 (NIV) affirms this idea: “Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. In Him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.”

The light here in Genesis also has a deeper theological significance—it points to Christ. The Gospel of John explicitly connects Jesus to the light that was present at the creation of the world. In John 8:12, Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The light created in Genesis is a foreshadowing of Jesus, the eternal Word, who is the true Light that came into the world to bring spiritual illumination.

The creation of light on the first day, before the sun was created on the fourth day, symbolizes the preeminence of Christ as the source of all life and light. Colossians 1:16-17 (NIV) says, “For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible… all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

The Role of the Sun, Moon, and Stars:

It’s important to note that although God created light on the first day, He later created the sun, moon, and stars on the fourth day (Genesis 1:14-19). These celestial bodies serve a different purpose: they mark times, seasons, days, and years, providing structure to the physical world. The light on the first day, however, was not dependent on these created sources but was a direct manifestation of God’s power and presence.

Genesis 1:14-19 (NIV)

[14] And God said, “Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, [15] and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. [16] God made two great lights—the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. [17] God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, [18] to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. [19] And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day.

Christ: The True Light of the World

The connection between light and Christ is clear throughout Scripture. In John 1:9, it says, “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” Jesus is the light that not only illuminates the world but also guides humanity spiritually. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus calls His followers the “light of the world,” indicating that, through Him, believers are also meant to reflect God’s light into a dark world.

Theologically, the light that was created on the first day represents the eternal light of Christ, who is the “Word” through whom all things were made. Revelation 21:23 (NIV) speaks of the eternal kingdom of God, saying, “The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” This speaks of the ultimate fulfillment of the light that began at creation—the fullness of God’s presence in Christ.

Has Christ Shone Inside You?

Without Christ, there is no true life. The Bible teaches that only in Christ can we find true spiritual light and life. Jesus offers a way to be reconciled with God, as John 8:12 (NIV) affirms: “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Through repentance and faith in Jesus, we receive forgiveness and are spiritually reborn. This is why it’s crucial to turn to Christ for salvation.

If you’re ready to receive Christ, the true Light, into your life and be transformed, I encourage you to pray this prayer of repentance:

Prayer of Repentance:

Heavenly Father, I acknowledge my sin and my need for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Light of the world, and through His death and resurrection, He offers me eternal life. I ask You to forgive me, cleanse me, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I accept Jesus as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for making me a new creation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the Lord bless you richly, and may His light shine upon you.

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Matthew 10:42 

“And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.”

Understanding the Context

In this verse, Jesus is teaching His disciples about hospitality and care within the Kingdom of God. He had just finished sending them out to preach (Matthew 10:5–42), and He encouraged those who would receive and support them—no matter how small the gesture—with the assurance of a reward from God.

Why a “Cup of Cold Water”?

Jesus intentionally uses something as basic as a cup of cold water to show that even the smallest act of kindness done in His name is significant. In ancient Israel, and even today, cold water is deeply refreshing, especially in hot climates. After hard physical work, like farming or traveling under the sun, cold water becomes more than just a drink—it brings relief and restoration.

By mentioning “cold water” rather than just “water,” Jesus emphasizes thoughtful care—not just giving, but giving with genuine love and consideration.

Theological Insight

1. God Honors Even Small Acts When Done in Love and Faith
   • This verse aligns with the principle found in 1 Samuel 16:7 
     “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
     What matters most to God is not the size of the gift, but the heart behind it.
2. Serving God Includes Supporting His People
   • In Hebrews 6:10  it says:
     “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
     Supporting a disciple, even with something small, is counted as service to God Himself.
3. Hospitality Is a Kingdom Principle
   • Romans 12:13 says: “…given to hospitality.”
     As believers, we are called to be generous and welcoming—especially toward those who labor in ministry.

What Does This Look Like Today?

Jesus’ words apply in practical ways:

1. Food and Drink

If you see a preacher, evangelist, or any servant of God ministering—maybe outdoors, in a rural area, or at a busy event—and you give them a bottle of water or a meal, you’re offering them a “cup of cold water.” You refresh them physically and spiritually. This simple act is not overlooked by God.

2. Financial Help

Even a small financial contribution—perhaps to help with transportation, communication, or daily needs—can be meaningful. According to Jesus, your reward is secure, even if the amount seems small in your eyes.

3. Giving Material Items or Time

You might not have money or food, but you could offer something else—like clothing, a pair of shoes, or even help with something practical (e.g., fixing something, offering a ride, or lending a phone). If it’s done from the heart, in honor of someone serving Christ, it is counted in heaven as a “cup of cold water.”

Small Acts Matter in the Kingdom

Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God doesn’t only recognize big sacrifices—even the smallest service done in His name carries eternal value. He reassures us that when we honor and support those who represent Him—His “little ones,” His disciples—we’re actually honoring Him, and we will receive a reward.

So, don’t underestimate simple kindness, especially when done toward those who serve God.

Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

May the Lord bless and reward you for every cup of cold water you offer in His name.

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