What Are Blessings and How Many Types Are There?
Answer:
A blessing is a special gift or favor from God given to a person while still living on this earth. Blessings can be received because of one’s actions or prayers. Theologically, blessings are expressions of God’s grace (unmerited favor) and are meant to promote the wellbeing of His people (Numbers 6:24-26).
For example, Jabez prayed earnestly for God’s blessing, and God granted his request. This shows that God listens to sincere prayers and blesses according to His will.
1 Chronicles 4:10
“Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.’ And God granted his request.”
God’s blessings are broadly divided into two categories:
1. Spiritual Blessings
Spiritual blessings are the most important because they affect a person’s relationship with God and their eternal destiny. The first and greatest spiritual blessing is salvation — the forgiveness of sins and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). This blessing comes through God’s grace alone, not by human works.
Ephesians 1:3 declares:
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
These blessings bring inner peace (Philippians 4:7), joy (Romans 15:13), holiness (Hebrews 12:14), and assurance of God’s presence. Even if someone lacks physical wealth or comfort, the indwelling Holy Spirit ensures they are truly blessed.
2. Physical Blessings
Physical blessings refer to God’s provision for our bodily needs and earthly life — such as health, children, wealth, and social status. While these blessings can be good gifts from God, Scripture warns that they are temporary and can sometimes become a snare if valued above spiritual riches (Matthew 6:19-21).
For example, Solomon was blessed with unparalleled wisdom and riches (1 Kings 3:12-13). Abraham and Job were also physically blessed, showing God’s favor on their lives (Genesis 12:2-3; Job 42:10).
In the New Testament, believers like Joseph of Arimathea (Matthew 27:57) and women such as Joanna and Susanna (Luke 8:3) were materially blessed and used their resources to support Jesus’ ministry.
However, physical blessings do not guarantee spiritual blessing. Jesus warned that many rich people will not inherit God’s kingdom (Mark 10:23-25), and that gaining worldly wealth at the cost of one’s soul is worthless (Mark 8:36).
On the other hand, God often chooses those who are poor or weak in the world’s eyes to be spiritually rich (James 2:5; 1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
Therefore, Christians should not judge each other based on external circumstances but serve and love one another according to God’s grace (Romans 14:1-4).
Revelation 2:9 encourages believers facing hardship and poverty:
“I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich!”
It is possible for God’s children to be blessed both spiritually and physically according to His sovereign will, but lacking all blessings usually indicates a need to examine one’s faith and walk with God (2 Corinthians 13:5).
If you have not yet received Jesus as your Savior, you may experience spiritual emptiness, anxiety, or fear—signs that spiritual blessing is missing (John 10:10).
Today, receive Jesus Christ and begin to experience the true and lasting blessings of God’s Spirit.
May the Lord richly bless you!
What’s the Difference Between “The Word” and “The Scripture”?
Question:
We often hear people say, “Let us read the Scriptures”, and at other times, “Let us read the Word.” Are these two expressions different, or do they mean the same thing?
Answer:
To understand the difference, we must first define each term from a biblical and theological point of view.
1. What Is “The Word”?
In the Bible, “the Word” (Greek: logos) often refers to God’s spoken message, a living and active voice coming directly from Him, especially through revelation, dreams, visions, or prophetic utterance.
In many Old Testament passages, when God gave instructions, warnings, or promises to His prophets, the phrase used was:
“The Word of the Lord came…”
For instance:
Genesis 15:1
“After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your exceedingly great reward.’”
This “Word” was not something Abraham read—it was a direct spiritual communication from God. Similar phrases are found throughout Scripture:
- 1 Kings 17:8 – “Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying…”
- Isaiah 38:4 – “And the word of the Lord came to Isaiah, saying…”
- Jeremiah 1:11 – “Moreover the word of the Lord came to me, saying…”
- Ezekiel 1:3; 12:21, Hosea 1:1, Jonah 1:1, Micah 1:1, Zephaniah 1:1, etc.
In a broader sense, even Jesus Himself is called “the Word” in His divine nature:
John 1:1,14
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…”
This shows that “the Word” is not only speech—it’s the living revelation of God, including Christ Himself.
2. What Is “The Scripture”?
The word Scripture (Greek: graphe) refers to the written Word of God—the recorded messages, teachings, commandments, and revelations preserved for instruction.
So, for example, what Abraham heard in a vision became Scripture for us today because it was written down. Thus:
- To Abraham, it was “the Word of the Lord.”
- To us, it is “Scripture.”
All of God’s spoken Words that were recorded for future generations became “Scriptures.” That’s why we read:
Romans 15:4
“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.”
2 Timothy 3:16–17
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
This verse teaches a powerful theological truth: Scripture is “God-breathed” (theopneustos in Greek), meaning the Holy Spirit inspired human writers to record divine truth (see also 2 Peter 1:21).
So when we say, “Let us read the Scriptures,” we are referring to the entire written Word of God—the Bible—containing both Old and New Testaments.
3. Do “The Word” and “The Scripture” Mean the Same Thing?
In essence, yes—both refer to God’s truth. However, the difference lies in form and context:
- “The Word” – emphasizes the living message, whether spoken, revealed, or incarnate in Christ (John 1:1, Hebrews 4:12).
- “The Scripture” – emphasizes the written record of that message, preserved for all generations.
So when a preacher says, “Let’s read the Word of God,” or “Let’s read the Scriptures,” both phrases point us to the Bible, which contains the written form of God’s living Word.
And importantly: the power of the Word is not diminished by its form. Whether God speaks audibly, through prophecy, or through Scripture, His Word is always alive and active:
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…”
4. Why Does This Matter?
Understanding this distinction helps us value both revelation and preservation:
- God reveals truth (the Word),
- and He preserves it for our instruction (Scripture).
And this leads to a personal question:
Have you received the Word of God personally?
Have you accepted Jesus—the Living Word (John 1:14)?
Have you been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, as taught in the Scriptures (Acts 2:38)?
Are you ready to meet Him when He returns (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)?
There’s no contradiction between “reading the Word” and “reading the Scriptures.” Both point to God’s eternal truth—spoken, written, and fulfilled in Christ. As believers, we are called not only to read the Word but also to live it (James 1:22).
The Lord is coming (1 Corinthians 16:22).
Did Simon of Cyrene Help Jesus Carry the Cross or Not?
When reading the Gospels, you might come across something that seems like a contradiction. In Matthew 27:32, we’re told that a man named Simon of Cyrene was forced to carry Jesus’ cross. But in John 19:17, it says Jesus carried His own cross to Golgotha. So, which account is correct? Did Jesus carry the cross by Himself, or did Simon help?
Let’s examine both passages and bring clarity.
What Matthew Records
Matthew 27:31–32
“And when they had mocked Him, they took the robe off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him away to be crucified.
Now as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name. Him they compelled to bear His cross.”
Matthew clearly states that Simon was forced to help carry the cross. The Roman soldiers, seeing Jesus’ physical weakness after severe flogging (cf. Isaiah 52:14), pulled Simon from the crowd to assist.
What John Records
John 19:17
“And He, bearing His cross, went out to a place called the Place of a Skull, which is called in Hebrew, Golgotha.”
This verse seems to suggest Jesus carried the cross by Himself the entire way. But there’s a theological and narrative explanation.
Is This a Contradiction?
No, not at all. What appears as a contradiction is actually a difference in emphasis. The Gospel writers sometimes include different parts of the same event based on their purpose and audience. The Bible is divinely inspired (2 Timothy 3:16) and free from error, so it does not contradict itself.
John’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus’ intentional and sovereign journey to the cross—He bore the weight of sin as our Redeemer (Isaiah 53:4–6), and so John records Jesus as “bearing His cross” to underline that truth. He doesn’t mention Simon because his focus is theological more than narrative.
Matthew, Mark, and Luke give more detailed descriptions of the journey, including how Jesus, weakened in body, needed help. This doesn’t mean Jesus didn’t carry the cross—it means He started with it, but at some point, Simon had to step in.
Luke 23:26
“Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.”
This aligns with a practical and historical reality: Roman executions were brutal. Jesus had already been scourged (John 19:1), crowned with thorns, and mocked. Physically, He was near collapse (cf. Psalm 22:14-15), so Simon was compelled to assist.
Spiritual Meaning of Simon Carrying the Cross
The event is not just historical—it carries deep spiritual meaning.
Notice in Luke 23:26, Simon carries the cross behind Jesus. This mirrors what Jesus said to all His followers:
Mark 8:34–35
“Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.”
This shows that true discipleship means more than just believing—it involves self-denial, surrender, and following Jesus through hardship. The cross represents death to self, obedience to God, and the willingness to suffer for the sake of Christ (Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:6).
Simon carrying the cross behind Jesus is a picture of every believer’s calling—to walk the path of Christ, bearing the cross daily (Luke 9:23).
So, was it Jesus or Simon who carried the cross? Both. Jesus began the journey carrying His cross, and at some point—due to His weakened condition—Simon of Cyrene was compelled to help. John highlights the sovereignty and sacrifice of Christ, while Matthew, Mark, and Luke provide narrative details, including the moment Simon steps in.
This is not a contradiction but a complementary account, showing both Jesus’ strength and His human suffering.
A Personal Reflection
Simon was pulled from the crowd, perhaps unwillingly, but he ended up walking behind the Savior. It became a powerful image of Christian discipleship.
So the real question is:
Have you taken up your cross to follow Jesus?
Have you chosen the path of surrender, obedience, and self-denial for His sake?
Jesus bore our sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). He calls us now to follow Him—not from a distance, but closely, carrying our own cross with faith and courage.
May the Lord give you grace to walk with Him faithfully.
God bless you.
What Is an Example of Solid Food as Mentioned in Hebrews 5:12?
Question:
The Bible teaches that milk is for spiritual infants, while solid food is for those who are mature in the faith. What, then, is an example of this “solid food”?
The Biblical Context
Hebrews 5:12-14 (NKJV)
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Here, milk refers to the elementary teachings of the faith, while solid food refers to the deeper truths of Christian living and the exercise of spiritual discernment.
What Is Milk?
Hebrews 6:1-2 lists what the milk represents:
Hebrews 6:1-2 (NKJV)
Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
These are foundational doctrines:
✅ Repentance from dead works
✅ Faith in God
✅ Instruction about baptisms
✅ Laying on of hands
✅ Resurrection of the dead
✅ Eternal judgment
These are essential, but they are spiritual milk — necessary for new believers, but not enough for spiritual growth toward maturity.
Examples of Solid Food — Deeper Spiritual Truths
1️⃣ Loving Your Enemies
Matthew 5:44 (NKJV)
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.
💡 Theological Insight:
Loving one’s enemies reflects the very heart of God (Romans 5:8). It demonstrates Christlike character and maturity because it mirrors God’s love for us when we were His enemies (Romans 5:10). This teaching challenges the natural human instinct for revenge and self-preservation, requiring the believer to rely on the Spirit’s power (Galatians 5:22-23).
2️⃣ Understanding God’s Purpose in Suffering
Philippians 1:29 (NKJV)
For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.
💡 Theological Insight:
Suffering is not merely something to endure, but something God sovereignly uses to refine and sanctify us (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4). Mature believers see suffering as part of God’s loving discipline and preparation for glory (1 Peter 4:12-13).
3️⃣ Spiritual Discernment
Hebrews 5:14 (NKJV)
But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
💡 Theological Insight:
Discernment is essential for navigating false teaching (1 John 4:1), distinguishing between good and evil in complex situations (Romans 12:2), and applying God’s Word faithfully. It grows through constant practice and obedience, not mere knowledge (John 7:17).
4️⃣ Submitting to God’s Discipline
Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV)
Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.
💡 Theological Insight:
God disciplines His children out of love (Hebrews 12:6). Mature believers understand that discipline shapes their character and produces righteousness. This reflects Christ’s own obedience through suffering (Hebrews 5:8)
5️⃣ Self-Denial and Bearing the Cross
Luke 9:23 (NKJV)
Then He said to them all, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
💡 Theological Insight:
This is the call to die daily to self-will, sin, and worldly desires (Galatians 2:20). A mature believer embraces this as the path of true discipleship and conformity to Christ (Romans 8:29).
6️⃣ Humility and Selfless Service
Philippians 2:3-8 (NKJV)
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself… Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus… He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.
💡 Theological Insight:
True maturity is marked by Christlike humility — putting others before oneself and serving as Christ served (Mark 10:45). This goes far beyond outward acts; it reflects an inner transformation (Matthew 23:
Solid Food Requires Ongoing Growth
As the Apostle Paul says:
Colossians 1:28 (NKJV)
Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.
Solid food is the deeper, often harder truths that stretch us toward Christlikeness. It calls us to grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18), to practice righteousness (1 John 3:7), and to walk as Jesus walked (1 John 2:6).
Conclusion:
Milk lays the foundation. Solid food builds us up into the full stature of Christ (Ephesians 4:13). Let us move beyond the basics, asking God for grace to feed on His Word deeply, so that we may grow into mature, discerning, Christlike believers.
The Church as Part of a New Believer’s Life
When you come to faith in Jesus Christ, it is vital to understand that the church is not simply a building or a denomination. The church is the community of God’s redeemed people—those who have been saved by grace through faith in Christ and gathered together to worship, serve, and glorify Him.
The New Testament presents the church in several powerful images that help us grasp its nature and purpose:
1. The Church as the Body of Christ
1 Corinthians 12:27 (ESV) —
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.
Every believer is united to Christ and to one another. Just as the parts of a human body function together for the good of the whole, so each Christian has a unique role and spiritual gift to contribute to the health and mission of the church (see Romans 12:4-5). To refuse fellowship with the body is to hinder both your own growth and the body’s effectiveness.
Ephesians 4:16 (NKJV) —
“From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.
2. The Church as the Bride of Christ
Ephesians 5:25-27 (NKJV) —
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish.
This image reminds us that the church is in a covenant relationship with Christ. Just as a bride is devoted to her husband, the church is called to purity, love, and faithful submission to Christ as its Lord (2 Corinthians 11:2). To belong to Christ is to belong to His church, living in holiness as we await the great marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-9).
3. The Church as the Family of God
Ephesians 2:19 (ESV) —
“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.
Through Christ, we are adopted as sons and daughters into God’s family (Galatians 4:4-7). This means we share in His promises, His inheritance, and His love. We are brothers and sisters in Christ, called to care for, encourage, and bear with one another (Romans 8:16-17, Colossians 3:12-14
4. The Church as the Temple of God
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (ESV) —
“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
As God’s temple, the church is His dwelling place on earth. The Spirit of God lives within us collectively as the church and individually as believers (Ephesians 2:21-22). We are called to purity and holiness because God’s presence demands a holy habitation (1 Peter 1:15-16).
Why the Church Is Essential for the Believer
1. For Spiritual Growth
The church is where believers are fed, equipped, and built up through God’s Word and the ministry of the Spirit.
Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV) —
And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
Growth in Christ happens as we sit under sound teaching, participate in worship, and exercise our spiritual gifts.
2. For Worship
God delights in the corporate worship of His people.
Psalm 95:6 (ESV) —
Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!
The church gathers to glorify God together, expressing our love and devotion through song, prayer, giving, the Word, and the sacraments (Acts 2:42-47).
3. For Prayer and Support
Believers are called to pray for one another and bear one another’s burdens.
James 5:16 (ESV) —
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
When we are weak, we need the strength of the body to lift us up (Galatians 6:2).
4. For Equipping for Ministry
The church is where believers discover and develop their spiritual gifts to serve God’s purposes.
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) —
As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
How Often Should We Attend Church?
As often as possible. The early church gathered frequently, both daily and weekly (Acts 2:46, 1 Corinthians 16:2).
Hebrews 10:25 (ESV) —
Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Faithful gathering helps guard us against sin’s deceitfulness (Hebrews 3:13).
Dangers of Withdrawing from the Church
You become spiritually weak and vulnerable to temptation (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).
You miss out on accountability and encouragement.
Your gifts will not flourish as they are intended to serve the body (1 Corinthians 12:7).
Choosing a Faithful Church
Not every group that calls itself a church is truly Christ’s church.
1 John 4:1 (ESV) —
Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
Look for a church that:
Preaches Christ as the only foundation of salvation (1 Corinthians 3:11).
Calls people to repentance, righteousness, and holiness (Acts 20:21).
Reminds believers of eternal realities—heaven and hell (Matthew 25:46).
Welcomes and operates in the gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:12).
Pray for discernment and seek godly counsel as you choose where to worship.
Key Scriptures to Remember
Hebrews 10:25 — Do not neglect meeting together.
Psalm 122:1 — Rejoice in going to the house of the Lord.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 — Two are better than one.
Final Encouragement
As a Christian, make it your habit to be faithful in gathering with God’s people.
Avoid lateness in worship.
Stay alert and engaged in the service (Acts 20:9—Eutychus fell asleep and fell from a window!).
Where two or three are gathered in Christ’s name, He is present (Matthew 18:20).
May the Lord bless you as you commit to His church!
Prayer as Part of a New Believer’s Life
The new life that begins at salvation is sustained through prayer. If God’s Word is our spiritual food, then prayer is our spiritual water. Just as our bodies need both food and water to live, the Christian life cannot thrive without prayer.
What Is Prayer?
Prayer is communication with God—not only speaking to Him but also listening to Him. It’s not just a routine or a string of empty words. It is a living relationship between us and our Heavenly Father.
“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
— Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
— Psalm 145:18
When Should We Pray?
Scripture places no limit on when we can or should pray. On the contrary, we are encouraged to pray continually.
“Pray without ceasing.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
— Ephesians 6:18
Prayer is meant to be a constant, ongoing part of our daily walk with God.
“In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.”
— Psalm 5:3
Blessings of Prayer for the Believer
1. We overcome temptation
“Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
— Matthew 26:41No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”
— 1 Corinthians 10:13
2. We are filled with the Holy Spirit
“When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as He was praying, heaven was opened…”— Luke 3:21
Prayer invites the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, empowering us to live a godly life.
3. We experience breakthrough in our problems
“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
— Matthew 17:20–21“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
— James 5:16
4. Our needs are met
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
— Philippians 4:6“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 4:19
Types of Prayer
There are many forms of prayer—thanksgiving, confession, intercession, petition, worship, and more. Each has its place in a healthy spiritual life.
🔗 How Many Types of Prayer Are There?
How Should We Pray?
Jesus gave us a perfect model in what is commonly known as the “Lord’s Prayer.”
🔗 How to Pray the Lord’s Prayer Effectively
This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name…’”
— Matthew 6
The Right Way to Read the Word of God (the Bible)
As we’ve already seen, reading the Word of God increases the fullness of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. The Bible is the primary nourishment for our souls — just as the body cannot survive without food, the spiritual life cannot thrive apart from God’s Word.
Matthew 4:4 (ESV)
It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
This truth reminds us that our survival and growth as believers depend on the Word. The Scriptures are the means by which we are fed, strengthened, and equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
Reading the Bible:
➡ Nurtures spiritual growth
“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.” (1 Peter 2:2, ESV)
➡ Renews and transforms our minds
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2, ESV)
➡ Provides guidance, encouragement, and correction
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
➡ Reveals the will and purposes of God for our lives
“For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4, ESV)
This is why no believer can separate their life of salvation from a life devoted to the Word of God.
Two Key Approaches to Reading Scripture
When you set out to read the Bible, it helps to understand two essential approaches:
1️⃣ Reading to know the whole Bible
This is foundational. To understand the context and message of any single passage, you need a broad grasp of the entire story of Scripture — the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan from Genesis to Revelation.
If you read 6–7 chapters daily, you can read through the whole Bible in about six months. But don’t stop there. Continue reading it again and again, for the Word never runs out of depth.
➡ “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.” (Revelation 1:3, ESV)
2️⃣ Reading by context or theme
This involves studying specific books, chapters, or topics in greater depth. It often requires guidance from teachers or mature believers (see Acts 8:30–31) and careful reflection, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate the text.
➡ “The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26, ESV)
How to Begin Reading Your Bible
✅ Have your own Bible
Ensure you have a complete Bible — both Old and New Testaments (66 books) — so that you can read the full counsel of God (Acts 20:27).
✅ Set aside quiet time daily
Make it a priority to have uninterrupted time for the Word. Jesus Himself withdrew to quiet places to pray and commune with the Father (Mark 1:35).
✅ Keep a notebook and pen
Write down insights, questions, and reflections to help you remember and apply what you learn (Deuteronomy 6:6–9).
✅ Begin with prayer
Ask God for wisdom and understanding. The psalmist prayed:
Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.
(Psalm 119:18, ESV)
✅ Obey what you read
God blesses not just the hearing of the Word, but its practice.
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
(James 1:22, ESV)
Additional Encouragement
Reading Scripture with other believers can help you grow in understanding and accountability (Colossians 3:16). Seek out friendships with those who share your hunger for God’s Word. Avoid company that leads you away from God’s purposes, especially during this season of spiritual growth (Psalm 1:1–2).
Just as a newborn feeds many times a day to gain strength and grow, so must we feed on the Word of God daily and often.
Anchor Scriptures for Your Journey
Psalm 119:11 (ESV)
I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.
Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Joshua 1:8 (ESV)
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.
May the Lord bless you as you commit yourself to His Word, and may the Holy Spirit lead you into all truth.
What Is “toilsome”? (Ecclesiastes 4:4)
Question: What does the word toilsome mean?
Answer: Let’s explore it through Scripture.
Ecclesiastes 4:4 (ESV):
“Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.”
The Hebrew word “toilsome” (עָמָל), from which Amali is derived, generally refers to toilsome, burdensome labor—work that is not only physically draining but often emotionally and spiritually exhausting. It carries the idea of labor born out of struggle, and often in vain.
So, Ecclesiastes 4:4 can be paraphrased this way:
“Then I observed all the difficult and wearisome labor, and every impressive skill in work, and I saw that it often arises from rivalry or competition between one person and another. This too is meaningless—a chasing after the wind.”
Solomon, the writer of Ecclesiastes, recognized that many people’s hard work is not rooted in divine purpose, but in envy, ambition, and comparison. The implication is that even skillful work—if it is driven by jealousy or the desire to outdo others—is ultimately vain (hebel), which in Hebrew means empty, fleeting, or meaningless.
This does not mean that all hard work is sinful. In fact, Scripture elsewhere commends diligence and responsibility. However, when labor is disconnected from God, or fueled by carnal motives like greed or pride, it becomes vain toil, with no eternal value.
Ecclesiastes 4:8 (NIV):
“There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. ‘For whom am I toiling,’ he asked, ‘and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?’ This too is meaningless—a miserable business!”
This verse reveals the emptiness of labor when it lacks relational and eternal purpose. A person can work endlessly, yet never find fulfillment, because material success without spiritual alignment leads to emptiness.
Not All “toilsome” Is Evil
It’s important to clarify: Not all who labor hard do so from envy or sinful ambition.
Some people work with integrity, with good intentions, and with the fear of God. They seek to provide, to serve, or to fulfill a calling. For them, labor is a form of worship and stewardship.
And the Bible affirms this:
Ecclesiastes 5:19 (AMP):
“Also, every man to whom God has given riches and possessions, He has also given the power and ability to enjoy them and to receive his allotted portion and rejoice in his labor—this is the gift of God.”
Ecclesiastes 8:15 (NIV):
“So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.”
When our labor is surrendered to God, it becomes meaningful. God gives joy in the work of our hands when it is done with reverence and purpose.
Jesus Gives True Rest
If your work feels burdensome, if you’re exhausted mentally and physically, and you don’t see lasting fruit—turn to Jesus. He invites all who are weary to come to Him.
Matthew 11:28–30 (ESV):
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Psalm 127:2 (ESV):
“It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.”
Conclusion
“Amali” (toilsome labor) can be either vain or valuable—it depends on the heart behind it. Work done for selfish gain or comparison leads to emptiness. But work offered to God, with godly purpose, is rewarded with peace, joy, and eternal value.
May the Lord bless the work of your hands.
If you’ve been encouraged, please share this message with others—this is part of spreading the Good
The Promise of the Holy Spirit for Every Believer(Acts 2:39)
The promise of the Holy Spirit is not for a select few, but for every believer in Jesus Christ. As Acts 2:39 (ESV) declares:
For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.
This means that the Holy Spirit is God’s gift to empower, guide, and sustain us as we live out our salvation. The Spirit enables us to live at the standard God desires—holy, fruitful lives that bring Him glory (John 15:8).
The moment you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit came to dwell in you (Ephesians 1:13):
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.
While you may not have felt a physical change, His presence is real. The evidence of His work becomes clearer as you continue in obedience and faith (John 14:23).
Key Works of the Holy Spirit in a Believer
1️⃣ He guides us into all truth and opens the Scriptures to us.
The Holy Spirit illuminates God’s Word so that we can understand and apply it.
When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.
(John 16:13, ESV)
Just as Jesus promised, the Spirit helps us discern spiritual truth (see 1 Corinthians 2:10-14).
2️⃣ He teaches and reminds us of Christ’s teachings.
But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
(John 14:26, ESV)
The Spirit not only helps us understand doctrine but also brings God’s Word to mind when we need it most (Psalm 119:11).
3️⃣ He helps us in our weaknesses, especially in prayer.
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
(Romans 8:26, ESV)
This shows our total dependence on God—even in prayer—and the Spirit’s active role in drawing us into deeper communion with the Father.
4️⃣ He empowers us to overcome the flesh.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
(Galatians 5:16, KJV)
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other…
(Galatians 5:17, KJV)
By the Spirit’s power, we crucify the sinful nature (Romans 8:13), producing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
5️⃣ He convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment.
And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.
(John 16:8, KJV)
The Holy Spirit keeps us sensitive to sin and calls us to live in holiness, conforming to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).
6️⃣ He gives spiritual gifts for the building up of the Church.
To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
(1 Corinthians 12:7, ESV)
The Spirit sovereignly distributes gifts: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, and interpretation (1 Corinthians 12:8-11). These gifts equip the Church for ministry (Ephesians 4:11-13).
7️⃣ He empowers us to boldly witness for Christ.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses…
(Acts 1:8, ESV)
The Spirit gives courage and clarity to proclaim the Gospel, just as He did with Peter at Pentecost (Acts 2).
How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit
The Spirit is present in every believer, but we are commanded to “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18), meaning we must yield to His control daily.
✅ 1) Separate yourself from sin.
Holiness invites the fullness of the Spirit.
If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
(Luke 9:23, ESV)
Turn from sinful habits and pursue righteousness (2 Timothy 2:21).
✅ 2) Submit to the laying on of hands by spiritual leaders.
God sometimes uses this means to stir up the Spirit’s work.
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
(Acts 8:17, KJV)
Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.
(2 Timothy 1:6, KJV)
✅ 3) Devote yourself to prayer.
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
(Matthew 26:41, ESV)
Pray daily and ask God for the gift of praying in the Spirit (Jude 1:20). Allow your mouth to engage fully in prayer—true Spirit-filled prayer is not silent but expressed.
✅ 4) Immerse yourself in the Word of God.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…
(Colossians 3:16, ESV)
The Spirit speaks through Scripture. The more you know God’s Word, the more you’ll recognize the Spirit’s voice and leading.
Conclusion
When you give the Holy Spirit full place in your life, His power, guidance, and gifts will be evident. As the Apostle Paul wrote:
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.
(Galatians 5:25, ESV)
I Am Ready for Baptism
Baptism is one of the first steps of obedience that Jesus commands for all who believe in Him. Some people may argue that baptism is unnecessary or unimportant. But, dear friend, do not take this lightly. Even if it seems unimportant to you, it is highly significant to the One who gave the command—our Lord Jesus Christ.
Why should we be baptized?
✅ Because it is the Lord’s command.
Baptism is not optional; it is part of the Great Commission Jesus gave to His followers:
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
✅ Because Jesus Himself was baptized as an example for us.
Although He was without sin, Jesus chose to be baptized to “fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). If He, the sinless Son of God, submitted to baptism, how much more should we who have been saved by grace?
Matthew 3:13-15 (ESV)
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’ But Jesus answered him, ‘Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he consented.
✅ Because baptism is an outward sign of an inner reality.
Baptism is a public declaration that you have been united with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It symbolizes that you have died to sin and now live a new life in Christ.
Romans 6:3-4 (ESV)
Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
Who should be baptized?
✅ Those who believe and repent.
Baptism is for those who have consciously placed their faith in Jesus Christ and have turned away from sin. It is never presented in the New Testament as something done for infants or those who have not personally believed.
Acts 2:41 (ESV)
So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
Acts 8:12 (ESV)
But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
When should a person be baptized?
✅ As soon as possible after believing.
In the New Testament, people were baptized shortly after believing in Jesus. There was no long waiting period or requirement for advanced spiritual maturity. Baptism marked the beginning of their new life.
Acts 2:38 (ESV)
And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 16:33 (ESV)
And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.
What is the correct mode of baptism?
✅ Baptism by full immersion in water.
The biblical pattern shows people going down into the water and coming up again—symbolizing burial and resurrection.
John 3:23 (ESV)
John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because water was plentiful there, and people were coming and being baptized.
Acts 8:38-39 (ESV)
And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away.
✅ Baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.
This is consistent with baptizing in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, because Jesus embodies the fullness of the Godhead (Colossians 2:9).
Acts 10:48 (ESV)
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.
Acts 19:5 (ESV)
On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
What if I was baptized as an infant or not by immersion?
✅ You should be baptized again in the biblical way.
If you were baptized before you personally believed or not by full immersion, it is right and proper to be baptized according to the teaching and example found in Scripture.
Where can I be baptized.
If you are saved and ready to take this step, look for a Bible-believing church that practices baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ. If you need help arranging for baptism, feel free to contact us:
📞 +255 693 036 618 / +255 789 001 312
Scriptures to remember about baptism
✅ Colossians 2:12 (ESV) — “Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.”
✅ Galatians 3:27 (ESV) — “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
May the Lord richly bless you as you take this step of faith.
