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Isaiah 10:22 (ESV)

“For though your people Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will return. Destruction is decreed, overflowing with righteousness.”

In the past, when Israel was taken into captivity—whether in Egypt or Babylon—the people assumed that returning to their land would always follow the same pattern: a mighty deliverance through a chosen prophet like Moses. They expected that God would again miraculously intervene, restore the entire nation, and bring them back home in full.

But God’s plan changed.

Through His prophets, He warned them that future restorations would not mirror the past. He patiently called them to repentance, urging them to abandon their wicked ways. Yet they refused. Instead of listening to the warnings, they persecuted the messengers—some were beaten, others killed (cf. 2 Chronicles 36:15–16, Matthew 23:37).

Eventually, judgment came. The ten northern tribes of Israel were exiled by Assyria (2 Kings 17), and to this day, they have not returned. They assimilated into the nations and disappeared from the historical record—known commonly as the “Lost Tribes of Israel.” Later, the southern kingdom of Judah was taken captive to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 25). Even though Judah was numerous, only a small remnant returned after 70 years (Ezra 1–2).

This remnant was preserved not because of their righteousness but because of God’s mercy—to maintain the lineage leading to the Messiah. As the apostle Paul writes:

Romans 9:27–29 (ESV)

“And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: ‘Though the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved, for the Lord will carry out His sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.’ And as Isaiah predicted, ‘If the Lord of hosts had not left us offspring, we would have been like Sodom and become like Gomorrah.’”

This story is not just history—it’s prophecy in pattern. Paul, quoting Isaiah, applies these Old Testament realities to the New Covenant Church. The physical nation of Israel prefigures the spiritual people of God—those who are in Christ. What happened to them is meant to serve as a warning for us.

1 Corinthians 10:11 (ESV)

“Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come.”

When Israel fell into idolatry and spiritual corruption, their judgment came swiftly. Likewise, Jesus and His apostles foretold a great falling away within the Church before the end (cf. Matthew 24:10–12, 2 Thessalonians 2:3). The enemy has sown tares (false believers) among the wheat, and until the final harvest, the two will grow side by side (Matthew 13:24–30).

Today, the number of professing Christians worldwide is over three billion—more than the physical Israelites ever were. But as in ancient times, numbers are not the measure of faithfulness. Among this vast multitude, only a small remnant is truly faithful to Christ.

Luke 12:32 (ESV)

“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

Jesus described His Church not as a mighty multitude but as a little flock. Many are called, but few are chosen (Matthew 22:14). The present age is not a time for complacency but for self-examination and repentance. The pull of the world is stronger than ever, and the passion many had at first is growing cold.

Returning to the Lord today—renewing our first love, walking in holiness, rejecting sin—is far more challenging now than when we first believed. The spiritual environment has become more polluted, the Church more compromised, and distractions more intense. It is only by the grace and power of God that anyone can stand.

We must be among the faithful remnant. The Lord is calling His people to forsake sin, turn fully to Him, and keep their eyes fixed on eternity.

Because the return of Christ is near.

At any moment, the event of the Rapture could occur—the sudden catching away of the true Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). For some, it will be a day of joy and reunion. For others, a day of unspeakable regret.

Matthew 24:40–42 (ESV)

“Then two men will be in the field; one will be taken and one left. Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.”

May the Lord help us remain watchful, faithful, and ready.

Shalom!
Welcome to this reflection on the words of life. The Bible teaches us an important principle about spiritual maturity using a symbol we often overlook: grey hair.

1. Grey Hair as a Symbol of Honor and Righteousness

Proverbs 16:31 (ESV) says:
“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.”

In the physical realm, grey hair is often associated with age, wisdom, and honor. In Scripture, it becomes a spiritual metaphor for maturity and glory attained through a life lived in righteousness. Just as one does not instantly grow grey hair but accumulates it over time, spiritual growth is also a process—not a one-time confession.

Unfortunately, many people treat salvation as a one-time event: they confess Christ, get baptized, and then simply wait to go to heaven. They postpone growth, thinking, “I’ll serve God when I’m older,” or “once I’ve achieved my life goals.” But such attitudes rob us of rich opportunities to grow in grace and in intimacy with God.

2. Spiritual Growth Mirrors Physical Growth

Physical life unfolds in stages—infancy, youth, adulthood, and old age. So it is with the spiritual life. We begin as spiritual infants (1 Peter 2:2), grow into maturity (Ephesians 4:13–15), and are expected to press on toward full spiritual adulthood.

1 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV) says:
“When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways.”

Just as we would be concerned if an adult acted like a child, God is concerned when we remain spiritually immature year after year. Growth is not optional—it is the evidence of a living, vibrant relationship with Christ.

3. God Honors the Spiritually Mature

In the Old Testament, God commands honor toward the elderly not just for their age, but for the wisdom and dignity accumulated over time.

Leviticus 19:32 (ESV):
“You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.”

This principle extends into the spiritual realm. Spiritual elders—those who have walked faithfully with God for years—are to be honored. Their spiritual “grey hairs” are not literal but are seen in their faithfulness, perseverance, humility, and fruitfulness.

4. The 24 Elders in Heaven: A Picture of Spiritual Maturity

In Revelation, we’re introduced to twenty-four elders who sit around God’s throne. These are heavenly beings who represent maturity, honor, and closeness to God.

Revelation 4:4 (ESV):
“Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads.”

Their appearance as elders is significant. Why not young people or children? Because these elders symbolize deep spiritual maturity—those who have lived lives of worship, endurance, and complete devotion to God.

Even Christ is described in the language of age and wisdom in His glorified state:

Revelation 1:14 (ESV):
“The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire.”

The whiteness of His hair reveals His eternal wisdom and divine authority. Jesus, the Ancient of Days, models the kind of spiritual maturity we are called to pursue.

5. Why Spiritual Grey Hairs Matter

The sobering reality is that not all believers mature spiritually. Some remain spiritual infants for decades. They attend services, hear sermons, but never grow in obedience, character, or service. When asked what they’ve done for the Kingdom, they have nothing to show—not because they couldn’t, but because they wouldn’t.

Salvation is more than a status—it’s a journey. Every day, our actions, prayers, sacrifices, and obedience are shaping our eternal inheritance.

2 Peter 1:10–11 (ESV):
“Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Not everyone will have the same experience in eternity. While all the redeemed are saved by grace, rewards and responsibilities in heaven differ based on our faithfulness (see 1 Corinthians 3:12–15).

6. Let Us Be Recognized in Heaven by Our Spiritual Grey Hairs

Let this be your resolve: when you enter eternity, may you be recognized not as a spiritual infant, but as one crowned with spiritual grey hairs—one who walked with God, served Him faithfully, grew in love, truth, and holiness.

Do not waste your earthly life pursuing only what is temporary. Invest in your spiritual walk. Serve Christ now. Grow in grace. Bear fruit. Because heaven will recognize those who lived well—not just those who believed.

Philippians 3:12–14 (ESV):
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own… I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Let us desire, from this moment on, to draw closer to God daily—so that when we stand before Him, the weight of our walk with Him will be evident—not by physical appearance, but by the glory of our spiritual maturity.

Maranatha – the Lord is coming.

Scripture Focus: Luke 19:29–34 (ESV)
Key Theme: Radical Obedience to Christ Over Human Protocol

Shalom! I greet you in the glorious name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us meditate together on a vital truth from God’s Word—the power of obedience to divine instruction, even when it seems illogical or risky by human standards.

Just before His triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Jesus gave a peculiar command to two of His disciples. He instructed them to go into a village, find a colt (a young donkey) tied up, and bring it to Him. At first glance, this might seem like a simple errand. But upon closer reflection, the instruction was quite unusual—even provocative.

Let’s read the passage carefully:

Luke 19:29–34 (ESV)
29 When he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount that is called Olivet, he sent two of the disciples,
30 saying, “Go into the village in front of you, where on entering you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat. Untie it and bring it here.
31 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this: ‘The Lord has need of it.’”
32 So those who were sent went away and found it just as he had told them.
33 And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?”
34 And they said, “The Lord has need of it.”

Now pause and think: Why would Jesus instruct His disciples to untie someone else’s animal without first asking permission? Wouldn’t that appear to be theft? Did Jesus not understand property laws? Of course He did. In fact, He authored them through divine inspiration (cf. Exodus 20:15). But in this moment, Jesus was modeling a deeper principle—radical trust in divine authority over societal expectations.

Jesus wasn’t advocating lawlessness. Instead, He was demonstrating the supremacy of God’s mission and how divine providence aligns all things—even ownership—when we act in obedience. By the time the owners noticed and questioned the disciples, the action was already underway. The only answer needed was, “The Lord has need of it.” That answer sufficed, and the disciples were not detained.

Imagine this scenario in today’s context: Someone tells you, “Go to a shopping mall, find a parked car, unlock it, and drive it to me.” Your instinct would be fear—“This sounds like a setup! I might be arrested or even lynched!” That’s how absurd Jesus’ instruction might have sounded at the time.

But Jesus had His reasons. He knew what lay ahead: resistance, spiritual opposition, human bureaucracy, legal delays, unnecessary questions. Had the disciples started with negotiation or explanation, they likely would’ve faced red tape, rejection, or doubt. But Jesus taught them to act in obedience first, and then respond to opposition if and when it arises.

This principle is critical for us today. Often, we delay or abandon the work of God because we’re waiting for perfect conditions—official permissions, endorsements, funding, acceptance. But delayed obedience is often disobedience.

Ecclesiastes 11:4 (NIV)
“Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.”

Satan uses these delays and procedural fears as tools to paralyze the Church. How many people have failed to start a ministry, launch a prayer group, evangelize, or serve because they’re stuck waiting for bureaucratic clearance or human support? Jesus teaches us—do what He says first, and trust that He will take care of the details.

He already gave us a global commission:

Mark 16:15 (ESV)
“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”

He did not say: “First seek approval from religious councils, governments, or local communities.” No, He said go. And when people ask why you’re doing it, tell them plainly: “The Lord has need of it.”

Obedience to Jesus activates divine protection and provision. You may face questions, resistance, or suspicion—but by then, the mission has begun. God will make a way where there seems to be no way. He will soften hearts. He will remove barriers.

Isaiah 45:2 (NKJV)
“I will go before you and make the crooked places straight; I will break in pieces the gates of bronze and cut the bars of iron.”

In Closing:

Let this be your takeaway—don’t wait for human authorization to do what Jesus has already commanded. His Word is your license. Start the work. Preach. Serve. Evangelize. And when asked “why,” simply say, “Because the Lord sent me.” His presence will go with you, and His command will be your shield.

May the Lord bless you and strengthen you to walk in bold, joyful obedience.

In his ministry as an apostle, Paul wasn’t only concerned with people accepting Christ and receiving forgiveness for their sins. His mission was much broader. Paul worked tirelessly to teach believers the full counsel of God, including divine truths and hidden mysteries that had been embedded in Scripture since ancient times (see Acts 20:27).

He knew that spiritual ignorance could cripple the Christian life. That’s why he warned the church:

Ephesians 5:17 (ESV) –

“Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

To Paul, ignorance wasn’t harmless—it was dangerous. It meant living without the knowledge that empowers believers to walk in victory and purpose. Without divine insight, Christians become vulnerable, confused, and ineffective.

What Is Spiritual Ignorance?

Spiritual ignorance is more than just not knowing facts. It’s the absence of divine understanding that would otherwise guide one’s life. It’s like someone unaware that mobile phones exist. Instead of calling distant relatives, they walk for days to deliver a message. If they had knowledge of technology, communication would be much easier and faster.

Likewise, many Christians suffer not because of a lack of faith, but because they lack understanding. As God said in Hosea 4:6:

Hosea 4:6 (ESV) – “

My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

You can only serve God effectively to the extent of your revelation of Him. The more you understand God, the more victorious and purposeful your walk with Him will be.

Paul continually emphasized the need for believers to grow in spiritual understanding. Let’s look at several key truths he didn’t want the Church to remain ignorant of:

1. The Hope of the Resurrection

1 Thessalonians 4:13 (ESV) –

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.”

Paul taught that believers who die in Christ will be resurrected at Christ’s return. This truth comforts us in times of loss and gives us hope beyond the grave. Without this knowledge, grief can consume us like it does those without Christ.

2. The Saints Will Judge the World

1 Corinthians 6:2–3 (ESV) – “

Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world?… Do you not know that we are to judge angels?”

Paul revealed that believers who overcome will have roles in God’s future kingdom, even judging the world and angels. This is a profound truth that should inspire us to live holy and prepare for our eternal calling.

3. Christ Hidden in the Old Testament

1 Corinthians 10:1–4 (ESV) – “

…they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ.”

Paul showed that Jesus was present even in the Old Testament. The events and symbols in Israel’s history—like the manna and the rock—were shadows pointing to Christ. This calls us to read the Old Testament through a Christ-centered lens.

4. Suffering in Ministry

2 Corinthians 1:8 (ESV) – “

For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia…”

Serving God isn’t always easy. Paul faced intense persecution and suffering for the gospel. Understanding that trials are part of the Christian journey helps us stay faithful when things get tough.

5. Your Body Is the Temple of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 3:16–17 (ESV) –

“Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?…”

Our physical bodies are sacred—they are the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. Paul warned that anyone who defiles the body through sin or abuse will face judgment. This truth teaches us to honor God with our bodies.

6. Provision for Gospel Workers

1 Corinthians 9:13–14 (ESV) – “

Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple…? In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.”

Paul made it clear that God has ordained material support for ministers of the gospel. It’s not a matter of human opinion, but divine design.

7. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:1 (ESV) – “

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed.”

Many Christians today are either skeptical of spiritual gifts or misuse them due to lack of understanding. Paul urged the Church to know how the Holy Spirit works, including the gifts, ministries, and power He imparts for the edification of the body.

8. God’s Plan for the Nations and Israel

Romans 11:25 (ESV) – “

Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.”

Paul explained that God has a timeline: the gospel is now going to the Gentiles, but a time will come when God’s focus returns to Israel. When the “fullness of the Gentiles” is complete, the door will begin to close. This truth calls us to urgency—today is the day of salvation.

Final Words: Don’t Take Grace for Granted

If the age of grace is nearing its end, what hope will be left for those who rejected Christ during the time of mercy? Jesus warned that the door will eventually close (Luke 13:25). When that happens, it will be too late.

This is why Paul urged believers not to be ignorant of God’s plan, His will, and His ways. Ignorance can cost you your calling, your peace, and even your eternity.

So repent, turn from sin, and return to God while there is still time.

Maranatha—The Lord is coming!

In the Bible, the role of a messenger was significant, often acting as a divine instrument to communicate important messages. A messenger was someone employed by a king or ruler to carry and deliver letters or commands to people in different regions. These messengers played a crucial part in spreading royal decrees and divine instructions.

For example, in 2 Chronicles 30, when King Hezekiah sought to restore the Passover festival that had been neglected for generations, he sent messengers to announce his decree. The aim was to gather all of Israel for the celebration in Jerusalem, in fulfillment of the covenantal commandments of God. This action highlights God’s desire for obedience to His laws, especially those relating to worship.

2 Chronicles 30:5 “

So they made a proclamation throughout all Israel, from Beersheba to Dan, that they should come and celebrate the Passover to the Lord God of Israel at Jerusalem, for they had not kept it for a long time as it was written.”

6 “Then the messengers went throughout all Israel and Judah, with the king’s command, saying, ‘O children of Israel, return to the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, so that He may return to the remnant of you who have escaped the hands of the kings of Assyria.’”

Another example is found during the reign of King Xerxes. He issued a decree for all Jews to be killed in a single day. This order was spread across all the provinces by messengers.

Esther 3:13 “

And letters were sent by the messengers to all the provinces of the king, to destroy, kill, and annihilate all Jews, both young and old, children and women, in one day, on the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month of Adar, and to take their possessions.”

In Esther 8:10,

when the decree is reversed, messengers once again play a pivotal role in spreading God’s deliverance.

Esther 8:10“,He wrote in the name of King Xerxes, sealed it with the king’s signet ring, andsent the letters by the messengers, who rode on royal horses bred from the king’s royal stables.”

Job 9:25 also uses the metaphor of a messenger in a more personal and existential way, contrasting the fleeting nature of human life with the speed of a messenger:
Job 9:25 “

Now my days are swifter than a messenger; they flee away and see no good.”

This verse highlights the transience of life and the urgency of responding to God’s message. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the brevity of our time on earth and the need to act according to God’s will while we have the opportunity.

Jeremiah 51:31 uses the imagery of messengers in the context of judgment, showing how God communicates His decisions to nations:

Jeremiah 51:31 “

One messenger runs to meet another, and one reporter to meet another, to tell the king of Babylon that his city is taken on every side.”

This passage reinforces the theological concept of God’s sovereignty over history and nations. It shows that God’s judgment is not arbitrary but is declared and executed according to His perfect justice.

Conclusion:

As believers, we are called to be messengers of Christ, proclaiming the good news of salvation through Him. Just as God used messengers in the Bible to bring His words of grace, warning, and judgment to His people, He calls us to deliver His message of redemption. We are to proclaim the gospel with urgency and faithfulness, understanding that the message we carry is not just for our personal benefit but for the salvation of others.

So, what kind of messenger are we? Are we spreading the message of Christ’s salvation, or are we distracted by the fleeting concerns of the world? We are all entrusted with the task of being messengers for God’s Kingdom. May our lives reflect the commitment to His calling.

Shalom.

In biblical times, a siege tower was a tall, mobile structure used during warfare to attack cities protected by strong, high walls. These towers were designed to help soldiers reach the same height as fortified walls so they could fight on level ground and eventually breach the city.

Historical and Practical Use

Ancient cities were often fortified with thick walls, making direct attacks nearly impossible. Defenders stood atop these walls, ready with flaming arrows and heavy stones. Attacking from the ground was dangerous and usually ended in failure.

To overcome this, armies built wooden siege towers on wheels, tall enough to reach or exceed the height of the walls. Soldiers would climb to the top of the tower, gaining equal footing with the defenders. As the tower moved closer to the wall, the soldiers would lower ladders, climb into the city, and launch their assault.

Since these towers were made of wood, they were vulnerable to fire. To prevent this, they were often covered with iron or animal hides to protect against flaming arrows.

Biblical References

The Bible mentions siege towers in several places, often in connection with warfare and destruction, but also as symbols of human strength and false security:

Isaiah 23:13 (NIV):
“Look at the land of the Babylonians—this people is now of no account! The Assyrians have made it a place for desert creatures; they raised up their siege towers, they stripped its fortresses bare and turned it into a ruin.”

This highlights how even great nations could be brought down by powerful siege tactics.

2 Chronicles 26:15 (NIV):
“In Jerusalem he made devices invented for use on the towers and on the corner defenses so that soldiers could shoot arrows and hurl large stones from the walls.”

King Uzziah’s innovations show the importance of preparation, though true success still depended on God.

Judges 9:46 (NIV):
“On hearing this, the citizens in the tower of Shechem went into the stronghold of the temple of El-Berith.”

In this case, the tower served as a place of retreat and safety for the people.

• Other references:
  Judges 9:47,49; Jeremiah 31:38; Zephaniah 3:6; Song of Songs 8:9; Nehemiah 3:8 – These passages use towers as symbols of both physical defense and spiritual metaphors.

Spiritual Application

Siege towers symbolize the effort to overcome obstacles—whether physical or spiritual. Today, we face spiritual strongholds: fear, sin, pride, and lies of the enemy that resist the truth of God.

2 Corinthians 10:4 (NIV):
“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”

Our spiritual battles aren’t fought with human methods but with the power of God.

Proverbs 18:10 (NIV):
“The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.”

Unlike man-made siege towers, the Lord Himself is our strong, unshakable tower—our place of refuge.

Joshua 6:20 (NIV):
“When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city.”

Jericho’s walls fell not through engineering, but through faith and obedience. This reminds us that God is the one who brings down every barrier when we trust in Him.

Conclusion

While siege towers were mighty tools of ancient warfare, they also remind us of our need for divine help in the spiritual battles we face. The Lord—not human strategy—is our true tower of strength. When we rely on Him and walk in obedience, He breaks down every wall set up against us.

May the Lord be your fortress and strength. God bless you.