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Long ago, Jesus was teaching a large group of people by a big, sparkling lake. The sun was shining, and there were men, women, and children gathered around Him, eager to listen to His amazing stories about God’s love.As the day went on, everyone began to feel very hungry. The crowd had grown to be about 5,000 men, not counting all the women and children who were there too! Looking around, Jesus asked His disciple Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?"Philip was worried. “It would take a lot of money to buy even a little bread for everyone,” he replied. Then Andrew, another one of Jesus' disciples, spoke up. "Here is a boy with five small loaves of bread and two fish, but how far will they go among so many?"Jesus smiled kindly at the little boy who had shared his food. "Tell everyone to sit down," Jesus told His disciples. The crowd sat down on the soft grass, curious to see what Jesus would do next.Jesus took the loaves and fish, looked up to heaven, and gave thanks. Then, He began to break the bread and fish into pieces and handed them to the disciples to share with the people. Amazingly, as the disciples gave out the food, they found that they never ran out! Everyone had as much as they wanted to eat, and after they were full, the disciples gathered twelve baskets full of leftover pieces.The people were amazed. They saw in this miracle that Jesus was truly special and could provide for all their needs. They realized just how much Jesus cared for them.Craft Activity: Loaves and Fish Basket**Materials Needed- Construction paper (brown, yellow, blue) - Scissors - Glue sticks - Crayons or markers - A small paper plateInstructions1. **Make the Basket**: Cut a strip of brown construction paper and glue it around the edge of the paper plate to create a basket. Set it aside to dry.2. **Create the Loaves**: Draw and cut out five small loaf shapes from the yellow construction paper. Use crayons or markers to add details to make them look like real loaves of bread.3. **Create the Fish**: Draw and cut out two fish shapes from the blue construction paper. Use crayons or markers to add scales, eyes, and details to the fish.4. **Assemble the Craft**: Glue the loaves and fish into the paper plate basket. Encourage children to arrange them so they look like the basket is full of food.5. **Discuss**: As they work, talk about how Jesus provided for everyone and how sharing is an important part of being kind to others.Discussion, Reflection Questions1. How do you think the little boy felt when he saw Jesus use his lunch to help feed so many people? 2. Can you think of a time when someone shared something with you that made you very happy? 3. How can you share what you have, like your time, talents, or toys, with others this week? <figure id="figure-oebqx489nm7g84w0x"><iframe id="oebqx489nm7g84w0x" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/32Ixdj0ZXyY" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32Ixdj0ZXyY" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/32Ixdj0ZXyY" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>

Bible Stories for Kids - Jesus Feeds 5000

El Shaddai is understood to mean "God Almighty." The name combines "El," a common Semitic word for God, with "Shaddai," which has been interpreted as "almighty" or "all-sufficient." The etymology of "Shaddai" is debated, but some suggest it might derive from a root implying power or sufficiency.&nbsp;El Shaddai appears primarily in the Hebrew Bible or Old Testament, signifying God's supreme power and authority. This name is first introduced in Genesis 17:1 when God speaks to Abram, later known as Abraham, establishing a covenant. "I am El Shaddai; walk before Me, and be blameless," God instructs. This moment highlights the establishment of Abraham's faith journey and God's promise of numerous descendants. El Shaddai also appears in other contexts, often reassuring individuals of God's protective and all-sufficient nature.In contemporary faith practices, El Shaddai is viewed as a powerful source of divine strength and comfort. Believers often call upon El Shaddai in prayer to acknowledge and seek God's might and provision in their lives. This name reassures individuals of God's ability to sustain and support them amidst challenges, reinforcing faith in His overarching authority and care.

Names of God Series - El Shaddai

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for John 14:16 (ESV) “Congratulations on diving into John 14:16 today! By reflecting on this verse, you’re opening yourself to the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus Himself to guide, support, and empower you. Let’s discover how these words can transform your spiritual journey and bring you closer to God’s heart.”1. Read "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever." John 14:16 (ESV)The Gospel of John was written by the Apostle John to share the good news of Jesus Christ and offer a deep insight into His divine nature and teachings. Chapter 14 is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse, where He comforts His disciples with promises of future hope as He prepares them for His impending departure. Here, Jesus assures His followers that though He is leaving physically, they will not be left alone. The promised Helper, the Holy Spirit, will be with them forever. This assurance extends to every believer today, offering divine support and closeness to God.2. ExamineKey Message: This verse reveals Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit—the Helper or Advocate who will forever remain with believers. The Holy Spirit provides guidance, empowerment, and a constant connection to God, securing our hearts in times of uncertainty.Connection to Jesus: Jesus was our first Advocate, demonstrating God’s love and truth through His life, death, and resurrection. In promising the Holy Spirit, He ensures that His presence and guidance remain with us, empowering us to continue His mission of love and redemption on earth.Main Themes:- Divine Presence: Assurance that God’s presence is with us always through the Holy Spirit. - Eternal Comfort: The Holy Spirit brings comfort and support, nurturing our spiritual walk. - Empowerment: Empowered by the Spirit, believers are equipped to live out God’s purpose.Key Word Study: "Helper" (Greek: Paraklētos): This term can also be translated as Advocate, Comforter, or Counselor. It signifies one who comes alongside to assist, encourage, and plead our cause.3. ApplyReflective Questions: - How has the presence of the Holy Spirit been evident in my life recently? - In what areas do I need to rely more on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength? - How can I cultivate a deeper awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence throughout my day?Real-Life Application: - Invite the Holy Spirit: Begin each day with a simple prayer of invitation, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and actions. - Seek Spiritual Input: In decision-making moments, pause to seek the Holy Spirit’s wisdom rather than leaning solely on your understanding. - Share Comfort: Offer support to someone in need, reflecting the comfort and encouragement you receive from the Holy Spirit.Imagine a mother overwhelmed by the demands of balancing work and family. By turning to the Holy Spirit in prayer, she receives guidance and peace, equipping her to manage her day with grace and wisdom. Her reliance on God becomes a beacon of hope for her family, demonstrating the power of divine presence in daily life.4. PrayHeavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, my eternal Helper and Comforter. I confess that I often try to navigate life in my own strength, forgetting Your promise of divine support. Today, I ask for Your Spirit to guide my every step, infusing me with wisdom and peace. Empower me to live boldly, sharing Your love and truth with those around me. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.Closing Reflection: “Picture your life as a sailboat guided by the gentle, powerful wind of the Holy Spirit. As you hoist your sails in prayer, feel the Spirit’s presence steering you towards peace, hope, and purpose. Today and every day, allow this divine guidance to fill your journey with joy and assurance.”Call to Action: Embrace the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life by committing to a daily practice of listening and responding to His guidance. Let His comfort and direction lead you toward a closer walk with God, confident that you are never alone.

Experience the Comfort and Presence of the Holy Spirit

The work of Christ on our behalf is truly perfect, and we recognize that it would be presumptuous to believe we can enhance it. However, the wonderful journey of the Holy Spirit's work within us is an ongoing adventure. This transformative process unfolds beautifully day by day and will continue to evolve throughout our lives.We are being joyfully conformed to the image of Christ, and this incredible transformation is actively progressing as we approach the glory that awaits us. It is essential for every believer to reflect a spirit of growth. Our guiding principle should be, “Onward and upward!” The Bible is rich with metaphors that illustrate this journey, comparing Christians to plants flourishing in the Lord’s field.“First the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear.” We enter the family of God as infants in faith, and as we grow, we progress from little children to young men and eventually to spiritual fathers in Christ Jesus. It’s important to acknowledge that none of us attain perfection or complete maturity in our faith. Instead, we are all engaged in an inspiring and continuous process of growth.With each step forward, let us embrace this journey with enthusiasm and sincerity, knowing that we are becoming more like Christ every day!

Our Journey with the Holy Spirit, Onward & Upward

The phrase "we are of one spirit with God" beautifully references the profound biblical verse 1 Corinthians 6:17, which states, "But whoever is united with the Lord is one spirit with him." This remarkable scripture emphasizes that when a believer is intimately joined with Christ, their spirit harmonizes with God's Spirit, reflecting a deep spiritual connection and unity that is both inspiring and transformative.This scripture is often taken out of context, for example we see this quote from a well known Word of Faith leader, “Pray to yourself, for I dwell within you, and you dwell within Me. We are one Spirit, declares the Lord.”The Lord did not declare that. When the Word speaks of whoever is united with the Lord is of one spirit, the Word is referring to the Jews and Gentiles, being united in one spirit, as part of the body of Christ, not that we become Gods because we are united in spirit.It is important to consider the vital role of the Holy Spirit in our relationship with God. The Holy Spirit serves as our divine guide, gently convicting us of sin, bestowing spiritual gifts, aiding us in prayer, and serving as our counselor. He brings believers together in Christ, placing each of us within the body of Christ to empower and transform our lives.While the Holy Spirit dwells within us, there remains a distinct and holy separation—He is not us, and we are not Him, which underscores the beauty of our unique relationship with the Divine.Being of one spirit with God, does not make us Gods.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Being of one spirit with God, does not make us Gods.

Missionary Sitting on Stairs Reading from the Scriptures

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) “By choosing to explore 2 Timothy 3:16 today, you’re diving into the heart of Scripture’s purpose and power in your life. This verse emphasizes the significance of Scripture as a guiding force, equipping you with wisdom for every situation. Let’s unravel its richness to see how it can direct your paths and deepen your relationship with God.”1. Read "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness."&nbsp; 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV):The book of 2 Timothy is a personal letter from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, a young pastor he mentored. Written during Paul’s imprisonment, these words are part of his final encouragements to Timothy. Paul highlights the challenges of ministry, the importance of perseverance, and the power of God’s Word. This verse underscores the divine inspiration of Scripture and its essential role in spiritual growth and maturity.2. ExamineKey Message: 2 Timothy 3:16 declares that every part of Scripture comes directly from God, making it entirely trustworthy and authoritative. It outlines how Scripture equips us to live rightly, offering guidance, correction, and education. This truth points to Scripture as a complete resource for understanding and applying God’s will.Connection to Jesus: Jesus consistently affirmed and fulfilled the Scriptures in His ministry. He used them to teach, correct misconceptions, and demonstrate God’s plan. By following Jesus, we see the ultimate example of living a life grounded in Scripture, calling us to align our lives with God’s Word as He did.Main Themes:Divine Inspiration: All Scripture originates from God, ensuring its truth and reliability.Instruction and Growth: Scripture is intended to teach, correct, and guide us toward living righteous lives.Transformation: Through engaging with God’s Word, we are constantly shaped and renewed in our walk with Him. Key Word Study:"Scripture" (Greek: graphē): Refers to the sacred writings of both the Old and New Testament seen as authoritative and holy."Breathed out by God" (Greek: theopneustos): This highlights Scripture’s divine origin, literally meaning "God-breathed," indicating that God is the ultimate source and inspiration. 3. ApplyReflective Questions:How can I make daily Scripture reading a priority in my life?In what areas do I need Scripture’s guidance for teaching, reproof, or correction?How does understanding Scripture’s divine origin inspire confidence in its teachings for my life decisions? Christ-Centered Practical Steps:Prioritize Scripture: Set aside time each day for reading the Bible, even if it’s just a few minutes, to allow God’s wisdom to guide your understanding.Use Scripture in Life Challenges: Identify a current challenge and find relevant Bible passages or stories for guidance. Let these Scriptures counsel you in making decisions aligned with God’s truth.Apply Biblical Teaching: After reading a passage, consider one practical way to live out its teachings. Share your insights with a friend or community group for mutual encouragement.Real-Life Example: Consider a parent seeking wisdom on how to discipline their child with love and fairness. They turn to Scriptures that exemplify God’s guidance and patience. As they apply biblical principles, they find peace and effectiveness in their parenting approach, fostering a nurturing environment.4. PrayGracious Father, I praise You for the gift of Your Word, breathed out by You to illuminate my path. Forgive me for moments when I neglect its wisdom or doubt its relevance. Help me to embrace its teachings, seeking Your guidance in every area of my life. Empower me to read Your Word with fresh eyes, eager to apply its truths. May Your Spirit guide me in understanding and living out the righteousness Your Word imparts. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.Closing Reflection: “Imagine the Bible as a source of living water, refreshing and renewing your spirit. As you immerse yourself in its truth today, let it cleanse and strengthen you for the journey ahead. Each drop of wisdom you receive nourishes your soul, equipping you to live more fully in God’s purpose.”Call to Action: Today, choose one verse that speaks to your current life situation and meditate on it. Let it shape your thoughts and actions, trusting in God’s presence and guidance as you move forward in faith.

Blog

Bible Stories for Kids - Jesus Feeds 5000

Names of God Series - El Shaddai

Experience the Comfort and Presence of the Holy Spirit

Our Journey with the Holy Spirit, Onward & Upward

Being of one spirit with God, does not make us Gods.

Finding Wisdom in God’s Inspired Word