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“But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.”&nbsp; 2 PETER 2:1When listening to a pastor, a Bible teacher, or another Christian, it's important to ask whether the primary teaching source is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul stated, “I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). This is the foundation of our faith; the Bible is centered around the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament announces that someone is coming, the New Testament reveals that someone has come, and the Book of Revelation proclaims that someone is coming again—this person is the Lord Jesus. He is the hero of the Bible.The central theme of the Bible is salvation. The primary hero is Jesus, while the main antagonist is the devil. When listening to teachings, it is important to practice discernment. Ask yourself: “Does this message proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or is it centered on human effort? Is it the Gospel of salvation by grace through faith, or does it present a different gospel that relies on human initiative and strength?” The teachings we receive are significant, and we must be discerning. Just because a church is popular does not mean it is focused on Christ. A pastor with great charisma does not always guarantee faithful teaching. This discernment is vital, as it influences eternal destinies.Reflecting Questions - Who are the people you are most influenced by right now? How do you practice discernment when listening to them? - What danger is there in neglecting discernment when listening to the teaching of others?Pray and ask God for wisdom and discernment as you go throughout this day and week.In His love,ray

Beware of False Prophets

Group of different women praying together, Christians and Bible study concept.

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for John 10:10 (ESV) Step into God’s Promise of Abundant LifeCongratulations on diving into John 10:10 today! Your desire to understand and live out God’s Word is a beautiful reflection of your hunger for truth and fullness in Christ. This verse shines as a beacon of hope, reminding you that God wants more than mere survival for you—He desires a life overflowing with purpose, joy, and meaning. Let’s explore how this promise from Jesus can radically shape and elevate your daily experience.Read “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 (ESV)The Gospel of John was written by the apostle John to encourage faith in Jesus as the Son of God and bring people into eternal life through Him (John 20:31). Chapter 10 finds Jesus teaching the crowds and religious leaders about His role as the good shepherd, contrasting Himself with false leaders—those who exploit rather than nurture God’s people. In this pivotal verse, Jesus draws a dramatic line between the thief’s destructive work and His own mission: to give life in all its fullness. This declaration anchors the believer’s assurance in God’s loving, life-giving character.Examine John 10:10 powerfully declares that God’s intention for you goes far beyond mere existence. Jesus desires that you experience the kind of life that is rich, meaningful, and whole. While the enemy seeks to rob us—of peace, hope, relationships, and purpose—Christ offers restoration, joy, and abundance. This is a life marked not just by spiritual survival, but by thriving under God’s care.Connection to Jesus: Jesus lived out the abundant life He promises, embodying perfect love and self-giving service—even unto death. Through His resurrection, He broke the power of the “thief”—sin and death—and paved the way for all who trust Him to walk in a new kind of life. Every miracle, teaching, and act of compassion from Jesus points to this overflowing, limitless love He wants to share with us each day.Main Themes: - Abundance: God’s vision is not for a life of scarcity, but of spiritual richness that overflows into every area. - Restoration: Jesus undoes the destructive work of the enemy, restoring what has been lost or broken. - Purpose: The abundant life is purposeful and intentional, inviting you to grow, give, and impact others for God’s glory.Key Word Study: - Life (Greek: zoē): Not just biological existence, but the fullness of life found in relationship with God—living, vibrant, and eternal. - Abundantly (Greek: perissos): Exceedingly, beyond what is necessary, overflowing; it speaks of a surplus—life to the fullest degree!ApplyReflective Questions: - Where do I sense “the thief” robbing me of joy, peace, or purpose? How can I invite Jesus into these areas? - What would a more “abundant” life look like for me in this season? Am I willing to trust Jesus to lead me there? - How can I share the life and hope of Jesus with others who may feel empty or defeated?Real-Life Application: - 1. Name the Loss, Claim Abundance: Identify one area where you’ve felt lack or loss—perhaps in a strained relationship or recent disappointment. Offer this area to Jesus in prayer, inviting Him to exchange scarcity for abundance. - 2. Choose One Life-Giving Habit: Start a daily gratitude journal, noting how God’s love and blessings show up—even in small ways. This simple step can open your heart to abundant living. - 3. Overflow to Others: Like a cup filled to the brim, let God’s goodness spill over. Encourage or help someone facing discouragement—maybe a friend who feels overwhelmed at work. By listening, speaking truth, or sharing support, you live out the abundance Christ offers.A Story: Imagine a woman overwhelmed by anxiety and work demands. As she meditates on John 10:10, she realizes she’s been living in survival mode. She starts each day by surrendering her worries to Jesus and listing three blessings. Over time, her sense of overwhelm lessens, her relationships deepen, and her faith becomes contagious to those around her.PrayDear Father God, thank You for Your promise of abundant life through Jesus. I praise You for being my Good Shepherd—one who never seeks to harm, only to restore and fill me with joy. Forgive me for the times I’ve lived in fear or allowed the enemy to steal my peace and purpose. Today, I ask You to renew my mind and heart. Help me trust You for fullness in every area—spirit, soul, and body. Fill me with Your Spirit so I can overflow Your love and hope to others. Empower me to live out this promise, one step at a time. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: As you go about your day, picture your life as a river—once dry in places, now running strong and deep with God’s living water. Every moment you draw close to Jesus, that stream widens, nourishing everything it touches and bringing life to dry places within you and around you.Call to Action: Today, choose one small way to partner with Jesus in cultivating abundance—whether it’s gratitude, encouragement, or a step toward healing. Remember, you are never alone; the Good Shepherd walks with you, leading you into the fullness He so lovingly promises. Step forward in faith and joy!

Step into God’s Promise of Abundant Life

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 1 John 4:20 (ESV) Congratulations on seeking God’s heart through today’s Scripture! By studying 1 John 4:20, you’re pursuing a deeper, more authentic love—one that reflects God’s own character. Let’s open our hearts to the profound wisdom in this verse, allowing it to transform our relationships and shape us into people who truly love as God loves.Read “If anyone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.” 1 John 4:20 (ESV)The first letter of John was written to early Christian communities dealing with false teachers and confusion about what genuine faith looks like. John, known as “the apostle of love,” emphasized that true belief in Jesus is inseparable from a life marked by love. In chapter 4, John explores the nature of God’s love and its practical outworking: those born of God will love others. This verse cuts through empty talk and insists that real love for God must be visible in how we treat people around us.Examine 1 John 4:20 insists that genuine love for God cannot be separated from love for others. If someone claims to love God but harbors hatred toward another person, their claim is empty. Our relationships with people are the most visible evidence of our love for God. God’s love, once received, must overflow into the way we treat those around us—even when it’s hard.Connection to Jesus: Jesus embodied this principle on earth. He taught, “Love your neighbor as yourself” and reached out with compassion to those who were ignored or despised. On the cross, Jesus demonstrated perfect love—praying for forgiveness for His enemies. Through His example and sacrifice, He empowers us to love beyond our natural limits, even when others have hurt us deeply.Main Themes: - Authentic Love: True spirituality is revealed in practical, everyday relationships. - Integrity: Our actions must align with our words and beliefs. - Reconciliation: God calls us to confront and release hatred, choosing forgiveness and grace.Key Word Study: - “Love” (Greek: agapaō): This word denotes selfless, sacrificial love rooted in God’s nature—a love that seeks the good of another regardless of personal cost. - “Brother” (Greek: adelphos): In this context, it refers to fellow believers but applies broadly to all people, as every person is made in God’s image.ApplyReflective Questions: - Are there people in my life—family, friends, coworkers, or even strangers—I find difficult to love? Why? - Where might my words about loving God and my actions toward others be out of alignment? - What is one step I can take today to move from resentment or apathy to love and reconciliation?Real-Life Application: - Forgive and Reach Out: If there is someone you’re estranged from or harbor negative feelings toward, take one practical step toward reconciliation—send a message, pray for them, or simply choose to let go of bitterness in your heart. - Actively Show Love: Intentional acts of kindness—helping a neighbor, encouraging a colleague, or volunteering—demonstrate love in ways that honor God.Story: Imagine a believer who claimed deep faith but avoided certain family members due to past hurts. After reading this verse and praying for God’s help, she courageously reached out, apologized for her part, and began rebuilding trust. Her step of love brought healing, freedom, and reminded her (and her family) of God’s love in action.PrayDear Heavenly Father, you are perfect love, and You call me to walk in that love. I praise You for loving me even when I have fallen short. I confess that I have not always loved others as You have loved me—sometimes allowing bitterness, pride, or indifference to take root. Today, soften my heart. Give me the strength to forgive, the humility to seek reconciliation, and the grace to act in love even when it’s difficult. Empower me by Your Spirit to make my love for You visible in all my relationships. In Jesus’ name, amen.Closing Reflection: Picture your heart as a lamp: when plugged into God’s love, it shines brightly, illuminating every corner of your life and those around you. Carry that light today, letting it shine on relationships that might need healing, encouragement, or a simple gesture of kindness.Call to Action: Reach out today to someone you find difficult to love, or whom you’ve lost touch with. Let God’s love move you to initiate peace, offer forgiveness, or simply show you care. Remember, as you love others, you are shining God’s love and reflecting His heart into the world.

Finding Authentic Love in God’s Family

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 1 John 3:24 (ESV) Well done for choosing to dwell on God’s Word today! By turning your heart and mind to 1 John 3:24, you’re investing in your spiritual growth and inviting the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in your life. Let’s journey together into the richness of this verse, drawing wisdom, strength, and guidance for every step of your day.Read “Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.” 1 John 3:24 (ESV)First John was written by the Apostle John, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, to encourage early Christians facing false teachings and to strengthen their faith in Christ. Chapter 3 focuses on the marks of true children of God—highlighting love, obedience, and the evidence of God’s presence through the Holy Spirit. John writes to reassure believers that they truly belong to God, and to help them see the active, loving work of God within them. This message is as important today as it was then—reminding you that God’s indwelling Spirit is at work in your daily walk.Examine This verse affirms that true fellowship with God is demonstrated by obeying His commandments. It goes even deeper, revealing that such obedience is only possible because God Himself is present within us through His Holy Spirit. Our assurance comes from this beautiful reality: not only do we dwell in God, but He dwells in us, empowering us to follow His ways.Connection to Jesus: Jesus taught that love for Him is shown by keeping His commandments (John 14:15). He promised that the Father would send the Holy Spirit to live within believers (John 14:16–17). Jesus fulfilled perfect obedience and gave His life so that we could share in an intimate relationship with God—sealed and sustained by His Spirit. Following His example, we are invited to live lives marked by love, obedience, and divine presence.Main Themes: - Obedience: Genuine love for God is expressed through keeping His commands—not out of obligation, but as a joyful response to His love. - Abiding: To "abide" means to remain, dwell, or stay intimately connected with God, experiencing His presence daily. - Assurance of the Spirit: The Holy Spirit is God’s personal guarantee, reminding us continually that we belong to Him and empowering us to live in His love.Key Word Study: - Keeps (Greek: tēreō): To watch over, guard, or carefully attend to. This word emphasizes intentional, careful obedience—a devotion that springs from relationship rather than duty. - Abides (Greek: menō): To remain, continue, or dwell. It reflects deep, ongoing union and fellowship with God, suggesting a life rooted and anchored in Him.ApplyReflective Questions: - Where in my life do I sense God inviting me into deeper obedience to His commands? - How have I experienced the presence and assurance of the Holy Spirit in my daily walk? - What practices help me remain connected to God throughout my day?Real-Life Application: Practice Intentional Obedience: Identify one of Jesus’ teachings—such as loving others, forgiving quickly, or serving with humility—and make it your focus today. For example, if you’re struggling to forgive a friend, remember that the Spirit is within you, enabling you to choose forgiveness as an act of obedience and love.Cultivate Abiding: Set aside two ten-minute periods in your day—morning and evening—to pause, pray, and intentionally invite God’s Spirit to guide your thoughts and actions. This anchors your heart in His presence.Live with Confidence: When doubts arise about your relationship with God, pause and affirm, “The Spirit is God’s gift to me. He lives in me and empowers me to walk in His ways.” Let this truth shape your responses in moments of uncertainty or pressure.A real-life scenario might be someone facing a difficult decision at work. By quietly inviting the Holy Spirit to lead, they sense a nudge to act honestly even when it’s hard. Choosing God’s way brings not only peace, but a deeper awareness of His presence and power working within.PrayDear Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to dwell within me. You are holy, loving, and ever-present. Forgive me for the times I’ve neglected to walk in obedience or doubted Your nearness. Fill me with Your Spirit afresh today—grant me wisdom, courage, and a gentle heart to keep Your commands with joy. Help me abide deeply in You, trusting that Your Spirit leads and empowers me each step of the way. Let my life be a testimony of Your love, shining through my actions, words, and choices. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine your life as a lamp plugged into the source of all light—God Himself. As you stay connected, His Spirit fills you, igniting your actions with His power and warmth. Every time you choose obedience, you shine brighter, illuminating your life and those around you with God’s love and truth.Call to Action: Let the truth that God abides in you fuel every moment today. Take one step to intentionally obey Christ—whether it’s showing kindness, seeking reconciliation, or listening for the Spirit’s gentle whisper. Remember, you are never alone: the very presence of God lives within you, cheering you on as you walk in His ways. Keep shining!

Celebrating Your Pursuit of Deeper Faith

ASK THE PASTOR - "How to break away from family generational curses?"God created families as a beautiful reflection of His image. Unfortunately, we are born into a world marked by sin, and we can only find redemption through our Creator. In our natural state, we tend to be selfish, and at times, our behavior can be even more harmful. Dysfunction is something that comes easily to us. However, we can break the cycle of generational sin through the transformative power of salvation in Jesus Christ. He offers us forgiveness, cleansing, and unconditional love, as beautifully stated in 1 John 1:9. He empowers His followers to love as He does—a love filled with grace and compassion. Jesus serves as our example of how to love selflessly, rather than indulging in self-centered desires (John 13:34).Jeremiah 32:18 states that the consequences of sin from one generation are passed down to the next. The destructive impact of sin affects not only the individual who sins but also those around them. Each generation has the empowering choice to break free from this cycle and pursue a more positive path. While many desire to change negative patterns, they often feel lost due to the beliefs instilled in them during upbringing. It’s also worth noting that embracing a faith in Jesus can sometimes, create divisions within families, as illustrated in Luke 12:51–53.Additionally, attempting to break the cycle can lead to family divisions, especially when an individual decides to follow Jesus instead of adhering to family traditions (see Luke 12:51–53). In such cases, some family members may choose Christ, leading to their rejection by relatives.Even in the absence of adversity from family members, recognizing and breaking sinful patterns within families can be very challenging. The truth is that without Jesus, no one can overcome the grip of sin. In fact, without Jesus, individuals are unable to see or fully understand the depth of humanity's depravity. Therefore, salvation is the first step in breaking the cycle of generational sin. As the new generation establishes a family, it is vital to follow the biblical model for marriage, parenting, and living in order to replace the old, destructive ways.Ephesians 5:21 presents God’s guidance on how family members should treat one another: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” This verse encourages family members to honor and love each other, attending to one another’s needs as they would their own. When family members follow God’s command, the result is peace and fulfillment that comes from loving relationships, as God intended. &nbsp;

How to Break Generational Curses

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for John 6:47 (ESV) Congratulations on seeking to deepen your understanding of God’s Word through John 6:47! This verse is a simple yet profound invitation to trust in the unshakable promises of Jesus. By meditating on this scripture, you are strengthening the very foundation of your faith and opening yourself to the transforming security of eternal life in Christ.Read “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.” John 6:47 (ESV)The Gospel of John was written by the Apostle John to present Jesus as the Son of God and invite all people to believe in Him for eternal life. Chapter 6 centers around the miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand and His powerful teaching about being the Bread of Life. The crowds are hungering for signs and miracles, but Jesus directs them to a deeper hunger—the hunger for eternal life found only through believing in Him. In this brief but significant verse, Jesus assures all who believe in Him that they already possess eternal life—a promise that transforms how we live both now and forever.Examine John 6:47 succinctly communicates the heart of the gospel: belief in Jesus is the door to eternal life. Jesus affirms this truth with great emphasis (“Truly, truly”), underscoring its absolute reliability. The verse shifts our focus from religious performance or striving to a relationship of trusting faith in Christ, assuring us that eternal life begins the moment we believe—not just in the future, but now.Connection to Jesus: Jesus is the Bread of Life who satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. He didn’t just talk about eternal life—He demonstrated it through His death and resurrection. Every promise He made was fulfilled in His sacrifice, giving us living hope. When Jesus says that believing in Him brings eternal life, He is inviting us to share in His unending relationship with the Father, starting today. His entire ministry pointed to this transformative faith.Main Themes:- Faith: Trust in Jesus as the foundation for life eternal. - Assurance: Eternal life is a present possession for the believer, not just a future hope. - Grace: Salvation is offered freely, not based on our works but on Christ’s sacrifice. Key Word Study:- “Believes” (Greek: pisteuō): More than mental agreement, this word means to trust in, rely upon, and commit to. It involves wholehearted reliance on Jesus as both Savior and Lord.- “Eternal life” (Greek: aiōnios zōē): Life that is both unending and of a heavenly quality, characterized by intimate relationship with God. This is not merely living forever, but experiencing the fullness of life as God intended—beginning now and lasting forever.ApplyReflective Questions:- Do I truly believe—with my heart and actions—that Jesus is my source of eternal life? - How would my attitudes and priorities shift today if I fully embraced that I already possess eternal life in Christ? - Who in my life needs to hear about this promise of hope and security through Jesus?Real-Life Application:- Rest in Assurance: Whenever doubts or fears arise—whether about your worth, purpose, or future—recall Jesus’ words: “Whoever believes has eternal life.” Let this truth anchor you through life’s uncertainties. - Share the Promise: Think of a friend, family member, or colleague who is searching for answers. Share your story of how believing in Jesus has given you hope and security, inviting them to experience this life too. - Live with Eternity in View: As you go about your tasks—at work, school, or home—remember that your value and purpose are rooted in Christ’s promise. Let this eternal perspective guide your choices, making each day a meaningful investment in God’s kingdom.Example: Imagine someone facing a difficult diagnosis. Instead of giving in to fear, they recall John 6:47 and find peace knowing eternal life is already theirs through faith in Jesus. This assurance not only comforts them but inspires others to ask about the hope within them.Pray Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus. Thank You for Your unwavering love and the assurance that comes from believing in Your Son. Forgive me for times I have doubted Your promise or relied on my own efforts. Strengthen my faith, and renew my awareness of Your Presence today. Help me to live with confidence, share this hope with others, and walk empowered by Your Spirit. Let Your promise of eternal life be my anchor and song—today and always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.Closing Reflection: Envision your life as a strong tree, deeply rooted in the soil of God’s promises. No matter the storms or seasons, your roots are anchored by Jesus’ *guarantee* of eternal life—unbreakable, flourishing, and full of hope. Each day, let His words water your soul and draw nourishment from the certainty of life in Him.Call to Action: Today, take a moment to thank Jesus for the gift of eternal life. As you interact with others, let confidence, peace, and hope overflow from your heart—ready to share the promise that has transformed you. Remember: eternal life isn’t just for one day, it is your present reality in Christ. Walk forward in faith!

Blog

Beware of False Prophets

Step into God’s Promise of Abundant Life

Finding Authentic Love in God’s Family

Celebrating Your Pursuit of Deeper Faith

How to Break Generational Curses

Standing on Jesus’ Promise of Everlasting Life