Blog

Detail of old fresco of Jesus Christ, background with copy space

Hebrews 1.1 "God after He spoke a long time ago to the fathers in the the prophets in many portions an in many ways, in these last days (we are in the last days), has spoken all things, through whom He made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature and upholds all things by the word of His power." For over around 1800 years the Old Testament was written in 39 books reflecting different historical times, locations, cultures and situations. How He spoke to the prophets were through visions, symbols and parables written in both poetry and prose. It was always God's revelation of what He wanted His people to know, the coming of His son.The last days referred to the time when Christ would come, which would be the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies that commenced with the birth of Christ. In the past, God gave revelations through His prophets, but in the last days, God spoke the message of redemption through the Son.Don't look for new prophets, visions, symbols, or the adding to or taking away of scriptures by false prophets, because God's final Word is in His son.The Bible verse 2 Timothy 3:16–17 states, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness"The doctrine of the sufficiency of Scripture states that the Bible is sufficient for everything we need to know about God, salvation, and living a good life. It's enough to guide us through life's challenges and equip us for every good work.Put your faith in God's final Word, His son.

God's Final Word is His Son

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Galatians 5:22 (ESV) Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in Your Life“Today’s journey leads us to Galatians 5:22—a verse that beautifully captures the essence of the Christian life. By exploring this Scripture, you’re inviting the Holy Spirit to cultivate His fruit in you, enriching your character and your daily interactions. Let’s dive into how this verse can transform your life, align you with Christ, and guide your steps today.”1. Read "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness." Galatians 5:22 (ESV):The book of Galatians, written by the Apostle Paul, addresses the churches in Galatia, emphasizing faith in Christ over adherence to the law. In chapter 5, Paul contrasts the acts of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, urging believers to live by the Spirit's guidance. This passage underscores the transformative work of the Holy Spirit within us, shaping us to reflect God's character in our daily behavior and relationships.2. ExamineKey Message: Galatians 5:22 highlights the virtues that the Holy Spirit develops in believers. These qualities—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness—are evidence of a life influenced by the Spirit. This verse teaches that true character transformation is not self-produced but the result of the Spirit's presence and power within us.Connection to Jesus: Jesus perfectly exemplified the fruit of the Spirit throughout His life. His teachings and actions continually displayed love, joy, and peace, and He remained patient, kind, and faithful even in the face of adversity. As we follow Him, we are called to embody these same virtues, allowing His example to guide our transformation.Main Themes:Love and Joy: These are foundational to our relationships, building a life centered on God’s unconditional love and joy in Him.Peace and Patience: These virtues encourage us to remain calm and composed, trusting God amid trials.Kindness and Goodness: They reflect God’s benevolence, urging us to act graciously towards others. Key Word Study:"Fruit" (Greek: karpos): Indicates results or evidence produced from an inward source. This term highlights that these virtues are the natural outcome of a Spirit-led life. "Spirit" (Greek: pneuma): Refers to the Holy Spirit, the divine helper and sanctifier, whose presence produces these virtues in believers.3. ApplyReflective Questions:Which of the Spirit’s fruit do I most see at work in my life, and which area do I feel called to develop further?How can I invite the Holy Spirit more intentionally into my daily routine to cultivate these virtues?In what situations do I struggle to express love, joy, or peace, and how might I change my response with the Spirit’s help?Christ-Centered Practical Steps:Cultivate Daily: Begin each day with a prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your words and actions. Reflect on one fruit you desire to see more evident and focus on expressing it throughout the day.Small Acts of Kindness: Choose to do at least one act of kindness today, whether it’s offering a compliment, helping someone in need, or simply listening to someone who needs to be heard.Faithfulness in Adversity: When facing difficulties, remind yourself of Jesus’ faithfulness and draw strength from His example. Maintain a journal to document moments when you rely on the Spirit’s strength.Real-Life Example: Consider a mother overwhelmed with daily responsibilities who consciously chooses to show patience and kindness to her children, even when stressed. By relying on the Spirit's strength in moments of frustration, she transforms her interactions into nurturing opportunities filled with love and joy, leaving a lasting impact on her family.4. PrayHeavenly Father, Thank You for the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in my life. I confess that I often try to cultivate change through my own strength. Help me to rely fully on Your Spirit to bear fruit in my actions and attitudes. May Your love, joy, and peace overflow through me, touching everyone I encounter today. Empower me to embody patience, kindness, and faithfulness, reflecting Your goodness and bringing You glory. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.Closing Reflection: Imagine your heart as a garden, tended by the Holy Spirit. Each fruit of the Spirit is a vibrant flower, blooming in its season. With each act of love, joy, and kindness, envision your garden expanding, filling the world with the fragrance of God’s presence. As you nurture this garden, may it inspire wonder in those around you.Call to Action: Today, choose one fruit of the Spirit to intentionally cultivate in your interactions. Whether it’s showing patience in frustration or offering joy in sadness, allow the Holy Spirit to guide and grow you, bringing His presence into the world through your actions.

Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in Your Life

How to Cultivate a Heart of Happiness in ChristTrue happiness in Christ isn’t about surface-level emotions that come and go with the wind. It’s about something much deeper—biblical joy. Unlike fleeting happiness that relies on circumstances, joy in Christ is rooted in your trust in God, your knowledge of His Word, and your relationship with Him. This type of joy transforms your heart and becomes a steady anchor during life’s highs and lows. So how do you cultivate this heart of happiness in Christ? It all starts by living intentionally and keeping your focus on Him.Key Takeaways for Cultivating Joy in ChristJoy in Christ is based on faith, not external situations.Grateful living builds a heart of joy.Trusting in God’s sovereignty brings peace and happiness.Serving others shifts your focus toward selfless joy.Daily time with God strengthens your foundation for joy. Let’s dive into how these truths can shape your life. Core Practices for Joyful LivingPrayer: Your Joyful AnchorWhy is prayer so essential to cultivating joy? Because it connects you to the Source—God Himself. In Philippians 4:6-7, you’re reminded, “In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.” Prayer aligns your heart with His, giving you peace and joy, even when life feels uncertain.Gratitude: The Joy MultiplierGratitude isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a discipline that transforms your perspective. When you intentionally focus on what God has done for you, joy naturally follows. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.” Start small by listing three things you’re thankful for each day. Watch how it shifts your heart.Serving: Joy Through GivingJesus said it best in Acts 20:35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When you serve others—whether it’s volunteering in your community or offering support to a friend—you’re reflecting Christ’s heart. Even more, serving pulls you out of your headspace and fills you with joy that comes from loving others as He loves you.Remembering God's Sovereignty and GraceLife has a way of throwing you curveballs, doood for those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Trusting in God’s control frees you from trying to micromanage everything. That trust fosters peace do<span style="font-family: var(--body-fontFamily); font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--body-fontWeight, 400); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: var(--body-fontFamily); font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); font-weight: var(--body-fontWeight, 400); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">esn’t it? But here’s the good news: you don’t have to navigate it alone. Romans 8:28 reminds you that “all things work together for g<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(18px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">ce, which lays the groundwork for real joy.The Difference Between Joy and HappinessHave you ever noticed how happiness tends to evaporate as soon as circumstances change? That’s because happiness is tied to the external—good news, financial blessings, or even a sunny day. Joy, on the other hand, is rooted in something unshakable: your faith in Christ. This kind of joy doesn’t crumble when trials come your way. As Psalm 16:11 says, “You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy.”Joy as a Fruit of the SpiritJoy isn’t something you can manufacture on your own—it’s evidence of the Holy Spirit working in your life. Galatians 5:22 lists joy as one of the fruits of the Spirit. When you walk in step with the Spirit, joy becomes a natural overflow of your faith.The Source of True Joy in ChristYour relationship with Christ is the wellspring of true joy. Through prayer, worship, scripture, and obedience, you cultivate a daily awareness of His love and presence. John 15:11 reminds you of this: “I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.”Practical Steps to Cultivate Joy in ChristDeveloping a Daily Devotion HabitSet aside intentional time each day to meet with God. It doesn’t have to be long; even 15 minutes can make a difference. Read scripture, pray, and meditate on His promises. This daily rhythm keeps your heart aligned with His.Practicing Gratitude and ThanksgivingLook for moments to thank God throughout your day. Did you wake up this morning? Praise Him. Did you see kindness in someone else? Thank Him. Gratitude has a way of softening your heart and opening it to God’s joy.Serving Others as an Act of JoyFind ways to intentionally serve. Maybe it’s cooking a meal for someone in need, mentoring a young believer, or simply offering a listening ear. Those acts of love remind you that joy grows when it’s shared.Surrendering Control to GodWhen you cling to control, you leave little room for God to work. Let go, and trust Him to guide your steps. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”Overcoming Barriers to JoyCombating Negative Thoughts and ComplaintsShift your mindset by replacing negativity with biblical truth. When discouragement creeps in, cling to promises like Isaiah 41:10: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.” Speak life and truth over your circumstances.Finding Joy in Trials and ChallengesJoy doesn’t mean pretending challenges don’t exist. Instead, it’s finding hope in God’s faithfulness through them. James 1:2-3 challenges you to “count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”Staying Resilient During Spiritual Dry SeasonsWhen God feels distant, press in—not away. Trust that He is still working, even when you can’t see it. Psalm 63:1 reminds you to seek Him wholeheartedly: “My soul thirsts for you.”The Role of Community and Fellowship in JoyMutual Encouragement Through FellowshipSurround yourself with people who point you toward Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to “encourage one another” and not neglect gathering together. These relationships provide accountability and support that help you stay joyful in your walk with God.Being Part of a Christ-Centered GroupJoin a small group or Bible study where you can grow in faith with others. Sharing life with other believers reminds you that you’re not alone in your journey.ConclusionCultivating a heart of joy in Christ isn’t just a nice idea—it’s an intentional way of life. As you align your heart with God through prayer, gratitude, service, and trust, you’ll experience joy that outlasts any earthly happiness. Take one step today—whether it’s setting aside quiet time, sending an encouraging text to a friend, or simply thanking God for His goodness. Seek Christ daily, and you’ll find that your joy becomes unshakable, no matter what life brings your way.Frequently Asked Questions About Cultivating Joy in ChristIs Joy in Christ Different From Happiness? Yes. Joy in Christ is enduring and anchored in faith, while happiness depends on external situations.How Can I Find Joy During Difficult Times?Focus on God’s faithfulness, dive into scripture, and surround yourself with supportive believers. Choose to trust in His plan, even when it’s unclear.What Scriptures Can Help Me Focus on Joy?Some verses that encourage joy include Philippians 4:4, Nehemiah 8:10, and Romans 15:13.

Cultivating Joy in Christ

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for Romans 10:9 (ESV)&nbsp;“Today’s exploration brings us to Romans 10:9, a profound verse about the power of acknowledging Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. This foundational truth offers a pathway to salvation and invites you to live rooted in faith. Let’s dive into how this verse can deepen your understanding of God’s love and guide your spiritual walk today.”1. Read "Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9 (ESV)The Book of Romans, authored by the Apostle Paul, is a theological cornerstone that explains salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Chapter 10 focuses on the need for Israel and all people to embrace the righteousness that comes through faith. In verse 9, Paul emphasizes the simplicity and power of confessing faith in Jesus as the path to salvation. This truth encourages both new believers and long-standing Christians to continually affirm their faith in words and heart.2. ExamineKey Message: Romans 10:9 underscores the simplicity and profoundness of salvation. It is a heart-and-mouth connection: believing in Jesus’ resurrection and openly declaring Him as Lord. This confession is not merely verbal but an acknowledgment of His lordship over every aspect of our lives, reflecting a transformed heart.Connection to Jesus: Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill God’s plan for salvation. He invites us into a relationship not based on works but on faith and confession. By following His example of surrender to the Father and proclaiming His resurrection, we align ourselves with His power and victory over sin and death.Main Themes:Confession: Acknowledging Jesus as Lord is both a declaration and a lifestyle.Faith: Salvation is accessible through genuine belief in the heart, not through works.Resurrection Power: The resurrection is central to Christian faith, affirming Jesus' victory over death. Key Word Study:"Confess" (Greek: homologeō): To say the same thing or agree with. In this verse, it refers to agreeing with God’s truth about Jesus and declaring it openly."Believe" (Greek: pisteuō): To trust or have faith in. It involves a deep, abiding conviction that Jesus’ resurrection is true, impacting one's way of life.3. ApplyReflective Questions:Have I openly confessed Jesus as my Lord not just with words but in how I live daily?What does believing in my heart mean in the context of today’s challenges?How can I demonstrate my faith in tangible ways that reflect my trust in Christ’s resurrection power?Christ-Centered Practical Steps:Verbal Declaration: Begin or end your day by verbally confessing your faith in Jesus. Let it be a reminder of His lordship and your commitment to follow Him.Heart Engagement: Reflect on areas where you need to trust in the power of the resurrection. Write down one struggle and pray for the faith to believe Christ’s victory over it.Live Out the Confession: Choose one action today that reflects Jesus' lordship in your life—be it an act of service, reconciliation, or obedience. Real-Life Example: Imagine a college student feeling pressure to conform to secular beliefs. By confessing Jesus as Lord openly and trusting His power to guide them, they find strength to participate in campus fellowships, providing a platform to share their faith with peers.4. PrayDear Heavenly Father, I praise You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and the salvation He brings. Forgive me for times when I’ve been silent about my faith or doubted Your resurrection power. Strengthen my belief today and help me to live out my confession that Jesus is Lord. May my life be a testimony to Your love and faithfulness, empowered by the Holy Spirit to reflect Christ in all I do. In Jesus’ powerful name, I pray. Amen.Closing Reflection: “Visualize your heart as a beacon of light, shining with the truth of Christ’s resurrection. As you confess Jesus as Lord, let that light guide others in the darkness, illuminating paths with hope and grace.”Call to Action: Today, reaffirm your commitment to Christ with an act of bold faith. Share your testimony of belief with someone who may be struggling, offering them the hope found in confessing Jesus as Lord. Remember, God’s love and presence are with you as you take this step in faith.

The Power of Confession and Belief

Daily R.E.A.P. Report for 1 Peter 2:21 (ESV) &nbsp;“Today, we turn our attention to 1 Peter 2:21. By exploring this verse, you’re stepping into a reflection of Christ’s perfect example of patience and sacrifice. This passage will guide you towards embodying His endurance in your everyday actions and relationships. Let’s uncover the profound lessons 1 Peter imparts on living a Christ-centered life.”1. Read &nbsp; "For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps." 1 Peter 2:21 (ESV)The apostle Peter wrote this letter to believers scattered throughout Asia Minor, addressing them during a time of persecution and hardship. Peter’s encouragement to endure suffering with patience is rooted deeply in the example set by Jesus Christ. In chapter 2, Peter speaks to the theme of suffering for doing good, reminding Christians of their call to follow Christ, who endured suffering with perfect patience and trust in God the Father. This verse serves as a reminder to stay steadfast in faith, even amidst trials, reflecting God's love and strength in the world.2. Examine&nbsp;&nbsp;Key Message: &nbsp;1 Peter 2:21 emphasizes the calling of believers to endure suffering with the same patience and graciousness as Jesus Christ. It highlights the transformative power of following Christ’s example, urging believers to embrace challenges as opportunities to deepen their faith and demonstrate God’s love.Connection to Jesus: Jesus completely embodied the principle of enduring suffering for righteousness. By remaining faithful and forgiving even as He faced unjust trials, He set a divine example for believers. His life and ultimate sacrifice speak to the heart of God’s redemptive plan, inviting us to mirror His attributes in our journey of faith.Main Themes: &nbsp; - Endurance in Suffering: Finding strength in hardship by looking to Christ’s example. - Discipleship: Following Jesus’ steps in obedience and faith. - Divine Purpose: Recognizing God’s purpose in allowing believers to participate in Christ’s sufferings.Key Word Study: &nbsp; "Example" (Greek: hypogrammos): Refers to a pattern or model to imitate. This emphasizes that Christ’s life is not only a template for enduring trials but also illustrates the ideals of love and obedience.3. Apply &nbsp;Reflective Questions: &nbsp; - Where in my life am I experiencing challenges that test my patience or faith? - How can Christ’s example of suffering inspire me to respond differently? - What steps can I take today to walk more closely in Jesus’ footsteps in my current circumstances?Christ-Centered Practical Steps: &nbsp; - Embrace Christ’s Model: Reflect on a challenging situation you face today. Ask yourself how Christ would respond and make a conscious effort to emulate His patience and love. - Seek Strength in Prayer: When faced with difficulty, pause to pray for Christ-like endurance and ask for wisdom to handle the situation with grace. - Share Your Journey: Encourage someone else who may be struggling. Share how Jesus' example provides strength and hope, fostering a sense of community and shared faith.Real-Life Example: Consider a person facing workplace unfairness. Instead of retaliating, they choose to respond with integrity and seek peace, inspired by Jesus’ silent strength during His trials. Their demeanor can influence colleagues positively and align their actions with their faith commitments.4. Pray &nbsp;Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the perfect example of perseverance and love shown by Jesus. I confess that I often falter when faced with trials. Infuse me with the strength and patience to follow in His steps. Help me to see Your hand at work, turning my struggles into testimonies of Your grace. Empower me through Your Spirit to remain steadfast and faithful. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Closing Reflection: “Imagine your journey of faith as a path well-worn by Jesus’ own steps. Each footprint is a reminder of His abiding love and perfect example. Today, walk this path with confidence, knowing He has gone before you, paving the way with grace.”Call to Action: Today, let your actions reflect the footsteps of Christ. Take one moment to respond to a challenging situation as He would, turning trials into vibrant testimonies of His love and faithfulness. Remember, your steadfastness is a beacon of His eternal hope.

Following Christ’s Model of Endurance & Faithfulness

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.

Blog

God's Final Word is His Son

Cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in Your Life

Cultivating Joy in Christ

The Power of Confession and Belief

Following Christ’s Model of Endurance & Faithfulness

Names of God Series - El Shaddai