Tag: Christian Living

Tainted Love

Jesus’ prayer for Lazarus, offered publicly just before He called Lazarus from the tomb, was intentional and direct. It wasn’t a show of personal piety but a clear call to witness God’s power so that “they may believe that you sent me” (John 11:42). Jesus demonstrated that public faith—done for the right reasons—can have a profound impact. Like a light set on a hill, some faith acts are meant to be seen, leading others toward the hope we have in God.

This concept isn’t new in Scripture. Daniel famously prayed in front of an open window despite a law against it, standing firm in his dedication to God regardless of who saw or what consequences he faced (Daniel 6:10). His actions, like Jesus’ prayer, pointed beyond himself to the God who is worthy of trust even in hostile circumstances. Public faith like this shines in humility, not self-promotion, serving to inspire courage and commitment in others.

Yet, we’re also cautioned about letting public expressions of faith become tainted love—acts done for personal validation rather than God’s glory. Jesus criticized the Pharisees for practicing righteousness to be “seen by men” (Matthew 6:1), aiming not to glorify God but to elevate their own image. Their so-called love for God was tainted by a desire for recognition, and Jesus makes it clear that this approach leads nowhere.

For us, the challenge is simple yet profound: we can and should live our faith openly, but only if the aim is to lead others to God rather than elevating ourselves. True love for God will be untainted by pride, focused on glorifying Him in all we do. So, the next time we feel led to act in faith publicly, let’s pause and consider—are we motivated by a pure heart that longs to point others to Christ, or is there a hint of tainted love? Ultimately, there’s only one name worth exalting.

Lip Service or Heart Change? Jesus’ Warning to the Religious

In Matthew 15:1-20 and Mark 7:1-23, Jesus confronts the religious leaders of His day about a dangerous tendency: the elevation of tradition over God’s Word. The Pharisees, known for their outward righteousness and strict adherence to religious customs, were scandalized by Jesus’ disciples eating without performing the ceremonial washing of hands. This wasn’t about hygiene; it was about adhering to centuries-old rituals. But Jesus saw through their pretense, and His response was direct: “You nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition” (Matthew 15:6).

This conflict between tradition and Scripture is not unique to the Pharisees. It’s easy to fall into a routine of religion—of doing things simply because they’ve always been done that way. Even well-meaning Christians can get caught up in traditions, whether it’s how church services are run, what worship styles are “acceptable,” or even what particular language we use in prayer. There’s comfort in the familiar, but when the familiar takes priority over the truth of God’s Word, we’ve crossed a dangerous line.

Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for honoring God with their lips, but having hearts far from Him (Matthew 15:8). This kind of empty, outward obedience is worse than worthless—it leads people further from the truth. We see this today when traditions or legalistic practices become more important than the Gospel itself, creating a spiritual environment where rules are followed but relationships with God remain shallow. In such cases, faith becomes about what people see, not about true heart change.

The real issue is not tradition itself. Traditions can be helpful, meaningful, and God-honoring. The danger comes when we rely on these traditions as our guide instead of Scripture. We must continually ask ourselves whether our practices, habits, and routines are helping us grow closer to God—or are they simply comfortable patterns that make us feel righteous without actually engaging with Him?

The antidote to this religious drift is found in allowing Scripture to continually refine and direct us. As Jesus explains in the passage, it is not the outward actions that defile a person, but the state of the heart (Mark 7:20-23). True worship, as Jesus teaches, is not about rigidly following traditions but about an inward transformation that leads to a pure heart.

Are there areas in your life where tradition has replaced true devotion to God? Ask God to reveal where you might be following rules or practices without true heart change. Let His Word—living and active—continue to shape you from the inside out. Tradition isn’t inherently bad, but it should never replace the transformative power of Scripture.

Worship Without Walls: Making Peace with Others

Reading through Mark 3, Luke 6, and Matthew 5, we come across a powerful teaching that echoes across all three Gospels: the importance of reconciliation with others before offering anything to God. In Matthew 5:23-24, Jesus says, “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”

This teaching is profound, challenging our natural inclination to put religious rituals ahead of relational harmony. It reminds us that true worship cannot be separated from the condition of our hearts and the state of our relationships. Let’s explore why Jesus emphasizes this and how it applies to us today.

In Jewish culture, the offering of sacrifices was central to worship. The altar was a place where individuals connected with God, seeking forgiveness, thanksgiving, and blessing. Yet, in this passage, Jesus places reconciliation with others above these sacred acts. Why? Because for Jesus, relationships reflect our understanding of God’s love and grace. Worship becomes hollow if we harbor bitterness or resentment toward others.

Imagine coming to worship on a Sunday morning with a heavy heart, filled with anger or frustration toward a family member or friend. No matter how beautiful the songs are or how fervent your prayers, something feels off. That’s because unresolved conflict creates a barrier not only between you and others but also between you and God.

Jesus’ instruction is radical because it forces us to prioritize peacemaking. Notice that the onus is not just on those who have wronged others but also on those who have been wronged. We are called to make the first move, to seek reconciliation even if we feel justified in our hurt.

Why is this so important? Because in God’s kingdom, reconciliation mirrors the gospel itself. Just as Christ reconciled us to God through His sacrifice, we are to embody that same heart of reconciliation in our relationships. The act of forgiving and asking for forgiveness is a reflection of the cross, where Jesus brought peace between humanity and God.

Jesus’ teaching challenges the religious tendency to separate the “sacred” from the “ordinary.” We may think that offering a gift at the altar or participating in a church service is a purely spiritual act, disconnected from our daily lives. But Jesus makes it clear that authentic worship is deeply connected to how we treat others. If there’s enmity between us and a brother or sister, our worship is incomplete.

In our modern context, this might look like making amends with someone before taking communion or resolving an ongoing conflict before serving in ministry. God desires wholeness in our hearts and in our relationships. He longs for worship that is not only vertical but also horizontal—reaching out to those around us with love, grace, and forgiveness.

As we reflect on Jesus’ words, let’s ask ourselves: Is there someone I need to reconcile with? Are there any unresolved conflicts that are hindering my worship? God doesn’t want our offerings if our hearts are divided. He wants us to be at peace with one another.

This might mean sending a text, making a phone call, or sitting down for a difficult conversation. Whatever it takes, prioritize reconciliation. Only then will our worship be a true reflection of God’s grace and love.

Depth in the Details

Sometimes, as we go through Scripture, we encounter sections that can feel difficult to draw insights from. Lists of names, genealogies, and city assignments might seem irrelevant to us today, but every part of Scripture is inspired by God and holds a purpose. Even if it doesn’t seem obvious at first, if we are willing to look deeper, there is always something to learn and apply. Today’s reading from Nehemiah 11-12 and 1 Chronicles 9 is a great example. Let’s dig into what we can uncover when we approach these passages with a mind and heart open to God’s teaching.

1. Faithfulness in Everyday Callings The people mentioned in Nehemiah 11-12 and 1 Chronicles 9 weren’t all prophets, kings, or warriors. Many were priests, gatekeepers, or simply inhabitants of the city. Yet, God saw fit to include their names and roles in Scripture. This reminds us that God values faithfulness in all areas of life, even in roles that may seem ordinary. Whether we serve in front of large crowds or work behind the scenes, our contributions matter to God. Every role plays a part in His bigger plan, and faithfulness in our calling brings glory to Him.

2. God’s Care for Community In these chapters, we see an emphasis on the importance of community. Nehemiah is careful to note who lives in Jerusalem and who is assigned to surrounding towns. This reminds us that God has always valued people living in community, caring for one another, and working together. For us today, the principle remains the same: God calls us to live in fellowship with other believers, supporting each other and serving together. The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation but in community, where we can grow together and glorify God in unity.

3. Worship as a Priority A significant portion of Nehemiah 12 focuses on the priests and Levites, who led the people in worship and service at the temple. This serves as a reminder of the centrality of worship in our lives. Worship is not just something we do on Sundays; it is a lifestyle of devotion to God. Whether we are at home, work, or church, worship should be at the heart of all we do. God deserves our praise and honor, and we are called to live our lives as an offering of worship to Him.

4. The Importance of Generational Faithfulness Genealogies and lists of family members in 1 Chronicles 9 show how generations of families remained faithful in their service to God. This speaks to the importance of passing down faith through the generations. It’s a call for us today to invest in the spiritual growth of our children and to create a legacy of faith that endures. Whether as parents, mentors, or leaders in the church, we play a role in helping others grow in their relationship with God, ensuring the faith is passed down to the next generation.

5. God’s Faithfulness to His Promises Finally, these chapters remind us of God’s faithfulness. The people returning to Jerusalem and rebuilding their community were a fulfillment of God’s promises to bring His people back after exile. God never forgets His promises, and He is always faithful to His word. Even when life takes unexpected turns, we can trust that God is working all things according to His plan and that He will fulfill His promises to us as well.

As we close, it’s important to remember that while some passages of Scripture may seem harder to engage with, there is always something to learn. The Bible is rich with wisdom, and when we dig deeper, we find that God uses every word to reveal Himself and teach us more about who He is and who we are called to be. So, when you come across those challenging sections, don’t skim past them—look closer, because there’s always treasure to be found.

The Wound That Heals: Conviction vs Condemnation

In Nehemiah 7:4-8:12, we see a powerful moment where the people of Israel come together to hear the Word of God read aloud after years of exile. It’s not just about listening to the words; the people are actively seeking to understand them. Ezra, alongside the Levites, reads and explains the Law to the gathered crowd. Their response is immediate and emotional—they begin to weep. The Word of God has brought deep conviction to their hearts, showing them just how far they’ve strayed.

But here’s the key part: Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites tell the people not to mourn. They say, “This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep” (Nehemiah 8:9). Although the people are convicted, they are not condemned. The leaders encourage them to move from sorrow to celebration, pointing out that “the joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). This is a perfect picture of how God’s Word works—it reveals where we’ve fallen short but also points us toward God’s grace and restoration.

This passage shows us the value of reading, teaching, and understanding God’s Word in a community. It wasn’t just a private reading of Scripture but a public gathering where the Law was explained clearly so everyone could understand. There’s something powerful about engaging with God’s Word together, where questions can be asked, and insights can be shared. Too often, we read the Bible quickly or casually, but this moment in Nehemiah highlights the importance of understanding, not just hearing, the Word. When we seek to really understand Scripture, it brings clarity and leads to transformation.

What we also see in Nehemiah is the important distinction between conviction and condemnation. Conviction is what happens when God’s Word reveals an area in our lives that needs change. It’s the Holy Spirit showing us our sin so we can repent and turn back to God. Conviction leads to life and growth. Condemnation, on the other hand, leads to shame, guilt, and a sense of hopelessness. It drives us away from God, making us feel like we’re beyond help. But Romans 8:1 reminds us, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Just like in Nehemiah’s time, God’s Word convicts us but doesn’t condemn us.

For Christians today, this is a powerful reminder of how we should approach Scripture. We should let God’s Word bring conviction where it’s needed but always remember that it’s meant to lead us to life, not to drive us into guilt and despair. The people in Nehemiah’s time wept at the realization of their sin, but they were urged to celebrate because God was offering them joy and strength.

As we spend time reading and understanding the Bible, both individually and with others, we open ourselves up to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. We may feel convicted, but that conviction is always accompanied by grace and the opportunity to grow closer to God. That’s the difference between conviction and condemnation—one leads to life and the other to separation from God. The more we engage with God’s Word, the more we realize that conviction is a gift that brings us back into alignment with His will, reminding us of His grace and love.

The All-Knowing God

In Daniel 10-12, we see an astonishing display of God’s foreknowledge through the angel’s revelation of events that would unfold in Israel’s future. The prophecy is so detailed and accurate that many scholars have marveled at how perfectly it aligns with historical events. Some have even questioned whether it could have been written before the events took place, suggesting it must have been written post-facto due to its uncanny accuracy . But that is the very point: Biblical prophecy demonstrates God’s omniscience—His all-knowing nature. He is not bound by time; He sees the end from the beginning. In Daniel’s vision, we are given a glimpse of this truth, and it should strengthen our trust in God’s sovereignty over history and our personal lives.

In Daniel 11, we read detailed accounts of future kings and conflicts, particularly concerning the rulers of the North and South, which align remarkably with the historical conflicts between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic dynasties. This level of precision reminds us that nothing surprises God—He knows every rise and fall, every twist in the story of human history. As startling as it is to see these events play out just as God foretold, the prophecies serve a higher purpose than simply proving the Bible’s accuracy. They are meant to encourage us to trust in the God who knows and orchestrates every moment, including our future.

We live in uncertain times. There’s no shortage of things to worry about—economic instability, global conflicts, and personal challenges. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the unknown. But just as God had a perfect knowledge of the unfolding events in Daniel’s time, He knows the details of our lives as well. Nothing escapes His view, and His plans for us are good. This should fill us with hope. If God’s foreknowledge was so exact in ancient times, we can trust that He is in control of our future too.

The prophecy in Daniel also points to a future resurrection, a time when God’s people will be delivered, and all things will be set right. This promise of final victory should remind us that our current trials are not the end of the story. Just as God has shown His power in the past through prophecy, He will continue to fulfill His promises for the future. The God who perfectly predicted the rise and fall of empires is the same God who promises to wipe away every tear, to make all things new, and to be with us for eternity.

As we reflect on these prophecies, let’s remember that they reveal more than just historical accuracy—they show us the heart of a God who is deeply involved in the lives of His people. We don’t need to fear the unknown because we serve a God who knows everything. His foreknowledge is not just a display of His power, but a reassurance that He has a plan for us. When we’re faced with uncertainty, we can rest in the fact that nothing is uncertain to Him.

Trusting in the all-knowing God means we can move forward with hope, knowing that He holds our future. He has already proven His reliability through prophecy, and He will continue to show His faithfulness in our lives.

Not All Help Is Good Help: How to Protect Your Purpose

In today’s reading, the Israelites return from exile with a clear mission: to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. This was more than just a construction project; it was about restoring their spiritual connection with God. Yet, in the midst of their work, they faced a dilemma. When neighboring groups offered to help, the Israelites made a bold choice to turn them away, recognizing that their intentions weren’t aligned with God’s purpose. This decision might seem harsh, but it reveals something crucial for us today—the importance of discernment.

Rebuilding anything in our lives, whether it’s our faith, relationships, or even a community, requires wisdom in choosing who we allow to influence us. Not everyone who offers help is on the same page spiritually, and partnering with the wrong people can undermine the very thing God has called us to do. The Israelites understood this, knowing that accepting help from those whose motives were not pure would compromise the integrity of their mission. They weren’t acting out of pride or exclusivity but out of a deep desire to remain faithful to what God had asked of them.

This lesson is just as relevant for us. We often face situations where we need to rebuild—whether it’s in our personal walk with God, in mending a broken relationship, or in pursuing a new direction in life. But not every offer of support is helpful. Discernment is crucial in deciding who to partner with, and this discernment comes through prayer and seeking God’s guidance. As we seek His wisdom, we begin to see people’s true intentions more clearly.

Jesus tells us that we will recognize people by their fruits. When someone offers to help, we need to ask ourselves: What kind of fruit is evident in their life? Are they walking with God, or could their influence lead us astray? This doesn’t mean we shut people out based on a surface-level judgment, but rather that we carefully examine whether their involvement will help us stay true to God’s calling. The Israelites knew that compromising by partnering with the wrong people would dilute their worship and weaken their resolve. Similarly, we must be vigilant in guarding against compromise, even when it seems subtle.

As we navigate our own rebuilding efforts, we must remain aware that God calls us to stay faithful to His mission. When we surround ourselves with those who encourage us in our faith and challenge us to grow closer to God, we are better equipped to complete the work He’s given us. Discernment isn’t always easy, but it’s essential. Just as the Israelites protected their mission by saying no to the wrong kind of help, we, too, must be willing to make tough decisions for the sake of our spiritual health.

Rebuilding with God’s guidance means knowing when to accept help and when to turn it down. By seeking His wisdom, examining the lives of those around us, and being cautious of potential compromise, we can move forward confidently, trusting that God will lead us in the right direction. Let’s remember that God calls us to pursue His purpose with integrity, surrounding ourselves with those who share our commitment to His ways.

From a Trickle to a Torrent: When God’s Life Flows Through You

In Ezekiel 47, we read about a river flowing from the temple, starting as a trickle but quickly becoming a mighty, life-giving stream. As the river moves, it transforms everything in its path, bringing life to barren lands and healing even the salty, lifeless Dead Sea. This vision is more than a geographical restoration; it’s a profound picture of what happens when God’s presence and power flow into our lives.

Like the river in Ezekiel’s vision, God’s work in our lives often starts small. It may begin as a single moment—a prayer, a conviction, an encounter with Him. At first, it’s ankle-deep. We feel the refreshing presence of God, but we’re still in control. But as we step deeper into the flow, we begin to experience something more profound. What starts as a trickle of God’s life begins to swell, transforming not only us but also the areas of our lives that feel barren or lifeless.

The deeper we go, the less control we have—and that’s a good thing. As the river gets stronger, it moves us, reshaping our priorities, our desires, and our hearts. Where there was once spiritual dryness, God brings healing. Where we once felt stagnant, He causes us to flourish. This river is a symbol of God’s uncontainable life, and He invites us to step into its flow, allowing His presence to transform us completely.

But here’s the challenge: many of us are content to stay in the shallow waters. We’re hesitant to surrender fully, fearing what might happen if we lose control. But God calls us to dive deeper, to let His Spirit carry us where we cannot go on our own. Just as the river brings life to everything it touches, when we allow God’s presence to fully immerse us, we become a powerful witness to the source of life and healing for others.

The question for us today is: are we willing to wade deeper? Are we ready to let God take us beyond the comfortable and into the transformative depths of His presence? When we do, the impact isn’t just personal. Like the river in Ezekiel’s vision, God’s work in us will overflow into the world around us, bringing healing, renewal, and life to others.

Going Through the Motions? The Call to True Holiness

During today’s reading, I was struck by how the people of Israel seemed to treat the temple and its associated rituals as mere routines, missing the deeper significance. This echoes God’s command to His people in Leviticus 19:2: “Be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.” The call to holiness means being set apart—distinct from the common, the mundane, the profane. Holiness is not simply about following rituals, but about embodying the character of God Himself.

The people of Israel had fallen into the trap of ritualism—going through the motions without grasping the essence of what it meant to be in relationship with a holy God. Ezekiel’s temple vision is a stark reminder of this. The very structure, the detailed measurements, and the specific instructions all scream one thing: God’s holiness demands reverence. The temple was not just a building; it was the dwelling place of the Almighty, and everything about it was designed to reflect His uncommon nature.

Holiness isn’t just about external actions but about the condition of the heart. The rituals were meant to point to something deeper—God’s character and His call for His people to be set apart from the world. The Israelites were not simply to look different from the nations around them; they were to embody the nature of the God they served. And that same call extends to us today.

As Christians, it’s easy to fall into the same trap. We can go through the motions—attending church, reading the Bible, saying prayers—without really engaging with the holiness of God. The routines and rituals of our faith can become just that: routine. But God calls us to live uncommon lives, to be set apart for His purposes. Holiness is not something we achieve by ticking boxes or performing rituals. It’s a transformation that takes place when we allow God’s Spirit to shape us into the image of Christ.

So what does that mean for us today? First, we must recognize that holiness is not optional. Just as God’s people were called to be distinct, we are called to be salt and light in a world that often looks very different from God’s Kingdom. Second, we need to reflect on our own lives and consider whether we’ve reduced our relationship with God to a series of rituals or whether we are truly engaging with His presence. Lastly, being uncommon means living with purpose, showing the world that there is something different about those who follow Christ—not because of anything we do, but because of who He is.

Holiness is not about being perfect; it’s about being set apart for a purpose. Let’s embrace that calling today.

Son of Man — What Does THAT Mean?

During today’s reading, I again noticed Ezekiel being constantly referred to as the “son of man.” So I would like to briefly explore what this phrase means, where we see it in Scripture, and why it is significant.

In the case of Ezekiel, “son of man” is meant to underscore his human frailty and his role as a representative of the people. Over 90 times, God addresses Ezekiel with this title, reminding him of his position as a mortal messenger delivering divine words. Ezekiel’s use of “son of man” connects him to the people of Israel, highlighting that, like them, he is a mere human with a responsibility to share God’s message, particularly concerning personal responsibility for sin and repentance (Ezekiel 33:10-20).

The title “son of man” also appears in Daniel 7:13-14, where “one like a son of man” is depicted as a divine figure who comes with the clouds of heaven and is given authority, glory, and sovereign power. This vision is messianic, pointing to a figure who will rule over all nations, and it is this aspect of the title that Jesus refers to when He calls Himself the “Son of Man.” His audience would have understood the profound implications of this self-designation, recognizing it as a claim to divine authority and fulfillment of the messianic prophecy.

So what does recognizing Jesus as the “Son of Man” mean for us today? This title carries profound implications for our lives and calls us to action in several key ways:

First, it reminds us that Jesus identifies with us. As the “son of man” from Ezekiel, Jesus shared in our humanity. He experienced the trials, temptations, and sufferings that we face. This means that when we struggle, we can turn to Jesus, knowing that He understands our pain. This shared experience is not just a point of empathy but a call for us to lean on Him in our weakness. We are encouraged to follow His example, living a life of obedience and reliance on God even in the face of suffering.

Second, it emphasizes Jesus’ authority. As the “son of man” from Daniel, He is the one given all power and dominion. This recognition demands our submission to His lordship. Jesus is not just a compassionate friend but the sovereign ruler of all creation. Our response should be one of reverence, acknowledging His authority in every aspect of our lives. This calls us to obedience, aligning our wills with His and allowing His authority to guide our decisions, actions, and attitudes.

Third, it assures us of God’s faithfulness. The “Son of Man” in Daniel’s vision is a direct prophecy of Jesus, who came once as foretold and will return on the clouds in glory. This fulfillment of prophecy demonstrates God’s unwavering faithfulness to His promises. He is true to His word, having already accomplished what He promised and guaranteeing that He will fulfill the rest in due time. This gives us great hope, especially in challenging times, knowing that God’s plans are sure and trustworthy. For those who trust in Him, this is a source of deep comfort. However, it also serves as a sober warning to those who live in rebellion, as God’s justice will ultimately prevail. Our response should be one of faith, trusting in God’s promises, and living in a way that reflects our confidence in His faithfulness.

Finally, we are reminded of our personal responsibility. As emphasized in Ezekiel 33:10-20, we are accountable for our actions and decisions. Recognizing Jesus as the “Son of Man” calls us to examine our lives, repent where necessary, and live in a way that honors God. This responsibility is not burdensome but a response to the grace and truth that we have received in Christ. It challenges us to live out our faith actively, taking seriously the call to follow Jesus in every area of our lives.

In sum, acknowledging Jesus as the “Son of Man” is more than just an intellectual assent; it is a transformative recognition that should shape how we live, think, and relate to God and others.