Tag: Faith

If We Want to SEE Jesus, We Need to NEED Jesus

The account of Stephen in Acts 7 stands as one of the most powerful examples of faith under fire. Known for his wisdom and filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen is brought before the Sanhedrin on false charges. As he boldly shares the truth, he faces increasing hostility, yet instead of shrinking back, he experiences something extraordinary. Scripture tells us that “Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:55). Even in the face of death, Stephen’s unwavering focus on Jesus fills him with a peace that goes beyond understanding.

What happens next is equally incredible. While the crowd stones him, Stephen echoes Jesus’ own words on the cross: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). It is a remarkable picture of forgiveness and love toward those who were killing him. This ability to forgive so profoundly did not come from a position of self-sufficiency or inner strength but rather from a deep, desperate dependence on Christ. In Stephen’s darkest hour, his need for Jesus led him to an encounter with Jesus, even allowing him to reflect Christ’s love in his final breaths.

Stephen’s story teaches us that when we truly recognize our need for Jesus, we open ourselves to see Him at work in ways that transform us. If we want to experience the peace that passes understanding, the courage that stands firm, and the love that forgives even the deepest wrongs, we must admit our need. Our need creates space for God to fill us with His strength, His peace, and His love. Just as Jesus appeared to Stephen in that moment, He draws near to those who call on Him with a humble heart.

If we want to see Jesus, we must need Him—our deep dependence on Him is not a sign of weakness but the pathway to true strength and peace. Just like Stephen, our need for Jesus can enable us to love and forgive even when it seems impossible, reflecting the One who forgave us.

Are You Worthy of Suffering?

In Acts 5, we see an astonishing response from the apostles. After being arrested and ordered not to speak in the name of Jesus, they remain steadfast, and the authorities have them flogged to intimidate and discourage them. But instead of leaving in pain and discouragement, they leave rejoicing, “because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name” (Acts 5:41). The apostles’ attitude is counterintuitive and deeply inspiring, revealing how they embraced suffering as a sign of faithfulness to Jesus. This response invites us to consider the transformative power of viewing hardship through a Kingdom lens.

When we see suffering for the sake of Christ as a privilege, it shifts our focus. First, it strengthens our resolve. The apostles understood that suffering was part of following Jesus — who Himself was mocked, beaten, and crucified. By identifying with Him in their hardship, they were bolstered rather than broken. This outlook not only encouraged them but reinforced the very core of their message: that Jesus is worth everything, even suffering.

Second, their response affected their persecutors. Joy in suffering defies human logic, especially for those expecting fear and submission. The apostles’ reaction must have confounded the authorities, showing that their faith could not be crushed by physical threats. This boldness makes the Gospel even more compelling, illustrating that God’s love gives a strength that can’t be explained away or easily suppressed.

Finally, this courage impacts those who are watching. Others in the early church would have witnessed the apostles’ joy amid suffering, likely feeling both inspired and emboldened to live with similar dedication. Today, our response to trials can serve as a powerful testimony, inviting others to see that Christ’s worth far surpasses any hardship.

Embracing suffering for Christ reveals the strength of our commitment and provides a powerful witness to others. When we respond with joy, we join the apostles in demonstrating that true life is found in following Jesus, whatever the cost.

Not All the Answers

At the beginning of Acts, Jesus’ disciples ask Him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” (Acts 1:6). In their minds, this was the right question. After all, they had walked with Jesus through His ministry, His death, and His resurrection, and the natural next step seemed to be the re-establishment of God’s kingdom. But Jesus, instead of providing a direct answer, redirects their focus. “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority,” He replies, “but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…” (Acts 1:7-8).

The disciples’ question highlights our common desire for clarity and control. Like them, we often want answers about God’s timeline or specifics of His plan. But Jesus reminds us that some things simply aren’t for us to know. Instead of giving a detailed roadmap, He offers us something better: the Holy Spirit’s guidance and empowerment.

In our own lives, the Holy Spirit continues to guide us through uncertainties. God knows that we, like the disciples, will not always have all the answers, and He encourages us to lean into His presence rather than our understanding. The Spirit’s role is not just to give us information but to transform us into people of faith and trust. As we surrender our need for control, we can grow in faith that God, who holds all knowledge and power, is directing our path.

God asks us to trust Him even when we don’t have all the answers. As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Our focus is not meant to be on securing every answer, but on becoming more responsive to the Spirit, following Him as He leads us forward with wisdom, patience, and courage.

Got Questions? Good!

Thomas, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, is often remembered as “Doubting Thomas” — but this label fails to capture the depth of his character or the significance of his encounter with the risen Christ. Far from rebuking him, Jesus invites Thomas to bring his questions forward and see for himself. This moment shows us that faith isn’t about ignoring our questions; it’s about seeking God honestly, even in doubt.

In John 20:24-29, Thomas’ response to Jesus’ resurrection is straightforward: he needs evidence. Instead of shaming him, Jesus appears to Thomas, knowing the disciple’s need to understand personally. This demonstrates that asking questions is not a flaw in our faith; it’s part of a genuine, engaged relationship with God. God, who created our minds, doesn’t ask for “blind faith” — instead, He invites us to know Him fully. Jesus even says that those who have not seen but still believe are blessed, highlighting that God values a thoughtful faith over unquestioning compliance.

Faith, after all, is not about the absence of questions but about where those questions lead us. When we encounter doubts or curiosity, these moments are opportunities to grow. Proverbs 4:7 encourages, “Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Questions open doors to a deeper knowledge of God and often lead us to a more mature, lasting faith. They are part of loving God with our minds (Mark 12:30), engaging all of our intellect in pursuit of the truth.

If you have questions, talk with pastors, mentors, or trusted friends, and bring these to God in prayer. Remember, every question is an opportunity for growth.

Real Justice

In the trials of Jesus, we witness a profound failure of justice. Jesus, innocent in every sense, is passed between leaders who recognize His innocence yet bow to the pressure of an angry mob. Human justice, whether in the hands of Pilate, Herod, or the Sanhedrin, fails Him utterly. Jesus stands silent before men who twist their authority, and in doing so, He knows intimately the depths of injustice that can plague our world. For anyone who has suffered from unfair treatment, false accusation, or a corrupt system, this moment in Jesus’ life reveals a Savior who has felt the same.

Despite the failings of human justice, Jesus’ response shows us a vital lesson: He didn’t place His hope in these earthly systems, and neither should we. Instead, He entrusted Himself to God, the ultimate Judge, who sees all things rightly and promises perfect justice. Jesus knew the Father’s justice was a surer foundation than any human court, and so He endured the trials set before Him, holding fast to the knowledge that God’s justice would ultimately prevail.

When we face injustice, it’s tempting to pin our hopes on human institutions, to believe that with enough advocacy, attention, or influence, things will be set right. But while we work to seek justice where we can, we’re reminded that ultimate justice belongs to God alone. Human systems, as important as they may be, will always have flaws and limitations. They are imperfect reflections of the justice that only God Himself can deliver.

In our lives, the challenge is to trust that God sees and knows our situation fully, even when justice seems delayed. Psalm 89:14 tells us, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before You.” This assurance means that no wrong will go unaddressed in God’s time and plan. He is the Judge who will not let evil win, who hears every cry, and who will make all things right. Until then, we are called to follow Jesus’ example, trusting God in our own experiences of injustice, keeping our eyes on the One whose justice is flawless.

In Defense of Peter

The account of Peter in Gethsemane is a stirring reminder of how human we are, even when we deeply desire to follow Jesus. Peter, who had walked with Christ, witnessed miracles, and even claimed he would follow Him to the death, shows us that the spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41). We might critique Peter for his actions that night—falling asleep, impulsively wielding a sword, and then ultimately denying Jesus—but perhaps, his story is also ours. In Peter, we find relatable lessons that urge us toward deeper discipline, patience, and boldness in our faith.

At Gethsemane, Jesus invited Peter, James, and John to keep watch with Him during His agonizing prayer. But Peter’s spirit gave way to fatigue, and three times he fell asleep as Jesus wrestled with the reality of the cross. In these moments, we see a call to better discipline. Just as Peter needed discipline to stay awake and pray, we, too, are called to “watch and pray” that we do not fall into temptation. Distractions and weariness can easily pull us away from prayer and obedience, but discipline helps us continually seek God’s strength, especially in trying times.

Next, we see Peter’s struggle with patience. When the soldiers arrived to arrest Jesus, Peter acted instinctively, drawing his sword to protect his Lord. He acted out of zeal, but it wasn’t what Jesus had asked of him. Jesus had already made it clear that He must go to the cross, yet Peter acted on impulse, unwilling to wait for the Lord’s guidance. Here, we learn the importance of waiting on God, resisting the urge to take matters into our own hands. Jesus often leads us through unexpected paths, and patience allows us to stay in step with His timing, trusting that He has a purpose beyond what we can see.

Finally, after Jesus was arrested, Peter’s courage seemed to fade. Standing by the fire, surrounded by strangers, Peter denied knowing Jesus—not once, but three times. His boldness faltered when it was most needed. It is easy to judge Peter’s fear, but it’s also a moment to recognize our own hesitations to fully identify with Jesus. True boldness means openly claiming our faith, even when it feels risky. We may face fear, awkwardness, or discomfort, but Jesus is our strength. Through Him, we find the courage to stand firm, even when the stakes are high.

Peter’s journey in Gethsemane reminds us that Jesus isn’t looking for flawless followers—He seeks willing hearts. Yes, we may stumble as Peter did, but God’s grace meets us in our weakness. As we grow in discipline, patience, and boldness, we find that Jesus is always there, shaping us into people who are prepared to follow Him, even when it’s hard. Let’s remember that Jesus restored Peter after his denials and used him to build the Church. In the same way, He is patient with us, guiding us into lives that glorify Him, no matter how many times we fall.

On Prayer: A Theological Treatise

Prayer is often seen as a lifeline, a means to reach out and align with God’s will. In John 17, we glimpse Jesus’ profound final prayer before His arrest, echoing themes that shape how we might deepen our own prayer lives. This passage brings forth reflections on God’s glory, unity among believers, and the ultimate purpose of prayer—seeking the Father’s will in the world. In John 17, we see a natural extension of the foundational principles Jesus taught in the “Lord’s Prayer,” also called the “Our Father,” which provides a template of humility, submission, and reverence. Comparing these two prayers enriches our understanding of Jesus’ theology of prayer, offering profound insights into why and how we, too, should pray.

Glorifying the Father: The Prayer’s Foundation

Both the “Our Father” and John 17 focus immediately on glorifying God. Jesus starts by acknowledging the Father’s glory, teaching us that prayer’s essence is rooted in elevating God’s character, authority, and holiness. The “Our Father” opens with “hallowed be Thy name,” directing the focus away from self and toward God’s sanctity. John 17 expands on this, with Jesus asking, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, that the Son may glorify You” (John 17:1). Here, Jesus models that glorification of the Father is inseparable from the life of obedience and humility. He shows us that through prayer, we align our desires with God’s purposes, leading to His glory as the ultimate goal.

In this light, we are reminded that effective prayer is less about what we want and more about what God desires. Jesus frames prayer as a means of drawing into God’s redemptive work, illustrating that glorifying God is not only a matter of words but also of aligning our lives with His purposes.

“Thy Kingdom Come”: Unity in Purpose and Fellowship

In the “Our Father,” Jesus teaches us to ask, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” This phrase invites believers to submit to God’s authority in every realm. John 17 further illuminates this concept as Jesus prays for unity, asking the Father to protect His followers and make them one as He and the Father are one (John 17:21). This unity is central to God’s kingdom vision—a community living under His reign, reflecting His love and holiness to the world.

Unity, as Jesus prayed for in John 17, isn’t merely harmonious living; it’s the fruit of shared allegiance to the Father’s purposes. He calls believers to unite not in conformity but in shared pursuit of divine will, realizing His kingdom in tangible ways. Unity and alignment with God’s kingdom are keys to effective prayer, fostering a perspective that prays not solely for personal desires but for the advancement of God’s purposes through the Church.

“Deliver Us from Evil”: The World and Sanctification

Jesus’ prayer also addresses protection and sanctification. In the “Our Father,” He asks the Father to “deliver us from evil,” a request mirrored in John 17 as Jesus asks, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one” (John 17:15). This reveals a key theological stance: our lives are intended to intersect with the world, yet remain distinct from its influence. Jesus doesn’t call for withdrawal from worldly challenges but for perseverance within them, under God’s guidance.

This is a powerful call to engage the world while remaining consecrated to God’s service, highlighting prayer’s role in equipping us to remain faithful amid spiritual challenges. Sanctification, therefore, is not about isolation but about intentional living that embodies God’s truth. Prayer is both our line of defense and our sanctifying strength, rooting us in God’s purposes as we live among those who may oppose our faith.

The Purpose of Prayer: Alignment with God’s Heart

Both prayers embody one overarching purpose: to align us with God’s will, deepening our relationship with Him. The “Our Father” provides the structure, and John 17 provides the heart. As Jesus intercedes for His disciples, He shows that prayer is a means of transformation and connection, rather than simply a way to fulfill personal desires. Prayer shapes our hearts, aligning them with God’s, enabling us to desire His kingdom more deeply than our ambitions.

In closing, the purpose of prayer is not merely the action of requesting but the transformation that occurs as we enter God’s presence and submit to His purposes. It is in this ongoing relationship that our prayers become part of God’s work in the world, uniting us with His mission and character.

Pray, then, as Jesus did—not only to seek answers but to align your heart with the Father’s will, glorify His name, and live in His sanctifying presence. And as we pray, we come closer to fulfilling the Lord’s ultimate vision for His kingdom, empowered by a relationship that seeks Him above all else.

Humble, Not Hero

In Luke 22, Peter boldly declares that he’s ready to go to prison and even die for Jesus. It’s a passionate commitment, one that shows his desire to be faithful no matter what. But Jesus, in His wisdom, responds with words that pierce through Peter’s confidence: “I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.” Peter is certain of his loyalty, yet Jesus knows what’s coming.

How often do we, in a burst of conviction, declare all we will do for God? Like Peter, we can find ourselves wrapped up in a fervor that makes us feel invincible. Yet, there’s a powerful truth here: God doesn’t need our grand statements of loyalty; He wants our surrendered hearts. Instead of telling Him how much we’re willing to do, maybe we should be asking where He wants us to go, allowing Him to direct our steps.

In those moments when we’re tempted to make big promises to God, perhaps it’s more humble and honoring to pause, listen, and ask Him to use us however He sees fit. This doesn’t mean avoiding bold steps of faith. It simply means approaching our relationship with God from a posture of humility, acknowledging that He knows our limits and, just as He did for Peter, offers grace when we fall short.

Jesus intercedes for us, even now, knowing our frailties and loving us through them. He calls us not to be heroes in our own strength but to be faithful followers, trusting that He will work through our willing hearts. When we let go of the need to prove our devotion and embrace a quiet openness to God’s leading, we’re finally in a position to let His strength shine in our weakness.

Nothing to Lose: Building a Life of Sacrificial Trust

When Jesus watched the widow place two small coins in the temple treasury, He remarked that her offering was worth more than all the others. The wealthy were giving large sums, but it came from their abundance—they had enough left over that they wouldn’t miss what they gave. But this widow gave everything she had. Her gift, though small, was massive in its cost, and Jesus highlighted that her offering embodied true sacrificial trust.

This story challenges us to rethink how we give to God—not just financially but in every area of life. For those with financial security, giving can often become another line item, a “good thing” we do rather than an act that deeply stretches our faith. Sacrificial trust requires us to look beyond what is convenient or comfortable, pushing us to rely on God in ways that make us uncomfortable. So, if giving money isn’t stretching us, what can?

Building Trust in Practical Ways

To grow in sacrificial trust, we need to commit ourselves to practices that move us beyond our self-sufficiency and put us in a position where we need God to provide, guide, or sustain us. Here are some ways we can start intentionally cultivating this reliance on Him:

Prioritize Time for Service
Time is precious, and offering it to serve others can be one of the most challenging sacrifices. When we serve regularly—especially when it’s inconvenient—we learn to depend on God to supply energy, focus, and purpose. By giving time to those in need, we place our trust in God to help us manage the demands of life as we prioritize His kingdom.
Hospitality That Costs Something
Hospitality often involves more than opening our homes; it includes opening our hearts and schedules to others. Offering a place of rest or fellowship to those in need can stretch us emotionally and financially. This practice forces us to rely on God to provide and meet our needs, fostering a lifestyle of generosity and trust.
Making Faith-based Decisions with Career and Finances
When we choose to pursue purpose over profit or to fund ministries instead of saving excessively for ourselves, we enter a space where we rely on God to secure our future. Trusting Him with our careers or resources isn’t easy, but it’s a powerful exercise in dependence.
Practicing Fasting and Extended Prayer
Setting aside time to fast and pray helps us depend on God’s sustenance, both physically and spiritually. This intentional discipline can become a powerful act of faith, where we trust that God will meet our needs as we draw closer to Him.
Volunteering Professional Skills for Kingdom Purposes
Giving up paid time to volunteer our expertise requires both faith and sacrifice. Whether in a church, a nonprofit, or even informally, using skills for ministry without pay can challenge our dependence on material rewards and make us more reliant on God’s provision.
Seeking Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Taking steps toward reconciliation in our relationships often requires vulnerability and trust in God’s healing power. By putting ourselves in situations where we risk being hurt or rejected, we learn to trust God’s ability to heal and restore.
Surrendering Control Over Our Plans
Holding our ambitions, plans, and future loosely opens us to God’s leading. When we ask Him to show us what He wants for us, we must trust that His plans are ultimately better, even if it means giving up control or comfort.

The widow’s act of faith shows us that true giving costs us something. Sacrificial trust isn’t about the amount or kind of gift we give; it’s about our willingness to let go of our self-reliance and place ourselves fully in God’s hands. As we practice faith in new areas of life, we move beyond mere convenience to genuine, transformative trust.

Nothing Wasted: Trusting God’s Purpose

It’s a bold statement when Jesus says, “The Lord needs it.” Just before His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, He asks His disciples to bring Him a colt. No lengthy explanations, no assurances for the colt’s owner — simply, “The Lord needs it.” To the owner, this colt may have been valuable or essential for work, but Jesus’ words demand a higher purpose for it. When something is needed for God’s purposes, no matter how mundane or precious, it’s never wasted.

Similarly, earlier in the Gospel accounts, we see Mary pouring costly perfume over Jesus’ head, a luxury that shocks the disciples as a “waste.” But Jesus defends her, framing her act as one of deep worship. “She has done a beautiful thing to me,” He says, indicating that her extravagant offering has profound meaning in God’s unfolding plan.

Our own lives often mirror these moments. We may be called to release what we value or find security in — our time, finances, talents — without clear assurances. Yet, when the Lord needs it, the act itself becomes sacred, filling it with purpose beyond our understanding. Just as Mary’s act became a testimony of love and faith, our sacrificial acts echo through God’s Kingdom in ways we may never fully see.

Trusting God’s purpose with our resources isn’t just about giving up; it’s about giving in to a greater story. Each offering, big or small, plays a role in something eternal. So when we’re prompted to step out in faith, remembering that “the Lord needs it” brings us into alignment with a purpose where, truly, nothing is wasted.