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The Merging Of Hope and Truth Found In Jesus Christ

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  • Every Man’s Treasure

    Partially opened rusty treasure chest filled with objects, resting on a sandy beach.

    The secret things belong to the Lord our God, … Deuteronomy 29:29

    Life’s Hunt

    All of us love the intrigue of a treasure hunt. It is the potential of discovering the hidden or the unveiling of a mystery that excites our soul. God has put in our very being the desire to know what is concealed and secret. It is this quest in life that drives us to know the God who is.

    One of the most popular television series in recent years is History Channel’s “Curse of Oak Island”. In case you are not familiar with the show, it portrays a group of men and women who are searching an island off the Nova Scotia coast for a legendary stash of gold, silver and precious antiquities.

    For the last 200 plus years, many have sought the allusive treasure without success only to uncover new mysteries and insurmountable obstacles. The hunt has not been without its toll. Many have lost fortunes, some a lifetime of disappointing toil and tragically others their lives. But even with the risks and the lack of rewards to-date, the search to uncover the mystery of the fabled bounty continues.

    The One Thing

    “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21

    From a very young age, each of us begins a quest for a treasure whether we realize it or not. It is a life long pursuit that drives us for the “one thing” that will satisfy the desire of our heart. The above quote by Jesus Christ reveals that no matter what treasure we pursue in life it will captivate us. For some the quest is wealth or career, others it is love and then there are those who long for power or fame to satisfy that inner yearning. Like those who have searched Oak Island for the illusive treasure, the desire to conquer the mystery of the unknown and pursue our treasure drives us on searching for the one thing.

    Two Treasures

    “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19-20

    All of us set our heart upon a treasure to pursue in life. As the Scripture above acknowledges, that choice of where we invest our heart, time and energy will produce very different outcomes some even with unintended consequences. As a result, the necessity to examine the nature of our heart’s investment looms large. Will it be of the eternal, lasting sort or the ephemeral?

    Many expend a lifetime chasing the fleeting only to look back and realize the real riches were within reach all along. Heavenly treasures are all around us. Most are discovered through the people beside us and within life’s intangible virtues such as love, joy, patience, kindness, faithfulness, etc.. Although each of us will have to admit, we sometimes have to chase the fleeting before we can recognize the authentic treasures in life. Thankfully, it is never too late to change where we dig for treasure.

    A Promise of Real Treasure

    If you are fortunate enough to recognize that the quest for earthly treasure cannot satisfy the desire for the “one thing” you seek, the map to treasure in heaven lays open before you. It even comes with a promise that says – He (God) is the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). The greatest treasure we can pursue in this life is found in Jesus Christ. In Him, are all the hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge waiting for those who seek to know Him (Colossians 2:2-3). He will lead you to true, heavenly treasure and open your heart to the secret things of God.

    M.P. Bramble

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • Does This Offend You?

    Do some of the sayings of Jesus make you a bit uncomfortable or possibly offend you? Well, you’re not alone. There were many people who witnessed Jesus Christ face to face, who listened to His teachings, who saw His miracles yet could not bear His words and walked away rejecting the Savior.

    “Christ Pharisees; verso; Christ Pharisee” by themet/ CC0 1.0

    Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this, said,
    “This is a hard saying; who can understand it?” When Jesus knew in Himself
    that His disciples complained about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you?
    John 6:60-61 (NKJV)

    Jesus appeals to many as the gentle Good Shepherd (John 10:11-14) giving us a warm and compassionate picture of His character. However, many of those same people reject the Jesus who declares we should fear Him who has the authority to cast us into hell (Luke 12:4-5). Interestingly, the Bible reveals both are equally valid portrayals of Jesus’ nature. While cherry-picking the aspects of Jesus Christ’s nature that simply appeal to our sensibilities may be convenient and in vogue, it leads to fashioning a god of our own liking as the object of our faith rather than the Son of God the Bible describes.

    In the Gospel of John chapter 6 (V 22-71), Jesus challenges those who would attempt to try to put Him in their ‘god box’. Jesus had just fed 5,000 people with a few loaves of bread and a couple of fish, yet this miraculous sign was not enough to satisfy both their unbelief and their lack of understanding of His mission. Jesus in turn chides them for not recognizing their true need.

    Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you
    saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food
    which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will
    give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.”” John 6:26-27 

    This was a pivotal moment for the crowds following Jesus across the Galilean country-side. Jesus is now questioning their motives for seeking Him. Were they more interested in their physical appetites being satisfied or did they crave spiritual food and freedom? Each of us must ask ourselves that same question when faced with the question of why we say we believe in Jesus. Are we just looking for an easy ‘get out of hell card’ or are we acknowledging our true need for Him as the Savior?

    “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life.  I am the bread of life.  Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead.  This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is My flesh, which I shall give for the life of the world.” John 6:47- 52

    Jesus’ words were now becoming uncomfortable for the crowd as He presses them to commit to a faith in Him that is unbridled from their religious traditions. In declaring that He is the Bread of Life and that we must partake of Him, Jesus uses a metaphor to equate man’s need for Him to satisfy their need for eternal life as much as the need for physical bread to sustain earthly life. In verse 51 Jesus then alludes to His future death on the cross as the atoning fleshly sacrifice for the life of the world. His words were unraveling their notion of who the Messiah should be.

    When Jesus knew in Himself that His disciples complained
    about this, He said to them, “Does this offend you? John 6:61

    The Jew’s expectation of Jesus was not for a suffering servant but centered around their tradition that He as Messiah was to bring deliverance from the oppression of Roman rule and establish a Jewish kingdom. Before a true Messianic kingdom could be established on the Earth the realm of men’s hearts must first be restored. His first advent was a revolution waged in the spiritual realm to set the heart of man free from the oppression of sin.

    The crowds of people were captivated by Jesus’ miracles, teaching and healings. Yet sadly most of those disciples walked away that day in unbelief (v 66) because of their unmet human expectations of Jesus and His hard sayings that did not fit their narrative of the Messiah. The fact is that Jesus Christ does not offer anyone the option of coming to faith in Him on their own terms. We can have no demands or expectations of the true God with the exception that His Word is absolute, His promises sure and Jesus Christ is the only way to God the Father.

    With the crowd of people now gone, Jesus then asks the twelve Apostles if they are leaving too. Peter answers, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.  Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (John 6:68-69). Peter rightly understood that Jesus Christ as the living God cannot be corralled or manipulated by man centered presumptions and expectations. His eternal nature demands we are the ones who must bow our hearts and submit to His truth. With that, we also have to ask the question of ourselves “To whom else shall we go?”.

    Many today still stumble over the truth of Jesus Christ and the Bible. To those who were honest seekers of truth and the way of salvation, Jesus showed patience and compassion gently leading them to truth. But to those who stubbornly attempted to box Him in or expect Him to dance to the tune of their truth, He often allowed them to continue to stumble down the path of their own ignorance. He still does both today.

    On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, 
    “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the
    Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”  John 7:37-38

    M.P. Bramble

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • The End Times Forecast – Beware of Deception

    Split-faced speaker addressing delegates at a United Nations podium

    Take Heed No One Deceives You…..

    Much of what we know about the times leading up to the second advent of Jesus Christ, Jesus Himself, gave us in the Gospels. In Matthew 24, His disciples asked Jesus “And what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3). Like you and me, they were curious how those days would unfold and questioned Jesus directly about the signs leading up to His return. In verses 1 and 2 of the same chapter Jesus had just foretold of the destruction of Herod’s magnificent Jewish Temple. So naturally, the disciple’s interest was peaked about when these events would occur.

    Surprisingly, Jesus does not answer their inquiry directly quite yet but gives them a warning which He subsequently repeats 2 additional times in the chapter. “Take heed that no one deceives you. (Matthew 24:4). Students of the Bible will recognize the significance of repetition being used in Scripture to elevate importance to the reader. Jesus is emphasizing deception as a primary marker of the End Times and with that He is saying; Be alert. For deception will be the key tactical strategy used by those who oppose the coming reign of Jesus Christ at His Second Advent.

    Deception is a classic strategy used by an enemy to create confusion, manipulate behavior and gain psychological advantage over an adversary. We see it as far back as the Garden of Eden where the serpent introduces a small seed of doubt to Eve about what God really said regarding the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil (see Genesis chapter 3). A slight twist in the truth captured Eve’s mind and appealed to her naive lusts. Satan cunningly does not use an outright lie to manipulate Eve but a half-truth which planted a seed of doubt in her heart. A half truth is always more difficult to discern and defend against than a bold-faced lie. But that is the nature of deception; stirring up confusion while even having the false appearance of the good, the wise or being the right thing to do.

    The context in which Jesus speaks of deception in Matthew 24 relates directly to the appearance of false christs (v5, 24) and false prophets (v11, 24) coming on the scene showing great signs and wonders with the intent to convince people of their being sent from God and speaking for Him. Signs and wonders do not necessarily authentic the nature of the one performing them or prove they have been sent from God Most High of the Bible. We see examples of malevolent individuals in Scripture who tap into demonic spiritual powers to perform and duplicate great signs and wonders. In Exodus chapter 7, we find a supernatural battle between Moses and Pharaoh’s magicians unfold where duplication of miraculous signs seems to be effortless for Pharaoh’s dark priests. Should we be surprised at the powers of darkness since the Bible tells us Satan and his minions are able to transform into angels of light (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)?

    Dark wonders and signs will be prevalent in the End Times and the days proceeding them seeking to mislead those who have strayed from the truth of the Bible. Many will be fooled by the smooth talking workers of the miraculous and the supernatural that will come to prominence. Guarding against the deceivers and the twisters of truth is only accomplished by discerning the authentic from the counterfeit. And knowing the genuine can only be found by having Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and trusting in His word.

    The Apostle John in his epistle tells how to stand guard : “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.  By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.” 1 John 4:1-3

    Jesus, in Matthew 24, goes on to describe what He calls the “beginning of sorrows” will be like. Many of those signs of the times along with deceptions and dark realities are starting to manifest before our very eyes right now. So, stand strong and watch.

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • All That I Have

    Life Talk Devotion 12/08/2024

    In John chapter 6, we read a familiar story.  Jesus has been teaching the crowd all day, the people are hungry, and the disciples start packing up to go home… until Jesus challenges them to do the impossible. Feed all the people with only a few fish and loaves. The narrative goes like this:

    Now the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was near.  Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?”  But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do. Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little. ”One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” Then Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted.  So when they were filled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.”  John 6:5-12

    We don’t know anything about this boy, but in my mind’s eye, I see a little fellow who overhears Jesus’ conversation, recognizes the need, and offers up everything he has to help however he can – five loaves and two fish.  But what the disciples didn’t recognize is that a little obedience in the hands of Jesus can do big things.

    Today you may be feeling overwhelmed by the life’s chaos, family struggles, or your finances.  Maybe you would like to see God use you to invest in people’s lives and bring people to Christ, but you’re uncertain.  You may feel that everything you can muster is pretty insignificant when compared with the size of the need.

    Today though, I ask you to remember that little boy who had enough faith to give what he had and let Jesus take care of the size of the problem.  Be faithful with what you have, not fearful of what you don’t, and may He take your obedience and use it in ways you never dreamed.

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • Can America Be Great Again?

    Life Talk Devotion 08/12/2024

    Photo by Rosemary Ketchum

    Well, we are in the middle of another election year media blitz. The political candidates are blazing with both advertising barrels overwhelming the weary eyes and ears of the American public. The messages resound with their one-sided sound bites, selective video clips and now even some AI contrivances mixed in. The idea is to repeat the narrative often enough to create an “illusion of truth” whether factual or not.

    As in the 2016 and 2020 elections, the campaign slogan ‘Make America Great Again’ (MAGA) is again the rallying cry for many across the nation both politically and socially and also a point of contentious division for others. Both sides appear to have divergent and polarizing views on what made and what will make America great again.

    MAGA, in fact, implies that America was once great and now has lost its strength, sense of the original vision and grand purpose cast by the Founding Fathers. History has shown that there has not been another nation like the United States where individual freedom, opportunity, and the ideals of life and liberty have been upheld by precept and the rule of law. No doubt, the United States has not been perfect in practice of those ideals throughout our history but the vision of staying true to those principles seems to always have self-corrected in due course. However, today there seems to be a growing dedication to cast aside those ideals within the American political and institutional national frameworks while ardently moving us to a new social paradigm. Much of which is now evidenced on the very streets of our cities.

    There is little doubt that America is in decline suffering from drain of wars, excessive national debt, social turbulence and most of all lost virtue. Given the constant stream of unsettling news and events in these arenas, it is no wonder confidence in the core institutions that we have depended on for stability is understandably shaken. Popular opinion points the finger at our politicians for the root cause of our nation’s decline and weakened global influence. But that very idea in itself demonstrates our dependence and trust has mistakenly migrated to seeking human solutions for the ills of the nation.

    MAGA also implies that America ‘can be‘ great again. Many assumptions about the achievement of greatness are attributed to American ingenuity, financial prowess, and blood, sweat and tears which is only partially true. Americans historically have been a very industrious people with a willingness to sacrifice to leave a legacy of betterment for future generations. However, past generations in our country also understood that faith in the God of the Bible who bestows all blessings was part of the enduring success equation which built this nation. It was a faith that was committed to a truth that is immutable and transcends our own ability to rationalize the principles of right and wrong. Over the last 100 plus years we as a nation have done everything to obscure, legislate and minimize the Biblical principles out of our society and daily life. The pulpits and churches in America have been equally complicit bending to ungodly social norms and weakly challenging those who would redefine truth.

    So, can America be great again? Possibly, but not in its current spiritual condition. Without God and His truth as the foundation of life, our efforts to improve our national well-being will only continue to be frustrated and lead to further decline as a nation and people. Many social mandates and abhorrent legislative agendas being pursued in our nation are a ‘fist shake’ in the face of God and have been for decades. The God of Heaven will not bend to the will of man or sway to the whims of our culture’s self-affirming form of narcissistic truth. Until the premise that God is sovereign and His precepts cannot be toyed with are acquiesced to by our leaders (spiritual and political) and the people, America will continue on its current downward path.

    Many prognosticators believe America is already under severe judgement from God with little hope of surviving an ultimate demise. Reverend Franklin Graham is quoted recently saying “Christian faith in America has ‘never’ been at a lower point“. But with God, His mercy is new every morning. Like the message from the Old Testament Book of Isaiah to the Israelites, the call to the American people is to remember the former blessings God has bestowed upon our nation and turn back to Him.

    Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other;
    I am God, and there is none like Me, Declaring the end from the beginning,
    And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand,
    And I will do all My pleasure,’ Isaiah 46:9-10 (NKJV)

    Depending on and placing our hope in any political leader to restore this once great nation is an “illusion of truth” which God cannot bless. True blessings and lasting hope for any person, society or nation are only found through the God of the Bible and His Son, Jesus Christ.

    The call of God for those who follow Christ is to stand as uncommon and resolute people who unashamedly proclaim the truth of His Word calling people to repentance and standing for righteousness. The goal of every Christian should be to make the Name of the Lord God great among the nations and peoples.

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • “You Must Be Born Again”

    Life Talk Devotion 07/11/2024

    These are the radical words from the Gospel of John Chapter 3 spoken by Jesus Christ to the religious leader, Nicodemus, during their secret meeting. These are also the words that turned the world of that devout Jewish priest up-side-down. All that He knew and understood about God and truth up until that moment were set in question because of this encounter with Jesus Christ.

    Nicodemus was part of the ruling religious elite known as the Pharisees in the 1st century Jerusalem. His life centered around a set of religious laws and traditions rigorously adhered to and perpetuated by the governing council known as the Sanhedrin. Nicodemus would have been groomed in those traditions and rules from the time of his youth. They were his path to righteousness before God and his means to honoring the religion of his fathers. But Jesus’ words and conversation not only shook the life of Nicodemus but also subsequently rocked what it meant to believe and follow God for all mankind.

    The little we know of Nicodemus from the New Testament Gospel accounts show him to be a seeker of truth; more-so than his counterparts. Seeing the signs and miracles of Jesus compelled him to seek an audience with this One who was captivating the hearts of the people. He must have wondered to himself “Is this miracle worker the Messiah and deliverer the Jews have been long anticipating?”. It is the burning question upon his heart.

    As they meet, Nicodemus greets Jesus with the sincere but probing statement “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” seeking for Jesus to confirm or deny the truth of the burning question. But instead of responding as Nicodemus hoped, Jesus changes the discourse and leads Nicodemus to think differently.

    Photo by Ivan Bertolazzi on Pexels.com

    Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”

    Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’  The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

    These are not easy words for Nicodemus to accept and with that he replies “How can these things be?”. The pursuit of God has been Nicodemus’ life which Jesus is now telling him has been off target.

    Jesus reveals to Nicodemus that the way of eternal life is not a work of man which he accomplishes by ritual tradition and religious rules. But rather, Jesus unveils that eternal life is a work of God which begins in the heart of man through faith in the Son of Man, Jesus Christ. Jesus succinctly layout that path for Nicodemus next:

    For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:16-18)

    Jesus’ words are a call to think differently about God and eternal life. He is declaring that it is by faith in Him and His redemptive work of death on the cross that is the only means to eternal life. You also may ask “How can these things be?” but that is where faith in One greater than yourself is realized.

    Ultimately Nicodemus received the answer to the burning question. Maybe, it is time to think about things differently.

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out “Finding Faith in Jesus Christ”.

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  • Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled

    Life Talk Devotion 06/27/2024

    Have you ever been lost in the woods all by yourself and could not find your way?  It can be an anxious time and even a bit terrifying. Being lost is frustrating enough but being by yourself makes matters that much worse.  That was my situation some years back.

    I got separated from a group and found myself wondering around in a large forest that I was unfamiliar with. I always prided myself in having a good sense of direction, but with no compass and no cell phone service I finally had to admit to myself I was lost. With that realization, the forest began to look and feel very overwhelming.  The sounds of the woods grew louder as my anxiety fueled the moment.

    Just as total frustration set in, off in the distance I heard voices calling my name. Hearing those voices instantly brought relief to an anxious situation. It was my friends calling my name that provided the focus and direction needed to find my way.

    Life can seem like an opposing wilderness we are lost and wandering within. We get twisted and turned around losing our bearings; unsure whether to turn to the right or left as life presses in. All of which is a natural human experience. But there is a voice who will lead us to the “safe place” in life.

    Even the first followers of Jesus Christ were not immune to such experiences. We see in the Gospel of John towards the end of Chapter 13 and in 14, Jesus begins to reveal the events of the future to the disciples including His leaving them to return to the Father. This initiates a feeling of anxiety and uncertainty among His followers.

    Jesus senses their apprehension and voices words of comfort and direction for them – “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.”.

    Even when one of the disciples, Thomas, still expresses worry (verse 5) and asks “How can we know the way?”, Jesus gently offers affirmation that directs his focus away from fear to faith and trust in Him. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

    Fear of the unknown and stressful circumstances often rob us of peace. But faith chooses to takes its eyes off the situation and focus on the One who is greater than the events swirling around them. This is the lesson Jesus is teaching His disciples here because their world was about to be up-ended and forever changed.

    Near the end of chapter 14, Jesus reiterates His words of comfort but adds a promise. “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (v27). Again, Jesus is refocusing their attention away from the circumstances to trust in Him but adds the assurance of peace. His peace is a priceless gift to all who trust in Him especially when our world is out of control.

    When you find yourself wandering in the wilderness or when your world is shaking, remember Jesus’ words – “Let not your heart be troubled”. Jesus Christ is the “safe place” we can rest in.

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship by faith with Jesus Christ – Check out this page.

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  • What Can Separate Us?

    Life Talk Devotion 05/16/2024

    We have all experienced broken relationships in our lives to some extent or if you haven’t already, you will.  It can be very gut wrenching and stressful. A wall of hurt is built up that seems impenetrable and the one you were once close to is now far off. The separation can be a very lonely time to walk through. Often, there will be a good-hearted person who will try to reconcile the relationship and bring peace.  Blessed are the peacemakers.

    The Hebrew greeting “Shalom” is commonly understood as the word peace or the “absence of conflict”. But the root word of Shalom is shalam which carries the ancient Hebrew meaning to “make something whole”. When we experience strife in a relationship it is the absence of peace and wholeness; for what was once whole is now broken or separated.

    The message and power of the cross of Jesus Christ can be characterized by one word, reconciliation. The blood of Jesus Christ spilled on the cross as the atoning sacrifice for sin broke down the wall of separation in the relationship of God and man. Jesus Christ has a love so immense that He willingly bore the penalty of our sin for us, and He became the peace maker or the One who makes us whole with God. The book of Colossians describes it this way:

    The Great Reconciliation – Colossians 1:19-20

    For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in Him (Jesus Christ), and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.  Colossians 1:19-20

    To some degree, all of us are broken vessels with many frailties and cracks in need of wholeness. Wholeness individually and with others begins with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ who reconciles us to the Father freely by His grace.  Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ for He is our Shalom.  What was once broken He makes whole.

    “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39 NIV

    If you desire to know how to have a relationship with Jesus Christ – Check out this page.

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  • Closer Than A Brother

    Life Talk Devotion 04/12/2024

    Some people are fortunate to have many good friends in a lifetime. Others may only have one or two that they consider people they can bare their soul to. Friendships typically can be described at several levels of relational depth—acquaintances, casual friends, close friends, and best friends. When you find that special, best friend they tend to exhibit quality traits like unconditional love, forgiveness, support, and empathy. As we go through life, we recognize those intimate friendships are sadly uncommon.

    The book of Proverbs speaks to the value of good friendships in this way – “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:23-24)”. A quick study of the word “friend” just in the book of Proverbs highlights the importance Scripture places on friendship and other intangible values like loyalty and integrity.

    One of the classic friendships portrayed in the Bible is that of King David and Johnathan, son of King Saul. The depth of their bond and willingness to sacrifice, even die for each other, stands as the model for what it means to be a best friend (See 1 Samuel 18:1-4). All of us need a friend who we can share tears with and someone that will not forsake us in the times of trouble.

    Yes, there is a friend like that we can call on; who does stick closer than a brother. The book of Romans in the Bible describes Him as the Son of God, Jesus Christ. The following verses portray the love and favor God has extended through His Son for all who will believe and trust Him.

    What Can Separate Us From His Love – Romans 8:31-35

    What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.  Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?  Romans 8:31-35

    Jesus did not hesitate to call His followers “friends” (John 15:14-16). Yet, as the Romans verses remind us, He is more than a friend but One who is an advocate for us to champion our battles and to pray for us in our time of need. More importantly, Jesus Christ can satisfy our greatest need, that of a Savior. He paid the price as the sinless sacrifice through His death on the cross for our sin. Something that we never could do on our own. Jesus tells us in the Gospel of John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

    Paul, the writer of the book of Romans, asks the rhetorical question “what can separate us from the love of Christ?“. Obviously, the answer is nothing. But Paul goes on to elaborate in a powerful discourse in verse 38 & 39. “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

    Jesus Christ is the One who will stick closer than a brother. The Gospel of John tells us “But as many as received Him (Jesus Christ), to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:  who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13

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  • The Greatest Reset

    Life Talk Devotion 03/30/2024 

    Since the throws of the pandemic, we have been hearing the idea bantered about by politicians and media pundits referred to as the Great Reset. The notion conveys a societal and economic change whereby we need to move to a new paradigm or start over because what we have been doing doesn’t work any longer. Depending on who you listen to, the idea of a drastic reset altering our daily life sparks hope in some and fear in others.

    On the first Easter Sunday the greatest reset in history took place. It was a day where the dynamic of life and death would be transformed eternally. When Jesus Christ rose from the dead by the power of God, He broke the bondage and sting of death (Romans 8:1-3) & (1 Corinthians 15:54-57) offering a freedom from its grasp to all who receive Him by faith. Jesus declared to His followers “Because I live, you will live also” (John 14:19). This is the message of Easter.

    Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  1 Peter 1:3-5

    The Apostle Peter describes the fruit of the resurrection as a “living hope” which cannot be squashed or fade away like so many dreams of this world. That same power that raised Christ from the dead holds secure a future and an inheritance reserved and guaranteed by God for those who call upon Jesus Christ. And what God reserves and keeps by His power no one can “reset”.

    It is because Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was raised from the dead that first Easter, He boldly declares “I am the first and the last, and the living One; and I was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of death and of Hades” (Revelation 1:17-18).  His victory over death has laid the foundation of an immutable and unshakeable eternal hope for all who trust in Him.

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  • If You Had Only Known

    Life Talk Devotion 03/19/2024 

    Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on the day we know as Palm Sunday was a spectacular event. The crowds roared in praise and adoration of Him. It describes people waving branches and laying their coats on the road as they would for a victorious king. The event was prophesied in the Old Testament book of Zechariah. “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem!  See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey – Ch 9 Verse 9.

    The crowd was expecting a King and a deliverer from Roman rule and oppression. But Jesus understood His mission and could see past the accolades to the events later that week and even beyond which would accomplish a deliverance and a freedom available to all people. The account is in the Gospel Luke for us.

    As soon as He was approaching, near the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen, shouting:

    “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord;
    Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”

    Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” But Jesus answered, “I tell you, if these become silent, the stones will cry out!” When He approached Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If you had known in this day, even you, the things which make for peace! But now they have been hidden from your eyes.” Luke 19:37-42

    “If you, even you, had only known…..” were the words of Jesus spoken in tears that day as He wept over the people for their lack of understanding of His mission and their true need. “My people perish from lack of knowledge” – Hosea 4:6.  

    In our human frailty, we are often blind to the realities about ourselves and will even ignore the truth about our greatest needs. Like the people of Jerusalem that first Palm Sunday, we need a Savior to deliver us from our sin. A terminal spiritual condition that is beyond the realm and power of a human king, a politician or even a superhero. Jesus came to deal with that foremost human issue – our sin nature.  Once we come to terms with Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, all other life issues are put in perspective.

    Palm Sunday began a week of events that were foretold by the prophets of old and laid the foundation for a restored relationship between God and man. The Crucifixion and Resurrection which soon followed Palm Sunday are the great truths of God in Christ; truths that if you are willing to seek, bring understanding, hope and everlasting life. 

    Unfortunately, most people of that day missed the signs and ignored Jesus’ words. Again today, people are not seeing the signs and are ignoring the Words of Jesus Christ. But He says: “Yes, I am coming quickly” Revelation 22:20.

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  • Of Blessing and Cursing

    Life Talk Devotion 02/28/2024 

    In the Old Testament book of Deuteronomy, chapters 29 and 30 highlight the end of a 40 year desert trek for the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt. Moses admonishes the stiffed necked Israelites with a message from God as they prepare to enter the promised land. Moses sees his days coming to an end as God has told him his death is near and the leadership of the people will transition to Moses’ second in command, Joshua.

    Moses delivers the final encouragements and warnings from God to the people he has loved, wrestled with and stood in the gap to protect when they let sin overwhelm their lives. The messages are direct and truthful as relayed from God which portrays the heart of this reluctant shepherd who cared for his flock and sought to protect them from themselves. But as with all of us, Moses acknowledges that the choice is theirs to do what is right in their lives or walk in the evil ways of the nations around them.

    “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil,  in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess.  Deuteronomy 30:15-16

    Each day we face choices that either honor God or dishonor His Name and over time those choices reveal our attitude and heart toward God. As Moses points out, it is our life choices that dictate the hand of God moving either in a blessing or a cursing upon our lives. Moses’ admonitions were not heeded by the people. The violation of God’s principles of right living defined by His Word that He gave the Israelites proved disastrous for them as a nation and a people. History proves the Israelites breached the limit of God’s patience after significant warnings hence suffering the devastating consequences of His judgement. The bottom line is that the choices we make whether as an individual or a nation will dictate God’s hand over our lives

    I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days;….. Deuteronomy 30:19-20a

    These are powerful verses that still apply today in principle to our walk with God. Yes, it is obvious none of us are perfect and all are declared by God as sinners and needing a Savior (Romans 3:23) . But when wickedness and evil overtake a nation or a people, God has no choice than to remove His blessing given He is just and righteous. He cannot give us a “wink, wink” as a pass to overt corruption and depravity in our lives or the actions of a nation. As He did with Israel, God reaches a point where He lifts the hand of favor and turns a people over to the consequences of their actions allowing both natural and divine penalties to have their way as described in Romans 1:18-32.

    No matter how far we stray, God is always calling us back to Himself. Many times in the Old Testament, the Israelites strayed in unbelief and rebellion towards God ignoring His Word. Yet, even with imminent judgement at hand, God’s tender call was for Israel to return to Him (i.e. – Jeremiah 3:1-12). God tells us His mercy is new everyday and does not come with an expiration date as long as we turn to Him.

    Today, God’s call to all people is to faith in His Son, Jesus Christ who gave Himself as a penalty for our sin. Each of us has that choice of how we will respond to God’s call of salvation through Christ. As Moses put it: “we have life and death set before you, therefore choose life”. For all who receive Jesus by faith, He said “I have come that you may have life and have it more abundantly” (John 10:9-11). Which do you choose?

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  • Here I Am

    Life Talk Devotion 02/22/2024

    Right at the beginning of the Old Testament book of Exodus, we get introduced to a guy named Moses.  Although the introduction to Moses is interesting, the introduction of Moses to God in chapter 3 is stunning. You know the story, how a burning bush catches Moses’ attention, and his life is forever changed:

    When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” Then he said, “Do not come near; take your sandals off your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” And he said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God.   Exodus 3:4-6

    Like I said, this exchange is stunning – Moses tells God, “Here I am”.  But then God says, “No no, Moses, you don’t get it.  The thing of consequence in this situation is not anything about you.  Rather, “I Am” is here.  I am the God you grew up hearing about.  I am the God who did all those things from generations gone by.  I am blazingly holy.  I Am Who I Am.”

    I’m not sure if it’s to Moses’ credit or to the credit of God’s overwhelming presence, but Moses does indeed have the right response.  He falls on his face before God, recognizing that he is way out of his league, and begins listening to what God has to say to him.

    Today, there’s (probably) no burning bush waiting for you in your front yard.  But the same God who appeared to Moses is here in his blazing, holy presence today.  And just as with Moses long ago, God is speaking to us today through His Son, Jesus Christ. 

    God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son (Jesus Christ), whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, …………   Hebrews 1:1-4a

    The question is, how will you respond to Jesus Christ and accept the salvation He offers by faith?  Will you repent of the sin you’re holding onto that becomes painfully evident in the light of God’s holiness?  Will you take action to believe on the One who can set you free? 

    Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.  John 14:6

    Today, God is calling your name to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ that you may be saved.  How will you respond?

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

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  • Longing For A Savior

    Life Talk Devotion 12/25/2023

    One of my favorite Christmas carols is “O Come, O Come Emmanuel”.  Besides the fact that I’m a sucker for Christmas songs in a minor key, I love the fact that this song looks forward toward the coming Savior, rather than backward at the Savior who has already come.  It recognizes the people’s need, their growing despair, and their utter dependence on God to save them when they cannot save themselves.

    Although the words were written a few hundred years ago, they draw upon the groaning, the growing desperation heard in the Prophets and Psalms through many long years, looking forward toward the coming of Messiah.  Psalm 80 captures this sentiment:

    O Lord God of hosts, How long will You be angry with the prayer of Your people?
    You have fed them with the bread of tears,
    And You have made them to drink tears in large measure. You make us an object of contention to our neighbors, And our enemies laugh among themselves. O God of hosts, restore us And cause Your face to shine upon us, and we will be saved.     Psalm 80:4-7

    When they were in bondage in Egypt, the people longed for a Savior.  When they had been defeated by their enemies and their sins over and over again during the time of the Judges, they longed for a Savior.  When they had been banished to Babylon, the people longed for a Savior.  And he finally came as a baby born in a manger who brought good news of great joy to all the people.  

    But not all received Him, and so today, people still long for a Savior – those in bondage to addiction, those beaten down by their sins time and time again, those separated from family and friends in loneliness that aches even more during the holidays.  And yet, the answer is still the same for all of them, and all of us – Jesus, the fulfillment of every longing heart and every searching soul.

    So today, if you’re the one still longing and searching, friend, come to Jesus.  He longs to embrace you and to take you in as His child.  And if you’ve already been changed by Jesus, share the good news you’ve found to be true like the shepherds that first Christmas night.  May God draw each one of us close to our Savior this Christmas.

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

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  • Growing In His Likeness

    Life Talk Devotion 12/18/2023

    In Colossians 1:9-12, we read the Apostle Paul’s prayer for the church in the city of Colosse:

    And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;  being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy; giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

    When I read this prayer, I see several ways in which as Christins we are to grow:

    • Growing in knowledge and wisdom
    • Growing in bearing fruit, the outward demonstration of what God has inwardly changed in you
    • Growing in strength for joyful patience
    • Growing in giving thanks

    To be very honest, that list seems really intimidating.  You can look at it and kick yourself for how you’re failing until you remember the very first part.  Paul was praying for these believers that they would grow in these things, not telling them they had already arrived.  The believers in Colosse still had a ways to go in all these areas.  Just like me.  And just like you.

    I want to encourage you next time you bow your head to pray.  It’s certainly not wrong to pray for Great Aunt Mildridge’s broken toe and Cousin Susie’s new job, but when is the last time you prayed for your friends, your family, or the people you sit with in Bible study and talk with in church? When is the last time you prayed for their growth or prayed for them to grow in wisdom to help in working out what God has worked into them, or that they would have joyful patience, and that they would grow in thankfulness?

    If we’re going to grow in these ways, we can’t do it alone.  We need our loving God to do in our lives what we could never do alone.  And we need to support and pray for each other and for each of us to return the favor.  May God be glorified as we grow ever more like Jesus Christ, His Son.

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

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  • Christmas Is Calling

    Life Talk Devotion 12/23/2023 

    The first Christmas was dramatically announced by a chorus of heavenly hosts praising God and saying:“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14). The message of great joy heralded the birth of the Savior, who is Christ the King. However, it was not a grand proclamation to the religious elite or to lofty kings of the day that reverberated over the entire earth. No, the decree came to lowly shepherds on a Bethlehem hill as they tended their sheep. The angels bid the herdsmen to come and see what God had done and experience the joy of His promise fulfilled.

    It is fitting that the news of the Savior’s birth that first Christmas was declared to those simple shepherds. For the call to faith in Jesus Christ is a simple call. Romans 10:13 puts it this way ” For whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved”. Believing the mysteries of the Kingdom of God, the miraculous, and the prophetic as told to us in the Word of God takes an uncomplicated faith. It requires the innate trust in the character of God and His love for us.

    Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.  Luke 2:10

    There are many voices that chatterer at us each day. They come in many forms and each one vies for our attention, to hear their message and capture our heart. But there is also a quiet, eternal voice that beacons us to believe and trust in the message of Christmas. It may not be the heralding of an angelic host today but more the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirt prompting all to come and believe what God has done through His Son, Jesus Christ.

    The voice of Christmas is still calling. It utters its eternal message, one full of hope and joy if we will receive it. Are you listening? The proclamation has not changed. “For, there was born to you that first Christmas in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”. 

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  • An Unwavering Truth

    Life Talk Devotion 11/23/2023

    The media has been bombarding us with not so subtle alarmist cries that life as we know it needs to be reset or drastically altered. Whether its climate change, socio-economic instabilities or geo-political saber rattling, a united heralding confronts us daily with the urgent call to usher in a new order of thought and life.

    The idea of a reset conveys change, moving to a different paradigm or starting over because potentially what we have been doing doesn’t work any longer. Depending on who you listen to, this idea sparks hope in some for a new utopian era and fear in others that it will lead to an Orwellian world marshaled by vain and imperious technocrats. Either way, a person would have to be secluded on a desert island for the last several years not to realize life as we know it seems to be morphing before our very eyes and a shift to a new worldly reality may be on our doorsteps. Like it or not, something is in fact rumbling under the surface.

    However, no matter what turbulence swirls around us and how the news of the day is spun, followers of Christ should not be subject to fear because we have a foundation of truth that cannot be reset. Many will try to deny, twist or impugn the truth God has ordained but like the laws of physics His truth is immutable and unshakeable. Time and history have proven God is faithful and His Word is sure.

    The Great Reservation- 1 Peter 1:3-5

    Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.  1 Peter 1:3-5

    In 1 Peter chapter 1, it conveys an incredible and unwavering truth that is promised to all followers of Christ. It is a promise of a hope that is alive and enduring which cannot be squashed like so many dreams of this world. Embracing this hope births a capacity to see beyond the present, to see what will be and to know the Lord has given you a future.

    The assurance of our living hope is anchored in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. When Jesus rose from the dead by the power of God, He broke the bondage and sting of death that held us captive (Romans 8:1-3) & (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). That same power that conquered death holds secure our future and is ready to be revealed to those who call upon Jesus Christ.   

    Coupled with that promise is an inheritance that has been reserved in heaven which God has declared as irrevocable for those who trust Jesus Christ as Savior. While earthly treasures, inheritances and dreams rust and fade, surrounding that promise of a heavenly inheritance is the guarantee it will not become defiled or corrupted because just like our salvation, it is sealed in Christ.

    The vain titans of the modern world may call for an earthly cultural and financial reset. But no one can reset what God reserves in Heaven and keeps by His power for those who love Jesus Christ. Yes, there will be a day when a Great Reset does come, but it will be one that is initiated and executed by the Lord Jesus Christ, not man (see Revelation 21:1-8) .

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  • Throne of Grace

    Life Talk Devotion 11/20/2023

    In May of this year, the world was mesmerized by the pomp and pageantry of the coronation of Prince Charles as the new King of England. The guest list to attend the crowning of the new king was limited to approximately 2,000 of the world’s elite who each received a personal, gold-foiled invitation marking the historic day. The rest of the world was consigned to viewing the extravaganza via the major networks, streaming outlets and social media. An estimated 18 million people watched the event knowing they had no hope of personally attending the epoch affair.

    Like the coronation, access to the royal courts of kings is customarily limited to a select few such as those of the royal household, nobles and dignitaries. Very rarely do commoners gain an audience with the king in his imperial court or have the opportunity to attend royal affairs. Entry into the king’s presence without a sovereign invitation, the proper etiquette or even appropriate attire could bring about unintended consequences for the interloper.

    Unlike the King of England and other human monarchies, access to the God of Heaven and His throne is an open invitation. Hebrews 4:14-16 tells us that through faith in Jesus Christ we can come boldly and confidently to God’s throne to present our needs to Him.

    A Great High Priest – Hebrews 4:14-16

    Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.  For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16

    Where can you go these days to find empathy, authentic grace and mercy when the chips are down? It seems those intangibles are in short supply in the trenches of life. The God of Heaven offers us this privilege to enter into His courts and have an audience with the One who offers true grace and mercy.

    That invitation to come to the throne of grace is written in the blood of Jesus Christ. His death on the cross made the way possible and opens the door to the courts of Heaven to all who call upon His Name. As the great High Priest of Heaven, Christ is our advocate who comes alongside to champion our battles. He will never turn away those who earnestly seek Him.

    What’s holding you back from coming boldly to God’s throne of grace? You have a personal invitation. Through Jesus Christ you will find mercy and grace in your time of need.

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  • Seeking God

    Life Talk Devotion 11/15/2023

    The Bible is packed full of admonitions to seek God along with the promises of blessings to those who do. But, many have commented that seeking God is like playing a game of Hide and Seek. God does all the hiding and we do all the seeking. But most of those people who say that are searching in all the wrong places and wandering down endless “goat trails” after a Hollywood contrived god.

    Seeking God is more than an academic or intellectual exercise. Besides a desire to know the one God who is, it requires faith, along with a heart committed to truth. For, God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth. (John 4:24). The God of Heaven as revealed in the Bible has given us promises and the keys which unlock the door to discovering Him and His will. Playing by our own rules is not an option if we want to genuinely seek the true God as revealed in Scripture..

    “By Faith”

    The Great Reward – Hebrews 11:6

    And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

    Hebrews Chapter 11 is considered the great faith chapter of the Bible. It surveys men and women of faith who chose to trust God taking Him at His Word. In each of the examples of the lives listed in that chapter, they chose to view life through the eyes of faith in the God who keeps His promises rather than their own perspective or circumstances.

    Hebrews 11:6 offers a framework for both the prerequisite and the result of seeking God. Believing God exists obviously is primary. But the verse combines both the aspect of acknowledgment of God’s existence and also trust in who He is. Genuine faith recognizes God as the Creator and Lord while trusting the promises He has made to those who believe Him. Like the people in Hebrews Chapter 11, faith entrusts our very being to the One who gives us breath. This is the faith that pleases God.

    “The Reward”

    Our earnest and heart-driven efforts to seek God pleases Him and He honors those desires with the reward of drawing close to us. Jeremiah 29:11-13 says. “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”  God rewards the seeking heart with the promise if we draw close to Him, He will draw close to us (James 4:8).

    “Unlocking The Door”

    The Book of Hebrews and the Bible itself center around Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The promises and rewards as revealed in Scripture come through Him and are found in Him. The fullness of the Godhead dwells in Christ (Colossians 2:9) and it is by faith in Jesus Christ and His redemptive work, the door to seeking God is unlocked. Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6).

    “The Urgency”

    There are verses in Scripture that associate seeking God to a sense of urgency. Isaiah 55:6 is one of those – “Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” This verse implies that there may come a time when it is too late. The context is that God is offering a time of grace and pardon to all who come to Him but that opportunity may not be always present. Today is the day to seek Him. Your reward will be great through Jesus Christ.

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  • The Fragrance of Worship

    Life Talk Devotion 10/27/2023

    During the life of Jesus as recorded in John 12, we’re told the story of one of Jesus’ friends, Mary, who honors Jesus with her affection:

    The Fragrance of Worship – John 12:3

    Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. John 12:3

    The scent of the perfume grew and grew until the whole house was blessed with the pleasing scent.  Then Jesus says something in Mark’s account of the story that he never said of any other act during the gospels: “Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” (You can read the entire account here – Mark 14:3-9)

    What I find interesting is that Mary’s worship of Jesus was very personal.  It involved physically touching his feet and personally giving him a precious gift.  And yet that act of worship grew to be quickly noticed by others throughout the house, and Jesus says that her act of worship would also be shared wherever the Gospel is shared throughout the world.  And here we are, several thousand miles and two thousand years removed, still speaking of it.

    While Mary’s was a unique event, I think there’s a general principle here too that’s applicable today.  In blessing the heart of Jesus, she also became a blessing and an encouragement to others near and far.  The world can’t help but notice when they behold extraordinary, sincere, loving worship of God, whether it’s a life of praise and prayer, acts of kindness and generosity, or a steady lifetime of pouring out your life for others.  There’s a certain pleasing aroma about a person like that, something that draws others into worship as well.  Because if the gift given is that great, then the one to whom it’s given must be great indeed.

    My encouragement today is to take this opportunity, this hour, this day, to worship Jesus with abandon, to give of yourself sacrificially because He is worth that and so much more.  May the heart of God be blessed by your gift, and may that worship grow by drawing in the hearts of others who see and are blessed and spurred on to worship as well.

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

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  • Hiding From God

    Life Talk Devotion 10/17/2023

    Lately, I have been reminiscing about my youth and all the games played with the other neighborhood kids. It has stirred up some fond memories of the simple and carefree days where worries were few. Hide and Seek is one of those games we enjoyed in the cool of the summer evenings when the sun started to set. It is a classic game that I am sure has been part of the human childhood experience in perpetuity. The adventure of hiding in secret stirs the adventurous nature of our spirits.

    But as we grow into adults, many of us still want to play a form of hide and seek in our relationships; both human and with God. Often we hide our true self in our human relationships out of fear of not being accepted or we pretend to be something we are not to impress others. Sometimes we go the avoidance route, dodging deep relationships with people to shield ourselves from hurts and our insecurities. It is easy to hide behind a “mask” in our human relationships but not so easy with God. Psalm 139 reveals God’s intimate understanding of us down to the very core of our being.

    “Are You Hiding From God?”

    Where Can I Flee – Psalm 139:1-12

    You have searched me, Lord,
        and you know me.
     You know when I sit and when I rise;
        you perceive my thoughts from afar.
    You discern my going out and my lying down;
        you are familiar with all my ways.
    Before a word is on my tongue
        you, Lord, know it completely.
     You hem me in behind and before,
        and you lay your hand upon me.
     Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
        too lofty for me to attain.

    Where can I go from your Spirit?
        Where can I flee from your presence?
     If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
        if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
     If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
        if I settle on the far side of the sea,
     even there your hand will guide me,
        your right hand will hold me fast.
     If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
        and the light become night around me,”
     even the darkness will not be dark to you;
        the night will shine like the day,
        for darkness is as light to you. Psalm 139: 1-12

    But that begs the question: “Can we really hide from God? Oh, we can run from Him and yes we can fool ourselves into believing He does not exist. But, we cannot hide “who we are” from Him. And it is this reality that exposes how overtly vulnerable we are to His knowledge of us. For He see us as we are. He knows the depth of our sin, the shallowness of our love and too ………..our very longing to be something different than that person with the mask.

    A thoughtful reading of these verses reveals only a tender and intimate recognition that God knows us for who we are and that nothing is held in secret from Him. He sees our frailties and our insecurities without condemnation yet still expresses a deep abiding desire that we should come to Him.

    Jesus put it this way: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-29). It is faith in Jesus Christ that frees us to leave the hidden shadows and take the mask off. Christ Jesus bore the weight of our sin on the cross and for those who trust in Him there is no longer any condemnation.

    So instead of hiding from God, He invites each of us to make Him our secret place, our refuge in Christ. “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2).

    The call at the end of a game of Hide and Seek is “Come out, come out wherever you are”. The game is over. It is time to go home to God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ.

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  • What’s In A Name?

    A “Life Talk Devotion” – 09/30/2023

    Many of us at our church are working on a Read-Through-the-Bible-in-a-Year plan that walks you through the Bible according to how the events took place.  I enjoy the Old Testament, but it is admittedly a breath of fresh air when you turn that final page from the Old Testament to the New Testament and jump into the story of Jesus.

    However,  just when you thought you’d left all those lists of names behind in the Old Testament, Matthew decides to jump in on just such a list in chapter 1 of his Gospel:

    Who will grow up behind you?

    Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram,… Matthew 1:2-3

    While there are some interesting nuggets in there if you know the backstory, I wouldn’t blame you too much if your mind just drifted off to how your fantasy football team is going to do this week.  However, I want you to stop and think about those names one more time.

    In each one of those names is a person who was born, had parents of one kind or another, grew up, skinned their knees, learned things, made mistakes, loved, cried, and ultimately closed their eyes one last time and went to meet the God who formed them.  Each of them did a lot of things I’m sure they believed were important, and some of those things may indeed have been important in their own way.  And yet all we get here on nearly all of these people is their name and the name of the son they had who grew to take their place and start the cycle all over again.

    My point is this:  Your life has value, because your Creator made you.  But regardless of your accomplishments and money, most of the value you will leave to others here will be in the people you invested in – your kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews, dear friends, people you met in a single day and left an impression on and people you toiled your whole life to help shape.  These people will continue to grow long after you lay down your own burdens.

    So the question to you is this:  Are you investing your time, talent, and treasure today into things that will fade away from memory not long after the dirt has covered your resting place?  Or are you investing in persons marked by the image of God who will enter eternity?

    By Contributing Author: Tim Piette

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  • All You Need is Love

    “A Life Talk Devotion” – 09/12/2023

    In their 1967 hit song “All You Need Is Love”, the Beatles expressed an instinctive human need that resonated with people worldwide. The basic message catapulted the song to number one riding the charts for 11 straight weeks. Brian Epstein, the Beatles’ manager said of the song: “It was an inspired song and they really wanted to give the world a message. The nice thing about it is that it cannot be misinterpreted. It is a clear message saying that love is everything.”

    The song was wildly popular because each one of us has an innate yearning to be loved and to relish that love. That longing captivates our heart and motivates us, even unwittingly, we seek love like water finds its natural path while many times in ‘all the wrong places’.

    Generally, our understanding of love is shaped by the culture and people around us which tends to be a conditional form of love taking on the persona of the society at large. If you look a certain way, perform according to expectation, or say the ‘right’ things, they will love you. In other words, it is a “tit for tat” qualified love. We mistakenly attribute this same type of love to God believing we have to perform within certain religious boundaries to garner His love.

    Even further, our perception of God’s love for us is often based on how we feel about ourselves. If we get up in the morning and take a look in the mirror, we may not like that person looking back at us. And one of the natural progressions that follows is “if I don’t like who I am, how can others love me”, and of course “how can God love me?”. But God’s love is not subject to the ups and downs of a bad day or hormonal peaks and valleys. His love is constant and consistent because He is love and the author of love.

    It was not until I began to read the Bible that I saw a different picture of love; not just God’s love for me but also how I am to love others. The Gospel of John defines a love and a relationship with God that is not based on religious practice, rituals, traditions or even how I look. It is an unconditional radical love that Jesus invites all of us to accept and receive.

    This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.  1 John 4:9-10

    The Beatles hit, however poignant, failed to tell the listener how to find the real love we all need. But God tells us how and has demonstrated His love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Jesus Christ died for us (Romans 5:06-10). This is the authentic message of love and what God wants us to know. Each one of us is unique and valuable in His eyes whereby He relentlessly pursues us, calling us to faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. For He is the full expression and power of God’s love in that He bore my sins and yours on the cross taking the full weight of our sin and guilt.

    In writing “All You Need Is Love”, John Lennon recognized not only the universal human need to be loved but was possibly expressing his own heart’s longing. The true satisfaction for the heart is to know the love of God. And God calls all of us to receive His love through Jesus Christ (Yeshua) as Redeemer and Savior. The Redeemer’s love is what we all need.

    Courtesy of Chosen People Ministries / Trevor Rubenstein

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  • Jesus From a Different Perspective

    Life Talk Devotion 06/24/2023 –

    Today I am going to challenge your perspective of Jesus Christ. The contemporary view of Jesus that we hear from pulpits, media and the academics is someone who was a meek teacher of beautiful parables and life lessons we should aspire to live by and who unfortunately got nailed to a cross because of the politics of the day. Within this lop-sided cultural consensus, it is only palatable to acknowledge Jesus as the non-threatening Good Shepard who seeks after the one lost sheep. But the book of Revelation provides a different side of Jesus Christ as the risen Son of God.

    Jesus From a Different Perspective:

    Then I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lamp-stands, and in the midst of the seven lamp-stands One (Jesus) like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the feet and girded about the chest with a golden band. His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and His eyes like a flame of fire; His feet were like fine brass, as if refined in a furnace, and His voice as the sound of many waters; He had in His right hand seven stars, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged sword, and His countenance was like the sun shining in its strength.  And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, “Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hades and of Death. . Revelation 1:12-18

    Rarely do many in contemporary culture and modern enlightened churches dare to expound on the Jesus Christ as the God Man described in Revelation chapter 1 and throughout the book. The attributes of Jesus detailed there as the Son of Man threatens their hollowed out view of an ambivalent god who politely nods at sin. And even more rare do those sermons breach the subject of the Jesus who will unleash the Tribulation judgements upon the world and return at His Second Coming to claim the title deed of the Earth. It has become culturally insensitive to consider Jesus more than the emasculated human proclaimed from the woke pulpits today. The very thought of the gentle carpenter from Nazareth as an avenger of righteousness rattles their sensibilities.

    The masses laud the Jesus who delivered the Sermon on the Mount but bristle at the thought of that same Savior pronouncing the fury of hell where the worm never dies. However, the Word of God is not describing two different Jesus’. The Bible does not offer us the option to believe in the one Jesus and reject the other. However, it does force each us to wrestle with the objective truth the Bible delivers about Jesus Christ and the salvation plan of God.

    The Bible clearly states that the same Jesus who calls those who are weary to come to Him is also the Risen One, the Warrior King who will vanquish His enemies and rule with a rod of iron in the Millennium. The Day will come when you and I will face this bright and shining One described in Revelation. And on that day every knee will bow and confess Jesus Christ as Lord to the delight of some and shocking revelation of others.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”  

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  • A Living Hope

    Life Talk Devotion 06/22/2023

    Hope these days seems to be a fragile and scarce commodity for the average person. As we look around our nation and the world, confidence in the institutions and leaders that we have trusted in has been visibly shaken.

    The framework of hope is always built on a foundation of trust. When trust erodes whether in individuals or institutions, hope correspondingly begins to crumble. God never intended for us to look to man or his institutions to be the foundation of our hope. Yet one of our greatest human weaknesses is attributing too much hope in men and their promises.

    A Living Hope – 1 Peter 1:3-5

    Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3-5

    The value and veracity of hope is only as good as the character of the one in who we place our hope. In 1 Peter 1:3-5, God offers us a hope that is based on the strength of His character and what has already been accomplished through Jesus Christ. The cross of Christ points us to an unshakeable and living hope where sin has been vanquished and death has lost it’s grip because Jesus Christ Himself now lives!

    As Peter reminds us in the above verses, this living hope has a guarantee of an inheritance that no one can steal, it cannot decay or be revoked. God keeps it under His wings reserved by His authority and power for all who trust in Jesus Christ and His redemptive work. It is a hope with a solid foundation because the One who promises is trustworthy; for He magnifies His Word above His Name (Psalm 138:2).

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  • Only A Whisper

    Life Talk Devotion 06/16/2023

    Only a Whisper – 1 Kings 19:09-13

    And there he (Elijah) went into a cave, and spent the night in that place; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and He said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 10 So he said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”

     Then He (God) said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; 12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.

    13 So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 1 Kings 19:9-13

    In these verses we find the prophet Elijah hiding in a cave having a pity party. Many of us can relate to Elijah sitting alone feeling as though all is lost. But God pursues the commiserating prophet challenging his sudden capitulation to fear and worry.

    The backstory to these verses (See – 1 Kings 18:20-40) tells how Elijah the prophet stood strong in his faith to challenge the 450 prophets of the false god Baal. The Lord used Elijah to humiliate and overcome the delusional prophets while proving His supremacy as the One true God. Elijah didn’t waiver in His trust in the Lord through the dramatic encounter. However, when the spectacle was over, fear overwhelms him as his life is threatened and consequently he flees into the wilderness. It seems an unexpected turn about for the staunch prophet of God unless we remember he was just a mere man vulnerable to the same fragilities that plague you and me.

    But in a beautiful expression of God’s understanding of our weaknesses, He redirects the focus of the forlorn prophet from fear to faith. Elijah had taken his eyes off the Lord as the circumstances around him appeared grim. The Lord reassures Elijah of His love and faithfulness with only a whisper. And with that whisper, Elijah finds strength realizing God has not abandoned him.

    When we are sitting in a corner having our own pity party, we need to remember what God asked Elijah -“What are you doing here?”. Just like Elijah, God is admonishing us – “Today is not the day to shrink back in fear and self-pity.” It is the day to be of faith and good courage knowing that if God is for us who can be against us.

    God has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1-4) in these last days and He (Jesus) has given us the reassuring promise to never leave us or forsake us. The reminder of that promise may not come in a mighty wind, an earthquake or a blazing fire but rather in a still, small voice speaking to our spirit. So, stand fast in faith and courage!

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  • What Shall We Do?

    Life Talk Devotion 05/26/2023 –

    What Shall We Do? –

    “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.”

    37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?”

    38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” Acts 2:36-39

    On the Day of Pentecost, Peter addresses the crowd of people who gathered to see what the commotion was all about. Little did they know that the Holy Spirt would move in their lives too. Peter explains that “no, we are not drunk with wine” but God is moving as prophesied by Joel in the Old Testament.

    When God begins to move in our lives and we seek answers, we cannot help but ask “what shall we do?”. Peter then offers the only real and lasting answer to their question. That answer is still good today when we seek answers to life’s big question.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • The Promise of The Father

    Life Talk Devotion 05/25/2023 –

    The Promise of The Father:

    And being assembled together with them, He (Jesus) commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; 5 for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” 6 Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, “Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea andSamaria, and to the end of the earth.” Acts 1:4-8

    As we approach Pentecost Sunday this week, let us consider that all who believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior are part of an incredible body known as His Church. We are not a building, religion or denomination but a group of people from every tribe, tongue, nation and people knitted together through the Holy Spirit as the body of Jesus Christ. A day is soon coming when we will stand before our King and Savior to say ” Alleluia! Salvation and glory and honor and power belong to the Lord our God!”. Remember to hold fast to the promises you have received by God in His Word. Maranatha!

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • There Is Mercy

    Life Talk Devotion 05/24/2023 –

    Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive To the voice of my supplications. If You, Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?  But there is forgiveness with You, That You may be feared.  I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, And in His word I do hope. My soul waits for the Lord More than those who watch for the morning– Yes, more than those who watch for the morning. O Israel, hope in the Lord; For with the Lord there is mercy, And with Him is abundant redemption. And He shall redeem Israel From all his iniquities. Psalm 130

    A friend walking at his lunch break came upon this scribbled on a deck railing and shared it with me. Although it is a great message, it does not explain why there is mercy for every sin.

    We all need God’s mercy and He has already given us the path to receive it. His mercy for sin comes through Jesus Christ. He took our sin to the cross and suffered death so that both mercy and grace can be offered to those who believe in Him. Here is a great Scripture that explains what God has already done for us – Titus 3:3-7. You can also check out the link below on how to receive God’s mercy through faith in Jesus Christ.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Not As I Will

    Life Talk Devotion 05/23/2023 –

    Not As I Will:

    Then He (Jesus) said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”

    39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”

    40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

    42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”  Matthew 26:38-42

    In yesterday’s post, the topic was knowing and conforming our heart to the will of God. In today’s Scripture, we see that wrestling to align our hearts to God’s will is not outside the norm of walking by faith. Even Jesus, the Son of God, in His humanity anguished over the Father’s perfect will and purpose that lay before Him as the Savior. His trust in the Father, even unto death, transformed the world and set the course for eternity. Therein, Jesus is our perfect example in all things even in conforming our heart to God’s will.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Life’s Sweet Spot

    Life Talk Devotion 05/22/2023 –

    Life’s Sweet Spot:

    May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble;
    May the name of the God of Jacob defend you;
    2 May He send you help from the sanctuary,
    And strengthen you out of Zion;
    3 May He remember all your offerings,
    And accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah

    4 May He grant you according to your heart’s desire,
    And fulfill all your purpose.
    5 We will rejoice in your salvation,
    And in the name of our God we will set up our banners!
    May the Lord fulfill all your petitions.

    6 Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed;
    He will answer him from His holy heaven
    With the saving strength of His right hand.

    7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;
    But we will remember the name of the Lord our God.
    8 They have bowed down and fallen;
    But we have risen and stand upright.

    9 Save, Lord!
    May the King answer us when we call. Psalm 20

    Having played baseball growing up, I understand the importance of connecting with the sweet spot on the bat when hitting the ball. It is the perfect place on the bat that drives the ball further and with solid power. Golfers also talk about the the sweet spot on their club. In both instances it takes understanding, endurance and focus to achieve the sweet spot.

    It is no different for the Christian who is seeking the will of God for their life. That sweet spot in life comes when our heart’s desire aligns with the will of God. In verse four of Psalm 20, it speaks of God granting His followers their heart’s desire so that our purpose in life is fulfilled. The implication is not God bending His will to fit our desires but more that our desires harmonize with His will to accomplish His intended purpose for us. When we make contact with that sweet spot, it is a life home run every time.

    Are you hitting life’s sweet spot? Reading John Chapter 3 is a great start. Jesus has a discussion with a man who is seeking life’s greatest sweet spot.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Look Up Your Redemption Draws Near

    Life Talk Devotion 05/19/2023 –

    Look Up Your Redemption Draws Near:

    25 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; 26 men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:25-28

    Jesus told His followers to watch for His coming. He predicted there would be signs on earth, in the heavens and in society. Do you know some of the signs to look for? Check out an article I posted called “The Ultimate Planned Deception and End Times Lies”.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Psalm 147 – He Calls Them By Name

    Life Talk Devotion 05/18/2023 –

    Psalm 147- He Calls Them By Name:

    Praise the Lord!
    For it is good to sing praises to our God;
    For it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.

    2 The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
    He gathers together the outcasts of Israel.
    3 He heals the brokenhearted
    And binds up their wounds.
    4 He counts the number of the stars;
    He calls them all by name.
    5 Great is our Lord, and mighty in power;
    His understanding is infinite.
    6 The Lord lifts up the humble;
    He casts the wicked down to the ground.

    7 Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
    Sing praises on the harp to our God,
    8 Who covers the heavens with clouds,
    Who prepares rain for the earth,
    Who makes grass to grow on the mountains. Psalm 147:1-8

    The James Hubbell space telescope was launched in 1990 with the mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. The images of deep space it has captured to-date have been stunning. I encourage you the visit the site at hubblesite.org to see the vast beauty and majesty that declare the glory of God.

    Man’s desire to conquer the unknown and satisfy his insatiable appetite to seek his origins cannot be understated. But there are answers to these great mysteries that we can only presume to know through scientific means. Yet the answers we seek God already knows. If He knows the secrets of His creation and names of the vast untold number of stars that populate the universe, why should it surprise us that He knows us by name and passionately cares for us longing for us to know Him intimately? If you desire to know how to have a relationship with Jesus Christ – Check out this page.

    Photo Credits: SCIENCE: NASA, ESA, STScI 
    IMAGE PROCESSING: Varun Bajaj (STScI), Joseph DePasquale (STScI), Jennifer Mack (STScI) 

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • They Sang A New Song

    Life Talk Devotion 05/17/2023 –

    They Sang a New Song:

     Now when He (Jesus) had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. 9 And they sang a new song, saying:

    “You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, 10 And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.”

    11 Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne, the living creatures, and the elders; and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands, 12 saying with a loud voice:

    “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain
    To receive power and riches and wisdom,
    And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” 13 And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, I heard saying:

    “Blessing and honor and glory and power
    Be to Him who sits on the throne,
    And to the Lamb, forever and ever!” 14 Then the four living creatures said, “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders fell down and worshiped Him who lives forever and ever. Revelation 5:8-14

    The time of Jacob’s Trouble is about to unfold, the nations will be judged and the Lamb of God / Jesus will take possession of what is rightfully His. With the breaking of the first seal on the scroll, the Day of the Lord is about to be unleashed by the Lamb. All of Heaven waits for this moment. The glory of worship bursts forth in a new song for He who is worthy has prevailed to open the scroll and loose the seals. A moment laid down in eternity past has arrived. And you who have believed on Jesus Christ will be there to witness the glory and splendor!

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Searching For a Life Change

    Life Talk Devotion 05/16/2023 –

    Searching For a Life Change:

    3 For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.. Titus 3:3-7

    Many of us are always searching and hoping to find the next big thing to change or transform our life. Advertisers know they can stir up this restless hunger in us to buy their products, self-help books and even expensive exercise equipment. Usually we get bored and move on to the next thing. It seems to be a vicious circle with no lasting change.

    These verses of Scripture describe a genuine life change through faith in Jesus Christ. In one sense it is a before and after picture with the Apostle Paul, the author, first telling us what we once were. He then goes on to explain the source of the change and what happens when Jesus Christ comes into a life. Each of the attributes of change (verses 4-7) he mentions is either something done for us or given to us by grace through the work of Christ. Together they describe the point when the power of a life change enters in and hope takes over!

    If verse 3 describes you like it did me once, you can stop searching for that illusive next big thing. Real and lasting change can be yours too by calling on Jesus Christ by faith. You can check out what is means to have faith in Jesus Christ by hitting the ‘More Info button below.’

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • One Little Word

    Life Talk Devotion 05/15/2023 –

    One Little Word:

    And He (Jesus) said to them, “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world.24 Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.” John 8:23-24

    It is amazing how one little word can alter the meaning of a discussion or sentence. In verse 24 above, the original Gospel manuscripts do not contain the word ‘He’ (in bold). It was added by the translators to our English Bibles. Try re-reading the passages without the He in it.

    In the original text Jesus is declaring that He is the “I AM” which is the personal Name for God in Hebrew (Yahweh or Jehovah). The Jewish Pharisees He is speaking to understood clearly Jesus is saying He is the One who appeared to Moses in the burning bush. This was a stunning statement by Jesus and a stumbling block for the Pharisees. It also is the reason they sought to kill Jesus accusing Him of blasphemy.

    Even today this same declaration of Jesus as God in the flesh is a point of unbelief for many. But Jesus does not offer us any other option saying “if you do not believe that I am, you will die in your sins.” . The hard truth is you cannot have Jesus without having Him as God incarnate.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • The Blessed and The Unblessed

    Life Talk Devotion 05/13/2023 –

    The Blessed and The Unblessed:

    Blessed is the man
    Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
    Nor stands in the path of sinners,
    Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
    But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
    And in His law he meditates day and night.
    He shall be like a tree
    Planted by the rivers of water,
    That brings forth its fruit in its season,
    Whose leaf also shall not wither;
    And whatever he does shall prosper.

    The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

    For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish. Psalm 1

    How beautiful is the life that is blessed by God. The fruit of trusting and believing His promises are so sweet.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Two Roads To Humility

    Life Talk Devotion 05/12/2023 –

    Two Roads To Humility:

    Also He (Jesus) spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:  Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’  I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 18:9-14

    Jesus uses this parable to reveal that the way of humility has two paths. In the parable we see two men who had differing assessments of their lives and more importantly, differing attitudes toward their need for God.

    The tax collector understood his true need and offered no pretense to hide behind. He acknowledged his sinful heart reverently seeking God’s mercy. The Pharisee on the other hand carried an elevated view of himself believing he was justified before God because of his own works. In his way, the Pharisee was saying to God “I don’t need your mercy”. Both men had the same heart issue and needed God’s mercy. The difference is one recognized it while the other was blind to the truth of his life.

    Ultimately the road to humility has to be traveled by each of us. As Jesus points out, its either now or later. But its all about which toll do we want to pay.

    The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. Psalm 34:18

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Beyond Imagination

    Life Talk Devotion 05/11/2023 –

    Beyond Imagination:

    For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself. Philippians 3:20-21

    What is in-store for the followers of Jesus Christ is beyond our imagination. This short snippet of Scripture from Philippians offers a hint of the glory we will share and excites an anticipation for Christ’s return. The Apostle Paul tells us that we will be transformed into a body like the glorified, resurrected body of Jesus Christ. What hope this stirs in us for the future and the expectation that all of the earthly baggage we experience now will be no more. Maranatha!

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

    Photo courtesy of the Psalm 19 Project – check it out – Psalm 19 Project

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  • Hurry Up God

    Life Talk Devotion 05/10/2023 –

    Hurry Up God:

    Make haste, O God, to deliver me!
    Make haste to help me, O Lord! Let them be ashamed and confounded
    Who seek my life;
    Let them be turned back and confused
    Who desire my hurt.
    Let them be turned back because of their shame,
    Who say, “Aha, aha!”

    Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; And let those who love Your salvation say continually, “Let God be magnified!”

    But I am poor and needy;
    Make haste to me, O God!
    You are my help and my deliverer;
    O Lord, do not delay. Psalm 70 NKJV

    Being in the middle of trials and difficulties can lead us down an unexpected path we don’t want to go. Like David (the author of Psalm 70) we want them done and over with as soon as possible. Our prayer and cry to God is “hurry up, get me out of this”. But maybe being in the middle of it all is where God wants us. In between David’s “make haste” pleas to God, notice he slows down, takes a breath by faith and considers the character of God. He then rejoices and magnifies the Name of God knowing there is One who is bigger than his problems. Next time you are in the middle of it, maybe it is time to take a deep breath and magnify our Lord.

    “The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.”   M.P. Bramble

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  • Do Not Forget

    Life Talk Devotion 05/09/2023 –

    Do Not Forget:

    Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come.  Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Hebrews 13:12-16 NKJV

    The writer of Hebrews reminds those who are believers in Christ that we have been set free being sanctified by the blood of Jesus. In that freedom our focus can now be offering the sacrifice of praise to God instead of bearing the guilt and burden of our own sin. To those set free in Christ, praise and doing good is now the sacrifice God is pleased with.

    TRUTH MATTERS – The heart of true faith is rooted in and guided by truth; truth established by God through the essence of His nature and His Word. Without His truth as revealed in the Bible, man can only stumble in his effort to know Him and be redeemed by Him.   M.P. Bramble

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  • No Greater Love

    04/07/2023

    Jesus Said: This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.   John 15:12-13

    Some years ago on our summer treks to the beach, we would stop and visit family who lived along the Chesapeake Bay. Our kids loved their small community beach. During our stays the conversation would naturally gravitate to spiritual things with our hosts being curious about our faith in Jesus Christ. Their understanding of faith was centered around church attendance, rituals, and good works to please God rather a faith born out of God’s unmerited grace through Christ.

    Pat was particularly interested as never having explored the Bible before. Over time she seemed to grasp the depth of love Jesus had for her and His desire for her to know Him more fully. Unfortunately, we received a letter that Pat had passed away in a drowning accident. She was babysitting several neighbor children at the community beach when they were caught in a rip tide being pulled out to deep water. Pat managed to save the lives of the children but lost her own during the rescue.

    Each day we wake up not fully knowing what any day may bring. We rarely plan to place ourselves in the middle of a crisis much less a life and death event. Our human mind tends to believe all things will remain the same from one day to the next. This condition is referred to as the ‘normalcy bias’ which leads people to expect tomorrow will be like today without any anticipation of life changing events occurring. Then suddenly there comes a moment out of nowhere when everything changes in life.

    Jesus spoke to His disciples several times of His impending death on a cross. But in their mind they could not foresee or comprehend that reality. The crucifixion of Jesus Christ was just such a point in time and history when everything changed spiritually for mankind. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to lay down His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:27-29). That day the meaning of ‘No Greater Love’ was on full display and the dynamic between God and man was forever altered having made peace through the blood of His cross.

    For it pleased the Father that in Him (Jesus) all the fullness should dwell, and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. Colossians 1:19-20

    The shed blood on the cross by Christ was the means whereby the requirements for man’s sin was paid for by Jesus. The wrath of God was poured out on Him for the sins of the world. With the sin debt now paid, God offers reconciliation and peace to all who will place their faith in Jesus Christ.

    For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6-8

    God’s rescue through Christ was a proactive and provocative act of love in that while we were still in our sin God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die a substitutionary death (taking our sin) for us. God did not wait for mankind to clean himself up, perform prescribed rituals or accomplish some grand sacrificial act before He offered us the gift of grace and salvation through Jesus.

    The only work God asks of man now is that we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is an act of faith to trust the sufficiency of Christ’s death in place of our own work. To those who will stop striving and place their faith in Jesus, God offers rest and a peace that passes all understanding.

    But as many as received Him (Jesus Christ), to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:  who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13

    There was no greater love ever expressed than on that Friday in time on a hill called Golgotha. To some that day was just another Friday in time. To those who trust Christ as their Savior, it is a day we were set free and a day that changed all of life. We call that day Good Friday.

    In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.  1 John 4:9-10

    M.P. Bramble

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  • His Masterpiece

    02/10/2023 

    Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:
‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.
This was the Lord’s doing, And it is marvelous in our eyes’?
Matthew 21:42 (NKJV)
    Michelangelo’s David in la Galleria dell’Accademia

    Standing in the Accademai Galleria Museum in Florence Italy is the magnificent 17 foot tall statue of the Biblical hero King David. The opposing Carrara marble statue depicts the young David preparing for battle with the giant Goliath. Stone in hand and sling over his shoulder, David is portrayed as confidently knowing the outcome which God has rendered in his heart.

    Truly an exquisite masterpiece by Michelangelo, his contemporary artist and painter Giorgio Vasari described the brilliance of the sculpture:

    “For in it may be seen most beautiful contours of legs, with attachments of limbs and slender outlines of flanks that are divine; nor has there ever been seen a pose so easy, or any grace to equal that in this work, or feet, hands and head so well in accord, one member with another, in harmony, design, and excellence of artistry”.

    However, it is the backstory that adds to the grandeur of the work. The statue was commissioned in approximately 1460 as part of a larger venture to sculpt twelve statues for the exterior of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

    Originally, two artists were successively commissioned to create the “David” from a marble block known as the giant. Both of the artists, Agostino di Duccio and later Antonio Rossellino, deemed the massive marble block as inferior due to imperfections which they said would threaten the stability of the creation. After little progress was made separately by each, the giant block was placed in storage from 1475 until 1501. It was then that the young Michelangelo agreed to accept the challenge to sculpt the “David” from the marble regarded as unusable.

    History tells us the rest of the story. At 26 years old, Michelangelo spends the next two and half years working day and night to craft his masterpiece considered one of the finest works of art created by man. It took the vision and craftsmanship of a master to see past the imperfections recognizing the potential and beauty that was in the flawed marble block. No doubt the vision to see beyond the unrefined exterior was an exquisite gift from God to the grand artist who would go on to paint scenes from the Book of Genesis on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and many other extraordinary works.

    For us ordinary, less gifted it is not uncommon to only see what is rather than what could be especially when it comes to people. Our vision is often obscured by our biases, familiarity or a critical eye leaving us blind to potential God has wrought deep down. That was the case with the young, human David whose family could not see beyond the facade of the shepherd boy. Although history reveals a different story as David is remembered for his courage and leadership but most of all as the man who knew the Lord as his Shepherd (Psalm 23).

    In the Old Testament book of 1 Samuel Chapter 16 the teenage David comes on the scene of history as the quest for a new King of Israel begins. The current King, Saul, has proved himself unfaithful so the Lord sends the prophet Samuel to Bethlehem to the house of Jesse to select a ruler whose heart is fully committed to Him. The Lord declares to Samuel “For I have provided for Myself a king among his sons” (v1). Jesse parades his sons in front of the prophet with the exception of one, David, his youngest. The seven sons are proudly aligned from oldest to youngest while leaving David in the fields to tend the family sheep.

    Even as Jesse’s oldest son, Eliab, presented himself to Samuel, the prophet said “Surely this is the Lord’s anointed”. Eliab’s stature and physical appearance obviously moved the prophet to react in haste. To the dismay of both Samuel and Jesse, Eliab is rejected by the Lord. One by one the other six sons are also not chosen to be king. It is only then David the shepherd boy is brought in from the fields to stand before the prophet. The Lord then commands Samuel “Arise and anoint him; this is the one” who will be the next King of Israel.

    The event elucidates the difference between God’s vision and man’s sight. “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (v7) Obviously, even before the parade of Jesse’s sons, the Lord knew the outcome and the son who would be the next king over Israel. A lesson that was for all involved and even you and me.

    The heart is the great mirror of our life reflecting our character, virtue and trust in the One who can shape us into the masterpiece He wills, if we allow. The young David had such a heart of trust in His God that allowed him to be molded into a “Man after God’s own heart”. This becomes clear as David prepares for battle with Goliath (1 Samuel 17) in his discourse with the spurned Eliab and the rejected King Saul. David declares “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine (Goliath).” (1 Samuel 17:37).

    It is said David’s confidence and faith in God was Michelangelo’s inspiration for the statue’s extraordinary persona. There were many critics who believed Michelangelo missed an opportunity to portray David as the victorious slayer of the giant Philistine by not depicting him in a triumphant pose holding Goliath’s sword in hand and his head at his feet. But I believe Michelangelo understood that faith demonstrated before going into battle resonates louder than faith proclaimed when victory is already won.

    The key to David’s victory was not a sling and a stone but his faith in his God who sculpted the heart of the shepherd boy. The God of the Bible calls all of us to the same courageous faith. For those who will put their trust in His Son, Christ Jesus, and His redemptive work, He will accomplish His good pleasure in us too. We become His workmanship, His masterpiece in Christ.

    For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 
not of works, lest anyone should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus 
for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.  Ephesians 2:8-10

    Yes, David the human warrior King was very much full of flaws with many recorded and exposed on the pages of Scripture. All of us as humans are born with that same flawed nature subject to what the Bible calls sin. But in that battle David also triumphed because he trusted in the God who forgives, restores and declares us righteous through faith. In Psalm 32 David pens: 

    Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered. 
Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity,
And in whose spirit there is no deceit.  Psalm 32:1-2

    It is through faith in God’s Son, Jesus Christ, that forgiveness, hope and peace become a reality. It is then the beauty of what we can be begins to take shape. No matter where you are in life, no one is too far gone, too flawed or too broken to let God accomplish His work in us. All it takes is faith in the One who is the true Master Sculptor of imperfect people.

    M.P.Bramble

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  • Time for a Fresh Start.

    01/03/2023

    “We cannot know the future but we can know the One who holds the future in His hands.” Author Unknown

    On New Year’s Eve the world collectively celebrates to ring-in the turning of the calendar to a fresh year. It is traditionally a festive night with parties, fireworks and lots of hugs and kisses. But it really is so much more than an opportunity to revel or simply turn a chronological page. We gather with friends and family to celebrate an event that signifies a transition from old to new. The evening reverberates with the motto “out with the old and in with the new”. Some liken it to the idea of forgetting the troubles of the past year with the anticipation that a new year will be filled with better days.

    Many see it as an opportunity to initiate changes in their life. Some start a new diet and exercise routine, others examine their finances carefully re-prioritizing their budgets, many make resolutions to work on relationships or stop worrying so much and, of course, if you are like the old timers it is a time to go on a cleaning spree in the house.

    With the advent of the New Year, the focus always shifts our attention to the future and a new beginning. No matter what life changes we resolve to tackle, it is a time for renewal and getting back on course with the basics and priorities that matter in life. We lean into that time of transition with the hope of a fresh start and the lasting change of shedding of the unwanted that have accumulated whether it is a few pounds or other trappings weighing us down.

    Some people resolve to deepen or explore a relationship with God for the New Year. Amazingly, no other resolution we can pursue offers a guarantee like this one. The Bible tells us how God responds to those who seek to Him. 

    Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.   James 4:8
 
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God
 must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.     Hebrews 11:6

    But God being who He is has defined the path those who wish to seek Him must travel on. He declares we must seek Him in truth; not our truth or someone else’s. God is uncompromising in that regard. 

    The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.  Psalm 145:18

    You notice from the verse above in Hebrews that faith is an essential part of the equation. But faith in what or who? Drawing near and seeking God starts with the truth that Jesus Christ is the way of relationship and reconciliation with God. The road to God comes through faith in Jesus Christ and Him alone (John 14:6, 1 Timothy 2:5).

    The thought of starting fresh with a clean slate offers us hope for the New Year. It is a freedom and newness that we all seek. Jesus Christ is the author of new beginnings as the One who made the way for mankind to be reconciled to the Father. When He comes into a life, He takes the old and makes it new. 

    Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have 
passed away;  behold, all things have become new.  2 Corinthians 5:17

    No one knows what the future holds in the New Year. We can always look back for better or worse to see where we have come from but we rarely know exactly what the future holds. But through Christ we are given a future, a hope, and a new beginning. In Him our tomorrows and our eternity become secure. We just have to resolve to seek Him in faith.

    Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; 
I am God, and there is none like Me, Declaring the end from the beginning, 
And from ancient times things that are not yet done, 
Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,’  Isaiah 46:9-10

    M.P. Bramble

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  • Signs of Christmas Future: Reign of Messiah

    12/22/2022 / updated 12/18/2023

    For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. Isaiah 9:6-7a (NIV)

    One of the most beloved and quoted Christmas verses from the prophet Isaiah is renown for its inclusion as a chorus in Handel’s Messiah Symphony. The words beautifully portray the message of the Messiah being given to mankind from God and the benevolent attributes of His nature by which He will rule His Kingdom.

    As with many prophetic signs given in the Old Testament, the phrase a “child born and Son given” points to the First Advent of Christ who was born in Bethlehem to the virgin Mary reflecting the humanity of the Messiah. His divine nature resonates as the Son who was given by the Father to Redeem humanity from their sin.

    For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

    While the “child born and Son given” promise was fulfilled by Jesus Christ at His first earthly appearing, the remaining portion of Isaiah 9:6-7 verses illuminate another time in history future when He will physically satisfy what can be referred to as the Kingdom verses. Surprisingly to many, those Kingdom verses beckon the Second Coming of Jesus Christ when He returns at the end of the event known as the Tribulation. He will then take possession of the Earth and rule as Lord and King in the 1,000 year Millennial Kingdom.

    The prophet Daniel in a vision foresaw the day when the Messiah would establish His Kingdom upon the Earth and rule the nations therefore bearing the weight of governing upon His shoulders. Also see (Jeremiah 23:5-6).

    “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed. Daniel 7:13-14 (NIV)

    The saints of the Old Testament patiently waited for the Messiah as they yearned for the justice and righteousness He would afford as the One called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. In the fullness of time, God fulfilled His promises that First Advent but just not in the character and manner those longing believers expected. Jesus Christ first needed to make a way for man’s sin debt to be forgiven by means of the cross before a righteous Kingdom could be established.

    Here we are 2,000 years later and as Christians have been given the promises and prophesies of the Messiah’s Second Advent in the Holy Scriptures. When that day comes to pass, Jesus Christ will be a ruler unlike our imperfect, human leaders who so easily fail us. He will rule the nations as the perfect King with absolute righteousness, love and understanding fulfilling the Kingdom verses of Isaiah 9 as well as a multitude of other Biblical prophesies. And we who belong to Christ by faith will be part of the first resurrection and reign with Him in that Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:6).

    As the promises of the First Advent that came to pass were sure and irrevocable so shall the assurance of the Second Advent come upon the Earth in God’s appointed time. On that day, the redeemed in Christ shall celebrate that “Christmas Future” with the One they shall adore as the Prince of Peace and their Mighty God. And of His government and peace there shall be no end.

    Jesus Christ declares: “Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the tree of life. Outside the city are the dogs—the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idol worshipers, and all who love to live a lie. “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this message for the churches. I am both the source of David and the heir to his throne. I am the bright morning star.” The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life. Revelation 22:12-17 (NLT)

    Here is the link to the full Handel’s Messiah Symphony by the American Bach Soloists

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  • Silent Night, Holy Night -The Night of Great Light

    A Christmas Eve Celebration

    12/16/22

    In times past, God spoke through the prophets of old and gave us a great promise. A promise of One who would come to bring a glorious light unto all men. The prophet tells us “The Lord Himself shall give us a sign: Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a Son”. The radiance of His name would reveal Him as “Immanuel” – God with us.

    We gather to celebrate that night God fulfilled His long-awaited promise; the night of our dear Savior’s birth.  A night divine, when an Angel came in glorious splendor as shepherds watched over the fields saying, “Do not be afraid, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”. This was God’s holy declaration that the advent of the Messiah had come.  A day the prophets of old longed to see with their very eyes and a promise now complete.

    On that first Noel, suddenly a great multitude of heavenly hosts appeared in the sky praising God and proclaiming, “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men”.  For the dawn of redeeming grace had now come through the Savior, Christ the Lord. A gift of glorious hope that made it possible for “God and sinner to be reconciled” and for man to know the joy of God’s favor. 

    Upon that midnight clear a star of wonder, a star of royal beauty bright shone in the sky to guide men who would seek the Savior.  Wise Men from the East traveling afar came to the perfect light bearing precious gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Gold heralds the newborn baby as King. Frankincense symbolizes Him as God Most High and finally Myrrh speaks to the oil that would anoint the Savior when He bore our sins.

    So, this night, like the Wise Men we too bring gifts given to each other in love celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus who is the perfect and enduring gift to all the world. Let us hold fast this Christmas with the remembrance of God’s promise fulfilled when the wonder of His love came into our world. For all who call upon His Name, He renders in their heart a gift of peace, joy and everlasting hope.  

    And still another wondrous promise from God remains yet unseen. The promise of a soon second advent of Jesus, as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. For in Him, a marvelous light will dawn “upon us” as the Bright and Morning Star. Let us look to the blessed hope, Immanuel, God with us. 

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  • Signs of Christmas Past: The Overshadowing

    12/09/2022 / updated 12/18/2023

    Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14

    Photo by Jens Johnsson on Pexels.com

    Signs are an integral part of our daily life. They surround us everywhere we go; on the highways, in buildings, on buses, etc. Signs have been used for millennia helping people find their way, offering warnings and providing order to daily life. Modern society would be extraordinarily challenging without signage given our fast pace lives. Unfortunately in our human nature, we routinely ignore and dismiss signs to our own peril because of familiarity or simple presumptions.

    God also provides signs to make us aware of forthcoming events on the divine calendar and to prepare our hearts for those realities. Signs foretelling the first Christmas were no different. God spoke through the prophets offering a glimpse of the Messiah’s first advent and bestowing signs that would accompany that long awaited day.

    There are many signs and prophecies in the Old Testament that foretell the coming of Jesus Christ but none so marvelous as a baby conceived by the Holy Spirit to be born the Son of God in the flesh. The Gospel of Matthew reaffirms the prophecy from the book of Isaiah as a sign given to the people of Israel confirming the coming of Immanuel, literally translated “God with us” (Matthew 1:22-23).

    The Overshadowing

    Two of the central human figures on that prophetic stage were Mary and Joseph. Although both most likely knew the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, coming to terms with the personal impact upon their lives would have challenged their faith and even their human sensibilities. But God in His understanding of our frailties, spoke by way of an angel to reveal their role in this wondrous plan and also provide words of reassurance to these two very human people to help overcome their fears.

    The Angelic Message to Mary:

    Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God. Luke 1:26-35

    We can only surmise the difficulty this presented for Mary in the culture of that day. Would anyone believe her especially Joseph and her family or would they see it as a wild story to cover her shame? The Scriptures do not speak of ridicule or rejection she may have experienced. But we do know of her trusting response to the message from God. Verse 38 records her words to the angel “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your words”. Upon a subsequent visit to her relative, Elizabeth, Mary proclaims what is known as the Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55) giving praise to the Lord for His abundant grace and blessings in her life. Mary’s faith in the Lord’s love and sovereignty paints a beautiful portrait of hope when life takes us down a road of uncertainty.

    The Angelic Message to Joseph:

    Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:18-21

    The Scriptural record of Joseph ends abruptly after Jesus was twelve years old, so we know very few details beyond the early years of Jesus’ life in regard to Joseph’s influence on the family. However, we do see a man of noble character and a right heart before God. It is obvious Joseph knew Mary was with child prior to the angelic dream. However, it is unclear whether Mary shared with Joseph the source of her pregnancy before the angel. Either way, surely the news of her condition sparked in him an internal conflict. Joseph’s gentle nature and concern for Mary is clear in not wanting to publicly embarrass her. Like Mary, we see a man with the strength to believe the word and promises of God when a crisis of the heart could have led him to trust his emotions. In verse 24, it records his response to the Angel’s message “Then Joseph, being aroused from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord commanded him and took to him his wife, …”.  Without hesitation Joseph received Mary as his wife and subsequent narratives reveal a man who faithfully cared for Mary and the Son he welcomed as a gift from God.

    A Son Is Given

    For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:6-7

    Signs of that first Christmas past rang true to the promises God set-forth in His Word through the prophets of old. The divine overshadowing of a young virgin set in motion the events that would shake the world and inaugurate the age of grace. For this we celebrate His First Advent because the Son of God was given and became the way of reconciliation for God and man.

    Like Mary and Joseph in our humanness we can struggle to understand the mysteries of God and the unexpected detours life sends our way. But God has sent us a messenger too, His Son, Jesus Christ. He has told us that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life and to all who receive Him are given the right to become children of God. I encourage you not to dismiss, ignore or presume on the Christmas Sign and Message of Christ but to seek Him with the heart of and the wonder of a child.

    For those who receive the gift of God’s grace in Christ, we can truly know as the multitude of Heavenly Host declared “Peace on Earth, Goodwill toward men”. It is then we know and have the assurance God is truly with us – The Immanuel. In Him there is a hope and a future.

    Note: Most of Isaiah 9:6-7 is yet to be fulfilled being future prophetic and is discuss in a the post regarding the signs of the Second Advent of Christ – see post Signs of Christmas Future: Reign of Messiah.

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  • The Fellowship of the Mystery

    11/24/2022 

    But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory,............. 1 Corinthians 2:7

    A great multitude of people gathered by the Sea of Galilee as Jesus conveyed the parable of the Sower. He tells them how the sower scatters the seed falling to the various types of ground. Some sprout to a harvest while others wither and die. Without an explanation to the meaning of the parable Jesus leaves them with these words: “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

    I am sure many were left wondering “What does it mean?”. It was a rather anti-climactic ending for the crowd who anticipated to hear Jesus reveal details of the long awaited coming Kingdom of God and the mysteries of the ages. But to His disciples, Jesus later unveils the meaning of the parable explaining “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God….”. (see Matthew 13:1-23)

    The Bible is ripe with mysteries that God has hidden until the time is fulfilled for them to be revealed. Some are given in the form of parables and some in prophecies. Countless prophecies have been fulfilled through time with more on the near horizon. (see Prophesies Fulfilled by Jesus Christ)

    In the Old Testament book of Daniel which discloses many prophecies of the End Times, Daniel is told that much of the meanings of the prophetic words he has been given are not for him to understand now. 

    He replied, “Go your way, Daniel, because the words are rolled up and sealed until the time of the end. Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand. Daniel 12:9-10

    Daniel even asks “My lord, what will the outcome of all this be?” (Daniel 12:8) and he is told to go your way for the words are to be sealed until the time of the end. In other words, the revelation of these prophetic words must wait for their appointed times. Prophecies of the Bible are a dim foreshadowing of the events yet to come. Like those given to Daniel, they are dependent on eschatological timing and the fulfillment of other prophetic events before God’s Word can be revealed and understood.

    However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.  1 Corinthians 2:6-8

    There are many mysteries God has yet to reveal and to unfold before us. But God’s greatest mystery is before us to know and to behold now: that being the revelation of His Son, Jesus Christ and His redemptive work. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 2:6-8 that this incredible mystery of God was hidden and ordained before the ages. Yet, Christ has been now manifested for the glory of all who believe on Him. The secrets of Christ and His redemptive work are no longer hidden and are now available for all to know and believe. 

    But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10

    In verse 9 and 10 of those same passages, Paul goes on to describe the glory and majesty of the work of Christ available to us through redemption in both times past, the present, and what lies ahead in eternity. The work of Christ could not be fathomed in times past by man but now can be known by all who will call on Him.

    God through His Holy Spirit is the revealer of truth and the mysteries of the His Word. For the born-again believer, the revelation of the Scriptures become clear as His truth and prophetic events peel back the layers of God’s plan in Christ.

    Many who scoff at the Bible and Jesus Christ cannot understand spiritual revelation because their eyes have been blinded and the things of God are foolishness to them but to those who love Jesus it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18).

    Paul the Apostle put it this way: “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14). The mysteries and revelations of the Bible can only be spiritually known through the indwelling Spirit of Christ. Those who are not born of the Spirit will lack the understanding to know and comprehend God’s truth. (see John 3:1-21)

    Like Jesus said to His disciples as He explained the parable of the Sower, it has been given to those who have trusted Him as Savior and Lord to know the mysteries of the Kingdom and glorious future in Christ. The scoffers and unbelieving are blind to the mysteries of God even perplexed by the truths of His Word.

    Those who trust Christ and His redemptive work are part of the great mystery that God has ordained before the ages. We possess unsearchable riches in Christ and belong to the fellowship of that mystery. God willed to make known those riches of the truth in Christ to us whereby we can know the hope of glory – Christ in us. (Colossians 1:24-28)

    To me, who am less than the least of all the saints, this grace was given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make all see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ; to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through faith in Him.  Ephesians 3:8-12

    He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says……….

    Steps to Faith in Jesus Christ

  • Courage to Speak Truth

    10/07/22

    For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  Hebrews 4:12

    On September 29, 2022, Dr. John MacArthur, Pastor of Grace Community Church, published an open letter to the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom (link to letter). The letter challenges the Governor’s stance and promotion of evil as an elected representative and civic leader of the State of California. Dr. MacArthur is straight forward and succinct in his approach to warn Governor Newsom based upon Biblical truth regarding the ungodly sanctioning of abortion, sexual immorality and aberrant public policies while enlisting the consequences of using his office to encourage and facilitate such actions.

    Although the nature of the letter calls out the evil positions Mr. Newsom has married himself to, the underlying foundation of the letter is the dedication to Biblical truth. While the letter is not directed at Christians, Dr. MacArthur exemplifies for all Christians a conviction that codifies a belief in God’s absolute truths that are universally applicable to all men and transcend the natural world with eternal consequences. It is a call to courageously stand for the truth of God’s Word by all who name the Name of Jesus Christ which inherently dictates we are to stand against the acts that His truth declares as evil.

    “SILENCE IN THE FACE OF EVIL IS ITSELF EVIL: GOD WILL NOT HOLD US GUILTLESS. NOT TO SPEAK IS TO SPEAK. NOT TO ACT IS TO ACT.”

    Dietrich Bonhoeffer or other unknown

    Historically, Christians have been slow and even negligent to respond to evil and attacks upon the foundational truths of Scripture by those who would redefine Biblical norms of life. This can be rooted anywhere from a lack of proper understanding of Scriptural truth to cowardliness. The Lutheran Church in Germany in the 1930’s pacified and capitulated to the Hitler agenda resulting in the destruction of a nation and millions of deaths from war and butchery. Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer warned of the evils Hitler and the Nazis would eventually inflict upon the nation, but the Lutheran church failed to act and respond when a meaningful difference was still possible.

    Eric Metaxas who authored a biography on the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer is warning the American Church like Bonhoeffer of 1930’s Germany of the evil that is invading our culture and the time to wake up from our silence and slumber is now.

    The battle between good and evil, truth and deceit in our nation is mushrooming before our very eyes. Eventually there will be no middle ground to rest upon for the tenor of the battle will force us to decide the nature of our allegiance. Pastors and Christians alike must decide if they truly believe the Word of God and are willing to speak it courageously while living out what they say they believe. 

    Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God;   Ephesians 6:10-17

    According to Ephesians we as Christians have been given one offensive weapon to use against evil that being the Word of God. It is the weapon Jesus will use to ultimately judge and destroy Satan and evil upon His return. But in the meantime, we have to decide the depth of our convictions, our allegiance to, and faith in Jesus Christ and His truth. Everyone who says they believe in Christ is called to stand for the His absolute truth and live / act accordingly. Be of good courage for He is with us.

    Steps to Faith in Jesus Christ