We Wish to See Jesus

Category: Christian Living

Biblical teaching about discipleship, character, holiness, wisdom, relationships, and daily faithfulness.

  • When We Ask God to Guide Us

    When We Ask God to Guide Us

    Christians use certain expressions so often in prayer that we may say them without much thought about what we are actually asking. One of those is the familiar request that God would “guide, guard, and direct us.” It is a good prayer, but what does it mean? How does God guide us? How does He guard us? How does He direct our paths?

    Those questions become especially important when we think about giving God control of our lives. It is easy to ask God to lead us while still insisting on going our own way. We pray for His guidance, but then make decisions according to our own judgment. We ask Him to direct our paths, but sometimes determine the path ourselves and hope He will bless it afterward. Scripture presents something different. God’s guidance requires our willingness to submit to Him.

    Letting God Guide Us

    Psalm 32 provides an interesting picture of what it means to be guided by God. The Lord says, “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” He then warns, “Do not be like the horse or like the mule, which have no understanding, which must be harnessed with bit and bridle” (Psalm 32:8–9).

    The picture is easy to understand. A stubborn animal has to be restrained and compelled to go where its master wants it to go. God does not want His people to respond to Him that way. He wants us willingly to submit ourselves to His instruction.

    In that sense, the old expression of “breaking” a horse has something to it. A wild horse may possess tremendous strength, but that strength is of little use to a rider until the animal learns to yield. Submission does not destroy its strength; it brings that strength under control. There is a spiritual lesson there. Submitting ourselves to God is not weakness. Strength lies in bringing our will under His.

    That submission should not be limited to difficult periods in our lives. Scripture says of God, “For this is God, our God forever and ever; He will be our guide even to death” (Psalm 48:14). God is not merely our guide through the crisis of the moment. He is to be our guide “forever and ever.”

    Sometimes we become most conscious of our need for God when life becomes difficult. We pray more earnestly when we are hurting, uncertain, afraid, or facing opposition. Yet prosperity can present its own spiritual danger. When things are going well, it is easy to become less dependent upon God and less conscious of our need for His guidance.

    Daniel provides a helpful example. When the decree was signed forbidding petitions to anyone other than the king, Daniel went home and prayed, “as was his custom since early days” (Daniel 6:10). Daniel did not begin seeking God when the crisis came. Prayer was already part of his life. His dependence upon God in adversity grew out of a life that had already been directed toward God.

    If we want God’s guidance in every part of life, then seeking Him cannot be reserved for emergencies.

    But how does God provide that guidance? Jesus promised the apostles that the Holy Spirit would “guide” them “into all truth” (John 16:13). Through the Spirit, the apostles received and communicated the truth Christ intended His people to have. Peter later wrote that God’s divine power “has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him” (2 Peter 1:3).

    We therefore should not separate our desire for God’s guidance from our devotion to God’s Word. We have the words revealed through those whom the Spirit guided. If we want God to guide our lives, we must be willing to submit to what He has revealed, remain mindful of His Word in our decisions, and continually return to Scripture so our thinking is shaped by His will rather than our own.

    Letting God Guard Us

    God’s guarding us is also tied to our responsibility to guard ourselves.

    David said, “I will guard my ways, lest I sin with my tongue” (Psalm 39:1). He understood that faithfulness required deliberate watchfulness over his own conduct. In some situations, people become especially conscious of how they behave. We may be careful around other Christians while allowing ourselves greater liberties somewhere else. However, guarding our ways cannot depend upon who happens to be watching. The concern is not merely maintaining appearances before other people. It is guarding ourselves against sin before God.

    Paul gave Timothy a similar responsibility: “O Timothy! Guard what was committed to your trust” (1 Timothy 6:20). Timothy had been entrusted with something valuable, and he was responsible for protecting it! The same principle should cause us to think seriously about what God has entrusted to us—our faith, our opportunities for service, and the truth by which we live.

    At the same time, Scripture also speaks of God guarding His people. Paul wrote, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” The result is that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7).

    That kind of guarding reaches inward. Anxiety, fear, temptation, and the influences of the world can assault the heart and mind. Paul points Christians toward prayer, thanksgiving, and the peace that comes through Christ.

    We also rightly ask God to protect us from the wickedness around us. Paul asked the Thessalonians to pray “that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men,” and then expressed his confidence that “the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:2–3).

    It is therefore entirely appropriate to pray for God’s protection. We may ask Him to guard us from those who would harm us and from the schemes of the evil one. Nevertheless, biblical guardianship is not passive. We pray for God to guard us while also guarding our own ways. We trust His protection while taking our responsibility seriously to remain faithful.

    Letting God Direct Us

    The idea of “direction” can be understood in more than one way. We can direct our attention toward something, meaning that we deliberately focus upon it. David did precisely that with God: “My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up” (Psalm 5:3).

    Before asking where God will direct us, it helps to ask where we are directing our attention. David began his day by turning his thoughts and petitions toward God. There is wisdom in that pattern. Direct your attention toward God, and you are placing yourself in a position to be directed by Him.

    But “direct” can also mean to point or lead someone toward a particular destination. That is often what we have in mind when we pray, “Lord, direct me.” We want to know which way to go.

    Interestingly, guarding and directing appear together in Paul’s words to the Thessalonians. After saying that the Lord would “guard you from the evil one,” Paul continued, “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ” (2 Thessalonians 3:3, 5). God’s guarding and His directing complement one another. He guards His people from evil while directing their hearts toward what is good—the love of God and the patience of Christ.

    Perhaps the clearest biblical description of this kind of direction is found in Proverbs:

    “Trust in the LORD with all your heart,

    And lean not on your own understanding;

    In all your ways acknowledge Him,

    And He shall direct your paths”

    (Proverbs 3:5–6).

    Notice what comes before the promise that He will direct our paths. We must trust Him. We must refuse to make our own understanding the final authority. We must acknowledge Him in all our ways. Only then does the statement follow: “He shall direct your paths.”

    That changes the way we think about asking God for direction. We are not asking God merely to reveal which choice will make life easier, which opportunity will be most successful, or which path will produce the outcome we prefer. We are committing ourselves to trust Him enough to follow the path that accords with His will!

    Guide, Guard, and Direct Us

    These three ideas so often appear together in our prayers for good reason. They, indeed, complement one another.

    We ask God to guide us, but His guidance requires willing submission. We seek Him not merely when trouble comes, but consistently, as Daniel did. We remain in His Word because God has not left us without instruction concerning how we should live.

    We ask God to guard us, trusting His faithfulness and praying for deliverance from evil. At the same time, we accept our responsibility to guard our own ways, our hearts, our conduct, and what God has entrusted to us.

    Moreover, we ask God to direct us. Yet before asking Him to direct our paths, we direct our attention toward Him. We trust Him rather than leaning upon our own understanding, and we acknowledge Him in all our ways.

    None of this minimizes the providence of God. We should pray for His providential care. We should ask Him to open doors, protect us, help us, and lead us according to His will. But prayer for God’s providence should never become a substitute for doing what He has already told us to do.

    Perhaps, then, when we pray, “Lord, guide, guard, and direct us,” we should hear more in those words than we sometimes have before. We are asking God to work in our lives, but we are also committing ourselves to submit to His guidance, seek His protection while guarding our own ways, and trust Him enough to follow where His Word directs us.

    “Trust in the LORD with all your heart,

    And lean not on your own understanding;

    In all your ways acknowledge Him,

    And He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6).

  • When You Pray

    In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus provides a model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). This prayer is not intended to be a mere rote or liturgical recitation, but serves as a profound model for how Jesus taught His disciples to pray. The New King James Version quotes Jesus as saying, “In this manner, therefore pray.” It is essential to grasp the significance of Jesus’ instructions to His disciples in prayer, as there are fundamental aspects we sometimes overlook when teaching others. I hope this reading will be helpful for those who take the time to consider how Jesus desires us to pray. 

    One key point to note is that Jesus emphasizes addressing God the Father. In verse 9, Jesus instructs us to pray, “Our Father in heaven.” The Father to whom we pray is truly God, the Creator of all things and the God revealed in the Bible, who sent His Son, Jesus, to die for the sins of humanity. Together with the Son and the Holy Spirit, He is the one true God (Genesis 1:1; Romans 5:8; John 17:3). Therefore, when we approach God, we must express reverence, as Jesus indicates in the same verse: “Hallowed be your name.” While this may seem simple, some approach God frivolously and fail to express genuine reverence. In prayer, we are approaching the throne of the God who created everything, and our approach should be holy (Leviticus 10:3; Hebrews 12:28-29).

    Furthermore, Jesus teaches us to include supplications in our prayers. Supplications are entreaties or requests made known to God. In verse 10, we are encouraged to pray, “Your Kingdom come.” Some may argue that Jesus’ Kingdom has already been established, and therefore we no longer need to pray this way. However, this statement speaks to our desire for God’s purposes to be accomplished in our lives, as the verse continues: “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Might we also pray that God’s rule reign in the hearts of others? 

    Verse 11 addresses our physical needs, instructing us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” God cares about our physical needs, but even more importantly, He is concerned with our spiritual needs (Matthew 6:33). In verse 12, we read, “Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” This goes beyond material or financial debt; it addresses our utmost of spiritual needs (Cf. Luke 11:3-4). Jesus also says that forgiveness from God for our sins, is closely linked to our willingness to forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15; Ephesians 4:30-32). And a forgiving spirit toward others, becomes easier, when we are mindful of their own spiritual needs! 

    Additionally, Jesus teaches us to seek God’s guidance and help in our struggle against sin, and even Satan himself. In verse 13, He says, “Do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” Acknowledging God’s sovereign rule is also part of this teaching, as the verse concludes with praise: “For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and glory forever. Amen.”

    To summarize, when we pray, we should: 

    – Address God the Father 

    – Express reverence toward Him 

    – Include supplications that appeal to God’s purposes in our lives 

    – Make requests for our physical & spiritual needs, as well as for the spiritual needs of others 

    – Seek guidance and help in our struggle(s) against sin 

    – Conclude with praise for God 

    Moreover, Jesus taught that prayer need not be complicated for God to hear and respond (Matt. 6:7–8). He also emphasized the importance of persistence in prayer, reminding us not to become discouraged when an answer does not come immediately (Matthew 7:7-8; 15:21-28; Luke 11:5-10). This kind of steadfastness is an area in which we can all continue to grow.

    As we approach God, it’s important to remember that Jesus gave the prayer in Matthew 6 as a model for our own prayers. While Scripture offers many faithful examples of prayer, this particular teaching provides a clear framework for approaching God with the right priorities. Notably, the focus of this model prayer is not primarily on physical concerns, but on spiritual matters and our relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that our prayers should ultimately reflect a heart that seeks God, His will, and His kingdom above all else.

  • Still Pressing, Already Content

    Have you ever noticed that Paul seems to hold together two ideas that, at first, sound almost contradictory? On one hand, he says, “I press toward the goal,” refusing to look back or settle where he is spiritually. Yet only a few verses later, he states, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” How can someone be both content where he is, while yet constantly pressing forward? 

    Perhaps the answer lies in understanding what Paul was, and was not, content with. Paul’s statements about pressing forward and being content are not contradictory, because he was speaking about two different things. In Philippians 3:13-14, when Paul says he was forgetting those things which were behind and pressing toward the mark, he was talking about his spiritual pursuit of Christ. He refused to believe that he had already arrived spiritually; he wanted to know Christ more intimately, become more like Him, and continue pursuing the call that God had put in his life. Therefore, his focus was neither on resting on his past accomplishments nor on being discouraged by his failures as he pursued Christ (Philippians 3:3-11). 

    However, when Paul speaks of contentment in Philippians 4:11-12, he was discussing his circumstances. He indicates that he had learned to be content, whether he was experiencing abundance or need, whether he was well supplied or suffering lack. His contentment did not mean he had stopped growing or striving spiritually; rather, it meant that his joy and peace were not dependent on his state of affairs. Whether he was hungry or well-fed, whether he was experiencing abundance or need, Christ was sufficient for him. His outward conditions did not determine his level of contentment in Christ. 

    It is important to differentiate between being content with my present circumstances and being satisfied with my spiritual condition. Paul mentioned that he was content with his current circumstances, yet he emphasized that he would not be satisfied with just staying stagnant in his relationship with Christ. Therefore, our contentment should not be confused with spiritual complacency. 

    In fact, Paul’s contentment enabled him to press forward. If his peace depended on achieving a certain spiritual state, he could never truly rest. He would always be thinking, “Once I have become more mature, more faithful, or more successful, then I will be at peace.” However, Christ was sufficient for him in the present, and because he was secure in Christ, he was free to pursue Christ more deeply. He was not striving to earn Christ’s acceptance; rather, he was responding to the grace he had already received. Paul pressed forward because Christ had already laid hold of him (Philippians 3:12; Romans 4:4-5; 2 Timothy 1:8-9)!

    This is also why “forgetting those things which are behind” should not be understood as refusing to remember the past. Paul remembered God’s faithfulness, and certainly understood his history (Galatians 1:13; 1 Corinthians 15:9; Philippians 3:6; 1 Timothy 1:12-15). What he refused to do was live spiritually on the basis of his past accomplishments or failures. He would not say, “I’ve done enough; I’ve arrived,” nor would he say, “I’ve failed too much; what’s the point in moving forward?” His past became neither a trophy that made him complacent nor a prison that kept him from progressing.

    So, Paul’s two ideas can come together when we understand that he was content with his physical circumstances but not complacent about his spiritual growth. He was satisfied with Christ, but continually hungry to know Him more intimately. Biblical contentment means that Christ is enough for me, while pressing forward involves the desire to know Him more. These two attitudes are not contradictory; they work together. 

    Holy God, I know there have been times in my past when I enjoyed measures of earthly comfort, even successes in the eyes of men. But I also realize that I have wasted much time pursuing things that do not glorify You. God, there are still aspects of my past that I am ashamed of, and I now bring them before You, asking for Your guidance to shape and mold me, so that I may move forward toward greater maturity in Christ!

    With thanksgiving, may I give You my very best, just like Your Son. In my current physical circumstances, I acknowledge that I have much to be thankful for (James 1:17-18). Let me not compare myself to others (2 Corinthians 10:12); instead, I pray for a deeper understanding of You and Your will for me, personally. I desire to be more diligent in my studies, and more faithful in serving You, and in serving my fellow man (2 Timothy 2:15; Luke 16:10; Mark 12:29-31). May I grow stronger and more emboldened in my own faith. May Christ live in me, enabling my service. I pray that I will imitate Your Son and grow in that direction. Amen.

    For more studies about following Christ in everyday life, browse Christian Living. If you are new to the site or have questions about Jesus and salvation, begin with Looking for Jesus?.

  • The Strongest Defense Is a Faithful Life

    The Strongest Defense Is a Faithful Life

    Few passages in the New Testament have generated as much discussion in apologetic circles as 1 Peter 3:15. Many readers approach this verse as a mandate to create sophisticated arguments, defend the existence of God, or engage skeptics in formal debate. While such discussions of the faith undoubtedly have value, was that Peter’s primary concern?

    To understand the true meaning of any passage, we must consider its historical and literary context. Peter’s call for Christians to give a “defense” was not primarily concerned with constructing sophisticated apologetic arguments or engaging in formal philosophical disputes. Rather, it served as an exhortation for persecuted believers to maintain a resilient, Christ-centered hope amid unjust suffering. Their steadfast faith would naturally prompt others to ask about the source of their confidence, providing opportunities to explain the hope they possessed in Christ.

    As Peter addressed the scattered Christians in Asia Minor, he instructed them in the previous verse on how to respond to hostile neighbors: “Do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled” (v. 14). His primary concern was their response to intimidation and suffering, urging them not to be overcome by fear or anxiety, but to remain steadfast in their trust in God.

    Observers might notice something remarkable about these individuals: despite their unjust suffering, faithful Christians remained resilient and did not succumb to despair. While their hope was rooted in the truth of the gospel, Peter emphasized how that hope was visibly expressed in daily life. Their endurance amid adversity would naturally lead others to wonder why they remained so hopeful despite their circumstances.

    The term “defense,” translated from the Greek word apologia, often refers to a legal defense or reasoned reply. In this context, it emphasizes the believer’s readiness to explain the hope that sustains faithful endurance, even at great personal cost.

    In summary, thoughtful reasoning certainly has its place, but the deeper meaning of 1 Peter 3:15 becomes much clearer when we examine it in context. Furthermore, understanding the context helps us grasp the principles God intended to communicate rather than allowing later concerns to overshadow Peter’s original emphasis. Peter focused on encouraging suffering Christians to remain fearless, keep Christ central in their hearts, and be ready to explain the hope that sustained them through difficult times.

    This principle is still relevant today. We need to understand our faith, but it is equally important to demonstrate a hope that persists even when we face difficult circumstances. Responding with gentleness, faith, and grace in the midst of suffering can serve as a powerful testimony, prompting others to inquire about the source of our confidence in God. In essence, 1 Peter 3:15 teaches us that the strongest defense of our faith lies not just in our arguments, but in how we live when following Christ requires sacrifice.

  • When the Light is Clear

    When the Light is Clear

    When approaching an intersection, it’s essential to understand what the traffic lights mean. These rules are straightforward: green means go, yellow means slow down, and red means stop. 

    Traffic signals are there to keep us safe on the road, and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences. You might break the law and face fines, but worse things can happen, as not paying attention can result in someone getting seriously injured, or even killed! 

    Though such rules are easy to understand, the impact of following or disregarding them is profound.

    Now, apply this illustration to some straightforward statements in the Bible. Although everyone needs salvation, and we all need the grace of God through Jesus Christ, people have different interpretations of how to access Jesus’ saving blood. 

    But what does the Bible say about the forgiveness of sins and how we obtain it? Consider some of these most clearest of statements, and reflect on what you think they mean.

    On the day of Pentecost: 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. (Acts 2:38, New King James Version)

    What were the people told to do to obtain the remission of sins? “Repent, and let every one of you ___ __________ in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”

    Ananias told Paul: And now, why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. (Acts 22:16)

    What was Paul told to do for the washing away of his sins? “Arise, and __ __________, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

    The Apostle Peter wrote these words: There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him. (1 Peter 3:21-22)

    What does Peter say that now saves us? “There is also an antitype which now saves us – __________ (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God)”

    The Bible does not stutter. Just as traffic lights provide clear guidance for safe driving, Scripture offers clear instructions regarding baptism and the forgiveness of sins. And just as ignoring traffic signals can lead to serious consequences, neglecting biblical teaching on baptism can affect one’s salvation; whereas adhering to it is crucial for receiving God’s grace and achieving true forgiveness (See John 3:3-5; Luke 6:46).

    Please reflect on the importance of baptism and forgiveness in your life, and if you have not been baptized “for the remission of sins,” consider taking steps to explore this important milestone in your spiritual journey. Read. Study. Obey God’s Word.

    If you are studying what the Bible teaches about salvation and baptism, continue with What Must One Do to Become a Christian? and Passages Concerning Water Baptism into Christ. If you are looking for a place to begin, visit Looking for Jesus?.

  • Respecting the Boundaries of God’s Word

    Respecting the Boundaries of God’s Word

    Have you ever met someone who genuinely seeks to follow God’s word in the Bible? It’s natural to reflect on our own commitment to the Scriptures and how closely we align with their teachings. With that in mind, let’s explore a few examples and consider whether truly adhering to God’s word is extreme or simply a sincere pursuit of faith.

    The Profane Fire of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-3)

    The first example concerns the priests, Nadab and Abihu. God explicitly commanded that only specific incense and fire from the altar of burnt offering be used in Tabernacle worship. However, these sons of Aaron offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which He had not commanded. Consequently, fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them immediately, because they presumed to approach God in a manner of their own choosing rather than adhering to His instructions. 

    A Futile Invasion Attempt (Numbers 14:39-45)

    Another example is Israel’s presumptuous battle, described in Numbers 14:39-45. Due to their lack of faith in the report of the ten spies, God decreed that the generation of Israelites would not enter the Promised Land and would instead wander in the wilderness for 40 years. After hearing this, the Israelites felt remorse but chose to disobey God’s punishment by attacking the Canaanites anyway, presuming that God would help them because they had decided to go. Moses warned them not to go up, as the LORD was not among them. They ignored his warning and were severely defeated by the Amalekites, demonstrating that repentance for their consequences is not the same as obedience.

    Uzzah Touching the Ark of the Covenant (2 Samuel 6:6-7)

    Additionally, we should consider the matter of Uzzah touching the Ark of the Covenant, as described in 2 Samuel 6:6-7 and 2 Chronicles 13:9-10. The Ark was to be carried on the shoulders of the Levites using poles and should never have been touched directly by unauthorized people (Numbers 4:15). When the Israelites were moving the Ark on a new cart (imitating the Philistines), the oxen stumbled. Uzzah reached out to steady the Ark to prevent it from falling (acting on his own judgment rather than adhering to the prescribed method). As a result, God’s anger burned against him, and He struck him down for his irreverence. This demonstrates that good intentions do not justify violating clear commands. King David later pointed out that they had not consulted God in this matter, which led to their error in moving the Ark in the first place (1 Chronicles 15:13-15). Thus, there is a lesson in the need to consult the word of God before presuming to act, even with good intentions. 

    The Bible provides numerous examples that underscore the peril of taking God’s grace for granted and expecting favorable outcomes, all while disregarding His clear commands. This behavior is often referred to as presumptuous sin (Psalm 19:13) or testing God (Matthew 4:5-7; See 1 Corinthians 10:9).

    Individuals often seek to align their actions with God’s will and may question the necessity of demanding “book, chapter, and verse” for every practice. However, when in doubt, it is wise to reflect on examples like those mentioned above to foster reverence in our pursuit of not going beyond the boundaries outlined in God’s word. May we always show reverence to Him in our conduct, seeking New Testament authority for everything we say and do.

    “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” (Colossians 3:17, New King James Version)

  • Would You Move the Stone?

    In John 11, we see that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. But before doing so, He instructed others to remove the stone from the tomb’s entrance. Could Jesus not have removed the stone Himself? Of course, He could have. However, He commanded that the stone be removed. This raises the question: what would have happened if they had not removed the stone? Would Lazarus still have been raised? We do not know, but one thing is clear: Jesus expected them to move the stone!

    Perhaps there is a lesson here about God’s expectation that we do what we can, while He takes care of what we cannot? 

    There is much debate in religious circles about water baptism. Many discussions arise concerning what the Bible teaches on who should be baptized, the method, its theological significance, and whether it is essential for salvation. However, let me pose this question: Did Jesus command baptism? Yes, He did (See Matt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15-16; Jn. 3:3-5). Therefore, if Jesus commanded it, why aren’t we obeying (Lk. 6:46; Acts 22:16)? 

    Going back to the story of Lazarus, could Jesus have removed the stone from the tomb Himself? Absolutely. But again, it is important to note that Jesus expected them to act by moving the stone.

    38 Then Jesus, again groaning in Himself, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 

    39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.”

    40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” 

    41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying. And Jesus lifted up His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.

    42 And I know that You always hear Me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me.”  

    43 Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth!”  

    44 And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with graveclothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him, and let him go.”

    ~ John 11:38-44, New King James Version

    The question is not whether God has the power to save, but whether we are willing to respond to what He has said. For more study, see What Must One Do to Become a Christian? and How Does One Get into Christ?. You can also begin with Looking for Jesus?.

  • “I Didn’t Get Anything Out of It…??!”

    I have encountered people who have left worship services with a negative attitude, complaining about various aspects that did not suit their preferences. They may have thought the singing was not perfect or that the sermon delivery had shortcomings. Others might have felt that those leading the worship service—whether in prayer, communion, or announcements—were not flawless. For whatever reason, some individuals leave a worship service saying something to the effect of, “Well, I didn’t get anything out of that service.” This is an absolutely poor way of approaching worship. 

    It’s Not About You

    In the scriptures, we learn important truths about our attitude toward worship. Worship is not about us; it is to always be about the Almighty God, first and foremost (Matt. 4:10; John 4:24; Rev. 14:7). As we gather, we should focus on God as the object of our worship. It is Him that we aim to please, always (Rom. 15:1-3; 2 Cor. 5:9-11). When we pray together, we are praying to Him (Acts 2:42). When we sing together, we are offering Him the fruit of our lips in praise (Eph. 5:17-21; Col. 3:15-17; Heb. 13:15). When we observe the Lord’s Supper, we remember His sacrifice for our sins (John 3:16; Matt. 26:26-28; 1 Cor. 10:16-17; 11:23-29). When we give of our means, we are cheerfully offering back what He has already blessed us with (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:7; Phil. 4:17-20). When we engage in the apostles’ doctrine through the study and application of His word, we honor God by striving to divide and apply the scriptures to our lives rightly (John 8:31-32; Acts 2:42; 2 Tim. 3:14-17).

    Worship Is About Giving, Not Getting

    First and foremost, we must therefore understand that a worship service is about honoring God. It is not about what we can gain from it. Some might argue, “Yes, it is about God, but it is also about my edification.” However, we should be cautious here. Hebrews 10:24-25 instructs us to, “consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching” (New King James Version, emphasis mine).  

    God is to be the object of our worship; we aim to please Him. And even after that, it should not be about my personal gain, but rather, about edifying our brothers and sisters in the assembly. I want to be the person I can be in the worship assembly, encouraging others toward love and good works. I should want my fellow believers to be built up and strengthened! 

    Shift the Focus

    Worship is about giving God glory—and extending encouragement—to others. It was never meant to be self-centered or focused solely on ourselves. My worship of God must be intended to please Him and positively influence my fellow man. By putting my all into such efforts, I will inevitably therefore benefit from worship. So, instead of focusing on how things were presented or how they fell short, we would all do better to glorify and honor God, and to improve the atmosphere to support our fellow worshippers (working from the inside out). 

    In doing so, we shift our focus away from ourselves and our own attitudes and work outwardly to edify others. Worship is not “about me” and “what I get out of it;” rather, it is about God and what we put into it.

  • Rage-Baiting, Gaslighting, and Narcissists

    Rage-Baiting, Gaslighting, and Narcissists

    Warning: The following information may be “triggering” for some. I understand that I am in my late 40s, and the language of the younger generation is constantly evolving. However, specific terms have infiltrated religious circles, and they can dilute the truth while masking larger issues that genuinely exist. I intend to help, not hurt, so please consider my perspective. 

    Understanding Some Terms

    Rage-Baiting: This occurs when someone deliberately says or does offensive or emotionally charged things to provoke an angry or upset reaction from another. Their goal is often to gain attention or manipulate a situation, rather than genuinely resolve conflict(s). It’s akin to picking a fight, turning minor disagreements into much bigger ones, not only to gain a reaction but also to control interactions.

    Gaslighting: In a personal context, gaslighting is a form of manipulation where one person causes another to question their own perceptions, memories, or reality itself. It is a pattern of behavior that leads the victim to doubt their own judgment, ultimately fostering insecurities and reliance on the perpetrator for discernment. 

    Narcissism: In modern vernacular, narcissist can refer to one who is excessively preoccupied with themselves, their image, and their needs, often at the expense of others.  At the core lies a profound lack of empathy, a sense of entitlement, and constant need for admiration. Narcissists are said to exhibit these traits consistently, often creating toxic, one-sided relationships.

    The Problem with the Use of Certain Terms in Religious Contexts

    It seems to be very “in-vogue” for people to label others a narcissist. The problem I have with this is that narcissism is an actual clinical diagnosis — known as narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). It is a complex mental health condition, and Christians should certainly refrain from playing doctor by trying to psychoanalyze and diagnose others. Some are conflating terms, which may be inaccurate at best. Moreover, it can confuse, as many level-headed Christians who hear such terms immediately shut down and stop listening to the conversation because of the use of “in-vogue” terms. This is a significant concern, though I understand both sides of the issue. That is why I’m writing about this now.

    I know individuals who have been sorely mistreated, and I also know of others who wish to combat these sinful behaviors that are ever-present within religious circles. Therefore, by all means, let’s try to educate ourselves and find common ground. 

    Issues Getting Distorted, Neglected, and Unresolved

    There are very real problems that must be addressed, and the challenges facing the world will inevitably affect Christians. The reality is, some people take absolute pleasure in provoking others and making them feel out of control. Moreover, bullies will continue to lie and manipulate those in their circles of influence. Furthermore, some are self-centered and only care about themselves (in the extreme)! They will disregard others’ feelings to get whatever they want, and I have personally suffered at the hands of individuals who engage in such SINFUL behavior (yes, even among Christians). It breaks my heart to hear of others seeking comfort and refuge among the Lord’s body, only to be mistreated by those in whom they place their trust. That is a special kind of heinousness! I’m with you in that.

    While there are, indeed, those in religious circles who abuse their positions of influence, I prefer to call these behaviors by the names God gives them. The New Testament teaches against provoking one another, all forms of dishonesty, and prideful, controlling behavior. There are, too, those within the church who must be confronted and held accountable (2 Cor. 13:1-10; Tit. 3:10; 3 John 9-10). And that’s at the heart of this discussion. I want to stand with those who are struggling and mistreated, but I also want to exhort everyone to return to the Bible so that we can discuss these issues with better clarity.

    Call It for What It Is: SIN

    On social media, some who wield influence continue to use such in-vogue terms not found in the Bible. I recognize that words and their meanings can change over time, and that our culture may use terms unfamiliar to the aging population. However, when buzzwords arise in religious discussions, one may end up unnecessarily blunting the effect of their efforts to confront real issues. So, I implore those of you with sound reasoning skills to start calling these behaviors exactly what they are: sins that disrupt fellowship among believers, hinder their relationship with God, and rob them of much joy in the Lord. 

    Let us not become conceited, provoking one another (Gal. 5:26). 

    Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old man (Col. 3:9).

    God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (Jas. 4:6). 

    Nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples (1 Pet. 5:3).

    Let us work together, label things for what they are, and be a source of comfort to those who are hurting.

  • Grace, Mercy, and Peace

    The phrase “grace, mercy, and peace to you from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ,” or slight variations of it, appears as a standard Apostolic greeting in several books of the New Testament (1 Tim. 1:2; 2 Tim. 1:2; 2 Jn. 1:3). While some scholars suggest that these salutations blend Greek greetings with the Hebrew concept of “Shalom,” it is worth examining the meanings of these words, because such expressions are not merely salutations in letters; they are WORDS OF INSPIRATION from the apostles themselves, to Christians. If words have meaning—and they do—it is worthwhile to consider the significance behind these expressions. 

    Grace

    For instance, the word “grace” means favor. No one can earn God’s favor through meritorious works. However, many passages teach us that the favor extended by God is indeed conditional (Jn. 3:16; Eph. 2:8-9). One must accept Jesus as both Savior and Lord, and only then may one have favor extended by God through the blood of Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:23; Acts 4:12). That said, this favor is, indeed, a gift from God!! Paul wrote to Titus, “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 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, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that having been justified by His grace we should become heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:4-7 New King James Version). Receiving that letter from the inspired apostle would be very encouraging, especially since the grace (favor) Paul speaks of comes from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior Himself (v. 1:4)! So then, these are not merely words on a page; they are intentions & extensions of goodwill, expressed by the Holy Spirit.

    Mercy 

    It has been said that grace IS RECEIVING that which one does NOT DESERVE, while mercy equates to NOT RECIEVING what one DOES DESERVE! The Bible clearly teaches that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and that the wages of sin are death. Yet, many passages in the New Testament also illustrate God’s overwhelming compassion and welcome for a repentant person, such as the parable of the prodigal son (Lk. 15:11-32). This powerful message of concern is reinforced in numerous passages! Paul spoke of how we were spiritually dead already, “But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7). Through Jesus, we continue receiving that which we do not deserve (God’s favor), while not receiving what we actually do deserve (the wrath of God)!! Let us not dismiss such lofty thoughts through a mere exercising of linguistics (Eph. 1:2).

    Peace

    The thought of peace will not hold such significance if we do not recognize the turmoil that comes with its absence. Looking at the world, we see it torn apart by heartache, filled with the devastations of war, and the tragic losses of human life. People are often distraught, experiencing emotional upheaval and deep heartbreak as evil continually brings chaos into this sin-cursed world. When reflecting on these realities, we may also consider the impact that our own sins have, upon our own souls. With a tender conscience, upon hearing the gospel, you’ll thus understand the turmoil in your heart over your contributions to evil. There should be heartache because of the sins that have seperated us from God. But thanks be to God, that while we were once enemies, Christians have been reconciled to our Creator through the blood of Jesus (Rom. 5:6-9). Christians must ever acknowledge our desperate need for a Savior! And the peace we now enjoy is because of the spiritual restoration brought through God’s mercy AND grace! We long to share that message of reconcilliation with others so that they, too, can find peace with the Father. Only by realizing how shallow and empty life is without Christ, can we appreciate the true beauty of the peace that Jesus offers. “For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.” (Rom. 5:10-11)

    More Than a Salutation

    The terms “grace,” “mercy,” and “peace” appear frequently throughout the New Testament epistles. These may have (indeed) been standard greetings at the time they were written, but speaking as the Bible reads is a noble endeavor… And if words hold any meaning—which they certainly do—then we should recognize that these terms carry deep theological significance. Let us strive to appreciate the sentiments expressed in these words more fully. And may the fact that the apostles extend grace, mercy, and peace, “from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ,” prompt careful consideration on our part.