Tag Archives: Encouraging

Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

True Love is Free

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In a world where it seems we have to buy or earn someone’s love, the Bible offers a refreshing reminder.

Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast.” In simpler terms, it means that real love is not something we earn or deserve—it’s a special gift from God.

This kind of love, as Ephesians explains, doesn’t depend on what we achieve or how good we are. In a world where relationships often come with conditions, this idea challenges us to see that true love doesn’t have strings attached.

Understanding and accepting true love, can bring a sense of freedom. It sets us free from the pressure of trying to be perfect or constantly earning love. True love, as described in the Bible, is a gift that accepts us with all our flaws and failures.

This view of love isn’t just for romantic relationships. It applies to all our connections—with friends, family, and the community. Ephesians encourages us to approach love with an open heart, without judgment or expectations.

In a world where real connections matter, Ephesians 2:8-9 shows us the way to true love. True love isn’t something we have to work hard for; it’s a generous gift waiting for us. Understanding and living out this divine love is how we can experience true freedom in our relationships. True love doesn’t cost; it is given freely.

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Holding on to Hope

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In the Bible, Hebrews 10:23 is like a friendly guide, offering simple but powerful advice for life’s ups and downs. The verse says, “Let’s stick to our hope and not give up, because God always keeps His promises” (Hebrews 10:23, Easy-to-Read Version). This short sentence holds a big idea – it’s all about having strong faith and not letting go of hope, no matter what.

It’s like saying, “Hold on tight to what you believe in, and don’t let doubts shake you.” Life can be tricky, but this verse encourages us to stay true to our beliefs and not let tough times make us question what we know deep down.

The verse reminds us to stay steady, even when things get tough. Life can be like a rollercoaster, but this verse tells us to be like a sturdy tree, not bending or swaying with every gust of wind. It’s a call to be strong and not let doubt knock us over.

And why should we be so confident? Because of the part that says, “God keeps his promises.” In other words, it’s like saying, “God always keeps His word.” When things seem uncertain, we can trust that God is reliable. This promise gives us the courage to keep going, knowing that we’re not alone, and God will come through for us.

Hebrews 10:23 is like a cheerleader, cheering us on to stay strong in our hope. It’s an invitation to believe in something solid, something that won’t change when everything else does. So, as we go through life’s twists and turns, let’s remember this verse and hold on to our hope, knowing that God is always faithful, and our faith can weather any storm.

Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Heaven Awaits

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An elderly man was in a hospital room and he was fading quickly. The nurses and doctors decided it was time to call the gentleman’s family, and they gathered around his bed. As he was lying there, holding his wife of 50 years hand, looking at his son and grandchildren, he whispered, “Don’t cry. I’ll see all of you again. This was not my permanent home; I’m only passing through.”

A moment later, the man looked up and said, “I can see the Lord’s face.” Peacefully, the man fell asleep and went to be with the Lord.

Death is a sad time for those of us left behind. The person for whom we love and care deeply has gone home to be with the Lord, so we have to say “see you later,” and live in their absence. But, for the Christian who passes away in death, a whole new adventure begins.

Heaven awaits. “For this is not our permanent home,” the writer of Hebrews reminds us, “we are looking forward to a world yet to come.” While we don’t fully know what Heaven will be like, the Bible does tell us it will be a glorious place. There will be no pain, sorrow, or difficulty. Today’s struggles will be gone. There will be no pandemics or tensions caused by skin color. There will be no hurt or heartache. Rather, Scripture says there will be peace. The lame will walk, the deaf will hear, the blind will see. Heaven will be glorious.

And, the adventure of experiencing Heaven will be ours. If you, or someone you love, is struggling today, remember, it is only temporary. Something much better is coming.

Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Sunshine and Thunderstorms

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There is an errand I typically complete by walking to the store. The weather is usually cooperative, but a few weeks ago as I was walking home, it started to rain. With each step, the rain intensified until I found myself caught in a down poor.

As I was splashing my way home, I realized this is a metaphor for life. Life’s sunshine may usually shine, but occasionally, we find ourselves in the rain. Perhaps even a torrential down poor, but the truth of God’s Word is always the same.

Whether we are gingerly walking through the sunshine of life or running through life’s thunderstorms, the Lord is helping us.

“The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm- he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore” (Psalm 121:5-8).

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Nothing Can Hinder

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He was outnumbered, and the path to even begin engaging in battle was difficult. But Jonathan allowed his faith to guide him.

In 1 Samuel 14:6, Jonathan makes a bold statement. “Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, “Come, let’s go over to the outpost of those uncircumcised men. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.”

“Nothing can hinder the Lord,” Jonahtan says. That’s a great statement.

Nothing can hinder the Lord…

  • From working.
  • From saving.
  • From fulfilling the plans and purpose he has for your life.

Keep this thought at the forefront of your mind today.

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

3 Promises to Carry Today

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Close to 3 weeks have past since we turned the calendar to 2024, and life is marching along. There have been good times and bad times; there have been moments of anxiety and stress, but peaceful ones as well. It is safe to say the rest of the year will continue to unfold in the same way. As each day comes, we can find encouragement in these words of Jesus.

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Here, Jesus gives 2 promises we can carry with us.

  1. There will be difficult times. Jesus warns we will have trials and sorrows, so when they come, remember the other promises in this verse.
  2. Since Jesus doesn’t promise us perfection, he promises we can have peace in him. The peace we have is not based on external circumstances, but our connection with the Lord. Philippians 4:7 reminds us this peace is able to go beyond our understanding.
  3. We can have courage. He is greater than the trials and sorrows, so the victory will ultimately be ours through him.

If life is attempting to beat you up right now, remember, Jesus offers peace and courage.

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Salt It Up

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Salt is important. It serves as a flavor enhancer for our food, but it has also played a significant role in human history. It has helped stabilize economies, served as medicine, and preserved food. The world would not be the same without salt. So, it is no wonder Jesus compares us to salt in Matthew 5:13. “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.” We find in this verse two challenges.

Be the Salt of the Earth

Jesus says we are the salt of the earth. This gives you and I an important role. Just as salt played a central role in history, as Christ’s ambassadors, we are to play a pivotal role in the world around us. We are called to share…

  • Share the love of Christ.
  • Share the peace of Christ.
  • Be the hands and feet of Christ.

So, as you go through your day, look for opportunities to be salt, and salt it up.

Keep Your Flavor

Jesus also challenges us to keep our flavor. It is important to spend time in Scripture, prayer, and staying connected with other believers. Salt with no flavor is useless, but salt with a rich flavor is powerful. Take daily steps to stay richly flavored.

Accept Jesus’ challenge. Be the salt of the earth today; a salt with a rich, attractive flavor that has people coming back for more.

Thanks for reading, and remember, we’ll be back tomorrow at 6 a.m.

Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Blessed are the Sufferers

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Matthew 5:11-12 brings forth another powerful beatitude: “God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way.”

This Beatitude challenges the conventional understanding of happiness and invites believers to find joy even in the face of persecution.

At first glance, rejoicing in the midst of persecution may seem counterintuitive. However, Matthew 5:11 calls believers to shift their focus from worldly approval to divine affirmation. The happiness mentioned here is not dependent on external circumstances but rooted in the assurance that one’s identity is found in Christ. Rejoicing in persecution becomes a testimony of unwavering faith and a deep understanding of God’s promises.

Consider the sunflower, which follows the path of the sun across the sky. In times of persecution, believers are called to turn toward the Son of God, finding their source of joy and identity in Him. Like the sunflower, our joy can remain constant, regardless of the shadows cast by adversity.

  • “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).
  • “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Matthew 5:11-12 challenges us to embrace a joy that transcends circumstances. In the face of persecution, believers are called not only to endure but to rejoice. By finding our identity and happiness in Christ, we become living testimonies of God’s transformative power. So, let us face opposition with a radical joy that confounds the world and reflects the unshakable hope found in our Savior.

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Blessed are the Peacemakers

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Among the Beatitudes, Matthew 5:9 stands as a beacon of guidance: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This verse not only highlights the profound importance of peace but also underscores the active role we can play in fostering harmony and reconciliation in our communities.

Peacemaking is not merely the absence of conflict but an intentional pursuit of unity and understanding. This beatitude invites us to become active participants in the process of reconciliation, taking deliberate steps to build bridges and mend relationships.

Building bridges and mending relationships may require us to take hard steps in the right direction. It may mean…

  • We are the first to reach out amid conflict to negotiate peace.
  • We offer forgiveness to someone who has wounded us.

Being a peacemaker is certainly not easy, but the Lord can give us the needed strength. As you think about this beatitude today, is there a relationship in which you need to be the peacemaker? What steps can you deliberately take today to begin making peace?

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Bible Study, Christian Life, Devotional, Encouragement, Inspiration, Uncategorized

Blessed Are The Merciful

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Jeff and Brittany are coworkers, and they work on a team in a fast-paced, customer-centric company. Jeff was resolving an issue on a client’s account, and he was to reach out to the client when it was completed. Jeff was trying to keep up with a number of projects, and he forgot to give the client a call. A couple days later, Brittany received a call from the client. The conversation was fueled by anger, and Brittany had to endure being shouted at for about 20 minutes due to Jeff’s mistake.

It was a stressful experience for Brittany, but she responded to both the client and Jeff with mercy. Brittany truly lived out the words of Matthew 5:7. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

This is a powerful truth found within God’s Word, and it holds the ability to greatly enhance our lives.

Understanding Mercy

To grasp the significance of this teaching, it’s crucial to understand the essence of mercy. Mercy goes beyond mere sympathy; it involves a compassionate response to the suffering of others. When we show mercy, we extend kindness and forgiveness to those who may not deserve it, recognizing the shared humanity that unites us all.

The Ripple Effect of Mercy

Picture a stone dropped into a still pond. The ripples extend outward, reaching areas far beyond the point of impact. Similarly, acts of mercy create a ripple effect, touching lives in ways we may never fully comprehend.

Everyday Life Applications

1. Forgiveness in the Workplace: Imagine a workplace where colleagues choose mercy over retribution when mistakes occur. Instead of fostering a culture of fear and blame, mercy allows for the growth and development of each team member. This compassionate approach not only enhances productivity but also cultivates a sense of unity and support within the workplace.

2. Acts of Kindness in the Community: Mercy extends beyond forgiveness; it encompasses acts of kindness and generosity. In a community, merciful actions may include helping those in need, supporting local charities, or offering a helping hand to a struggling neighbor. These small acts of mercy contribute to the creation of a compassionate and empathetic community.

3. Compassion in Family Dynamics: Within families, mercy plays a crucial role in nurturing healthy relationships. It involves understanding and forgiving the imperfections of our loved ones. By practicing mercy at home, we create a foundation of love and acceptance that extends to the wider world.

As we navigate the complexities of life, let us heed the words of Matthew 5:7 and strive to be conduits of mercy. In doing so, we not only receive the blessing of mercy but also become agents of positive change in a world that desperately needs the healing touch of compassion.

Thanks for reading, and we’ll talk again tomorrow at 6 a.m.