Biblical Christianity

Why is Life Fragile?

By Michael Heilman | July 11, 2023 | Comments 3 comments

Some people do not realize that nobody would live here on earth for all eternity. That’s because life is fragile, and the Scriptures made that quite clear. We may be here today and then gone tomorrow; who knows? This reminds me of the old riddle, “What is something you know but do not know?”

The answer to this is “death.” We know for certain that we will all die, however, we do not know when.

Bible Verse: James 4:14 (NKJV)

“Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.”

In this verse, James exposes the presumptuous folly of the practical atheists he condemned in the previous verse (James 4:13). These are those who do not know what the future holds for them.

The word vapor refers either to a puff of smoke or one’s breath that appears for a moment in cold air. It stresses the transitory nature of life (James 1:10; Job 7:6-7; 9:25-26; 14:1-2; Psalm 39:5, 11; 62:9, 89:47; 90:5, 6, 10).

The Brevity of Life

Life’s brevity is one of the repeated themes of Scripture. To us, life seems long, and we measure it in years. In comparison to eternity, however, life is but a vapor or “fog.” James borrowed that figure from the book of Job where we find many pictures of the brevity of life.

Since life passes so quickly, we cannot afford merely to spend our lives, and we certainly do not want to waste our lives. We must invest our lives in those things that are eternal.

Spending Eternity

Everybody needs to decide where they will spend eternity. Have you answered that question yet? Our motives and choices are indicative of what is in our hearts (Revelation 20:13b).

I understand not wanting to live a godly life. The sanctified life is not always fair because it is easy to be violated. Satan and his demons are influencing the destruction of humanity.

Everybody is going to meet YHWH eventually whether they believe He is real or not. The feelings and beliefs do not change the truth. Our choices show whether we want to live with YHWH and Yeshua or not for eternity.

This life is not all there is. Satan hates humanity since we were made in YHWH’S image (Genesis 1:27). Satan is deceiving humanity to hate YHWH and Yeshua, which is evident by the fact that sin abounds (Matthew 24:12).

The temporary satisfaction of sin does not compare to living with YHWH and Yeshua for eternity (1 Corinthians 2:9). We all have our weaknesses. Life can be traumatic. That does not mean we cannot overcome them. As Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Final Words

Life on earth is fragile and there is nothing we can do about it. No matter how long we would like to remain, that is beyond our control. Since Yahweh is the giver of life, only He has the authority over it. Only He has the power to extend to shorten our years.

Indeed, God has given us a clue as to the number of years we may live here on earth (Psalm). Yet, there is no guarantee we will all live to be 70 or 80 years old. We must understand that also that sometimes YHWH allows trials so we can rely on the grace of God (2 Corinthians 12:9).

But are we trusting YHWH enough to take care of our trials as He sees fit? More importantly, are we ready to meet Him?

Recommended Resource:

How You Can Be Sure You Will Spend Eternity with God by Erwin W. Lutzer

How You Can Be Sure You Will Spend Eternity with God—it’s a big promise, but this short book delivers.

It answers a host of questions, such as:

Will good deeds help me get into heaven?
Who goes to heaven and who doesn’t?
What role do I have in my own salvation?
Can I lose my salvation if I commit a serious sin?
Is it wrong to doubt my salvation, and what should I do if I doubt?

Dr. Lutzer takes many scriptural teachings and siphons them into clear, cohesive truths. The result is a concise, accessible book about how to be saved and be sure you are saved.

It is straight gospel—applicable to the skeptic, newly saved, and long-time believer alike.

Why Yahweh Gave the Bible

By Michael Heilman | March 10, 2023 | Comments 2 comments

Why did Yahweh give us the Bible? If you ask theologians and Bible scholars, they will give you several reasons why. However, we do not have to ask them; all we have to do is read what God has to say in His Word.

Bible Verse: Matthew 7:24, NKJV

“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock.”

I believe most of us are familiar with this verse and this is because we often hear this from our pastors. But what does this verse have to do with God’s reason for giving us the Bible?

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders — Photo Credit: Pinterest/Jesus and His Parables

In Matthew 7:24-29, Jesus made one important point: Our profession of faith in God will ultimately be tested.

Those who have trusted Christ and have proven their faith by their obedience will have nothing to fear. Founded on the rock, their house will stand. In contrast, those who have professed to trust Christ but have not obeyed God will be condemned.

God Gave Christians the Bible

Why did YHWH give Christians the Bible? He gave us a Life Manual. Before using a machine or equipment, we look at the manufacturer’s manual to guide us in the proper usage. Without God’s manual, we will not know how to use the life God gave as He intended.

It’s the same thing with God giving us the Bible – for us to know how to live our lives according to His purpose. We need the Bible because it can change us from the inside out. The question is – do we believe that the Bible is God’s Word and manual for living our lives? Do we want to be transformed?

Did we only get fire insurance when we got saved? Or did we genuinely want to be changed from a sinner to a saint?

The Bible Can Change Us

We all know we can’t change ourselves. Then the question is … how much time and effort do we put into fellowshipping with the ONE that can change us? YHWH gave us the Bible for a reason.

He changes us by making choices according to the WORD. This world is headed toward destruction for their rejection of Yeshua and the Word.

Many individual people have rejected YHWH and the Bible, which is evidenced by the Grammy’s a few days ago. Their own wisdom and devices will cause their own destruction.

But humanity is not smarter than YHWH. Since the Garden of Eden, humanity has been corrupted. Humanity has become worse than a greasy, black, rotten, banana peel that belongs in God’s dumpster.

Last Words

For the skeptics, how long are you going to gamble with your eternal destiny before you repent to YHWH for your sin? If you don’t, destruction is your final destination. Just like the foolish man who built his house on the sand, you will also fall.

For the believer, how much do we live like the Bible is true? Or are we mixing our own opinions with cherry-picked passages? We don’t have the right to believe only parts of the Bible and reject others. Either it is all God’s Word or none of it.

God can only bring us through the storms of life if we make choices like the Bible is true and reliable. Are you building your house on the rock? Then you are like the wise man.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

The MacArthur Bible Commentary by John MacArthur

Faithful, Focused Commentary on the Whole Bible

Serious students of Scripture can easily lose their focus among the many Bible commentaries available today, studying for hours yet discovering no meaningful application of God’s eternal truth.

This one-volume commentary on the entire Bible from one of America’s foremost Bible expositors offers instead a mini-library of understandable resources designed to convey the Bible’s overarching message with historical and theological clarity.

Pastor and teacher John MacArthur covers the complete Bible—every passage of the Old and New Testaments, phrase by phrase—in this valuable one-volume resource.

Hundreds of additional study tools complement the commentary, such as

Word studies
Charts, graphs, and brief articles
Overviews of each major division of the Bible
Introductions to each biblical book
A summary of essential Christian theology
Special sections on Jesus’s life and ministry
Harmonies of historical writings
Guidance in studying, applying, and teaching God’s Word

Readers benefit from the coherence a single commentator provides, finding faithful, understandable, and relevant resources for any passage from the entire Bible.

Consistent elements include exploring God’s character; seeing Christ in all Scripture; and identifying key doctrines, vital people, and touchstone Scripture passages.

The MacArthur Bible Commentary offers pastors, Bible teachers, serious Bible readers, and anyone seeking to read and understand the Scriptures a way to focus their studies while still seeing the entire Bible’s application to the Christian life.

Prepare to Meet Your Creator

By Michael Heilman | February 20, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

Whether you believe in life after death or not, be ready to meet your Creator. Life does not end at death when the soul and spirit separate from the body. The common notion that everything, including humans, came as a result of the Big Bang has been debunked by scientists.

So, while we are still in this tent (our body), how do we prepare to meet God? We get ready by living in a way that pleases our Creator. But it’s easier said than done, isn’t it?

We are now living in a society where many people do not seem to care anymore about the consequences of their actions. It’s because they do not believe they will give an account of their life before the Judge.

I’m not only talking about unbelievers; there are those claiming to be followers of Jesus who are living as the world does. If you think you can get away with this, you are gravely mistaken.

If God did not spare His chosen people and judged them, what makes you think He will look the other way regarding sin?

Bible Verse: Amos 4:12, NKJV

“Therefore thus will I do to you, O Israel; Because I will do this to you, Prepare to meet your God, O Israel!”

Amos’ second message to Israel was to denounce her sins. Consider some of the disciplines that God had sent to Israel to bring His people back to himself. They experience famine, drought, destruction of crops, sickness, defeat in war, catastrophe, and ultimate judgment.

God’s covenant with His people clearly stated that God would bless them if they obeyed His law and would discipline them if they disobeyed. (See Deuteronomy 27 – 29.) Unfortunately, they often spurned His love, rejected His warnings, and chose death.

You see, choices have consequences. God brings consequences to his disobedient children. Israel is God’s chosen people and yet their actions showed a rejection of God’s word and principles.

Indeed, the world is constantly rejecting YHWH’s love and salvation. But how often do Christians reject the Word so that we can live as we desire? Like the Old Testament was given to Israel to tell them how to live, how well does our Christian lifestyle compare to God’s Word?

Learning from the Jews

Like the people of Israel in the time of Amos and the people throughout history, we have the capacity for giving attention to external effects. And we do this while ignoring the issues of the heart. We evaluate by sight and feeling rather than by truth (see Samuel 16:7).

We can easily join a large, happy, religious crowd, enthusiastically sing rousing songs, and put money into the offering plate. Yet, not be changed in our hearts.

Whether we’re involved in evangelism, education, social action, world missions, or feeding the hungry, we must do it for the Lord. Let us always be reminded that everything the church accomplishes for the Lord flows out of worship. If the fountainhead of worship is polluted, the church’s entire ministry will be defiled.

Let us examine our hearts to make certain our motives are right and that whatever we do glorifies the Lord.

Being Christ’s Ambassadors

Christians are supposed to represent YHWH unto unbelievers but the question is how well do we do it? Every person is appointed once to die, then the judgment (Hebrews 9:27). Since so few realize how quickly death can happen, we all need to be prepared to meet our Creator and Saviour.

So few people realize Nuclear World War 3 is about to happen. We see athletes kneeling over for no reason, toxic chemicals are being spilled everywhere, and strange blood clots are killing many people. And why is the news purposefully lying to cover up the truth?

Do you even know that infanticide is about to become legal in California and human trafficking is swept under the rug? It is only for God’s mercy that are we not consumed (Lamentations 3:22). Whether the world suffers the consequences of its own choices or the judgment of YHWH, they will still result in many people going to meet YHWH.

Yeshua came to earth so that every single person could have a relationship with YHWH but many Christians are doing their own things. How many Christians give the gospel to other people? Believers have the mandate to reach out to the lost with the gospel but many choose to live comfortably in their “own world.”

Things for the Believers to Ponder

How many Christians study the Bible so that they are not just blindly following a pastor? It’s sad to see how many so-called followers of Jesus are deceived into believing the lies that false teachers spew online.

And why do many Christians prefer being legalistic and picking fights with other believers so they can feel holier than thou? Are we forgetting what Jesus told His disciples before He went back to the Father?

Paul also instructed Timothy to avoid foolish arguments that could lead to quarrels. Instead, be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people (2 Timothy 2:23-24).

How many Christians would rather follow a list of rules rather than have an intimate relationship with Yeshua?

What about Christians who would rather make excuses for themselves so they don’t have to make their life more difficult? How many Christians would rather chase the American Dream to fill a void that only YHWH can fill?

Are You Ready to Meet thy Maker?

How ready are Christians to meet their Saviour and YHWH?

I know there are many people not ready to meet their Maker. Revival does not need to happen at any specific location. It can happen anywhere.

If you know there is something you need to get right, please talk to YHWH and Yeshua about it.

Just ask Yeshua to change your heart and desires.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

One Less Grain of Sand: Fulfill God’s Purposes While You Have Time by Joey A. Perry Sr.

If you are a Christian who wants to do what God designed you to do, then One Less Grain of Sand: Fulfill God’s Purposes While You Have Time! is for you!

With each passing moment, one less grain of sand remains in your life’s hourglass. Therefore, you should make doing God’s will a priority every day!

As you read this powerful devotional, you will be…

Reminded daily that you should commit yourself to fulfilling God’s purposes.
Encouraged to do what pleases God instead of what pleases you.
Motivated to make the best use of the time God gives you.
Moved to serve God, and thereby make a positive impact on the people around you.
Filled with a sense of satisfaction that you are doing what God desires.

In addition to being a devotional, this book is also a journal!

Each daily reading includes questions or statements for personal reflection. To make it easier for eBook readers to respond to the journal prompts, a free, downloadable, and printable journal is available.

Print book readers can also use the downloadable journal if they choose not to write their responses directly in the devotional. The link to the downloadable journal can be found inside the book.

Humility Bears Sanctification

By Michael Heilman | February 5, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

Do you know that the root word for “humiliation” is humility? Did it ever occur to you that to be humble, you need to humiliate yourself? You read that right; humility means humiliating yourself in the service of other people.

But it is also through humble service that we are sanctified because humility bears sanctification. The Lord Jesus exemplified this when He washed His disciples’ feet.

Bible Verse: John 13:14-15, NKJV

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.”

By washing His disciples’ feet, Jesus put them on the same level as His. This is because the servant (slave) is not greater than his master. But if the master becomes the slave, he would be on the same level as the servant.

By becoming a servant, our Lord did not push us down. Instead, He lifted us up!

Keep in mind that the Romans had no use for humility, and the Greeks despised manual labor. Yet, Jesus combined these two when He washed the disciples’ feet.

Jesus: The Model of True Humility

Yeshua is the perfect example of humiliating himself so that His disciples would have a model of service to God and others. In John 13:1-20, only a few hours before Yeshua would be crucified, He taught His disciples how to have a humble heart.

Even though Yeshua is called God and Saviour in verse 13, that does not mean He acted proud or pious. There is nothing we can do that can match everything Yeshua has done for humanity and the Church. How humble do we compare to Yeshua?

Sure, many Christians will say, “We will serve the Lord and by extension love and serve others.” But how well are we doing it? It is one thing to say it, but it is another thing entirely to do it consistently.

Humility and Sanctification

Did you know that a servant’s heart will bear spiritual fruit in others? In John 13:10, the Lord emphasized the relationship between humility and sanctification.

The object lesson on foot washing had nothing to do with the cleanliness of the disciples’ bodies and feet but with salvation and sanctification.

When the sinner trusts in the Lord, he is “bathed all over” and his sins are washed away and forgiven. See 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Titus 3:3-7; Hebrews 10:17; and Revelation 1:15.

However, as we journey in this world, we get defiled very easily. We do not need to be washed all over again; we just need to confess our sins and God will cleanse us as He promised (1 John 1:9).

Jesus did not have to stoop down to the level of a servant or slave; He did not have to wash His disciples’ feet. He did not have to “humiliate” Himself. But He did it to prepare them for what was about to happen. At this point, the disciples had no idea that Jesus would soon be dying to save mankind.

Growth and Sanctification

In Jon 13:10, Yeshua said Peter did not need to be washed from head to toe, only his feet.

As disciples of Yeshua, we are already washed from head to toe, only our feet get dirty as our feet are in contact with the world. People in those days wore sandals on their feet which would allow the dust of the ground to get on their feet.

As we go into the world to fulfill the Great Commission, our spiritual feet get dirty from the sinful habits we have. Hence, the need for humble Christians that are willing to wash the sinful habits that we have.

When was the last time we individually saw spiritual growth in a disciple of Yeshua? Sanctification should be a motive of all relationships between believers. A disciple is anyone that is truly born again and has started the journey of spiritual growth and sanctification.

How do we see sanctification in other believers? Love and serve them by washing their spiritual feet. How much effort do we put into washing others’ feet?

Closing Words

If you noticed, this post is a continuation of the previous post on humility and service. I don’t think it’s a coincidence that two different authors of this blog would tackle the same topic.

God knows what kind of message His people need to read and hear

We today, just like the disciples that night, desperately need this lesson on humility.

Sadly, the church is filled with a worldly spirit of competition and criticism as believers vie with one another to see who is the greatest. We are growing in knowledge but not in grace (2 Peter 3:18). Jesus served His disciples because of His humility and love.

Are we willing to “humiliate ourselves” to serve others as part of our sanctification process?

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

The Power of Humility: Living like Jesus by R.T. Kendall

Pride is often the true reason why we get our feelings hurt, why we feel rejection, why we won’t admit to mistakes, why we want to be seen with certain people, and why we stay angry.

Jesus gives us the perfect example of a powerful life lived without conceit, smugness, or arrogance. So why do we not want to admit to our pride? It is because of our pride!

In The Power of Humility, R. T. Kendall challenges us to look deeply into our hearts and motives to recognize the pride and self-righteousness there. Using personal stories and enlightening examples from the Bible, he demonstrates how pride interferes with a close relationship with God and reveals how to overcome pride and become more like Jesus.

Man’s Opinion vs. Biblical Fact

By Michael Heilman | January 15, 2023 | Comments 4 comments

I find it disheartening that today, people value man’s opinion over biblical fact. When it comes to important matters such as family values, people choose to listen to what the world says. In other words, people give more importance to man’s opinion over God’s.

But no matter what the world says, their opinions do not change the facts about God and the Bible.

Bible Verse: Hebrews 13:8, NKJV

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Both Malachi 3:6 and Hebrews 13:8 declare that God is immutable; He is unchanging. God remains the same always and will never change. Everything else in the world will change but we can trust God to be always good, loving, faithful, merciful, kind, etc.

We often hear people say that the only constant thing is change and it’s true. People may promise one thing today but turn around and say something different. Your life may be smooth sailing and comfortable today but you’ll never know what tomorrow holds. A couple might be “over the moon” today but could end up in divorce in two years.

So, you see? Nothing is permanent; nothing remains the same. But God is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

What Happened to America?

It is a shame that American society and much of the world have rejected many biblical principles. Many things have changed because we now live in the “Era of Post-Modernism” or a “Post-Christian Society.” These labels accurately depict the period we live in.

Post-Modernism emphasizes relativity and the encouragement to affirm everyone’s beliefs. It does not matter anymore if someone else’s opinions or beliefs are contrary to the truth. They are accepted and regarded as facts nonetheless.

Since society agrees with Post-Modernism, genuine Christianity has been largely rejected for being too exclusive. It’s no wonder then that Christians are labeled as bigots and intolerant for standing up for their faith.

We’ve heard of a Christian baker who was sued for not agreeing to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple. But this man did not do as asked not because he was discriminating against the gay couple or intolerant of them. Rather, he refused to bake a wedding cake because doing so goes against his Christian values.

America’s Rejection of God

What happened to the United States of America? Isn’t this country’s constitution founded on Judeo-Christian values? Aren’t the founders of this great nation Christians and they wanted it to value God and His statutes?

America has rejected God in so many different ways. Gone were the days when students were free to acknowledge God in their valedictory or salutatory addresses. Today, it is considered bigotry to recite from the Bible or pray in public.

Allowing children to Pray in School — Photo Credit: Change.Org

But no matter how much people hate God and want to get rid of Him completely, the truth remains. The truth does not change; God is still God! Are we all doomed to only find out the truth after we die? God forbid!

This is a wake-up call for everyone who claims to be a follower of Christ. It’s time to stand up for your faith and keep spreading the truth about God. Regardless of what the world thinks of you and says about you, go out there and share the Gospel with the lost.

Jesus is the Answer

We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23) but thanks be to our Lord Jesus for redeeming us from sin. The only solution to humanity’s problem of sin is found in Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12).

Jesus left His throne above and came down to suffer and die so that we would be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18).

Indeed, Jesus is the answer to the problem of sin. No matter how good we think we are or how much good work we strive to do, it is never enough. This is because our salvation is not based on our good works but on the finished work of Christ. The Bible is clear that salvation is by grace through faith alone in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-10).

Do you know Jesus? Have you confessed your sin, received His forgiveness, and surrendered your life to Him?

Do not value the opinion of man over God’s because they cannot save you from your sin. Instead, you should start making biblical decisions because what you decide today will determine your tomorrow.

Final Thoughts

Christianity has become unpopular, but that does not change the fact that God still changes lives through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

God has not abandoned His creation (Hebrews 13:5b) and He never will. He will continue to work through His people to accomplish His purpose. Even when things seem to be going in the wrong direction, rest assured that God is in control.

It does not matter what anyone’s beliefs are now. Time will come when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is God (Philippians 2:10-11).

Just because Jesus lived 200 years ago, does not change the fact that God has been revealed, The Bible is God’s Word, He still changes lives, and all will stand before a Holy, Righteous, and impartial Judge.

Every person needs to choose whether Jesus will be their Judge or their Advocate. Choose wisely for your own sake! Do exactly what God is asking. Repent from your sins, believe that Christ died to save you, and live your life to serve Him until He comes again.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

Mission Possible One-Year Devotional: 365 Days of Inspiration for Pursuing Your God-Given Purpose by Tim Tebow and A. J. Gregory

In his first devotional, the New York Times bestselling author and athlete challenges you to find your mission and pursue a bolder, brighter, more fulfilling life—by building your faith every single day.

Tim Tebow knows a thing or two about living a mission-possible life. The two-time national champion, Heisman Trophy winner, first-round NFL draft pick, former professional baseball player, college football analyst, and New York Times bestselling author now shares what it takes to move toward your mission.

Tim reveals how you can find your mission and take a step each day to reach your purpose and your best future.

Through 365 Bible-based readings, you’ll discover how to:

Align your responsibilities.
Identify your priorities.
Elevate your convictions.
Make decisive, wise choices.
Fuel your drive and passion.
Set your sights on eternity.

The secret to a truly meaningful life doesn’t involve more comfort or ease. It requires a clear focus on who God made you to be and a proven guide to get you there. Tim is ready to help you live that mission-possible life.

Finding True Peace in God

By Michael Heilman | December 25, 2022 | Comments 2 comments

Everybody wants peace to reign here on earth, especially during the Yuletide season. But what we need to understand is that we only find true peace in God.

It’s true; the world also offers some kind of peace. Isn’t that the theme of the Miss World and the Miss Universe beauty pageant? That’s why one of the common questions asked is how a contestant would help to achieve this should they win the crown.

Bible Verse: Luke 2:14, NKJV

“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

The Jewish word shalom (“peace”) means much more than a truce in the battles of life. It means well-being, health, prosperity, security, soundness, and completeness. Peace has to do more with character than circumstances.

Life was difficult at that time just as it is today. Taxes were high, unemployment was high, morals were slipping lower, and the military state was in control.

Roman law, Greek philosophy, and even Jewish religion could not meet the needs of men’s hearts. Then God sent His Son.

Jesus, God’s Greatest Gift

We all love gifts, don’t we? Gift-giving on Christmas day isn’t just for kids anymore but for adults too. This is why all over the world, exchanging gifts is a tradition that doesn’t seem to be going away.

Did you know that even people who claim to not believe in Christ enjoy Christmas as much as Christians do?

But as followers of Christ, we must never forget what Christmas is all about. More than 2 thousand years ago in Bethlehem, God’s greatest gift came down to save mankind from sin (John 3:16). Jesus, the eternal God, came to dwell among us and became the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of man.

So you see, gift-giving started with God. But He did not give us the most precious gift because we deserve it. We don’t, but He gave anyway.

We may never be able to out-give God. But knowing what God sacrificed for you, what are you willing to give to Him as a sign of your gratitude? If God asks for your time and talent, are you willing to say yes?

Celebrating Christ

Is it just me or is the Christmas season the busiest time of the year? Is it just me or is it also a very stressful time of year as well? Why do we make it so stressful?

Instead of meditating on the greatest gift that we received from God, we are so occupied with all the preparations. We spend so much time shopping for Christmas presents and delicious food to serve.

I see nothing wrong with celebrating Christmas with family and friends. But if our excitement for the festivities overshadows our gratitude to God then we need to reevaluate our priorities.

Aren’t we supposed to be celebrating the Creator of the universe giving humanity peace?

What are you celebrating every Christmas season?

Peace from the Prince of Peace

Throughout history, humanity has always fought with each other for their own fleshly sinful desires (James 4:1). And they continue to reject the Lord’s principles. Yet despite that, God still loves us anyway (Romans 5:8).

That is why the Lord sent peace down from above. Yeshua is the only one who could bring peace to this world and our hearts since He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

Only Yeshua can bring reconciliation and peace between the Lord and humanity (John 14:6).

Conclusion

Are you seeking peace on earth and goodwill to men? Peace comes only from Christ. The peace that is from above is not only peace to be reconciled to God. It is also enough peace to overcome the stressful times of our lives (John 16:33).

If you want peace, ask God and He will give it to you (Philippians 4:6-7).

Do you believe that the Lord can give you peace with God? Then you have to act like He can give you peace in all stressful circumstances just as He promised.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

One Perfect Life: The Complete Story of the Lord Jesus by John F. MacArthur

Read the best news the world has ever been given about the most significant life in all history—Jesus Christ. In One Perfect Life, Dr. John MacArthur shares with us the complete story of the Eternal Christ from Genesis to Revelation.

Using Matthew as the base text, Dr. MacArthur blends the gospels and other biblical material about Jesus into one continuous story that will help you better understand Scripture and grow stronger in your faith.

No other harmony of the Gospels includes such extensive study notes to help you unpack the meaning of each verse.

Features include:

Verse-by-verse explanations from one of the most important pastor-teachers of our time
Every verse connected to Christ from Genesis to Revelation
A harmony of the Gospels that demonstrates the inerrancy of Scripture
New King James translation

Who Has Your Devotion?

By Michael Heilman | December 10, 2022 | Comments 2 comments

If I ask you the question, “Who has your devotion?” what would your answer be? As a Christian, the answer to this question should be easy. You don’t even have to think deeply and hard.

Unless you have some other things or people in mind that you are devoted to.

I am reminded of the song “Hopelessly Devoted to You” by Olivia Newton-John. In this song, the woman who was left brokenhearted by the man couldn’t get over him. Her mind is telling her to forget him, but her heart is telling her to hold on and remain true and loyal to him.

But first, what is devotion, and what does it mean to be devoted to somebody or something?

Meaning of Devotion — Photo Credit: Merriam-Webster

Devotion and Devoted

Vocabulary Dot Com defines devotion as a commitment or dedication to some purpose or feelings of ardent love. As far as religion is concerned, devotion is a religious zeal that drives one to willingly serve God. To this extent, devotion can become cultic and idolatrous.

Thus, to be devoted means to be extremely loyal and loving to someone or something. It means being focused on that particular thing or person almost exclusively.

Devotion Equals Love

Our devotion as Christians should be first and foremost to God. Our Lord Jesus commanded us “to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength” (Mark 12:30).

Mark adds strength but this quote is from Deuteronomy 6:4-5. The use of these various terms, heart, soul, mind, and strength is not meant to delineate distinct human faculties. Rather, it is to underscore the completeness of the kind of love that is called for.

But what is love and what does it look like today? Is it just a feeling that can be lost? Is it just an affirmation that can be later rejected? No, love is a commitment despite all circumstances.

In other words, love is a form of worship and devotion to the One exalted above everything else. And that is God! Only God deserves that position as Exodus 20:3 says.

The Proper Object of Devotion

Did you know we could be devoted to almost anything? We can make idols out of anything. That makes us sinners before a Holy God. All of us have at some point made choices contrary to God’s Will.

The phrase, “before Me” (Exodus 20:3) is the most appropriate expression in the light of the next few verses. All false gods stand in opposition to the One true God and the worship of them is incomparable with the worship of Yahweh.

Yet the better question is whether we all individually have repented and devoted our lives to living biblically. By the way, a biblical life is a holy life as 1 Peter 1:14-15 says.

Living a Holy Life

A holy life is a life devoted to living according to the truth. A sincere unbeliever knows nothing in this world and gives ultimate purpose, meaning, or hope as Ecclesiastes 1:2 says.

Holiness essentially defines the Christian’s new nature and conduct in contrast with his/her pre-salvation lifestyle. The reason for practicing a holy manner of living is that Christians are associated with the holy God. Thus, they must treat Him and His Word with respect and reverence.

Just a quick note; to be holy in the Lord does not mean what the world says. It’s not about going to church every Sunday and practicing all the rituals or keeping traditions that aren’t even biblical.

Living a holy life means not doing what the world does. That’s why Paul said in Romans 12:2 that followers of Christ should no longer conform to the patterns of this world. Take note that Christians are no longer citizens of this world but of heaven.

Conclusion

Who has your devotion? Your spouse or partner in life? Is it your kids and family? Perhaps your career or business?

There is nothing wrong with being extremely loving and loyal to those mentioned. But our devotion must be first and foremost to God. This is why the first and greatest commandment is loving God with all that we are. And the second is loving our fellowmen.

This just goes to show that we cannot truly love ourselves and others without loving God first.

God wants our devotion, and He deserves it because of who He is: our Saviour, God, and King!

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Recommended Resource:

Devoted to God by Sinclair B. Ferguson

Christians are transformed by the renewing of their minds. They understand that in large measure how they think about the gospel will determine how they will live for God’s glory.

They learn to allow the word of God to do its own work, informing and influencing the way they think in order to shape the way they live.

In a series of Scripture-enriched chapters, Sinclair B. Ferguson’s Devoted to God works out this principle in detail. It provides what he describes as ‘blueprints for sanctification’ an orderly exposition of central New Testament passages on holiness.

Devoted to God thus builds a strong and reliable structural framework for practical Christian living. It stresses the foundational importance of fundamental issues such as union with Christ, the rhythms of spiritual growth, the reality of spiritual conflict, and the role of God’s law.

Here is a fresh approach to an always relevant subject, and a working manual to which the Christian can turn again and again for biblical instruction and spiritual direction.

What’s the Truth about God?

By Michael Heilman | November 30, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

Who is God? What’s the truth about Him? Many people have asked this question.

With so many opinions, how is anyone able to figure out what the truth is since we have not spoken with or seen God? The reason we have not spoken with or seen God is that we are spiritually dead and God is holy.

Jesus is God

We read this in John 5:25, “Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live.”

In so many words, the only way man could find out who God is would be if God became a Man. In the above-mentioned verse, Jesus uses the title Son of God as a way to communicate the truth. And that He is the only one that has seen and spoken with God and was God Himself.

God the Son who is from all eternity had the right to grant life. The distinction involves Jesus’ deity versus His incarnation. In becoming a man, Jesus voluntarily set aside the independent exercise of His divine attributes and prerogatives (Philippians 2:6-11).

Jesus here affirmed that even in His humanity, the Father granted Him the “life-giving” power, i.e, the power of resurrection.

The truth about Jesus being God is confirmed by John 1:1, 14. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

These verses further elaborate on the fact that all of reality was spoken into existence by the Word.

The Word Created Everything

The Word had all the essence or attributes of a deity. Jesus the Messiah was fully God and He was the Father’s agent involved in creating everything in the universe (Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:2), including you and I.

While Christ as God was uncreated and eternal, the word “became” emphasizes Christ’s taking on humanity (John 1:14). This indicates that the infinite became finite and the eternal was conformed to time. The invisible God became visible and the supernatural One reduced Himself to the natural.

Since we were created by the Word, wouldn’t that mean we are accountable to Him? John 1:14 is saying that Jesus, who is God, became Man: the only begotten Son of God became the Son of Man. Why would the God of the universe become a Man?

John 3:16 gives us the reason why. “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.”

The Supreme Love of God

The Son’s mission is bound up in the supreme love of God for the evil, sinful world of humanity that is in rebellion against Him. The word “so” emphasizes the intensity or greatness of His love. The Father gave His unique and beloved Son to die on behalf of sinful men (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Because of rebellion, man became the enemy of God. But through the work of Christ on the cross, He brought man and God together again. God has been reconciled with man and has turned His face in love toward the lost world

Since God loves us and our sin has already condemned us, Jesus did not need to condemn us. We need salvation from our own sinful choices and attitudes. No matter how righteous anyone thinks they are, they are nothing compared to God, since we all have broken God’s law.

God Redeemed Sinful Man

Lust is adultery to God. Little white lies are still lies to God. Stealing is still wrong to God. Hatred is the same as murder to God. Being fanatical toward anything other than God is idolatry. All of these and many more are sins toward God.

In spite of all of our sins, Jesus came to save us and clean us up so that we could spend eternity with Him. Jesus loves everyone enough He does not want anyone to go to hell and be separated from Him for eternity. He loves us so much that He suffered, died, and rose again so that we would have a way to become right with God.

Christ died that we might die and He died that we might live. But He also died so that we might share in the new creation. Our new relationship with Christ has brought about a new relationship with the world and the people around us.

Jesus is the Truth of God

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

This is the sixth “I am” statement of Jesus in John (see John 6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 9; 10:11, 14; 11:25; 15:1, 5).In response to Thomas’ query, Jesus declared that He is the way to God because He is the truth of God and the life of God.

In this verse, the exclusiveness of Jesus as the only approach to the Father is emphatic. Only one way, not many ways, exist to God, i.e, Jesus Christ (John 10:7-9; Matthew 7:13-14; Luke 13:24; Acts 4:12).

Conclusion

Then the question is, do you believe the truth about God? Do you believe that God became a Man, died, and rose again? God did all these to save you from the punishment of your own sinful choices so you could know who He is. God desires to change you and be right with Him.

The Bible tells us in John 3:17-18, “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.”

If you sincerely believe these passages, talk to God about it. Repent of your sin and ask for forgiveness offered through the finished work of Jesus Christ and you will be saved.

Strive to know the real truth about God and live every day to please Him.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

Knowing God by J. I. Packer

For over 40 years, J. I. Packer’s classic has been an important tool to help Christians around the world discover the wonder, the glory, and the joy of knowing God.

In 2006, Christianity Today voted this title one of the top 50 books that have shaped evangelicals, and this 20th-anniversary edition is updated with Americanized language and spelling, and a new preface by the author.

Stemming from Packer’s profound theological knowledge, Knowing God brings together two important facets of the Christian faith― knowing about God and also knowing God through the context of a close relationship with the person of Jesus Christ.

Written in an engaging and practical tone, this thought-provoking work seeks to transform and enrich the Christian understanding of God.

Explaining both who God is and how we can relate to him, Packer divides his book into three sections: The first directs our attention to how and why we know God, the second to the attributes of God, and the third to the benefits enjoyed by a those who know him intimately.

This guide leads readers to a greater understanding of God while providing advice to gain a closer relationship with him as a result.

Just Do It: Revisited

By Michael Heilman | November 10, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

Has someone ever told you to do something and when you asked why, they simply said, “Just do it?” When this happens, I can’t blame you for not wanting to do as you’re told. We all have the freedom to think for ourselves and decide to do what we’re asked to do or not.

How do we know if what someone asked us to do is beneficial to us or not? They can’t just expect us to take them at their word, right? But what if it’s God telling us something and adding, “Just do it.” Will that make a difference?

Bible Verse: Ecclesiastes 12:13, NIV

“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”

The book of Ecclesiastes ends where the book of Proverbs begins (Proverbs 1:7), with an admonition for us to fear God. The fear of the Lord is that attitude of reverence and awe that His people show Him because they love Him. Christians also fear the Lord because they respect His power and His greatness.

The Fear of God

When a person fears God, he/she will pay attention to His Word and obey it. He or she will not tempt the Lord by deliberately disobeying or by playing with sin. An unholy fear makes people run away from God. But a holy fear brings them to their knees in loving submission to God.

The fear of the Lord must result in obedient living, otherwise, that “fear” is only a sham. One who is a dedicated believer will want to spend time daily in Scripture, getting to know the Father better and discovering His will.

Doing What is Right

There is a popular company today with the slogan, “Just Do It.” What does that mean? Could it mean we just do it because we think it is right? Or just do it because it feels good? Perhaps we just do it because the government approves of it?

Well, it sounds like “Just Do It” is based on the phrase, “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die.” Thus implying that our choices do not have consequences and we are not accountable to anyone but ourselves.

This is just outright unbiblical! Ecclesiastes 12:13 says humanity’s first duty is to fear God and His Word. Our first responsibility is not only to fear God because we are accountable to Him. If we continue reading Ecclesiastes 12:14, it says God will bring every work into judgment. God will judge even every secret thing we have done, whether good or bad.

We need to understand that God created life, therefore, He alone knows how to manage it. He wrote the instruction manual, and wise is the person who reads and obeys.

Final Words

I must reiterate that each of us has the freedom to make decisions for ourselves. When somebody tells you to do something, you have the right to decide whether you will do it or not. Even when the government or somebody in authority orders you to do something, you must think about the possible effects.

I’d say it’s another thing when it’s God telling Christians to just do it. We can trust that God desires what’s best for His children. God will never tell us to do something that would harm us.

God exhorted His born-again children to live in self-control daily (Galatians 5:23). With the help of the Holy Spirit, God will; enable us to make choices that honor Him rather than choices to please ourselves.

Every person, saved or lost, should ask themselves, “Am I living with a Just do it attitude? Or am I living with the fear of God and making biblical choices?”

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

Saying Yes to God: How to Keep in Step with the Spirit by Timothy Geoffrion

Saying Yes to God is written to help maturing Christians better recognize the voice of God and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The book is a practical resource for those looking for fresh insight to break through barriers and personal limitations in their relationship with God.

In effect, this book offers hope to all those who earnestly want to know God better and to live Christ-centered, Spirit-led lives.

Readers will not feel judged or shamed but will hear a gentle but firm and persistent call to believe that God truly is at work in their lives, calling and leading them.

Not only can they learn to recognize the Spirit’s voice better, but they can learn how to work with God in tremendously satisfying and fruitful ways.

This book’s particular contribution lies in its simple presentation of important spiritual concepts, use of illustrations drawn from the author’s spiritual life coaching practice, and global teaching ministry.

It has a special emphasis on how to love others better as an outflow of one’s faith and personal relationship with God.

God’s New Commandment: Love One Another

By Michael Heilman | October 30, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

Many times unbelievers ask Christians to prove God exists, considering we cannot observe or perform a test on Him. So, how do we answer them?

For theologians and Bible scholars, this should be easy because they have studied the evidence for the existence of God. They know what questions atheists usually ask and know exactly how to address them.

But what about believers who did not go to Bible school but love the Lord and are passionate about God’s work? If you love the Lord, you will also enjoy communicating with Him. How do Christians communicate with God? We do this through prayer and reading God’s Word.

When people ask you to prove God’s existence, know that Jesus already answered this question in John 13:34-35.

Bible Verse: John 13:34-35, NKJV

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

After announcing His departure and insisting that His disciples could not come with Him, Jesus laid out His expectation on them. Jesus said He expected them to follow His directives after He leaves them. He said that love is to serve as the distinguishing characteristic of discipleship.

A New Commandment

The commandment to love was not new. Deuteronomy 6:5 commanded love for God. and Leviticus 19:18 commanded loving one’s neighbor as oneself. See also Matthew 22:34-40; Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:14; James 2:8.

However, Jesus’ command regarding love presented a distinctly new standard for two reasons:

It was sacrificial love modeled after His love (“as I have loved you,” John 15:13).
It is produced through the New Covenant by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 31:29-34; Ezekiel 36:24-26; Galatians 5:22).

What Jesus said in John 15:13 is the supreme evidence and expression of His love – His sacrificial death upon the cross. Christians are called to exemplify the same kind of sacrificial giving toward one another. Even if such sacrifice involves the laying down of one’s own life in imitation of Christ’s example (1 John 3:16).

The Evidence of God in Christians

The evidence of God is found in His children. It is human nature to hate, judge, lie, steal, and control. It’s also human nature to try to one-up somebody else to feel better about themselves. But Jesus taught the complete opposite of that.

We prove the existence of God by how well we love other believers. Since nobody deserves God’s unconditional love, it is miraculous to see believers unconditionally loving all other believers. The shameful reality is some Christians only love if we follow their list of rules. That is just hypocritical and judgmental.

Jesus never put conditions on when to love the brethren. He said we are to love one another at all times (Romans 12:9-10).

Devoted to One Another

Love is the supreme NT virtue, which centers completely on the needs and welfare of the one loved and does whatever is necessary to meet those needs. Christians should show their love purely and sincerely without self-centeredness or guile.

As Christians, we are to be devoted to one another in love. This means we must love other believers with a family sort of love, not based on personal attraction or desirability. This quality is the primary way the world can recognize us as followers of Christ.

We are to honor one another and show genuine appreciation, and admiration for fellow believers by putting them first (Philippians 2:3).

Concluding Words

I know how it feels to be judged falsely, and how it feels to be loved unconditionally.

I praise God for the fact that all believers will give account to God for how we loved others as Romans 14:12 says. Sure; we are not responsible for how others treat us. We are only responsible for how we respond to them.

I am reminded of how Jesus responded to the mockery and hatred of the Sanhedrin. He could have destroyed them all but He chose to suffer so that you and I could be born again.

Jesus did not have to die but He offered Himself so that we may have eternal life. That should humble us all to love the brethren despite their actions. This is God’s new but not new commandment. We should love one another as Jesus loved us and gave Himself up for us.

How well are we loving our brethren?

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a commission when you use any links on this page to make a purchase, but at no additional cost to you.

Recommended Resource:

311 Ways to Be a “One-Another” Christian: Loving Others with the Love of Jesus by Stuart Scott and Andrew Jin

“Nobody reaches out to me when I go to church.” “This church really isn’t much of a family.”

Have you heard these kinds of comments? How sad if they are true, especially as God’s Word has so much to say about how believers should interact with one another!

An array of interpersonal problems between spouses, children, parents, siblings, friends, and coworkers can easily develop, but if you are a Christian, you can put the Bible’s message into practice and see how radically it transforms your relationships with others.

By carefully examining the “one another” commands in Scripture, the authors provide a Word-based understanding of what God intends for Christian relationships – showing not only what they look like, but also how to develop them.

Enjoy reading and sharing this book; it’s very well-suited for individuals, couples, and small groups.