Biblical Christianity

How a Husband Models Christ

By Michael Heilman | March 1, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

The husband is said to be the head of the family. But as wonderful as that may sound because that means he’s in charge, it also comes with a huge responsibility.

While the wife should submit to her husband, her husband should love her as Christ loved the church.

Bible Verse: Ephesians 5:25

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”

In his exhortation to Christian husbands, the apostle Paul used the Greek word agape. But why did Paul use this kind of love to describe a husband’s love for his wife? Why did he not use eros, which from the word itself refers to love driven by desire?

This is because agape love has little to do with emotion. Rather, it has much to do with self-denial for the sake of another. In effect, Paul was telling the Christian husband to continually deny himself for the sake of his wife.

How to Love Your Wife

I was recently reminded that being a husband is hard. It can feel hard because it feels like I am giving up my needs for my wife. That can be very frustrating at the moment and it is not a good place to dwell in. Those frustrations are feelings based on reality but Jesus feels the same way about the church many times. Many Christians ignore His Word and we do what we want.

This is the reason why the Christian divorce rate is almost the same as the divorce rate of unbelievers. Many times neither the husband nor the wife are following God’s word. Human nature does not love as God wants us to love.

When men do not feel respected or listened to, they most definitely will not want to love. Thus creating a circle of disrespect and a lack of showing love among husbands and wives.

This is where husbands are commanded to remember Jesus and His sacrifice toward His bride, the Church. Christian husbands have the responsibility of modeling Jesus to his family and those around him. The Christian husband must forgive the disrespect and show unconditional love despite their actions as Jesus did.

Love Your Wife Unconditionally

The Bible says that despite our sinfulness and rebellion, Christ loved us. That’s unconditional love, which God demonstrated by sending His Son to die on our behalf (John 3:16, Romans 5:8).

If God loved us unconditionally, husbands should also love their wives unconditionally.

Unconditional love means giving up our expectations when they are not met. This does not happen very often because our sinful nature does not want to give up any of our rights, needs, or expectations.

As men, we are anything but humble. It is human nature to think we are important but we are nothing compared to the importance of Jesus. He created everything and maintains everything (Colossians 1:16-17). Christ empowers whomever He wills and is the master planner of everything.

At times, He allows us to mess up so that we can learn from our mistakes. Yet, He loves us enough to commune with us. He could have let humanity condemn itself to hell but He chose to allow us to be redeemed (Titus 2:11).

Model Christ in Your Marriage

Back to the application of the gospel in marriage, the husband should model Christ’s unconditional love to his wife. But this unconditional love should not be confined within the husband’s immediate family. He must also show unconditional love to the people around him. This is where God exposes our inability to love as God loves us.

I pray that all husbands humble themselves before God so that we would be enabled to live according to the Gospel.

We read the following in Colossians 3:23-24 (NLT).

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”

Closing Words

God is glorified when we live as He directs us in His Word.

As a reward and motivation for obedience to His Word, God will reward husbands who follow His example. We will be given crowns in heaven and a kingdom during the millennium. All things considered, nobody has any concept of how wonderful eternity with the creator of the universe will be.

Don’t you want to hear Him say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant?”

Recommended Resource: Life According to the Truth by Michael Heilman

Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth. Disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

Michael expounds on biblical principles God has applied to Michael’s life and led to God’s blessing in many areas of his life. With illustrations, humor, and most importantly scripture, he explains to any born-again believer who is spiritually wandering through life, how to be spiritually blessed by God as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

In this devotional Bible study, you will be enlightened in regards to:

Why God must be the key focus of your life
How to love God, love others, discern God’s will for your life, and be confident with your identity in Jesus Christ

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.

God’s Prescription for a Healthy Body

By Michael Heilman | February 15, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

When talking about health and fitness, there are thousands if not millions of books available in every bookstore. But does the Bible have something to say about this subject? Does God have a prescription for a healthy body?

Health enthusiasts believe that the key to a healthy body and a longer lifespan is a healthy lifestyle. But while most people are aware of this, they may not always agree on what defines a healthy lifestyle.

Should we completely eliminate carbs from our diet and eat only proteins and fats? Do we need to exercise daily?

Bible Verses: Proverbs 3:5-8

“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. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.”

This might very well be one of your memory verses.

In this passage, King Solomon advises his son to trust Yahweh because he knew that God is trustworthy. Solomon experienced first-hand the faithfulness of his LORD. But this is not just some kind of ordinary trust; it’s “trusting God with all your heart.”

To trust God with all your heart means giving God all your conscious trust. It’s not trusting God 50% and trusting yourself 50%. Trusting God with all our hearts means trusting Him completely.

God’s Specific Response

Verses 5-8 is one complete thought.

Yet, most people often pay more attention to verses 5 and 6 since they are very encouraging. We forget that when we follow God’s word, God also responds in specific ways. In this instance, verse 8 is God’s response while verses 5-7 are the conditions for God’s response.

If I would rewrite these verses to make them more understandable they might say something like this:

“Trust in the Lord with all of your motives, and don’t just try to figure life out. In all of your actions consult Him, and He will guide your path. Don’t be haughty: humble yourself before God, and sin not.”

Truth be told, nobody can figure everything out in life anyway. Life is unpredictable and difficult for everyone. Why do we assume we don’t need to consult Him? He has the end written as much as the beginning.

Money indeed makes some things better but it also can burn a hole in anyone’s pockets. Therefore, don’t trust money.

Trust God Above Anything Else

The only being in the entire universe we should trust with everything, including our health, is God. Do you desire to be healthy but no matter how hard you tried, you have repeatedly failed? Why not take it to God?

One day while I was browsing on Facebook, I saw a very encouraging post of a Christian health blogger. In her video, she shared her weight loss struggles for years. It was only when she surrendered it all to God and allowed Him to guide her that she finally succeeded.

Today, she uses her success story to help and encourage others who are struggling to lose weight and achieve a healthy body. She is proof that no amount of determination can compare to the power of God.

People will fail you whether you like it or not. That means your attitudes and motives toward life, people, and your choices. But we can win every battle and struggle. We just need to trust God and allow Him to direct us.

God never said it would be easy, but He can enable you and me to do His will.

Trusting God will stop you from planning, acting, and directing your own sinful plans, while humbly consulting God. As a response to trusting God, He will give us health to our body and strength to our bones.

Final Thoughts

I think it is interesting that God gave us this prescription for our own health 3000 years ago. Yet so few people are willing to fill it. They are more willing to spend monumental amounts of money to go to the doctors.

Why take prescriptions that only work half of the time or cause other problems? There are also some possible side effects such as abortion. And what about the pharmaceutical industries that utilize dead babies in those prescriptions? Do you really believe God approves of the worldly medical industry?

Why not follow God’s prescription?

Recommended Resource:

Life According to the Truth by Michael Heilman

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Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth, a disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

In this devotional Bible study, you will be enlightened in regards to:

Why God must be the key focus of your life
How to love God and love others, discern God’s will for your life and be confident with your identity in Jesus Christ.

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.

We All Have A Choice

By Michael Heilman | February 5, 2022 | Comments 0 Comment

The argument that human beings do not have free will since God is omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient is false. God created us out of love, hence He has given each of us the freedom to either love Him back or not.

In this short Bible reflection and challenge, I want to encourage you to keep safeguarding your freedom of choice.

Bible Verse: Psalm 119:108a

“Accept, I pray, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD.”

David presented these words to the Lord as if they were a sacrifice brought to the altar. The psalmist knew that he had the opportunity to give offerings that were right and pure and requested God to accept them. These freewill offerings are meant to show David’s love and devotion to the Lord.

In the same way, when we present our sacrifices to Lord, we do so freely. God will never force anyone to violate the freedom of choice He has given them. It’s all about choice!

Our God-given Freedom of Choice

God has given all of us a choice. Don’t let people take that free will away no matter what.

Today, so many people are trying to take it away from you like Dr. Fauci and the government. Then there’s the CCP, hospitals, doctors, pastors, parents, who are guilty of trying to take our free will away from us.

Just because they want us to act a certain way does not mean it is right or we are required to do it. God gave us free will so that we had the option to love Him. We cannot be made to love. Coerced love is appeasement. Actions might have consequences, but these should never remove the right to make choices.

God never forces anyone to come to heaven. Instead, He allows anyone to reject Him and walk right into hell.

Government Control

God does not take our free will away from us, but people do. The CCP is trying to control the world with a virus and fear. Dr. Fauci and Bill Gates are trying to control us. They do this with their money, experience, supposed wisdom, degrees, and supposed science even though they enabled the CCP.

The same is true of governments and media by repeating Dr. Fauci’s narrative. We have seen how many times he flip-flopped on issues with regard to the Covid-19 virus. How many times have we caught this unelected official lying?

For goodness’ sake, he even lied to congress. Yet, there seems to be no accountability at all! I don’t mean to sound so political but we all need to wake up. Or else, one day, we won’t recognize the America we used to know and grew up in.

Church Leadership Control

Unfortunately, it’s not only the government that is doing this is to. Many people who self-identify as Christians are doing the same thing. Pastors try to remove our free will by rules for salvation and sanctification. Even though personal standards are just that personal and should not be regulated by an organized local body.

Sometimes parents are the worst because many times they think their rules are always right and are not allowed to be questioned. That is not biblical.

Standards can change and can be different for different people as Romans 14:5 says. God hates this attitude of control, manipulation, and coercion. May we love as Christ loves us. He died to save us while we were still sinners as Romans 5:8 says.

Final Thoughts

The Bible exhorts us to respect the government authorities and submit to them (Romans 13:1). However, when our God-given freedom of choice is in jeopardy, we need to push back. We are in the third year of the Covid-19 pandemic and we still keep allowing abusive government officials to control us. Why?

If you’ve been following what’s going on in Australia and Canada, you know that people are waking up. They have had enough of these unconstitutional vaccination and mask mandates. We need to act before it’s too late.

Here’s a short video and report of the Truckers’ protest against mandatory vaccination in Canada.

As many brave patriots keep on saying, “Our freedom of choice is from God, not the government. Therefore, we should not let them take away from us. We must also stop begging them to give it back to us.”

The bottom line is this: if our Creator who gave our freedom to us never intends to take it back, what right does the government have to do that?

Is Love Your Greatest Motivation?

By Michael Heilman | October 11, 2021 | Comments 0 Comment

Many people say that they will do almost anything and everything for the people they love. Are you one of them? Is love your greatest motivation for your actions? What about those who kill themselves or others for love?

Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:14a

“For the love of Christ compels us.”

What Love Can Do

There is no doubt that John Denver is one of the greatest singers of all time. He started his singing career in the 1970s with folk music. Four years later, he became one of America’s best-selling performers.

If you are a John Denver fan, you must be familiar with his songs which are mostly about love. There’s “Perhaps Love,” “Falling Out of Love,” “Is it Love,” “Love is Everywhere,” and “Love Again” just to name a few.

I think it’s interesting that John Denver knew that “love is the greatest motivation to bring peace to this world.” I don’t know if he was born again or not because he kept repeating that showing love can bring peace to this world. But as good as that may sound, retribution does not bring peace.

God Demonstrated True Love

Is everyone capable of love? We’re all created in the image of God and love is one of God’s eternal characters. So yes, we all know how to love. The more important question is, can we love with the kind of love that God has for us? Probably not! We may not even know what love is according to God’s definition.

Our problem is God has already defined what love is, which is impossible to imitate without His help. We cannot love the same way God does without Him enabling us. And it takes humility on our part to be able to do it. Unless we humble ourselves before God and admit our inability to love like Him, we are not able to love like Him.

That was part of the reason why Jesus came to earth to die and rise again. We were all bound to be separated from God for all eternity because of sin. But God loves us so much that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Jesus did not only give us the commandment to love, He showed us how to do it (John 13:34).

Experiencing the Love of God

Since Christians have experienced that love, God tells us to go live like that love is real and true. As 2 Corinthians 5:15 implies, we can only live like it is real and true by living for God. This includes glorifying God in everything we do (1 Corinthians 10:31).

Another way of showing our love for God is by obeying His Word and commandments (John 14:15). Just to get things straight, we don’t obey God so that He will love us. Rather, we obey God because we love Him. As one Bible teacher said, “When we love, we obey.” Love should be our greatest motivation to obey God and His commandments.

Do you ever find it difficult to obey God? You should not because God’s commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3

How well do we know God’s instructions for our life? How often do we worship and learn what His Word says? Have we all experienced God’s love and received His free gift of salvation? If not, why not ask Him for it now?

Loving Others As God Loves Us

If we are going to live out His Word, because it is the Truth, shouldn’t we be loving others as Matthew 22:37-39 and Luke 10:27 says?

When the Pharisees heard that Jesus has silenced the Sadducees, they came to Him to test Him. They asked Jesus which is the most important commandment in the Law of Moses. In reply, Jesus told them of the first and greatest commandment “to love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.”

But He did not stop there. Jesus went on to say that the second commandment is “to love your neighbor as yourself.” First of all, I do not know of anyone who does not love himself/herself. People take really good care of themselves because they love themselves. We exercise and practice a healthy lifestyle because we love ourselves.

If it’s love that motivates us to do all these things for ourselves, love should also motivate us to want others to be saved. If you love your neighbor as yourself, you wouldn’t want them to depart from this earth without Christ, right?

Loving Others Can be Uncomfortable

Loving others can take many different forms but it can be very difficult or uncomfortable. I know many Christians that do not know how or even want to give the Gospel to other people. If they don’t get saved, they will spend eternity in hell, do you want that blood on your hands (Ezekiel 3:18)?

I get it; people can be hostile because they don’t want to acknowledge their sinfulness. Your closest friends might hate you; they may even cut ties with you once you start telling them their need for Jesus. But it is more loving to tell someone the good news even when they do not like it than to let them be lost knowing that God could save them.

Jesus died to save all sinners. That includes the people you know. Are you willing to kill your selfish desires to bring others to Jesus? Do you love them enough to share what Christ has done on the cross to save them from sin?

Final Thoughts

God sacrificed His Son so that we do not have to suffer eternal torment in hell. Christ left His throne in heaven. He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross (Philippians 2:6-8). God did not have to do any of these but He did. Jesus almost couldn’t bear the thought of being separated from His Father, causing Him to cry in anguish in the Garden of Gethsemane.

But Jesus endured the cross because He knew that His sacrifice would mean reconciliation between God and man (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Love is God’s greatest motivation for sending His only son to suffer and die for us. Our Lord gave His life to be the ultimate sacrifice for sin so that we might live with Him for all eternity.

It’s all about love. Love should be the greatest motivation for Christians to obey God and to get others to trust in Jesus as their Savior.

Love requires sacrifice. How much are you willing to sacrifice for God and others?

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 Essential Commandment: A Disciple’s Guide to Loving God and Others by Greg Ogden

Is it really possible to live out the Great Commandment? Jesus thinks it is. And with Jesus, Ogden has found, it is possible–and essential.

In this practical, in-depth handbook, Ogden draws from his years of pastoral experience training and discipling others to help us truly be changed by Christ into people who love God and love others with all that we are.

Following the format of his bestselling Discipleship Essentials, each chapter includes:

a core truth
a memory verse
an inductive Bible study
reading on one aspect of the Great Commandment

Thoughtful questions will also help you examine your heart and life and move you to open yourself to God’s transforming work. Above all, Ogden helps you see that the Great Commandment is actually a great invitation to join God in bringing His kingdom to earth.

And as you learn to do so, you’ll find that the greatest commandment leads to the greatest life possible.

Why Read and Study the Bible

By Michael Heilman | October 1, 2021 | Comments 0 Comment

Why is it important to study the Bible?

Another way to ask is, “Why does it matter?” Christians should know and study the Bible for many reasons, but the primary one is because God is the author.

We all know that God is the Creator (Genesis 1:1); we know Him as Judge (Genesis 18:25) and Redeemer (Isaiah 60:16). But do we think of God as the Author? Human writers convince us that it is vital to read their books.

But it is much more important to read God’s book, the Bible.

Bible Verse: 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

The Inspiration of the Bible

People have different interpretations as to what it means to say that the Bible is inspired. Is the Bible as a whole inspired or just some parts of it? The apostle Paul affirmed that all Scripture is “God-breathed,” not just some.

Peter also said, “For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21).

Didn’t God breathe in the human authors? The Holy Spirit did not only “inspire” the human authors of the Bible to write it; God also inspired the very words they wrote.

The Bible is a unique book because every word in it was breathed by God.

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.

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.

The Need to Study the Bible

Why should you study the Bible?

Recently I had a conversation with a close relative and we were discussing eschatology, which is the study of future events. The conversation reminded me of the importance of studying the Bible in general. These include studying the Bible as a whole down to an individual verse.

As 2 Timothy 3:16 says, studying the Bible is a very good idea so that we know what the Bible teaches. How well do we know the doctrines of the Bible?

1. To Identify False Doctrines

We should study the Bible to know how to call out or reprove false doctrines.

Jesus warned us of goats in sheep’s clothing in Matthew 7:15. In fact, one of the most addressed themes in the New Testament is false teachers and false teaching.

Many people today are often deceived into joining religious cults because they do not know the Word. Cult leaders quote Bible verses and passages but twist them to support their beliefs.

We read and study what the Bible teaches because it helps us to identify false teachers and false doctrines. The devil used the Word of God to tempt Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11). But because Jesus knew God’s Word very well, He did not give in. Instead, He used the Word to rebuke Satan to his face.

You see, we can only “fact-check” these false teachers if we know the Word of God. It is not only the pastor’s responsibility to stand up against false doctrines. When presented with a false belief, do you know how to respond biblically?

2. To Live in Righteousness

Studying the Bible for Christians is also very important to change our actions and directions.

When we got saved, the Holy Spirit corrected us so we could change our actions. We are still sinners and sanctification takes time. Thus, the Holy Spirit has to keep changing our minds from desiring to sin to desiring righteousness.

Studying eschatology is an excellent example. The study of future events should lead Christians to reevaluate their life. Knowing that the Lord can come back at any time, we are to purify ourselves just as He is pure (1 John 3:3). As we wait for the blessed hope, we are to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age (Titus 2:11-13).

Are you ready to stand before God or not? One day, every Christian will stand before God give an account of their life. Will God be pleased with how you’ve lived your life?

3. To Grow and Mature

God did not just save us from sin through the suffering and death of His Son (John 3:16); He wanted us to grow and mature in our spiritual life (2 Peter 3:18). But growth does not happen instantly and automatically.

In the same way that a baby needs nourishment to grow, we also need to feed on God’s Word to grow and mature (Matthew 4:4). We cannot expect growth without reading and studying the Bible. This, of course, is in addition to consistent prayer life and regular fellowship with others.

4. To be Equipped

The Christian life is not just about a personal relationship and intimacy with God; it’s also about taking care of the Father’s business. Every follower of Christ has the mandate to share God’s message of salvation to the lost (Matthew 18:19-20).

But we cannot go out there unprepared; we need to know the Word of God. When Peter preached the most powerful sermon on Pentecost, he quoted from the book of Joel (Acts 2:16-21; Joel 2:28-32). The Ethiopian eunuch came to faith in Jesus when Philip explained to him what Isaiah 53 means (Acts 8:26-35).

Christians need to read and study the Bible so that they can share the Gospel with others effectively. How equipped are you?

Closing Words

There are several practical benefits of reading and studying the Bible including but not limited to the above-mentioned. Scripture also reveals our place within God’s program and answers crucial questions about our origin, purpose, and destiny. Knowing these about God through the Bible will aid us to defend the truth and reliability of the Christian faith.

Although we cannot completely grasp how individual events fit into God’s program, we can understand God’s basic plan to come to know Him and serve Him.

Indeed, studying the Bible teaches us how to live in a way that is pleasing to God, so that we may be mature and equipped for all good works.

Are you spending time in the Word?

Get a copy of my book “Life According to the Truth.”

Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth. Disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.

The World’s Hatred on God

By Michael Heilman | September 12, 2021 | Comments 3 comments

The world hates God, thus, they are a threat to Christians!

This is very clear not only from the Scriptures but based on everything that’s going on around us. But this should not come as a surprise to all followers of Jesus Christ.

Bible Verse: John 15:18-19

“If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.”

Jesus Teaches His Disciples — Photo Credit: Live in God’s Light

Hate and Rejection from the World

Before His departure, Jesus warned His disciples that the world would hate and reject them. No matter how wonderful Jesus’ message was, His followers should expect to be rejected because of who they are.

The disciples knew exactly what it meant to be hated by the world. After Jesus departed, they were all persecuted and died as martyrs, except for John. God’s enemies tried to kill John by boiling him in oil but he miraculously survived.

The early Christians knew and had experienced the hatred of the world. We can read their stories in detail in the book “Foxe’s Book of Martyrs.” But martyrdom is not a thing of the past. Christians all around the world continue to endure great persecution because of their faith in Christ.

In this World, Out of this World

The world is hostile towards God. And so, it follows that it is hostile towards those who believe in God. Jesus tried to comfort His disciples by telling them that the world’s hatred was first directed toward Him.

Then Jesus goes on to explain further why the world would hate those who believe in Him. He said, “Because you are not of the world…” Yes, we are still in this world but we are not of this world.

God chose us out of this world and we are in many ways different from the world. Therefore, the world hates us.

At War with the World

Considering every Christian is a part of a spiritual war, we should not trust any unbeliever to give godly or biblical instructions. They don’t have your best interest in mind.

God gave us every remedy for ailments in nature. They are called essential oils. Why trust doctors that believe people are getting better and better when in reality we are decaying. Doctors most of the time are peddling snake oils in the form of petroleum-based pharmaceuticals that only lead to more issues?

Why not use what God has given us in nature? Because they hate God, they will persecute Christians. The socialists hate God because they want an all-powerful government.

All religions hate God because they want people to keep trying to earn salvation. Atheists hate God because there is suffering in the world. As we are getting closer and closer to the return of Jesus, persecution of Christians will only increase including in America.

How should Christians respond? God wants us to love our enemies so they may see God’s love for humanity. We are sheep amongst wolves (Matthew 10:16).

Don’t try for retribution. God will take care of that. God does want us to be wise to their wicked methods.

Satan is the God of this World

They hate God because they are children of Satan. Satan hates people in general because they were made in God’s image. That is why Satan wants all people to be dead.

The pharmaceutical industry has been using aborted babies in vaccines for years. When people take those vaccines, Doesn’t that make them a cannibal or at least an accomplice to murder? The new Covid vaccines will stop reproductive organs from functioning properly. Not to mention the thousands of people dying from these shots.

Satan is behind the murder of people, however, it happens. Because they hate God, division will occur. Why is the world so divided? Too many people are believing the lies that Dr. Fascinating, Bill Gates, President Biden, the pharmaceutical industry, etc. actually care and want your best interest.

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Final Words

God created you. God loves you. We sinned but Jesus died to save you from your sin. If you have never received this free gift of salvation, why not now before it is too late? To every Christian, when persecution comes to you, take heart God is with you. He will enable you to speak for Him.

We do not need to fear what this world can do to our bodies. We must remember that when we die, we will be with God as 2 Corinthians 5:8 says. We have nothing to fear when God is with us. How much faith do we have?

Take heart, Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33). God sent us into this world, He will enable us.

God bless!

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.

Get a copy of my book “Life According to the Truth.”

Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth. Disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

Michael expounds on biblical principles God has applied to Michael’s life and led to God’s blessing in many areas of his life.

With illustrations, humor, and most importantly scripture, he explains to any born-again believer who is spiritually wandering through life, how to be spiritually blessed by God as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

In this devotional Bible study, you will be enlightened in regards to:

Why God must be the key focus of your life
How to love God and others
Discerning God’s will for your life
Being confident with your identity in Jesus Christ

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.

Do Not Fear, Trust God

By Michael Heilman | August 24, 2021 | Comments 3 comments

With everything that is going on these days, people, including Christians are gripped with fear. But what does that say about your faith in God? Why are we choosing fear over faith?

Bible Verses: Matthew 8:26a & 2 Timothy 1:7

Matthew 8:26a

But He said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?”

Choose Faith Over Fear

Jesus’ words could be said to any number of Christians today. Everyone is fearful at some point in their life. Any circumstance we can’t control can cause fear, but does that mean we should be afraid?

In Matthew 8:23-27, we read the story of Jesus calming the storm. As Jesus and His disciples got into a boat, a fierce storm suddenly struck the lake and the waves started breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping so the disciples went to wake Him up crying for help. And Jesus said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?”

Jesus undoubtedly knew that the storm was coming and certainly could have prevented it. But He permitted it so that He might teach His disciples some lessons.

Jesus was asleep because He could rest confidently in the will of His Father, and this was what the disciples should have been able to do. Instead, they became fearful and accused Jesus of not caring. The disciples have been with Jesus for a considerable amount of time. They witnessed all the wonders and miracles that He performed.

Yet, they chose fear over faith when faced with a fierce storm knowing that Jesus was with them.

Do Not Be Afraid

Understandably, unbelievers would be fearful of a virus they can’t see. They don’t believe in an omnipotent God that can control the weather or diseases as Matthew 8:23- 27 and Exodus 9:9 says.

But why are there so many Christians that are afraid? If we are truly saved, why do we need to fear anything? 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

We all deal with fear. For some, it’s fear of public speaking; others are afraid of getting rejected, others are afraid of failing, others are afraid of losing their job.

But we need to understand that fear is not from God; it’s from the enemy. Fear is a powerful weapon of the enemy and he never misses an opportunity to use it whenever he gets the chance. And he is doing it right now. For more than a year now, the coronavirus pandemic has caused people all around the world fear and worry.

Yes, the virus is real; it’s highly infectious and deadly. In fact, it has already claimed hundreds of thousands of lives in America alone. So, I don’t blame people for being afraid and following all the guidelines given by the so-called “health experts.”

Put Your Trust In God

In 2020, Christians did very little to stand up against the governors’ shutting down churches, requiring masks, and closing down the jobs of many people out of fear. In 2021 many Christians are getting vaccines out of fear. WHY?

Satan uses fear to control us. The mainstream media are manipulating us by controlling our perception of the world. Why aren’t we turning to God and His Word for guidance in these troubled times?

If we truly believe God is in control, and the Bible is true, where are the Christians willing to live like it is true despite what the media, government, doctors, CDC, and the UN say? This is true for everyone. If you want to see God work, you need to trust Him.

Final Thoughts

Even when we don’t always see immediate results, we can trust God because He is trustworthy. Jesus said there would be hard times (John 16:33). But also He promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6).

If you have never placed your faith in Jesus Christ to save you, you can even now. He is waiting for you to choose Him over fear, why not now?

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: Fear Not: Living Grace and Truth in a Frightened World by Eric H. F. Law

Learn how to face your fears and live into courageous and faithful action with Fear Not. Americans live in a culture of fear, whether we know it or care to admit it.

Who will attack us next? Who will steal our jobs? Whose relationship undermines the sanctity of mine?

In an era when manipulative messaging is unavoidable, politicians, media, marketers, and even faith leaders play on our fears and use them to win elections, gain attention, sell products, and influence the way you view those around you — all in the name of claiming power.

Fear Not subverts insidious fear-based messaging with the creation of courageous communities committed to truth-telling, grace, hope, and love.

Drawing on decades as a community-building and church growth leader for churches and nonprofit organizations, Eric H.F. Law shares practical resources and processes for bringing diverse people together to build authentic relationships and share their truths.

Each chapter includes suggested activities and questions for discussion and tips for creating small discussion groups.

Repentance Toward God, Faith Toward Jesus

By Michael Heilman | August 18, 2021 | Comments 0 Comment

Scripture puts repentance and faith together as different aspects of the one act of coming to Christ for salvation. It is not that we first repent and then trust in Christ, or trust in Christ first and then repent. Rather, repentance toward God and faith toward Jesus occur at the same time.

When we turn to Christ for salvation from our sins, we are simultaneously turning away from the sins that we are asking Christ to save us from. If that were not true our turning to Christ for salvation from sin could hardly be a genuine turning to Him or trusting in Him.

Repentance and Faith Must Come Together

Repentance may be defined as “a heartfelt sorrow for sin, a renouncing of it, and a sincere commitment to forsake it and walk in obedience to Christ.”

This definition indicates that repentance is something that can occur at a specific point in time. It is not equivalent to a demonstration of the change in a person’s pattern of life.

Like faith, repentance is:

an intellectual understanding (that sin is wrong).
an emotional approval of the teachings of Scripture regarding sin (sorrow for sin and a hatred of it).
a personal decision to turn from it (a renouncing of sin and a decision of the will to forsake it and lead a life of obedience to Christ instead).

Repentance and faith are simply two different sides of the same coin or two different aspects of the one event of conversion.

One who genuinely turns to Christ for salvation must at the same time releases the sin to which he or she has been clinging and turns away from that sin to turn to Christ. Thus, neither repentance nor faith comes first; they must come together.

Paul summarizes his gospel ministry as one of “testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21).

Genuine Repentance Involves Faith in Christ

Yes, sometimes faith alone is named as the thing necessary for coming to Christ for salvation. We see this in scriptures such as John 3:16; Acts 16:31; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8-9.

These are familiar passages and we often emphasize them when explaining the gospel to others. But what we do not often realize is the fact that there are many other passages where only repentance is named. Simply because it is assumed that true repentance will also involve faith in Christ for the forgiveness of sins.

The authors of the New Testament understood so well that genuine repentance and genuine faith had to go together. Thus, they often simply mentioned repentance alone with the understanding that faith would also be included. It’s because genuinely turning from sins is impossible apart from a genuine turning to God.

When we realize that genuine saving faith must be accompanied by genuine repentance for sin, it helps us to understand why some preaching of the gospel has such inadequate results today. With no mention of the need for repentance, sometimes the gospel message becomes only, “Believe in Jesus Christ and be saved.”

Preaching the need for faith without repentance is preaching only half of the gospel. It will result in many people being deceived, thinking that they have heard the Christian gospel and tried it, but nothing has happened.

Faith and Repentance Must Continue

It is important to realize that faith and repentance are not confined to the beginning of the Christian life. They are rather attitudes of the heart that continue throughout our lives as Christians.

Concerning faith, Paul tells us, “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13). He certainly means that these three abide throughout this life, but he probably also means that they abide for all eternity.

If faith is trusting God to provide for all our needs, then this attitude will never cease, not even in the age to come. But in any case, the point is made that faith continues throughout this life.

Although initial saving faith and initial repentance indeed occur only once in our lives, when they occur they must constitute true conversion. The heart attitudes of repentance and faith begin at conversion and should continue throughout our Christian lives.

Each day, there should be heartfelt repentance for sins that we have committed. Also, faith in Christ to provide for our needs and to empower us to live the Christian life.

Reflection and Challenge

Many people say they believe in God, like Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, etc. Although the attributes of these gods are all different. Who is right? They all cannot be right.

I know based on the authority that the Bible is God’s word to humanity. Acts 20:21 proves that Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism are all false religions.

Acts 20:21 also proves that God is knowable and personal, which is the opposite of all far east religions because they have impersonal gods. Why repent to something you cannot know personally? God has revealed Himself to humanity by becoming a man: the God-Man; the Lord Jesus Christ.

John 1:1, 14 says that “the Word was God, was with God, and became a Man.” That is the Trinity in a nutshell. Muslims hate even the mention that God became a man and is Triune. Not to mention, Islam teaches a works-based salvation. But repentance implies surrendering and admitting our inability to save ourselves.

Closing Thoughts

I have heard Calvinists accuse Baptists that repentance is a work. That is just not true. Repentance is just humbly surrendering and admitting our inability to change ourselves and believing Jesus can change us.

This verse even refutes the worldview of dualism. If God is good and evil, why repent to someone no more righteous than we? Obviously, Acts 20:21 is teaching God is holy and righteous. We cannot earn salvation; it can only be given to us through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

Many times, I wonder how many Christians are even truly born again. If we all truly humbled ourselves and surrendered our will, our desires, and choices to God, why don’t we listen and apply God’s word to our everyday lives?

Too often biblically solid sermons are heard but are never applied to our lives because we are too proud to think we need to live like God’s Word is true. Nobody is as humble as Jesus, because nobody else is God.

Are we all willing to repent of our pride and request more humility?

Reference:

Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem

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.

Get a copy of my book “Life According to the Truth.”

Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth. Disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

In this devotional Bible study, you will be enlightened in regards to:

Why God must be the key focus of your life
How to love God and others
Discerning God’s will for your life
Being confident with your identity in Jesus Christ

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.

Ignorance Leads to Contention

By Michael Heilman | May 30, 2021 | Comments 0 Comment

Do you notice how ignorance of the facts often leads to contention? People immediately react negatively when told that one of the people closest to them is spreading lies about them. They then go on with their counterattack without first getting to the bottom of the story. They never bothered to find out if the report they heard is true or not.

Bible Verses: 1 Corinthians 1:10-13

“Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe’s household, that there are contentions among you.”

“Now I say this, that each of you says, ‘I am of Paul,’ or ‘I am of Apollos,’ or ‘I am of Cephas, or ‘I am of Christ.’ Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?”

Divisions in the Church Today — Photo Credits: xpastor.org

Problems Among the Corinthians

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians addresses several problems within the church that have come to his attention. One of which is the contentions (or quarrels) reported to him by some members of Chloe’s household.

The church in Corinth had become factious, advocating different leaders: Paul, Apollos, Peter, and possibly a Christ party. Not only was the church divided over leadership types, but also over several moral issues and the use of spiritual gifts. The main point of contention was Paul’s authority.

How did Paul approach this problem of division in the church? First, he pointed to the unity of Christ: only one Savior and one body. Then he reminded them of their baptism, a picture of their spiritual baptism into Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:13).

Division in the Church Today

A few years ago, the church was divided into denominations. Now, we aren’t much better off. We have the same problem the church at Corinth had. Many Christians today follow a favorite preacher. Why are so many people naive enough to believe they can be spiritually fed by a preacher? Or that their favorite preacher knows everything about the Bible or God?

I know for a fact that nobody completely understands the mind of God or His word, because He is infinite and we are finite. That fact should humble us all. We should not base all of our knowledge on one or two favorite preachers.

I have learned over the years that different Christians emphasize different aspects of the character of God. Preachers do the same thing. We all have our favorite topics we like to talk about because we all know our knowledge of the Bible has gaps. This is true of the pew-sitters and the pastors.

I wish I understood why this fact does not humble more people including preachers. Does your lack of understanding humble you?

I have heard so many preachers criticizing other preachers. I truly believe that if the Church and pastors were more humble, criticism of fellow believers would stop. Not to mention, why does it matter what the next person or the next pastor says, especially if they are wrong?

Know and Study God’s Word

The only way to know if someone believes something wrong is by getting to know what the truth actually is. How well do you know the Bible?

Since Only God wrote the Bible and no pastor fully understands the Bible, why are you not studying the Bible for yourself? The main reason I was able to write “Life According to the Truth” was God gave me knowledge and understanding after asking God many questions while studying the scriptures.

The pew-sitters do not need to be ignorant. You do not need a seminary degree to know the Bible. 2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

I would have to admit studying the Bible is not easy. It takes work but is also very rewarding as Psalm 1:1-2 says:

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law, he meditates day and night.”

There is no reason why any Christian should be ignorant or divided. There is no reason to rely on preachers or ministers to spiritually feed you. Just ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and He will. Have you asked Him?

Spiritual Authority in the Church

One of the underlying issues in Paul’s two letters to the Corinthians is the nature of spiritual authority.

Why should the Corinthians (and we) listen to Paul’s words? It’s because they were not his opinions or his agenda but God’s instructions. When God’s Word sets up a barrier or sends a change of direction in our lives, are we willing to listen? Or do we look for another opinion?

We can always find someone who will tell us with great confidence exactly what we want to hear. Or we can keep getting counsel until someone tells us what we wanted to do in the first place. But God’s Word has a history of contradicting our wishes.

The Scriptures don’t care nearly as much about how we feel as they do about how we obey. By the way, God never asks us to do something that is not for our own good. Even if that means giving up something that looks innocent and desirable.

Final Words

Reading Paul’s letters, we see that he had tough words for the Corinthian church. Many of these apply almost directly to wandering churches today. They were all true counsel. These instructions from God continue to be practical in the world we are living in today.

Needless to say, God’s Word won’t have the intended effect unless we allow them to transform us. Are you willing to obey God even when what He tells you is painful to hear and inconvenient to do?

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: Cultures in Conflict Discovery Guide: Paul Proclaims Jesus As Lord – Part 2 by Ray Vander Laan

How do you live in a culture where the worldview conflicts with Christianity?

Learn from Paul as he presents his beliefs to the most powerful court in Athens and settles among the Greco-Romans of Corinth, who valued wealth and class, worship of multiple gods, and decadent pleasure seeking above all else.

Join renowned teacher and historian Ray Vander Laan as he guides you through the land of the Bible.

In each lesson, Vander Laan illuminates the historical, geographical, and cultural context of the sacred Scriptures.

Filmed on location in the Middle East and elsewhere, the That the World May Know® film series will transform your understanding of God and challenge you to be a true follower of Jesus.

What are the Languages of Love?

By Michael Heilman | April 10, 2021 | Comments 0 Comment

We all agree that love is one of the most powerful emotions every single individual is capable of exhibiting. But are we even aware that love is a language? It certainly is! Accordingly, there are 5 languages of love.

Bible Verse: Mark 12:30-31

“And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” There is no other commandment greater than these.

Summation of God’s Law

Love for God cannot be divorced from love for one’s neighbor. So, Jesus also quoted Leviticus 19:18 and put it on the same level as the Shema. All of the law and the prophets hang on both of these commandments.

We might add that the teachings of the Epistles in the New Testament agree with this statement: If a person really loves God, he or she must also love their brother, sister, and neighbor (1 John 3:10-18; 4:7-21).

If we have the right relationship with God, we will have no problems with His commandments. Love is the basis for obedience. In fact, all of the law is summed up in love (Romans 13:8-10). If we love God, we will love our neighbors. If we love our neighbors, we will not want to do anything to harm them.

5 Expressions of Love

According to Dr. Gary Chapman, there are five primary love languages. They are the five ways that people express love to each other. These are: 1) words of affirmation, 2) quality time, 3) physical touch, 4) acts of service, and 5) receiving gifts.

It is true that most people express love in two of the five ways, but not Jesus. He expressed love in all five ways.

Jesus Loves with Words of Affirmation

In John 8:4-11, Jesus showed love to the woman caught in adultery with words of affirmation.

We must not misinterpret this event to mean that Jesus was easy on sin. Or that He contradicted the law. For Jesus to forgive this woman meant that He had to one day die for her sin. Forgiveness is free but it is not cheap.

The Lord did not affirm her actions but He did affirm her value as a person. By affirming the value of this woman as a person, Jesus modeled not only words but also actions. He showed affirmation to a woman that needed mercy just like we all do.

Jesus Loves with Quality Time

We read in Luke 19:2-9 how Jesus showed love to Zacchaeus by spending quality time with him. It was never a coincidence that Jesus called for Zacchaeus when he was up in the tree. Jesus knew Zacchaeus wanted to see Him but He gave him something better – time to speak with Him.

Everyone indeed has a limited amount of time. But isn’t God and other people worth enough to spend some time with them?

Jesus Loves with His Touch

Jesus showed love in Luke 8:52-56 by His touch. He had healed many people of physical and spiritual illnesses, inspiring Bill Gaither to write the song, “He Touched Me.”

We read how Jesus has literally and figuratively touched many people. We can also show love by sharing the healing message of the Gospel, aside from the comfort of a hug. Are the souls of people worth enough for us to touch them with the Gospel?

Jesus Loves with Self-Service

As Jesus’ earthly ministry was coming to a close, He sacrificed His life as an act of service to provide the greatest gift of all: salvation.

It’s been 2 weeks since Christians all around the world celebrated the love of God expressed in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. That is by far the greatest expression of love God could have shown to humanity.

Jesus Loves by Receiving Gifts

We must recognize that we can never out-give God nor can we repay what Jesus has done for us. Well, not that He expects us to.

So, what gifts can we offer to our Lord? The apostle Paul exhorts every believer to “present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:2).

Just as Jesus Christ had to take on Himself a body to accomplish God’s will on earth, so we must yield our bodies to Christ. We submit to the Lord that He might continue God’s work through us.

We must yield the members of the body as “instruments of righteousness” (Romans 6:13) for the Holy Spirit to use in the doing of God’s work. The Old Testament sacrifices were dead sacrifices, but we are to be living sacrifices.

Closing Words

As we can see, Jesus is the model of all five love languages. And as born-again Christians, we are supposed to live our lives as disciples or imitators of Jesus. We do this by living out the first and greatest commandment found in Mark 12:30-31. (See also Matthew 22:37-39.)

Let us love God and love others using all five love languages.

Get a copy of my book “Life According to the Truth.”

Publisher’s Description

Do you know what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ? Did you know that God wants to prepare you during this life to live in heaven with Him? Does your purpose for life evade you?

In Life According to The Truth. Disciple of Jesus Christ, Michael Heilman honestly writes about the issues facing the church and how to live the victorious Christian life.

In this devotional Bible study, you will be enlightened in regards to:

Why God must be the key focus of your life
How to love God and others
Discerning God’s will for your life
Being confident with your identity in Jesus Christ

Life is difficult, but God can enable you to have abundant joy. If you are a born-again believer that needs encouragement, this book is for you.