Loving Jesus Style

Scripture: Galatians 4:7 (NIV) So you are no longer a slave , but God’s child ; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir . Devotion There is a quiet but profound shift that happens in the heart when we hear the words “no longer a slave.” Paul is not just offering a theological statement—he is announcing a new identity. Through Christ , God has taken you out of the realm of fear, performance, and uncertainty and brought you into the security of His family. Slaves obey out of obligation. Children respond out of love. Slaves wonder whether they are wanted. Children know they belong . Slaves work to earn favor. Children rest in the Father’s delight. When Paul says you are a “ son ” (a legal term in his day for one who receives full inheritance rights ), he is telling you that nothing about your relationship with God is partial or probationary. You aren’t “almost” His. You aren’t “working toward” acceptance. You aren’t hanging on by a thread. You are fully,...

An Overview of Paul's Letter to the Romans in the New Testament The Book of Romans, written by the Apostle Paul , is one of the foundational texts of the New Testament , addressing both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome. Its primary focus is on the core doctrines of Christianity , emphasizing the universality of sin , the necessity of faith, and the transformative power of the gospel. Purpose and Themes Paul wrote Romans to present a detailed exposition of the gospel. He explains that all people, regardless of their background or heritage, are under the power of sin and in need of salvation. Paul emphasizes that righteousness comes by faith in Jesus Christ, not by works or adherence to the law. The letter addresses themes of grace, justification, sanctification , and Israel's role in God’s redemptive plan. Structure and Key Content ·          Chapters 1-3: Paul begins by establishing that all humanity is sinful and separated from Go...

  Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 ( NIV ) As God’s co-workers , we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation. Devotion: Paul’s words are urgent and compelling: “Now is the time of God’s favor.” Grace is a gift, but it’s also a responsibility. We are called not to receive it in vain—not to treat it lightly or ignore its transforming power. God’s grace is more than forgiveness; it empowers us to live a life that reflects Christ. The phrase “God’s co-workers” reminds us that salvation is not the finish line—it’s the starting point. We partner with God in His mission, living out His love and truth in a world that desperately needs hope. Grace equips us for this calling, but we must choose to respond. To receive grace in vain is to accept forgiveness without letting it change us or move us toward obedience . ...

Scripture: Psalm 144:9 I will sing a new song to you, my God; on the ten-stringed lyre I will make music to you, Devotion: Psalm 144 places us in the heart of David ’s life as a warrior-king—surrounded by conflict, dependent on God’s strength, and longing for God’s peace. Yet in the middle of this battle-shaped psalm, verse 9 breaks through like sunlight: “I will sing a new song to you, O God.” It is a declaration of worship that rises not from ease but from struggle. David’s “new song” is not the product of a quiet life; it is the fruit of a life upheld by God amid pressure. A “new song” in Scripture is never merely a fresh melody. It is a renewed confession of God’s faithfulness. David has fought many battles, faced many enemies, and endured many disappointments. Yet each time God rescues, strengthens, or restores him, David finds a new reason to praise. The new song is a testimony: God has acted again. For us, the new song often emerges the same way. We do not write it...

  Scripture: Romans 10:14-15 (NIV) How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news !” Devotion: Romans 10:14–15 is Paul’s sweeping reminder that the gospel is never meant to sit still. It moves—from God’s heart to Christ ’s work, from Christ’s work to the apostles’ witness, from their witness to the church’s proclamation, and from that proclamation into the ears and hearts of those who have never heard. The chain is intentional. The mission is relational. The calling is shared. Paul’s questions are rhetorical, yet they strike with force. No one can call on Christ without believing. No one can believe without hearing. No one can hear without someone speaking. And no one speaks unless they are sent. In other words, ...

  Psalm 100 :4-5 ( NIV ) Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. Devotion Gratitude is the doorway to God’s presence. Psalm 100 reminds us that worship begins with thanksgiving. Before we ask for anything, we are invited to acknowledge all that God has already done. When we “enter His gates,” we step into a sacred space where our hearts align with His goodness. Thanksgiving shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundance of His grace. Praise follows thanksgiving. It’s not just about saying “thank you” but about declaring who God is—good, loving, and faithful. These attributes never change. In a world where circumstances fluctuate and promises are broken, God’s character remains steadfast. His goodness is not dependent on our situation; His love is not conditional; His faithfulness is not temporary. It ...