Loving Jesus Style

Ephesians 2:14-18 (ESV) For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him, we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. Devotion: Ephesians 2:14-18 reveals a profound message of peace and reconciliation through Jesus Christ. Paul, addressing the church in Ephesus, emphasizes that Jesus himself is our peace. This peace is not merely a concept or a distant ideal; it is personified in Christ, who actively works to bring harmony and unity. In a world often divided by walls of hostility, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, this passage reminds us of the transform...

  Scripture: Ephesians 2:12-13 (ESV ) Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus, you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Devotion: In Ephesians 2:12-13, the Apostle Paul reminds the believers of their former state of separation from God. Before knowing Christ, they were outsiders to God’s chosen people, Israel, and strangers to the covenants that carried His promises. This separation left them hopeless and without God, wandering in a world devoid of divine guidance and assurance. Yet, the pivotal shift occurs with the introduction of Christ Jesus into their lives. Through His sacrificial blood, those who were distant and disconnected have now been brought near. This nearness is not just about physical proximity; it is an intimate relationship with God, a union with Chris...

Scripture: Acts 1:6-9 (NIV) So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. Devotion: In Acts 1:6-9, we witness a pivotal moment in the relationship between Jesus and his disciples. The eager and hopeful disciples ask Jesus if he will restore the kingdom to Israel. This question reflects their anticipation for a political and earthly kingdom, reminiscent of Israel's past glory under kings like David and Solomon. However, Jesus redirects their focus from the temporal to the eternal, from the immediate to God's divine plan...

Scripture: Acts 16:29-31 (NIV) 29  The jailer called for lights, rushed in, and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30  He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31  They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household. Devotion: In this passage, we witness a decisive moment of transformation and redemption. The jailer, a symbol of authority and control, finds himself in a state of desperation and fear. His trembling before Paul and Silas represents a physical response and a profound spiritual awakening. The question he asks, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” resonates deeply with all of us at some point in our lives. It is the cry of a soul seeking meaning, purpose, and peace. Paul and Silas's response is both simple and profound: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” In this statement, we see the essence of the Christian faith. Salvation is not earned thr...

  Scripture: Acts 2:1-4 (NIV) When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly, a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Devotion.             On this Christmas Day, I invite you to reflect on the profound significance of Jesus' humble birth. It may seem unusual to use the Pentecost passage, but bear with me. Let's remember that Jesus and the Holy Spirit are two manifestations of our triune God. The heavens did open and announce that a savior would be born on that first Christmas Eve, but the audience was smaller. His birth in a humble stable was all the world could accept then, a testament to the depth of God's plan, His lo...

  Scripture: Matthew 1:18-21 (NIV) Now, the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” Devotion: In the midst of the Christmas season, filled with joy and celebration, it is easy to overlook the profound faith and courage exhibited by the individuals at the heart of the nativity story. Matthew 1:18-21 brings to light the remarkable trust and obedience of Joseph, a man faced with an extraordinary situation. Joseph, b...

  Isaiah 9:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." - Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) In the stillness of a winter's night, when the world lies cloaked beneath a blanket of shimmering snow, there is a profound quiet that speaks to the soul. In this silence, we hear whispers of an ancient promise that transcends time and place: unto us, a child is born; unto us, a son is given. This child, born in the humblest of circumstances, is none other than Jesus, the very Son of God. His birth is a gift of immeasurable love, a light that dispels the darkness and warms the coldest heart. As we gather around our Christmas trees, exchange gifts, and celebrate with loved ones, let us pause to contemplate the true meaning of this season. Jesus, the Wonderful Counsellor, comes to guide us through life's perplexities....

  The Word was Jesus Scripture: John 1:14 (ESV) 14  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Devotion: In the opening chapter of John’s Gospel, we encounter a profound and mysterious proclamation: the Word became flesh. This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith — the incarnation of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 tells us that the eternal Word, who was with God and was God (John 1:1), chose to take on human form and live among us. This act of divine condescension, a profound expression of God's love, reveals His desire for an intimate relationship with humanity. The Greek term "dwelt" used in this verse literally means "tabernacled" or "pitched His tent." This imagery hearkens back to the Old Testament, where God's presence dwelt among His people in the Tabernacle. Just as God was present among the Israelite...

Scripture: Psalm 46:10 (NIV) “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Devotion: In Psalm 46:10, we encounter the profound call to "Be still, and know that I am God." This scripture is both a command and a comfort. The imperative verbs "be still" and "know" serve as divine instructions for our lives, urging us to cease our endless striving and trust in God's sovereignty and strength. The directive to "be still" invites us to stop our frantic activities and quiet our hearts. This is a radical call to surrender our efforts and recognize our limitations in a world that glorifies busyness and self-reliance. It is a reminder that our efforts, no matter how well-intentioned, are insufficient without God's intervention. The psalmist encourages us to step back, pause, and rest in the assurance that God is in control. To "know" that He is God is to acknowledge His...

  Scripture: 1 Chronicles 16:34 (ESV) 34    Oh, give thanks to the Lord , for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Devotion: David's call to give thanks to the Lord is a powerful reminder of God's enduring goodness and steadfast love. In my own life, I've experienced this truth in a world where circumstances are ever-changing and often challenging. This verse anchors us in God's unchanging character. His goodness is not contingent upon our situations; it is a fundamental aspect of who He is. The steadfast love of the Lord is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing that His love is unfailing and eternal. When we pause to give thanks, we shift our focus from our problems to God's providence. Gratitude, with its transformative power, opens our eyes to see His hand at work, even in the most minor details. It changes our hearts and minds, aligning us with His will and purposes. Acknowledging His goodness and love, we cultivate a spi...

  Scripture: Matthew 5:13 (NIV) “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. Devotion: As followers of Christ, we are called to be the "salt of the earth," a metaphor that carries profound significance. Salt, in its essence, does two primary things: it adds flavor and preserves. Both of these attributes are crucial to our Christian walk and our mission in the world. Firstly, let’s consider how salt adds flavor. Just as salt enhances the taste of food, Christians are meant to bring the flavor of Christ into every situation. In a world often characterized by bitterness, strife, and despair, we are to be the seasoning that brings hope, love, and joy. Our words should uplift, our actions should reflect the grace of God, and our lives should be a testament to the transformative power of His love. When we live out our faith au...

  Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:7-10 (NIV) 7  Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8  For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 9  This is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. 10  That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially of those who believe. Devotion: In our fast-paced, achievement-oriented world, we often dedicate significant time and effort to physical training. We understand that maintaining our physical health requires discipline and consistency. Similarly, in his letter to Timothy, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of spiritual training. He acknowledges the benefits of physical training but highlights that training in godliness holds value for both this life and the life to come. Train...

  Scripture: Acts 19:20 (ESV) 20  So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily. Devotion: In the bustling city of Ephesus, the Apostle Paul witnessed extraordinary manifestations of God’s power through the preaching of the Gospel. Acts 19:20 encapsulates this triumph by declaring, “So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily.” This verse is not merely a historical account but a profound testament to the unstoppable power of God's word, a power that continues to transform lives today. The word of the Lord is not just a collection of ancient texts; it is a living and active force. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that “the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword.” It penetrates the depths of our being, discerning thoughts and intentions. When received with an open heart, it has the power to convict, comfort, and inspire. The transformative power of God’s word was evident in Ephesus, where many who practiced m...

Scripture: Matthew 26:55-56 (NIV) At that hour, Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day, I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But all this has taken place so that the Scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then, all the disciples left him and fled. Meditation:             A group at my church has been studying Gene Edwards's “A Tale of Three Kings.” This book has caused many in the group to reflect more deeply about power and what different kings do to attain and hold onto power. It examines the careers of three kings of ancient Israel: Saul, David, and Absolom. The book highlights how these men acted when presented with the opportunity to gain and hold onto power.             The central thesis of the book is that there are really just two types of kings: those who ...

  Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:4-6 (NIV) 4  For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5  because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 6  If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. Devotion: This passage reminds us of the inherent goodness in all that God has created. Paul's letter to Timothy emphasizes a fundamental truth: everything created by God is good and should not be rejected if received with gratitude. This perspective encourages us to approach life with a heart full of thanksgiving, recognizing the sanctity and purpose in all things. The key to embracing this truth lies in our ability to consecrate our experiences through the word of God and prayer. This transformative act empowers us to align our hearts and minds with divine teachings,...

Scripture: John 10:7-10 (ESV) So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. Devotion In John 10:7-10, Jesus presents Himself as the door of the sheep, an image rich in meaning and comfort. By declaring, "I am the door," Jesus highlights His role as the sole entry point to safety, sustenance, and salvation. This powerful metaphor assures us that we find a secure refuge and the promise of eternal life through Him. The passage contrasts Jesus' selfless dedication with the destructive intentions of false leaders, described as thieves and robbers. These deceitful figu...

  Scripture: John 15:18-25 (NIV) “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. Whoever hates me hates my Father also. If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’ Devotion: In John 15:18-2...

  Scripture: Psalms 34:1-3 (NIV) 1  I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. 2  I will glory in the Lord ; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. 3  Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together. Devotion: Psalms 34:1-3 (NIV) offers a call to worship and an invitation to praise the Lord collectively. These verses are not just a personal declaration but a communal appeal to exalt the name of the Lord together. "I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips." (Psalm 34:1). This verse sets the tone for a life of continuous praise. The psalmist David commits to praising the Lord at all times, regardless of circumstances. This verse challenges us to adopt a similar attitude of unceasing praise. Whether in joy or sorrow, our lips should overflow with praises to our God, reflecting our constant acknowledgment of His sovereignty and goodness. The beauty of continuous praise is that it u...

  Scripture: Matthew 12:25 (ESV) Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. Devotion In Matthew 12:25, Jesus offers a profound truth about unity and division that resonates across all facets of life, including our political sphere. "Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand." This verse underlines the inevitable downfall of any entity plagued by internal strife. When we consider the current state of our political system, the relevance of this scripture becomes strikingly evident. Our nation, blessed with a rich diversity of opinions, beliefs, and backgrounds, stands at a critical juncture. The political landscape is marked by heated debates and partisan divides, often leading to gridlock rather than progress. As believers, we are called to be peacemakers and to foster respectful dialogue, especially over difficult conversations. This resp...

  Scripture: Romans 5:5 (NIV) [H]ope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Devotion: Romans 5:5 is a verse filled with profound assurance and comfort. It speaks of a hope that stands firm, unwavering, and unshakable—a hope that does not disappoint. The foundation of our hope is not in fleeting or temporary things, but in God's eternal and unchanging love. This verse reminds us that God’s love is not just an abstract concept; it has been "poured out into our hearts." This imagery of pouring suggests abundance and generosity. God's love is lavishly given to us, filling every part of our being, a testament to how cherished and valued we are in His eyes. The Holy Spirit, who has been given to us, is the agent through whom this love is poured into our hearts. The presence of the Holy Spirit within us is a constant reminder of God's love and a source of inner strength. T...

  Scripture: Romans 5:1-5 (ESV) Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him, we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Devotion: In these verses from Romans, we find a profound message of hope and resilience. The apostle Paul reminds us that our faith in Jesus Christ justifies us, meaning it makes us right with God, and grants us peace with Him. This peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep-seated assurance of God's presence and favor in our lives. Paul goes further to connect our faith journey with the reality of suffering....