Loving Jesus Style

  Scripture: Isaiah 40:25-26 (NIV) “To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. Devotion: These verses invite us to reflect on God's unparalleled greatness and majesty. The rhetorical questions posed by the Holy One emphasize God's uniqueness—no one can be compared to Him, and no one equals His power and glory. This is not just a distant concept but a truth that has profound implications for each of us personally. As we lift our eyes to the heavens, we are reminded of the vastness and complexity of the universe. Each star, brought forth and named by God, showcases His intimate involvement with creation. This imagery reflects our Creator's meticulous care and infinite power. The starry host, which seems infinite to us...

  Scripture: Isaiah 1:17 (NIV) Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow. Devotion: Isaiah 1:17 stands as a timeless call to action. In this verse, the prophet Isaiah urges us to embody the principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness. These words are not merely suggestions but divine imperatives that challenge us to transform our faith into tangible deeds. To "learn to do right" implies a journey of continual growth and understanding. Doing right is not always instinctual; it requires conscious effort and learning. We are called to educate ourselves, cultivate a spirit attuned to God's will, and discern what is just and righteous in our daily lives. "Seek justice" is a powerful directive. Seeking justice means actively pursuing fairness and equity in all our dealings. It calls us to address systemic injustices, stand against oppression, and advocate for those who c...

Maundy Thursday, also known as Holy Thursday, is a significant day in the Christian liturgical calendar that commemorates the Last Supper of Jesus Christ with His disciples. This day is observed during Holy Week on the Thursday before Easter Sunday. The term "Maundy" is derived from the Latin word "mandatum," which means "commandment." This is in reference to the new commandment that Jesus gave His disciples: "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34, NIV). The origins of Maundy Thursday can be traced back to the early Christian church. The observance of this day has been an integral part of Christian worship since the first centuries after Christ's ascension. It serves as a poignant reminder of the humility, service, and sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus during His final meal with His disciples. During the Last Supper, Jesus washed His disciples' feet, symbolizing humility and service. This event is recorded in the Go...

  Scripture: 143 (NIV) A psalm of David. Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness, come to my relief. Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you. The enemy pursues me, he crushes me to the ground; he makes me dwell in the darkness like those long dead. So my spirit grows faint within me; my heart within me is dismayed. I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; I thirst for you like a parched land. Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. Rescue me from my enemies, Lord, for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level gro...

  Finding Hope Amidst Despair Psalm 102 is a heartfelt lament of someone in deep anguish, pouring out their soul before God. It is a powerful reminder that we can turn to God for comfort and hope even in the darkest times. The psalmist begins by crying out to the Lord, "Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my cry come unto thee" (Psalm 102:1). This plea for God's attention is not a mere formality but a desperate call for help. The psalmist feels abandoned and alone, facing overwhelming sorrow and distress. Their pain is so intense that they describe their days as consumed by smoke and their bones as burned like a hearth (Psalm 102:3). As we reflect on this, we can acknowledge that we, too, have moments where we feel utterly forsaken, where our troubles seem insurmountable. Yet, Psalm 102 teaches us that we can draw closer to God precisely in these moments of profound despair. The psalmist does not shy away from expressing their suffering; instead, they lay it all befor...

  Numbers 6:24-26 (N IV) “ ‘ “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ’ Devotion: Devotion: The words in Numbers 6:24-26 are often referred to as the Aaronic Blessing, a benediction God gave to Moses to instruct Aaron and his sons on how to bless the Israelites. These verses encapsulate a profound sense of divine care and favor, making them timeless and ever-relevant for believers seeking solace and assurance in God's promises. The blessing begins with the phrase, "The Lord bless you and keep you." This is more than just a wish for good fortune; it invokes God's direct action in our lives. To be blessed by the Lord means to receive His favor, which encompasses all aspects of our existence, spiritual and physical. To be kept by Him means to be preserved and protected from harm. This assurance of divine guardianship is comforting in times of uncertain...

  Seeking God's Forgiveness and Renewal Psalm 51 is a profound scripture that captures the essence of repentance and the yearning for divine forgiveness. Written by King David after his transgression with Bathsheba, this psalm is a humble plea for mercy, purification, and the restoration of a broken spirit. David begins with an earnest appeal to God's mercy: "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions" (Psalm 51:1). He acknowledges his sins and the gravity of his actions, displaying a deep awareness of his failings. This recognition is the first step in repentance, as it requires an honest and open heart to confront one's wrongdoings. n verse 2, David continues, "Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin." The imagery of washing and cleansing is significant; it symbolizes a desire to be made pure and whole again. David's plea reflects a profound understan...

  Scripture 38 (NIV) A psalm of David. A petition. Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath. Your arrows have pierced me, and your hand has come down on me. Because of your wrath, there is no health in my body; there is no soundness in my bones because of my sin. My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear. My wounds fester and are loathsome because of my sinful folly. I am bowed down and brought very low; all day long, I go about mourning. My back is filled with searing pain; there is no health in my body. I am feeble and utterly crushed; I groan in anguish of heart. All my longings lie open before you, Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you. My heart pounds, my strength fails me; even the light has gone from my eyes. My friends and companions avoid me because of my wounds; my neighbors stay far away. Those who want to kill me set their traps, those who would harm me talk of my ruin; all day long they scheme and lie. I am like the de...

    In a world where Biblical Literacy is at an all-time low. Yet Bible sales are through the roof. I bring you this series of short summaries of the books of the Bible. I hope to bring clarity to the Bible over the next several months. I seek to show the beauty and majesty of the Bible as a rule for life and faith and a sure guide to salvation. The Beginning of Creation and Human History The Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible, is not merely a narrative but a profound and foundational text that reveals the origins of the world, humanity, and God's covenant with His people. It is divided into two main sections: the primeval history (chapters 1-11) and the patriarchal history (chapters 12-50). In primeval history, Genesis begins with a majestic account of creation, in which God creates the heavens and the earth in six days and rests on the seventh. Light, sky, land, sea, vegetation, celestial bodies, animals, and humans come into existence. Adam and Eve, the ...

  Scripture: Psalms 32 (NIV) Of David. A maskil. Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer. Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.” And you forgave the guilt of my sin. Therefore let all the faithful pray to you while you may be found; surely the rising of the mighty waters will not reach them. You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and b...

The penitential psalms are a collection of seven psalms from the Bible, traditionally attributed to King David, that express sorrow for sin and seek God's mercy and forgiveness. These psalms—6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143—are often recited during Lent and other times of penance and reflection. They offer a profound insight into the human condition, acknowledging guilt, pleading for divine compassion, and promising amendment of life. Revered for their emotional depth and spiritual resonance, they remain a central part of Christian liturgical and devotional practices. Let us begin with  Psalm 6. (NIV) For the director of music. With stringed instruments. According to sheminith. A psalm of David. Lord, do not rebuke me in your anger or discipline me in your wrath. Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long? Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love. Among the de...

  Scripture: 1 John 4:15-16 (NIV) If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them. Devotion: These verses remind us of the profound truth that God is love. This simple yet powerful statement has the ability to transform our lives completely. When we acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God, we accept His divine nature and invite His presence into our hearts. It is through this intimate connection that we begin to truly understand and rely on the love God has for us, a love with the power to change our lives and fill us with hope. Embracing the essence of God signifies living in love, for He embodies love itself. When this divine love fills our lives, we forge an unbreakable bond with our Creator. This relationship is not passive; instead, it is a dynamic and active engagement that calls us to love others as God loves us, i...

Scripture: Psalms 121:1-2 (NIV) I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord , the Maker of heaven and earth. Devotion: Psalm 121:1-2 is a beautiful reminder of where our true support and strength originate. As we navigate life's trials and tribulations, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and lost. However, these verses assure us that we are not alone. The psalmist looks to the mountains, symbolizing stability and majesty, and poses a profound question: Where does my help come from? The response reflects unwavering faith and trust: "My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." This declaration is a powerful affirmation of God's omnipotence and His intimate involvement in our lives. The Creator of the universe, the One who shaped the stars and mountains, is also our personal helper and protector. When we lift our eyes to the mountains, we are reminded of God's greatness and His power to ov...

Scripture: Hebrews 9:27-28 (KJV) Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Devotion: As we travel through life, we frequently face uncertainties and challenges that test our faith. However, Hebrews 9:27-28 presents a comforting truth: our earthly lives are finite, but our spiritual journey continues even after death. This passage reassures us that Christ's sacrifice was a unique, all-encompassing act of love and redemption. His death on the cross was meant to remove the sins of many, offering us a path to salvation. As believers, we are called to live with the awareness that after our physical demise, we will stand before the judgment seat of God. However, we should not face this with fear but with hope and expectation. Christ's promise to return a second time is not mea...

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV) Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. Devotion: In these short yet profound verses, the Apostle Paul imparts timeless wisdom to the believers in Corinth, which resonates with us today. He encapsulates the essence of Christian living, intertwining vigilance, steadfastness, courage, strength, and love—a tapestry of virtues that fortify our spiritual journey. To "be on your guard" is a call to spiritual alertness. In a world rife with distractions and temptations, it is not just important, but crucial to maintain awareness, protecting our hearts and minds from anything that might lead us astray. This vigilance ensures we do not falter but remain dedicated to our faith, keeping us alert and prepared for any spiritual challenges that may come our way. "Stand firm in the faith" speaks to the steadfastness required of us. Our faith is the bedrock upon which we build our ...

  Scripture: Proverbs 21:1 (NIV) In the Lord’s hand, the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him. Devotion: The imagery of Proverbs 21:1 is both comforting and profound. Like a master gardener who directs the flow of water to nourish his plants, God holds the hearts of rulers, guiding their decisions and actions for His purposes. This verse reminds us that no matter how powerful or independent a leader may seem, they are ultimately under the sovereignty of God. When we observe the actions of leaders and rulers, it’s easy to feel anxious or powerless. Their decisions can have far-reaching consequences, impacting nations and lives. Yet, Proverbs 21:1 offers reassurance that these leaders are not beyond God’s control. He is the divine orchestrator, ensuring His will is accomplished through them, even if we do not immediately understand how. For instance, we can look at how God influenced the decisions of King Cyrus in the Old Testament,...

  Scripture: Job 2:9-10 (NIV) His wife said to him, “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die!” He replied, “You are talking like a foolish woman. Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” In all this, Job did not sin in what he said. Devotion: In our moments of deepest despair, we often question everything we hold dear. Job's wife, in her grief and suffering, speaks from a place of pain and confusion that many of us can relate to. She has endured tremendous loss—her children, her home, and now witnessing her husband suffer from a debilitating illness. Her words are not merely a challenge to Job's faith, but an outcry from a heart overwhelmed by sorrow. Instead of being harsh, Job's response serves as a gentle reminder of their faith. He acknowledges their suffering but urges her to remember their trust in God. His plea is not one of condemnation but of compassionate understanding. He aims to strengthen their shared commitment to accept b...

  Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV) Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. Devotion:             It is easy to become complacent and let our guard down in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, provides us with a powerful reminder to stay vigilant and steadfast in our faith. The verse, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love," is a call to action for every believer. Firstly, Paul urges us to "be on your guard." This is a call to spiritual alertness. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, it is crucial to remain watchful and discerning. Being on guard means being aware of our spiritual battles and recognizing the subtle ways the enemy may try to lead us astray. It reminds us to stay rooted in prayer and seek God's guidance in all aspects of our lives. Secondly...

Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV) Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; his presence is a constant, and He will never leave you nor forsake you.” Devotion: In the book of Deuteronomy, we find Moses at the end of his journey, preparing to pass the mantle of leadership to Joshua. The Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land, a moment they've awaited for 40 years. However, this transition comes with significant challenges and uncertainties. It is in this context that Moses, under divine inspiration, speaks these powerful words to Joshua and the people of Israel, urging them to be strong and courageous. Moses, who had led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness, knew that his time was drawing to a close. God had informed him that he would not cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Instead, Joshua, his faithful aide, was chosen to lead the people. In Deuteronomy 31, ...

  Scripture: Psalm 19:7-10 (NIV) The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. Devotion: In Psalm 19:7-10, we are presented with a beautiful portrayal of God's law and its profound influence on our lives. The psalmist describes the law of the Lord as perfect, refreshing the soul, and trustworthy, making wise the simple. These verses serve as a powerful reminder that God's commandments are not a burden, but rather a source of life, joy, and wisdom. They are a beacon of wisdom and light, guiding us through the complexities of life with clarity and truth, enlightening our souls and uplifting our spirits. When we reflect on the perfection of God's law, it brings ...

  Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NIV) I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. Devotion: In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of intercessory prayer for all people, especially for those in positions of authority. This call to prayer serves as a reminder of our collective responsibility to lift each other up in prayer, recognizing that our prayers have the power to bring about peace and transformation in our communities and nations. Paul's directive begins with a broad and inclusive appeal: "Petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people." This inclusive approach signifies that no one is beyond the reach of God's love and ...

  Scripture: Luke 10:25-27 (NIV) On one occasion, an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” He answered, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this, and you will live.” Devotion: In our bustling lives, it's easy to overlook the essence of our spiritual journey. Luke 10:25-27 reminds us of this profound simplicity. When an expert in the law queried Jesus about inheriting eternal life, Jesus redirected him to the core of the Scriptures: love. This dialogue reveals the heart of Christian living - love for God and love for our neighbors. Imagine standing in that crowd, hearing Jesus challenge the expert to reflect on the Law. The expert’s response, quoting Deuteronomy and L...

  Scripture: John 17:3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. Devotion: In this profound verse, John 17:3, Jesus Himself defines eternal life, not in terms of duration but in terms of relationship. Eternal life is to know the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. This knowledge is not merely intellectual but deeply relational and experiential. It is about having a personal relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ. As believers, we are not just called into a relationship with the Creator of the universe, but a deeply personal one. This relationship is characterized by faith, trust, and obedience. Knowing God means more than just learning about Him; it means experiencing His love, grace, and presence in our daily lives. It is through this relationship that we find true purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. The knowledge of God and Jesus Christ is not just a passive understanding, but a tra...

  Scripture: Hosea 6:6 (NIV) For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. Devotion:   In the bustling lives we lead, amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities and aspirations, there lies a gentle yet profound call from the divine, echoing through the ages: "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings." Hosea 6:6 invites us to pause, reflect, and realign our priorities with the heart of God.   To understand this verse, we must journey back to a time when the people of Israel were deeply entangled in rituals and sacrifices, believing that these acts alone secured their relationship with God. Yet, through the prophet Hosea, God revealed His genuine desire: a heart overflowing with mercy and a life dedicated to acknowledging Him. Mercy, in its essence, is love in action. It is the compassion that moves us to alleviate the suffering of others, the kindness that extends a help...

  Scripture: 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NIV) Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. Devotion: In the labyrinth of human emotion, sorrow stands as a significant guide. It is our responsibility to choose the path it leads us on-one of profound transformation or one of despair and stagnation. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, delineates these two paths of sorrow - the godly and the worldly - and their diverging destinies. Godly sorrow acknowledges our missteps and transgressions, not merely as errors but as offenses against a loving and holy God. It is the kind of sorrow that Peter felt after denying Jesus thrice before the rooster crowed. His heart was shattered, but his sorrow propelled him to repentance, leading to his restoration and renewed purpose in God's redemptive plan. Similarly, the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates godly sorrow. The son, after squandering his in...