Loving Jesus Style

  Scripture: Psalm 57:7-11 (NIV) My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Devotion: David's words in Psalm 57:7-11 echo the profound resilience and unwavering trust in God that can inspire us in our own lives. Despite being pursued by enemies, David doesn’t let fear or despair rule his heart. Instead, his steadfastness is rooted in his commitment to praising God—a reminder that worship can be a powerful response to trials. The phrase “Awake, my soul!” feels like a call to action, stirring us to rise above our circumstances and align our hearts toward God’s greatness. David doesn’t reserve his praises for private moments alone; h...

A Biblical Account of Leadership, Triumph, and Human Struggle The Book of 2 Samuel is one of the historical books of the Old Testament, providing a narrative of King David's reign, Israel's second king. It offers deep insights into leadership, the repercussions of human choices, and God's covenant relationship with His people. The Rise of King David 2 Samuel begins with David mourning the deaths of Saul, the first king of Israel, and Jonathan, Saul's son and David's close friend. David is then anointed king over Judah, while Ishbosheth, Saul’s son, becomes king over Israel, resulting in a period of civil war. David’s strong leadership and divine favor ultimately unified the nation under his rule. David’s Triumphs and the Ark of the Covenant David's reign is marked by military victories and the consolidation of Israel's power. A significant achievement is the capture of Jerusalem, which becomes the political and spiritual capital of Israel. David...

  Scripture: Hosea 6:6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. Devotion:      Hosea 6:6 unveils the heart of God—a yearning for mercy and genuine acknowledgment rather than hollow rituals. This Scripture is a poignant reminder that faith is not meant to be a performance, but a relationship steeped in compassion, humility, and truth.      God’s preference for mercy over sacrifice challenges us to rethink our priorities. Sacrifices, particularly in the Old Testament, were acts of obedience and devotion, intended to connect humanity with the divine. Yet, when rituals become detached from the spirit of love and genuine repentance, they lose their true significance. Mercy, however, reflects the essence of God’s character—a grace that reaches out to those in need and restores the broken. It calls us to embody kindness in our interactions, to see others as God sees them, and to extend forgi...

  Scripture: Lamentations 3:25-26 (NIV) The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. Devotion:      In the midst of life’s uncertainties, Lamentations 3:25-26 offers a gentle reminder about the nature of God and the posture we are called to adopt in our spiritual journey. These verses invite us to embrace hope, seek God earnestly, and wait patiently for His salvation.      To hope in the Lord means to tether our expectations to His perfect character rather than the shifting sands of earthly circumstances. The hope described here is not fragile optimism but a confident trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty. Even when life feels overwhelming or our prayers seem unanswered, believing in His unwavering love allows us to stand firm.      Seeking the Lord is an active pursuit, a heartfelt desire to know Him more deeply. It’s not ...

A Journey of Leadership, Faith, and Transformation Introduction The book of 1st Samuel, part of the Old Testament in the Bible, tells the story of Israel's transformation from a group of loosely organized tribes to a united kingdom under their first kings. It introduces us to three significant figures: Samuel, Saul, and David. Through their lives, 1st Samuel reveals lessons of faith, obedience, and the consequences of human choices. Hannah’s Prayer and Samuel’s Calling The story begins with a woman named Hannah, who desperately wants a child. She prays to God and promises to dedicate her child to His service if her prayer is answered. God hears her, and she gives birth to Samuel. True to her promise, Hannah takes young Samuel to the tabernacle to serve under Eli, the priest. As Samuel grows, he hears God calling him one night. At first, Samuel doesn’t realize it is God speaking, but with Eli’s guidance, he listens and becomes a prophet. Samuel's prophetic role, a si...

  14  Now it was The day of Preparation for the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15  They cried out, “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.” 16  So he n Delivered him over to them to be crucified. Scripture: John 19:14-16 (ESV) Meditation:             Today, we are witnessing protests against our current sitting president because, as the protesters claim, Donald Trump has positioned himself as a king. This accusation is as unfounded as it was in Jesus' day. While it's important to remember that Donald Trump is a political figure and not a religious one, the protesters are mistaken in opposing his policies. The reality is that Trump has focused on securing our homeland against those who would harm us and has nearly eradicated all illegal immigration i...

  Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (NIV) But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. Devotion: Victory is a concept that resonates deeply with all of us, whether in spiritual battles, personal struggles, or professional challenges. In 1 Corinthians 15:57-58, Paul reminds us that true victory is a gift from God, achieved through Jesus Christ. This victory is not temporary or circumstantial; it is eternal, overcoming even the sting of death itself. It’s a triumph that gives us the confidence to face life’s uncertainties with unwavering faith. Paul’s exhortation to “stand firm” is not a call to passive endurance but to an active, immovable commitment to Christ. The world will try to sway our convictions, presenting distractions, doubts, and discouragement...

  Scripture: Job 37:1-5 (NIV) “At this my heart pounds and leaps from its place. Listen! Listen to the roar of his voice, to the rumbling that comes from his mouth. He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth. After that comes the sound of his roar; he thunders with his majestic voice. When his voice resounds, he holds nothing back. God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. Devotion: In these verses, Job's friend Elihu reflects on God's mighty and awe-inspiring voice, creating a vivid image of divine power and majesty. This passage encourages us to contemplate the greatness of God, the Creator, who commands the heavens and the earth with His voice, unleashing thunder and lightning across the skies. The voice of God, as described here, is not merely sound but a manifestation of His authority and action. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are beyond human comprehension; y...

  A Story of Loyalty, Love, and Redemption The Book of Ruth, found in the Old Testament of the Bible, is a concise yet profoundly impactful narrative that emphasizes themes of loyalty, faith, and divine providence. Its four chapters trace the journey of Ruth, a Moabite woman, as she faces loss, expresses devotion, and experiences eventual restoration. Setting the Stage: Tragedy and Migration The story begins in the time of the Judges, a turbulent era in Israel's history. A famine forces Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons to leave Bethlehem and settle in Moab. There, the sons marry Moabite women, Ruth and Orpah. However, tragedy strikes when Elimelech and his sons die, leaving Naomi and her daughters-in-law widowed and vulnerable. Ruth’s Loyalty to Naomi Naomi, grief-stricken, decides to return to Bethlehem after hearing that the famine has ended. She urges Ruth and Orpah to remain in Moab and remarry. Orpah parts ways with Naomi, but Ruth clings to her with u...

  Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-19 (NIV) For this reason, I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Devotion: Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:14-19 is a profound reflection on the depth of God’s love and the power it has to transform our lives. He begins by humbling himself in reverence to the Creator, acknowledging the divine source of all families and communities. This act of kneeling before the Father reminds us of the significance of submission in our spiritual lives—a pos...

  Scripture: Psalm 71:19 (NIV) Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens, you who have done great things. Who is like you, God? Devotion: In this beautiful verse, the psalmist marvels at God's boundless righteousness, which stretches beyond comprehension, reaching the heavens. It serves as a reminder that God's greatness is unparalleled, surpassing all human understanding and accomplishment. When we pause to consider the works of God—the creation of the universe, the acts of deliverance, and the unyielding love shown to humanity—we, too, are left asking, "Who is like you, God?" Psalm 71:19 invites us into a posture of awe and worship. It calls us to recognize that earthly limitations do not bind God's righteousness, but rather that it is eternal and infinite. This righteousness is both comforting and challenging. It reassures us that God is incapable of injustice and embodies goodness, truth, and mercy in His nature. His deeds reflect this characte...

  Guidance for Christians The Book of Judges is a testament to God's unending mercy and the cyclical nature of human faithfulness. As the seventh book of the Bible, it recounts the turbulent history of Israel following Joshua's death, during a period when the nation lacked centralized leadership. Judges illustrate the recurring cycle of sin, repentance, and redemption, showcasing the consequences of disobedience and the power of God's deliverance. Theme The overarching theme of Judges is God's faithfulness despite human failure. It illustrates the consequences of turning away from God, while highlighting His willingness to rescue His people when they repent. The book depicts Israel's spiritual decline in the absence of godly leadership, serving as a poignant reminder for believers about the importance of nurturing a strong relationship with God. The cyclical pattern seen throughout the book is: ·         Sin: The Israelites turn away from God and ...

  Scripture: Job 37:1-5 (NIV) “At this my heart pounds and leaps from its place. Listen! Listen to the roar of his voice, to the rumbling that comes from his mouth. He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth. After that comes the sound of his roar; he thunders with his majestic voice. When his voice resounds, he holds nothing back. God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. Devotion: In these verses, Job's friend Elihu reflects on God's mighty and awe-inspiring voice, creating a vivid image of divine power and majesty. This passage encourages us to contemplate the greatness of God, the Creator, who commands the heavens and the earth with His voice, unleashing thunder and lightning across the skies. The voice of God, as described here, is not merely sound but a manifestation of His authority and action. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are beyond human comprehension; y...

Scripture: Philemon 4-7 I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your love for all his holy people and your faith in the Lord Jesus. Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people. Your partnership with us in the faith is not only effective but also deeply appreciated, as it deepens your understanding of every good thing we share for the sake of Christ. Devotion:             In today’s devotional, we visit the seldom-read book of Philemon. Here we find Paul’s words to Philemon in verses 4-7. They are filled with gratitude and encouragement. He expresses his joy and thankfulness for Philemon’s love and faith, not only toward the Lord but also toward fellow believers. Paul emphasizes how Philemon’s love, shown through his kindness and generosity, has profoundly impacted the hearts of God’s people, demonstrating the tran...

  A Journey of Faith and Obedience The Book of Joshua is an inspiring narrative in the Bible, found in the Old Testament, and follows the story of the Israelites entering the Promised Land.  This book offers a powerful example of God’s faithfulness, leadership, and the blessings that come from trusting Him. Let’s explore the key themes and events to help you understand why this book is significant. Who Was Joshua? God, the central figure in this book, chose Joshua to lead the Israelites after Moses’ death. Known for his unwavering faith and courage, Joshua served as both a military leader and spiritual guide. His story begins with God’s clear command: “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6). For someone new to the faith, Joshua's reliance on God reminds us that trusting Him can lead to victorious outcomes, even in challenging situations. Key Themes The Book of Joshua centers on themes of God’s promises, faith, and obedience. It teaches us that God fulfills what He ...

   For the body is not one member, but many.  1 CORINTHIANS 12:14 Other people may be great, strong, and self-assured. I, however, am nothing, and I’m worth nothing. Therefore, I could never assume the burden of even thinking I can cope with life’s affairs without the help of others. I’m well aware that I need the assistance of my brothers, each one of them, more than one hand needs the other’s help. In fact, the Lord has taught us the need of fellowship from the very way our bodies are made. When I look at my limbs, and see that none of them can get along by itself, how can I think I’m capable of fulfilling life’s duties in isolation? One foot alone can’t walk rightly without the other’s aid. One eye alone can’t see in proper perspective without the other’s cooperation, both seeing together. The sense of hearing is more accurate when both ears receive sound. The hand’s grip is more secure when made by all the fingers in “fellowship” with each other. To sum up, in everyth...

  We Are Like Grass Scripture: Isaiah 40:6-8 (NIV) A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Devotion: In the fleeting nature of life, Isaiah’s message reminds us of our impermanence and the constancy of God’s word. Like grass that withers and flowers that fade under the breath of the Lord, our earthly existence is fragile, momentary. We strive, we build, we dream, yet the passage reveals that all human efforts, even our faithfulness, are transient. This reality is not meant to discourage or instill despair. Instead, it is a call to humility and perspective. Isaiah points us to the enduring truth: the word of God stands firm forever. While human accomplishments may fade, God’s...

  Scripture: 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NIV) Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among those who may not share our beliefs, that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. Devotion: Ensuring our lives reflect our faith is a lasting challenge, especially in today's culture. In 1 Peter 2:11-12, we are reminded of our position as 'foreigners and exiles,' which calls us to live differently from the world around us. This metaphor emphasizes that our true home is not in this world but in the kingdom of God. Just as a foreigner or exile in a strange land adheres to different customs and values, we are called to follow the customs and values of God's kingdom. Peter urges us to abstain from sinful desires that wage war against our souls. These desires, often cultivated by society's norms, can lead us away from...

  The End of the Wilderness Journey Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and completes the Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses. It consists of a series of speeches delivered by Moses to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. Here are the key themes and sections of the book: Introduction and Historical Review Deuteronomy begins with a powerful historical review of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the edge of the Promised Land. Moses recounts their experiences, including their disobedience, the wandering in the wilderness, and the battles won with God's help. This review serves as a poignant reminder of God's faithfulness and the people's need to remain obedient, connecting us to the Israelites' journey. Laws and Commandments Moses reiterates the laws given to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of following them. He covers various aspects of life, including worship, justice, and social responsibilities. Key topics ...