Loving Jesus Style

  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 ...