Shattered Dreams: An Unexpected Blessing

 

Part 1 of 4 in the "Shattered Dreams" Series

We’ve all heard it before: we matter to God. And part of us wants to believe it. But life has a way of wearing down our confidence in that truth. If God really cares about us, then why didn’t He ___________? Fill in the blank: Heal your loved one. Save your marriage. Open doors that remained shut. Make life easier.

Either (a) we’re blowing it, or (b) God is holding out on us. Or some combination of both, which is where most people land.
— John Eldredge, Waking the Dead: The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive

Take a moment to reflect on the dreams you once had for your life. What did you envision for your family, career, friendships, home, and future? If we’re honest, most of us are not living the life we imagined.

On one hand, that’s not entirely a bad thing. Many of our youthful dreams were built on unrealistic expectations. Achieving them might have led to an outcome far different from what we expected—perhaps even worse. Think of the lives of celebrities who have everything we think would bring happiness, yet struggle with addiction, depression, and broken relationships. Or consider if you had married your first crush—would it have truly been a fairy tale?

We recognize that not all unfulfilled dreams are tragic. Yet, there are dreams we believe are essential to our happiness. The single person might believe that marriage is the key to joy, while a married person may long for the freedom of singleness. We might think a specific job, possession, or achievement will finally make us content. And when those things do not happen—or are taken away—we feel crushed. We cry out, “God, don’t You care about my happiness? I thought You loved me!” And often, we are met with silence. We pray, plead, and wait, but God seems unresponsive.

But does silence mean God doesn’t care? Scripture tells us otherwise. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you (1 Peter 5:7, NLT). This leaves us with a dilemma: either the Bible is untrue, or God has a different plan for our lives than we expected.

I am convinced that God’s plan is far greater than our own. The challenge is that His definition of a “wonderful life” often looks nothing like ours. We dream of being served, but God calls us to serve. We dream of financial abundance, but God calls us to generosity. We dream of recognition, but God calls us to humility and quiet faithfulness. To lead us into His better plan, God often allows our dreams to break.

Why? Because as long as we cling to our own visions of happiness, we prioritize achieving them over pursuing holiness. That is the fundamental difference between our dreams and God’s: we long for comfort, but He desires our transformation. We seek happiness, but He seeks our holiness.

What Is Holiness?

Holiness is a word we use in church, but rarely in everyday conversation. I like to define it simply as being separated from the ordinary. Through salvation, God sets us apart from the world because His people are to represent Him in everything we do. Holiness is both the position we have in God’s Kingdom and the calling He has placed on our lives.

Because of this call to holiness, shattered dreams are not the end of life—they are the beginning of something better. They force us to shift our focus from temporary fulfillment to the eternal purpose found in the Kingdom. When our dreams crumble, we are invited into a deeper trust—a faith that rests not on our circumstances but on God Himself.

So, what if our broken dreams are actually God’s mercy? What if, in allowing them to fall apart, He is leading us to something infinitely better? The question is not whether God cares—it’s whether we are willing to trust that His dreams for us are better than our own.

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Stay tuned for Part 2 in the "Shattered Dreams" series as we continue exploring how God’s plan transforms our understanding of life and fulfillment.

Lessons from the King: Don’t Worry

 

The Struggle Between Earthly and Heavenly Priorities

Imagine sorting your life into three categories: rubber, metal, and glass. Tim Sanders, former chief solutions officer at Yahoo! and author of Love Is the Killer App, uses this analogy to explain how we handle life’s ups and downs. Rubber things—like missing a Seahawks game—bounce back with little fuss. Metal things—like missing an important meeting—clang loudly when dropped, causing temporary chaos but nothing irreparable. Then there’s glass—the irreplaceable treasures like your marriage, family, deepest relationships, and spiritual well-being. When glass shatters, no amount of effort can fully restore it.

The challenge is clear: we all know what’s "glass" in our lives. So, what’s our priority? What’s the one thing we should devote ourselves to, the thing that puts everything else into place? Jesus has been teaching about the heart—our desires, beliefs, thoughts, and will. He’s shown us that the condition of our hearts determines whether we’re citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. At the core of that heart must be faithfulness. Without it, we can’t belong to God’s Kingdom. Today’s text, Matthew 6:19-34, brings this truth into sharp focus.

Last week, we saw how Jesus emphasized motivation over mere actions in spiritual disciplines. If we pray, give, or fast to impress others, we’ve already received our reward. But if we do these things to connect with God and honor Him, He blesses us with answered prayer and a place in His Kingdom. That sets the stage for today’s lesson: trusting God completely. Let’s walk through the text together.

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Storing Up True Treasure (vv. 19-21)

Jesus begins, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” Earthly treasures—money, possessions, status—are temporary. Moths eat them, rust corrodes them, thieves take them. Why spend your life chasing what won’t last? Instead, store up treasures in heaven—love, generosity, kindness, forgiveness—the character traits of Kingdom citizens. These are eternal.

Where your treasure is, Jesus says, there your heart will be. What we value shapes our devotion. Are we truly invested in God’s Kingdom, or are we just paying it lip service? Ask yourself: What’s more important—investments or spiritual maturity?

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A Clear or Clouded Vision (vv. 22-23)

Next, Jesus says, “The eye is the lamp of the body.” Our spiritual perception guides our lives. A healthy eye—one focused generously on God—brings light, helping us see what He values and grow in His character. But an unhealthy eye—stingy and fixated on wealth—plunges us into darkness. Greed blinds us to truth and robs us of the life God intends.

What dominates your vision: God’s Kingdom or worldly wealth?

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The Danger of Divided Devotion (v. 24)

Here’s the heart of the Sermon on the Mount: “No one can serve two masters.” Jesus pits God against money (or "Mammon"). He’s not saying money itself is evil—only that serving it is idolatry. Devotion to wealth competes with devotion to God. When God is in His rightful place, money and possessions fall into theirs. Jesus forces a choice: we’ll love one and despise the other.

So, who rules your heart—God or materialism?

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Overcoming Worry with Trust (vv. 25-32)

Jesus commands, “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink.” Worry stems from a lack of trust in God’s provision—the opposite of “Give us today our daily bread.” This doesn’t mean we ignore responsibilities or stop working hard. It means trusting God to provide.

Look at the birds—they don’t fret over food, yet God feeds them. Consider the lilies—they don’t toil, yet God clothes them beautifully. If God cares for them, how much more will He care for us, His children? Worry is futile—it doesn’t add a day to our lives. Worse, it’s what pagans do. Kingdom citizens trust God instead.

Does your worry reveal a heart not fully trusting Him?

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The Key to True Security: Seeking God’s Kingdom (vv. 33-34)

“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.” That’s the antidote to worry. Prioritize God’s will—live by faith, trust, holiness, and disciple-making—and He’ll meet your needs, often through His people, the church. Align your life with His purposes, and trust Him daily.

Don’t be consumed by tomorrow—God’s got it covered. Shift your focus: seek God first, and let Him handle the rest.

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Who Do You Trust?

Jesus didn’t just teach this—He lived it. He surrendered everything to the Father, even His life on the cross, so we could become Kingdom citizens. We’re called to trust God to mature us, guide us, and provide for us. The Kingdom of Heaven is better than the reality we know now, and God will supply what we need if we stop worrying about the details.

It’s easy to say we trust God, but our focus—what we pursue—and our worries—what we dwell on—reveal the truth. How do we grow in trust? Through spiritual disciplines: prayer, gratitude, and meditating on Scripture.

Here’s the challenge:

Surrender your worries and seek God first. Examine what concerns you, confess it to God, ask Him to build your trust, and then do your part—handle your responsibilities while leaving the rest to Him.

We can’t serve two masters. Citizens of the Kingdom trust God with their treasures, needs, and future because He’s the only Master worth serving.

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Prayer

Thank God for Jesus, who made you part of His Kingdom. Ask Him to teach you to trust Him fully. Commit to following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. If God’s calling you to follow Jesus more closely today, don’t wait—take that next step.

The Parable of the Soils: Hearing and Bearing Fruit

The Parable of the Sower (or more accurately, the Parable of the Soils) in Matthew 13:1-23 is one of Jesus’ most well-known teachings. It not only reveals the different ways people respond to God’s Word but also highlights the importance of having a heart that truly receives the Gospel and bears fruit.

A Familiar Scene for an Agricultural Audience

Jesus often used parables—stories that take common human experiences and compare them with the Kingdom of God—to communicate truth in a way that was both accessible and challenging. The setting of this parable was familiar to His audience: a farmer sowing (planting) seed. In ancient Palestine, sowing was often done before plowing, meaning the seed could fall on various types of soil, each affecting its ability to grow.

Jesus describes four types of soil:

1. The Path – Hard and compacted, where the seed cannot penetrate and is quickly snatched away.

2. Rocky Ground – Shallow soil over limestone, where seeds sprout quickly but lack the depth to sustain growth.

3. Thorny Ground – Soil where thorns and weeds choke out the young plants.

4. Good Soil – Deep, fertile soil that produces a bountiful harvest.

What Is the Seed?

Jesus explains that the seed represents the Word of God—the message of the kingdom (Matt. 13:19). Just as a seed contains the potential for life, the Gospel carries the power to transform lives when it takes root in a receptive heart.

However, just hearing the Word is not enough. A seed must take root, grow, and bear fruit. The effectiveness of the seed is not in question—it is the same for all soils. What determines the outcome is the condition of the soil, or the state of a person’s heart.

Interpreting the Soils: Responses to God’s Word

When Jesus later explains the parable to His disciples (vv. 18-23), He makes it clear that the soils represent different responses to the Gospel:

• The Path (Hardened Hearts) – These are those who hear the word but do not understand it. Like the seed snatched away by birds, Satan steals the truth before it can take root.

• The Rocky Ground (Shallow Commitment) – These people receive the message with joy but have no depth. When trials or persecution come, they quickly fall away.

• The Thorny Ground (Divided Hearts) – Here, the worries of life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke out the word, preventing spiritual fruit.

• The Good Soil (Faithful Hearts) – These are those who hear, understand, and bear fruit—showing perseverance and true transformation.

The Call to Listen and Respond

Jesus concludes with a challenge: “He who has ears, let him hear” (v. 9). The parable isn’t just about hearing the word—it’s about truly receiving it in a way that produces a life of faithfulness and fruitfulness.

This parable challenges us to examine our own hearts: Are we receptive to God’s Word? Do we allow trials, distractions, or materialism to hinder our growth? Or are we cultivating a heart that is open, obedient, and fruitful for God’s kingdom?

The harvest is plentiful for those who truly listen.

Why I Still Follow Jesus

Why do I still follow Jesus Christ? 

For me, it comes down to purpose—a call that God has woven into my life. Jesus didn’t just ask His first disciples to drop their nets and believe a set of ideas; He invited them into something bigger: “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). That same invitation echoes today. We’re made for good works (Ephesians 2:10), not just to hold to a set of doctrines and beliefs, but to actually live those truths. In other words, following Jesus isn’t about checking off a list of doctrines—it’s about joining a movement that changes the world, through the simplest acts of love (Matthew 25:31-46).

Of course, plenty of Christians fall short of this calling, but that doesn’t make the calling invalid. Rather, it reminds us that we need help in living this calling out in our lives. As followers of Jesus, we’re meant to bring light to our families, communities, and nations. The Church, at its best, is God’s love in action.

The purpose I have as a follower of Jesus depends on two important choices. It depends on my choice to be faithful to King Jesus in every area of my life. I can only live this calling out if I am faithful. The second choice is the choice to love. Jesus taught that the most important commandment is to love: to love God and to love people. If I am not going to love, then it is impossible for me to live out the purpose of my life.

Now, compare that to what I’ll call the “evangelical atheist.” Their message urges people to abandon belief in God—but what’s the replacement? Do they genuinely think a world without God would be better? If so, where’s the proof? History doesn’t exactly back them up. And when they reject the source of goodness and love, what’s left to inspire kindness or sacrifice?

That’s not to say atheists can’t be moral or altruistic—many are. But they lack a foundation to call others to a life that seeks to make this world a better place. Without an absolute moral standard, they rely on shifting personal or cultural ideals, which is shaky ground when human nature often prioritizes self-interest over the suffering of others. Atheism critiques but doesn’t construct; it deconstructs faith yet offers no compelling alternative that can inspire, unite, or transform people and culture.

Faith in Jesus is not just about our self-interest. It calls us to something greater. The New Testament teachings this truth over and over again—Jesus commands us to love God and others (Matthew 22:34-40), Paul urges us to serve selflessly (Romans 12, Galatians 6, Ephesians 2:10), James reminds us that faith without works is dead (James 1:27), Peter exhorts us to bless others (1 Peter 3:9), and John emphasizes love in action (1 John 3:16-18). Disciples of Jesus are not just encouraged to love—we’re expected to. It’s central to our calling.

What’s amazing is how this call to love is for everyone. No one is incapable of loving. If morality were merely a personal construct, we’d have an innumerable number of ideas about what is right and wrong —forcing everyone to champion the causes they believe to be most important, whether climate change, poverty, or global suffering. That’s a recipe for burnout and division, especially since we cannot agree on what’s most important.

Christianity changes that. God sets a moral standard, calls us to love Him and others, and then gives us the freedom to bring our unique gifts to the table. The metaphor of being the Body of Christ nails it (Romans 12:3-5, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31)—we are different parts of the body with distinct roles (Romans 12:6-8, 1 Peter 4:7-11). God’s plan is a Church full of individuals, each equipped to tackle the world’s brokenness in their own way.

 None of us can meet the world’s brokenness on our own, but when we work together we can make a difference.

So, I follow Jesus—doubts and all—because this call isn’t just about my personal relationship with Jesus; it’s about God’s people working together to influence the world. It’s about serving those around me and carrying God’s love into the world, all the while partnering with others. In living it out the calling to love and serve, I discover the life I was made for. And honestly? I want others to find that life too.

Theology and Our Relationship with God

"Hence, the reality of faith itself — our commitment to the God revealed in Christ — calls forth theological reflection." — Stanley Grenz, Theology for the Community of God (p. 1)

As a parent of school-aged children, I frequently confront the reality that, while assisting them with their homework, I struggle to remember what they are learning. More often than I’d like to admit, I find myself turning to Google in search of the correct answers.

This experience illustrates a crucial truth: our knowledge of the world is limited. It is constrained by what we have learned, what we can recall, and the information available to us. There is no one person who possesses comprehensive knowledge about everything. Indeed, even specialists in a given field have gaps in their understanding. These gaps encourage us to engage in deeper inquiry and study.

This is true for the most important of all areas of inquiry: God.

The Need for Theological Reflection

Too often, because our contemporary culture emphasizes the “relationship” aspect of God, we feel like the study of God makes that relationship all about intellectual knowledge. We figure that because it is like a relationship, we will learn what we need along the way, through our experience. Unfortunately, this reality has contributed to the American Church not fully understanding who God is and how He expects us to live.

In a typical interpersonal relationship, we come to know another person through shared experiences. These moments reveal their character and provide us ample opportunities to engage in conversation and ask questions. However, our relationship with God operates differently. The experiences we have with Him must be interpreted through the lens of Scripture. The Bible serves as our primary source for understanding both who God is and His will for the world. Part of nurturing our relationship with God involves dedicating time to study and meditate on the Bible, which helps us in truly knowing Him.

We Are All Theologians

Many of us do not identify as theologians. For much of my life, I viewed myself simply as a Bible student, with the academic discipline of theology seeming distant and inaccessible. We often perceive theology through an academic lens, characterized by complex terminology and intricate ideas. This perception can lead to the conclusion that theology is irrelevant to our relationship with God.

It is true that theology can feel out of reach and not practical to following Jesus, but that is not all theology is. At its core, the work of theology is the work of thinking well about God. Understanding that God is the Creator is the work of theology. Knowing that God is Trinity is also the work of theology. As we think through what the Bible says about God, we are engaged in the task of theology.

Since theology is thinking well about God, then we engage in theology whenever we ponder His nature, His works, or His will for our lives. It is important for us to remember that theology is not merely an academic pursuit for scholars in seminaries; it is a necessary discipline for every believer who desires to grow in their faith. To follow Jesus faithfully requires that we take time to deepen our understanding of God through study, reflection, and application.

The Foundation of Theology

The foundation for theology is always Scripture. While it is true that nature reflects the glory of God, it is Scripture alone that provides us with the information that we need to truly understand who God is. Reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible are important parts of theology; they provide the correct input we need to think well about God. Without a solid grounding in Scripture, our thoughts about God can easily be shaped by cultural assumptions, personal experiences, or misconceptions rather than by biblical truth.

Yet, theology is not merely an individual endeavor. The Church, both historically and presently, plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of God. Throughout history, faithful believers have wrestled with Scripture, created doctrines, and provided insights that help us think rightly about God. Engaging with the teachings of the Church helps guard against error and deepens our understanding by connecting us with the wisdom of the faithful people who have gone before us.

Theology Leads to Transformation

The goal of theology is not merely learning more information but fostering a deeper love for God and maturing our faith. Jesus taught that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). Loving God with our mind implies engaging in the work of theology—seeking to know Him rightly so that we may worship Him more fully and live in obedience to His will.

When we neglect theology, we risk distorting our understanding of God and living according to a false perception of Him. A faith that is not grounded in truth is susceptible to error, doubt, and instability. However, when we commit ourselves to theological reflection, we equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to discern truth and to stand firm in our faith.

Ultimately, theology is a pursuit that leads to transformation. As we grow in our knowledge of God, our hearts are strengthened in commitment, our lives better reflect the character of Jesus, and our purpose aligns with God’s heart. Theology is not just about thinking well; it is also about living well. It is about knowing God so that we might love Him more deeply and follow Him more faithfully.

The Journey of Christian Spiritual Formation

 Spiritual formation in Christ is a deliberate and structured journey. While God can work through chaos, He has chosen to engage with us through intentional and clear pathways. Instead of passively wondering what God is up to in our lives, we are called to embrace the means He has provided for our growth. These pathways are revealed in Scripture, particularly through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

Life in our modern American culture is fast and busy. Since it is easy to have a full schedule it is tempting to “go with the flow.” This path of least resistance requires little effort but allows our culture to be the greatest influence in our spiritual formation. Many Christians struggle with spiritual maturity because we allow ourselves to drift instead of actively engaging the means to become more like Jesus.

Even so, God is gracious. He brings healing and transformation to our lives, even when we fail to fully engage in the process of our own spiritual development. This is a profound reminder of His goodness and love toward us, even in our shortcomings.

One challenge in discussing spiritual formation is the fear of being misunderstood as promoting “salvation by works.” This often leads to an emphasis on faith, which can, unfortunately, be reduced to intellectual agreement to doctrine and adherence to a certain moral standard. While truth is essential, faith is far more than believing the right things.

Biblical faith is defined by trust, commitment, and obedience—qualities that are reflected in how we live. Spiritual formation, then, is an active process that is to result in good works. These works are the fruit of genuine faith.

The journey of spiritual formation has a clear starting point: repentance. Jesus emphasized repentance throughout His ministry. In Matthew 4:17 (NLT), He declared, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”

Repentance is not just feeling regret or making a confession; it is a true shift in our loyalties. Sin is rebellion against God and His Kingdom, and through repentance, we consciously change our allegiance. This act of turning away from the world and turning to God signifies a new loyalty—a declaration of citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven.

True repentance is foundational to spiritual formation. It is not merely a formality but an act of faith: a decision to trust, commit, and obey God. From this starting point, our journey begins, and as we continue, God works within us to transform us into the likeness of King Jesus.

As we pursue spiritual formation, it is crucial that we remain both intentional and humble, allowing God to guide us. The process may be challenging, but it is the path to becoming who we were created to be in King Jesus—a journey of purpose, growth, and grace.

Moving Beyond the Shallow: Deepening Our Prayer Lives

Prayer can often be a source of frustration for me—not just in my own practice, but also when observing how others pray. It’s not that the intentions behind these prayers are wrong. In fact, they are often heartfelt and sincere. Yet at times, the focus seems misplaced and shallow. Perhaps “shallow” isn’t the perfect word, so let me explain.

By “shallow,” I’m referring to how our prayers tend to center on what we can see and touch—physical health, finances, safety, and other tangible concerns. While these are undoubtedly important, I can’t help but feel we often neglect something far greater: the deeper, unseen aspects of our spiritual lives.

Take, for example, Paul’s prayer for the believers in Colossae:

“For this reason also, since the day we heard this, we haven’t stopped praying for you. We are asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, so that you may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the saints’ inheritance in the light. He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son he loves. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” (Colossians 1:9–14, CSB)

Notice the content of Paul’s prayer. He doesn’t focus on physical ailments, financial stability, or protection from harm. Instead, his focus is on the spiritual formation of believers. He asks God to fill them with wisdom and spiritual understanding so they can live in a way that honors Jesus. Paul prays for their spiritual growth, strength, and gratitude for God’s blessings.

Paul’s prayer centers entirely on the spiritual reality that shapes their identity and purpose.

Contrast this with the typical prayers we hear during worship or small group gatherings. Most prayers are for physical realities—provision, healing, or safety. Let me be clear: these are entirely appropriate things to pray for. God desires us to bring our daily needs and concerns to Him.

However, the problem arises when we focus exclusively on physical needs at the expense of deeper spiritual realities. When we do that, we risk becoming fixated on the visible, tangible world while ignoring the unseen part of our existence—the part that holds eternal significance.

When people are struggling, it is good and proper to ask God to intervene in their circumstances. This is part of our responsibility as Christians. But we must also remember that spiritual maturity is essential to discipleship. We need to pray for one another’s faith, strength, understanding, and wisdom—these are critical for our spiritual formation.

A question worth pondering is: Why do we often default to praying for the physical rather than the spiritual?

Personally, I’ve struggled with the concept of the spiritual. It has sometimes felt intangible, almost unreal. In a world that often dismisses spiritual matters as mythical or irrelevant, it’s been easy for me to overlook.

Additionally, I once equated “spiritual” with “emotional.” Since I believed emotions were unreliable, I avoided anything I perceived as emotional—including the spiritual dimensions of prayer.

These are just a couple of reasons I’ve gravitated toward praying for the familiar and tangible physical realities of life, while avoiding the deeper spiritual dimensions that are just as important.

I believe the key to revitalizing our prayer life is to shift our focus. What if we intentionally made time in our prayers—both private and public—to pray like Paul did in Colossians 1:9–14?

Instead of focusing solely on healing and provision, we could also pray for God’s wisdom, strength, and transformative power to work in our hearts. Prayer has the potential to reshape our lives, but we must ask for what we truly need to be transformed.

As Jesus taught in Matthew 6:33:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.”

This verse challenges us to prioritize God’s kingdom and spiritual matters over worldly concerns.

Similarly, Romans 8:26–27 reassures us:

“The Spirit also helps us in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because he intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”

Even when spiritual realities feel distant or unclear, God’s Spirit intercedes on our behalf, guiding our prayers toward what truly matters.

Now is the time to deepen our prayer lives—to move from the shallow end, where we ask only for our physical needs, to the deep end, where we ask God for the spiritual wisdom and understanding we need to represent King Jesus in everything we say and do.

Let’s begin praying in ways that transform not just our circumstances, but also our hearts and lives.

Are You Religious?

In Western Christianity, the word religion is often treated almost like a cuss word. Phrases like “You don’t want to have a religious spirit” or “Christianity is a relationship, not a religion” are commonly heard.

Despite this, I proudly acknowledge that I am a religious person. Why? Because I believe religion is how we express and nurture our relationship with God.

Religion provides structure—a way for us to show our love for God and hear from Him. Unlike our relationships with friends and family, our relationship with God requires a different approach. We can’t have a face-to-face conversation, give God a hug, or play a game with Him. While God is always with us, these activities aren’t the same as experiencing them with Him. Religion serves as a framework to facilitate this divine relationship.

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The Divine and Human Nature of Religion

Many rituals practiced by God’s people over the centuries were directly given by Him. This is especially evident in the Old Testament. The books of Exodus and Leviticus contain detailed instructions about how the Israelites were to relate to God. A careful reading reveals how specific and intentional God was in prescribing these practices.

However, some religious rituals arise from human traditions rather than direct Scriptural commands. These practices are often born out of human efforts to honor God and provide meaning to His people. Though not Biblically mandated, these traditions can still be valuable in expressing faith and worship.

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The Christian Approach to Religion and Tradition

As a follower of Jesus, I understand that the laws and rituals given to Israel were designed for a specific purpose: to set them apart as God’s chosen people and help them represent Him in the world. For instance, the animal sacrifices that renewed Israel’s covenant relationship with God are no longer necessary because we live under a New Covenant.

This New Covenant, established through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, invites us to renew our commitment through practices like Communion. This ritual, given to us by Jesus, is part of the religious framework that enables us to nurture our relationship with God.

Additionally, I appreciate certain traditions that have developed over time, such as celebrating Christmas or gathering for worship in church buildings. While not commanded in Scripture, these traditions enrich our worship and deepen our connection with God.

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Religion’s Purpose: Transformation

Beyond facilitating our relationship with God, religion serves another essential purpose: transformation. Christian rituals and traditions are not just about connecting with God; they are tools to help us become the people God created us to be.

James speaks to this in his letter:

"If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you" (James 1:26-27, NLT).

James reminds us that religion is not about going through the motions. It’s about transformation. True religion develops self-control, fosters compassion for the needy, and cultivates purity in a world full of sin. Without these outcomes, our religious practices are empty and meaningless.

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Faith: The Key to True Religion

The effectiveness of religion—or any spiritual discipline—depends on faith. Faith is our choice to commit to and trust God. Without faith, religion becomes a hollow shell of rituals and traditions. Without faith, life’s trials and tragedies lack purpose. Without faith, God’s wisdom—revealed in Scripture—is reduced to mere advice. Faith breathes life into religion, enabling it to transform us.

God cannot change our lives or restore us to true life unless we trust Him. Ultimately, it’s not about simply being religious; it’s about being faithful. This leads us to two critical questions:

1. Who am I faithful to?

2. Will I trust Him with my life?

If our answers aren’t “Jesus” and “yes,” our religion might just be worthless. True religion, empowered by faith, is a gift from God. It draws us closer to Him and shapes us into the people He created us to be.

Live by Faith

 

"As long as man hovers within the safety of his sight and his visible resources, relatively little will be accomplished."

— Arthur Harrington, What The Bible Says About Leadership

For much of my life I have struggled with my purpose. I have felt like a team of trained monkeys could do what I do.

I don’t possess any superstar qualities that make me stand out from the crowd. While I have certain talents, none of them are unique to me—nothing that others don’t share. My talents are common and ordinary. When the world looks at me, I’m just one among the masses of everyday people.

When I evaluate my abilities, it becomes clear that I’m not likely to make a significant impact on a large number of people. I don’t have the skill set or the influence to make a huge difference in the world. Thinking like this ensures that I *won’t* make a lasting impact. When we only do the things we feel confident in or limit ourselves to what we think our resources will allow, we achieve very little.

The problem isn’t a lack of self-esteem; it’s a lack of faith.

Living by faith means understanding that it’s not about our talents or resources—it’s about God’s power working through us. Stepping out to do God’s will, even when we lack the skills and resources, gives God the opportunity to work through us in ways we can’t predict or imagine.

That doesn't mean every step of faith will result in what we consider a "success." Sometimes, even when we’re confident we’re doing God’s will, things don’t turn out the way we hoped. I can recall several times when I stepped out in faith, knowing I was following God’s direction, only to see things unfold in ways I didn’t expect. What we see as failure doesn’t mean God’s will wasn’t accomplished. It just means God’s agenda is different from ours.

The early church in Acts provides an incredible example of what living by faith looks like:

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.

Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and signs were being performed through the apostles. Now all the believers were together and held all things in common. They sold their possessions and property and distributed the proceeds to all, as any had need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with joyful and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. Every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

— Acts 2:42-47 (CSB)

These early Christians were just like us. They didn’t have exceptional resources or talents. What they did have, they offered to God. They sold their possessions and shared the proceeds with those in need. Instead of focusing on what they lacked, they concentrated on how God wanted them to live, trusting Him to provide for their needs.

Living by faith means focusing on God’s will, not on our limitations. It requires us to understand that if we are doing God’s will, He will provide what’s needed to accomplish the task. If we wait until we have the resources or the skills before taking action, we’ll miss out on seeing God work through us to make an impact in this world.

Let’s not hesitate to take that step of faith. God doesn’t ask us to wait until we’re fully equipped—He calls us to trust Him, knowing He will equip us along the way.

Sunday Prayer: Longing for God’s Presence

 

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come to You with a heart that's longing for something more. Just like a deer seeks water, my soul thirsts for Your presence. In the midst of life's busyness, I find myself wanting to be close to You.

You are the beginning and the end, the One who created the universe, yet You're also right here with me. It's overwhelming to think that You care about my worries and cares. The mountains, the oceans, all the beauty around me, they remind me of Your greatness, but what I truly desire is to walk through this life with You.

I admit that there are times when my worries and doubts get the best of me. Please forgive me for those moments. Help me refocus my heart and renew my devotion to You. Your presence is what my heart craves, and I want to seek You above all else.

When life gets tough, when darkness creeps in, I want to remember that I don't need to be afraid. You're my comfort, my guide, always providing for me. Your presence is the light that drives away my fears.

I want my life to be a reflection of Your love. May my words, my thoughts, and my actions all bring glory to Your name. I want to live in a way that shows the world I am a citizen of Your kingdom.

Lord, You are my Rock, my Refuge, my Savior, and my God. I ask that You let me experience the joy of experiencing Your presence every day. Let Your light shine on me, and may my heart find eternal joy in You.

In Jesus' name, I pray,

Amen.

The Path of Surrender

"A life of absolute surrender has its difficulties. I do not deny that. Yes, it has something for more than difficulties: it is a life that with men is absolutely impossible. But by the grace of God, by the power of God, by the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, it is a life to which we are destined, and a life that is possible for us, praise God! Let us believe that God will maintain it." 

Andrew Murray, Humility and Absolute Surrender; p. 72

Surrendering our lives to God is not easy, but it is the only way we can become the people God created us to be. Andrew Murray, a South African writer and pastor (1828-1917) taught about this theme of surrender quite often. He recognized that surrendering was not a natural thing to do, and therefore it would not be easy, but that it was an essential part of our discipleship.

In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." 

Here Jesus taught that surrendering to God requires denying ourselves, taking up our cross, and following him.

Living a life of surrender means that we hand over the control of our lives, our plans, and our desires to God. To surrender our lives means acknowledging that God knows what is best for us, even when God’s will goes against our desires. Total surrender to God requires a level of humility that is hard to achieve in a world that values self-reliance, self-promotion, and personal achievements above almost everything else.

Surrendering to God will also require us to go against the cultural expectations of society, to make choices that are unpopular, and to have morals and values that seem odd the people around us. This can lead us to face criticism, rejection, and even persecution for our faith. 

When we surrender we will also need to give up some of the activities and pleasures that we once thought were essential to our happiness because they do not align with God’s will.

Despite the challenges, living a life surrendered to God is not impossible. As we walk this path of faith, we will need to trust that God will sustain us and guide us every step of the way. 

To do this we need to stay connected to God through prayer, reading the Bible, meditating on the truth of Scripture, reorienting our lives through worship, and spending time with other Christians. What this means is that surrendering to God is a daily decision, a constant giving up of ourselves to His will.

So today, let us make the decision to take up our cross, deny ourselves, and follow Jesus. It is crucial for us to remember to trust in His grace and the power of the Holy Spirit as we live a life of surrender to God.

Prayer: Dear God, help us to surrender ourselves completely to You. Give us the strength to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. Help us to trust in Your grace and the power of the Holy Spirit as we walk this path of surrender. Amen.

Community and Personal Faith

“From the beginning it was clear that Christianity is something people do together. Having said that, the earliest writers were also concerned that all members of the Body of Christ should be awake and active in personal faith; should know their own responsibilities and make real for themselves the privilege of worship. That way, when the whole assembly gathers together, each will have his or her own joy and sorrow, insight and question, to bring.” 

N.T. Wright, Simply Christian, p. 157

Acts 2:42 shows us that from the beginning that Church understood the importance of being together. These first followers of Jesus devoted themselves to learning and living out their faith together. Christianity is, at its core, a communal faith. The Bible teaches the importance of gathering together, of being in fellowship with one another, and of working together for the Kingdom.

Yet, we cannot separate the importance of Christian community from the personal faith of individuals. The writers of the New Testament understood that while the Church is the “Body of Christ” and the “Family of God”, each individual member of the Body must also have their own personal faith. This means each person needs to know their own responsibilities and take an active role in the ministry of the church community.

In our modern Christian culture, it is easy to see our faith as something that is purely personal. Many Christians view faith as a private matter, something that they practice on their own. While there is certainly value in personal faith and the spiritual disciplines that we do on our own, this idea overlooks the importance of living out our faith in community. When we gather together as a church family, we are able to encourage each other, to learn from one another, and to grow together in our faith.

The early Church understood this well. They knew that the faith could not be lived out on privately. They committed themselves to  gather  regularly to worship, to study the scriptures, and to pray. In these gatherings, these followers of Jesus were able to share their joys and sorrows, to ask questions and seek answers, and to offer support one another in their spiritual formation.

Being committed to a church family was not just about gathering together. The New Testament writers and other early Christian writers also emphasized the importance of personal faith. There was an expectation that each disciple was to take an active role in their own spiritual growth. They were encouraged to meditate scriptures, to pray, to fast, to serve, to give generously, and to seek God's will for their lives.

This personal faith was essential because it allowed each disciple of Jesus to develop their own personal relationship with Jesus, and the unique experience and perspective of each person would strengthen the community as a whole. 

While we have lost the importance of this ideal it is  still something we should encourage in our modern church context. When we gather together as a community of believers, we each bring something unique to the table. We each have our own experiences, our own questions, and our own insights to share. By coming together, we are able to learn from one another, to grow together, partner with one another for the work of ministry, and encourage each other in various ways.

Christianity is both a communal and a personal faith. From the beginning, it was clear that the faith could not be lived out in isolation. The early Christian communities gathered together regularly to worship, to study the scriptures, and to pray. At the same time, they also emphasized the importance of personal faith. Each individual member of the community was expected to take responsibility for their personal spiritual formation.

If we are going to model our modern expressions of faith after the New Testament example we need to recapture the truth the following Jesus is both a communal and an individual activity. We need to commit to doing those activities that will grow our personal faith and we do to commit to participating in the life of a local church family.

Sunday Prayer: Courage and Boldness

Gracious God, I come before you in humility and with a heart full of faith. I thank you for your goodness and mercy, and for the gift of your Son, Jesus, whose sacrifice secured forgiveness and salvation for me.

Lord, I ask for your strength and courage as I navigate the challenges of this world. I pray for boldness to stand up for what is right and to speak truth in love. I ask for the courage to follow your will, even when it is difficult or unpopular.

Help me to be strong and courageous in the face of adversity, knowing that you are always with me. Give me the courage to step out in faith, trusting that you will guide me and provide for me every step of the way.

Lord, I pray that you would fill me with the Holy Spirit, that I may be empowered to live the life that brings honor and glory to your name. Give me the courage to share your love and grace with those around me, even when it may be uncomfortable or challenging.

Help me to remember that I am not alone, and that you are always with me. May my life be a shining light that points others to you, and may I never waver in my faith or my commitment to your kingdom.

I pray all of this in the mighty name of Jesus, who is my strength and shield. Amen.

A New Birth Into A Living Hope

1 Peter 1:3-5 (CSB)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. You are being guarded by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

The apostle Peter wrote this letter to encourage and strengthen the persecuted believers in Asia Minor. In verses 1 and 2, Peter reminded them that they are God’s chosen people because of the Father’s plan, the Spirit’s transforming work, and the Son’s faithful obedience. 

In this passage, Peter celebrated the new birth that disciples of Jesus experience through faith in Christ, which provided them a living hope and an imperishable inheritance.

Peter wrote, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ," which expressed his profound gratitude and worship for God's character and work. Peter recognized that God's gracious mercy is the source of all spiritual blessings and the foundation of salvation. God's mercy is not based on human merit or worthiness but flows from His infinite love and grace. Through His mercy, God has given us new birth that brings us from death to life and makes us children of God (John 1:12-13).

This new birth is not a result of our own efforts or achievements but is a gift of God's grace that is given to us through the faithfulness of Jesus and our trust in him. Peter emphasized that the resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the ultimate proof and guarantee that this new birth is a reality and that God’s people now have a living hope. 

Jesus' resurrection validated his claims to be the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Through his resurrection, Jesus conquered Satan, sin, and death which saved us from the consequences of sin and secured eternal life for his faithful followers. As Paul wrote, "If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins" (1 Corinthians 15:17). But because Christ has been raised, our faith is alive, vibrant, and victorious.

Peter also highlighted the nature and quality of the inheritance that all of God’s people receive through this new birth. The inheritance we have is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us. It is imperishable because it is not subject to decay, corruption, or death. It is eternal, incorruptible, and indestructible. It is undefiled because it is pure, holy, and perfect. It is untainted by sin, evil, or imperfection. It is unfading because it never loses its value, beauty, or glory. It is the perfect gift that God wants His people to have.

This inheritance is not something we earn or deserve but it is a gracious gift God gives to his people. It is not a temporary or earthly possession but an eternal and heavenly treasure. It is not a vague or abstract concept but a concrete and personal reality. It is something that is grander and more wonderful than we can imagine. It is not something we keep but something that keeps us. It is not something we can lose but something that is guarded by God's promise and power.

Peter also reassured the believers that their inheritance is secure and guarded by God's power through faith. The phrase "you are being guarded" implies ongoing and active protection by God's power. The verb tense suggests that this guarding is not a one-time event but a continuous process. God's power is not limited but it is eternal. His power is not arbitrary or random but is directed by His wisdom and love. God’s power is not passive or indifferent but is active and engaged.

This guarding is also through faith, which implies that Christians have a role to play in our spiritual security. Faith is not a passive or static belief but an active and dynamic trust in God's promises and character. Faith is not a blind or irrational leap but a reasonable and informed response to God's revelation. Faith is not a private or isolated experience but a communal and relational reality. Faith is not a temporary or fluctuating emotion but a persistent and persevering conviction.

Peter concluded this passage by reminding the believers that their salvation is not fully revealed yet, but it is ready to be revealed in the last time. This means that our inheritance is not fully realized yet, we have a glimpse of it, but it will be fully revealed when Jesus returns and makes everything right. Until then, believers must live in hope, faith, and obedience, knowing that their ultimate destiny is secure and glorious.

This passage is teaches that our hope and our salvation is all a work of God. It highlights the depth and breadth of God's mercy, the power and significance of Christ's resurrection, and the greatness and certainty of our inheritance. 

This passage also challenges us to live in a way that reflects the reality and hope of our new birth and inheritance. As Peter wrote later in his epistle, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). When we live out our hope we make Jesus real in the world.

As Christians, we have been born again into a living hope and an imperishable inheritance. We are guarded by God's power through faith as we wait for our salvation to be fully revealed. We need to live as children of God, shining the light of Christ in a dark world, and eagerly awaiting the day when we will see Him face to face and inherit all that He has promised.