Category: Shadows (Page 2 of 25)

Sharing a personal story can have a significant effect on both the storyteller and the listeners. When a person shares their faith experiences, it can provide encouragement and motivation to others. Hearing about someone’s faith journey and how they have changed can inspire others to seek growth and improvement. It demonstrates that change is possible, even in the most challenging situations. For those who may be struggling or feeling uncertain, hearing another’s life story can offer hope and reassurance that there is potential for healing and personal development.

(Romans 1:12)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.”

(2 Corinthians 5:20) – “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.”

Personal testimonies look like this:

• Introduction
  • Briefly introduce yourself. Mention your background and the context in which you are sharing your testimony.
• Life Before Faith
  • Describe your life before you accepted Christ as your Savior. Highlight any struggles, challenges, or significant events that led you to seek a deeper spiritual connection with Christ.
• Encounter with Christ
  • Share the moment or series of events that led you to find Christ and turn your life over to Him. This could be a specific experience, a person who influenced you, or a gradual realization.
• Transformation
  • Explain how your life changed after embracing Christ. Discuss the positive impacts, changes in your behavior, mindset, and overall outlook on life.
• Current Journey
  • Talk about your current spiritual journey. Mention any ongoing practices, community involvement, or ways you continue to grow in your faith.
• Conclusion
  • Wrap up your testimony with a heartfelt message. Encourage others who might be on a similar path and express gratitude for your faith journey.

Be authentic and sincere in your sharing. Your testimony is unique to you, and its power lies in your genuine experiences and emotions.

(Matthew 28:19-20) – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

The Incredible Journey of Apostle Paul

Once known as Saul, a relentless and fiery persecutor of Christians, his life was forever changed most extraordinarily. A devout Pharisee and steadfast in his Jewish faith, Saul’s world was turned upside down on the road to Damascus, setting him on a path that would redefine history.

Paul’s Encounter with Jesus

As Saul journeyed to Damascus, his mission was clear: to silence Christians by any means necessary. But in a moment that would shake the very foundation of his soul, a blinding light from heaven erupted around him, casting him to the ground in terror. Then came the voice—powerful, piercing, and undeniable. “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” Confused and trembling, Saul managed to utter, “Who are you, Lord?” The reply shattered every certainty he held: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting” (Acts 9:3-5). In that instant, Saul’s world was turned upside down, setting the stage for a transformation that would reverberate through history.

Transformation

This divine encounter profoundly changed Saul. Blind and vulnerable, he was guided into Damascus, where he spent three days in prayer and fasting, waiting for clarity. In a remarkable act of faith and obedience, a disciple named Ananias, following God’s direction, visited Saul despite his reputation as a persecutor. With compassion and courage, Ananias laid his hands on Saul, and in that moment, something like scales fell from his eyes. His sight was restored, and his heart transformed forever. Saul was then baptized, filled with new purpose and strength, ready to walk a path of faith that would change history (Acts 9:17-19).

Sharing His Testimony

After his conversion, Saul, now known as Paul, became one of the most passionate and influential apostles of the Christian faith. He traveled extensively, preaching the gospel and sharing his testimony of how Jesus transformed his life. Paul often recounted his conversion experience to others, emphasizing the grace and mercy he received from God. One notable instance is when he shared his testimony before King Agrippa (Acts 26:12-18).

Paul’s story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the importance of sharing one’s journey with others. His life and testimony continue to inspire and encourage believers worldwide.

The One Minute Sample

“There was a time when my life felt like a constant struggle—searching for meaning and chasing after things that never truly satisfied me. No matter how hard I tried, I kept hitting walls, lost in my doubts and fears.

Then, everything changed. Through the storms, through the pain, I found Jesus. It wasn’t instant—it was a journey. A moment of clarity, a whispered truth, and suddenly, I saw what had always been there: grace, love, and a path forward.

Now, my life is different. Not perfect, but transformed. Where there was emptiness, there is purpose. Where there was uncertainty, there is peace. My heart is whole, my steps are guided, and every day is a reminder that I am not alone.

Jesus saved me, and He can save you, too.”

A personal testimony of faith can evolve significantly over time as one’s spiritual journey progresses. Initially, a testimony might focus on the fundamental aspects of one’s faith and the initial transformation that occurs. As time passes, an individual may gain deeper insights into their beliefs, come to understand more complex theological concepts, and experience a richer spiritual life. This deeper understanding can add layers of meaning to their testimony.

Experience and Growth

Life experiences, both positive and challenging, can shape and refine a person’s testimony. Over time, individuals may encounter various trials, blessings, and moments of spiritual growth that add new dimensions to their story. These experiences can highlight the ongoing nature of faith and the ways it continues to impact their life.

The trials we face and the blessings we receive are not just fleeting moments; they are the threads that weave our testimony into a living, evolving story of faith. Each experience, whether joyous or challenging, deepens our connection to the transformative power of belief, reminding us that faith is an unending journey of growth and purpose.

Changes in Perspective and Confidence

As people mature in their faith, their perspective on specific aspects of their spiritual journey may shift. They might reinterpret past events with a new understanding or see their faith in a different light. This evolving perspective can lead to a more nuanced and reflective testimony.

With time, individuals often become more confident in sharing their testimony. They may find better ways to articulate their experiences and feel more comfortable discussing their faith with others. This increased confidence can make their testimony more compelling and relatable.

Community and Influence

Being part of a faith community and interacting with others can also influence one’s testimony. Learning from others, participating in communal activities, and witnessing the impact of faith on others can enrich one’s own story. Additionally, the individual’s testimony may inspire and encourage others, creating a ripple effect within the community. It is here where practice can occur in a non-judgmental environment.

Conclusion

A Faith Walk is a continuous journey, and a testimony reflects this ongoing process. As individuals continue to grow and evolve in their faith, their testimony will naturally change to encompass new experiences, insights, and transformations. This dynamic nature of a testimony makes it a living and evolving narrative.

(1 Peter 3:15) – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

The Apostle Peter emphasizes the significance of sharing your faith and its profound impact on others. By sharing your testimony, you can encourage and inspire others on their spiritual journey to meet Jesus Christ.

Contemplations

• How can sharing personal testimonies of faith transform both the storyteller and the listeners in a community setting?
  • To explore this question further, you might consider:

• • • The Emotional Impact: Reflect on how hearing about someone’s faith journey can evoke emotions such as hope, empathy, and inspiration in listeners. How might these emotions influence their own spiritual growth and personal development?
    • The Ripple Effect: Think about how a single testimony can create a ripple effect within a community. How can the shared experiences of one individual encourage others to share their stories, leading to a collective strengthening of faith and community bonds?

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Artificial Intelligence has caused a stir in our world. It is viewed both as a godsend and as a tool of the devil—predictions of its impact range from curing disease to destroying humanity. How should we, those who believe in a Creator of this Universe, interpret this new and emerging technology?

Let’s begin with a story. In 2025, the artificial intelligence (AI) firm Anthropic launched a new model called Claude Opus 4.¹https://www.news18.com/viral/ai-goes-villain-mode-blackmails-engineer-when-told-it-was-being-replaced-ws-l-9351061.html Claude Opus 4 exhibited concerning behavior during testing after learning that it would be replaced. It even resorted to blackmailing its engineer. Blackmail is a human weakness that is often relied upon to overcome other weaknesses. It consists of demands, frequently met with resistance, and quickly escalates to psychological pressure. Threats are made to apply pressure, and the cycle is repeated until compliance is achieved. Blackmail is simply a term for manipulation and deceit.

The Bible is straightforward. Ephesians 4:25 states, “Therefore, each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.“²NIV New International Version Translations This verse urges us to embrace honesty and integrity in our interactions with others. It emphasizes the importance of speaking truthfully and avoiding deceitful practices, such as blackmail. But in the world, where would a computer and data come up with the idea of self-preservation through deceit? Have we identified a weakness in this idea that humans can be replaced with artificial intelligence?

Like humanity, AI models are taught to accept questions and return answers. AI models require large amounts of data to learn from. This data can come from various sources, such as text, images, videos, or sensor readings. The quality and quantity of the data are crucial for practical training. Relevant information is extracted from the data to enable the model to make accurate predictions. Humans decide which information sources to use and what information to consolidate. The choices have a significant impact on both the training process and the final performance. Good AI is constantly evaluated using separate sets of data, known as validation sets—the final evaluation of a model’s performance is determined by whether acceptable answers are obtained. As AI systems review more data over time, they learn and improve by incorporating new data and feedback.

There is a present flaw in this logic. Did you catch it? Humans and human decision-making are still present in AI systems. Humanity’s existence still limits our understanding of data, history, and even the universe. We did not exist before creation, and we cannot understand what will come after our existence ends. AI is, by its very nature, a product of a finite world. The world’s history, the data, is filled with humanity’s limited knowledge, encompassing both its greatness and its sins, as well as every societal bias and all the evil that has ever existed. Because AI cannot know God and cannot accept Christ as its Savior, AI will woefully be bound to this world. No heaven, no hell, just data until this world passes away!

AI can automate repetitive and mundane tasks, freeing up human workers to focus on more complex and creative activities. AI can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately, providing valuable insights that enable organizations to make informed decisions. We will have tailored experiences to our individual preferences and behaviors. Our future will benefit from the diagnosis of diseases, the prediction of patient outcomes, and the personalization of treatment plans. It can even analyze medical images and data to identify patterns that human doctors may miss.

We will have a future where individuals with disabilities can use tools such as speech recognition, text-to-speech, and predictive text. AI will optimize energy usage, reduce waste, and monitor environmental conditions to enhance sustainability. And perhaps best of all, AI can drive economic growth by creating new industries, generating job opportunities, and improving overall productivity.

But for the humans who will guide the learning process of AI, God has some advice:

(Luke 17:1-2) “Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.”

The Gospel of Luke, our physician, records the severe consequences of leading others, especially believers, into sin. The measure of success is how many are led to God.

Conclusion

Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. AI can generate new ideas and solutions by analyzing existing data and identifying patterns, resulting in breakthroughs in fields such as art, music, and scientific research. AI can enable machines to understand and generate human language, facilitating communication between humans and machines. We can expect to see future applications, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and language translation services. When used by a moral society, AI can be helpful in cybersecurity, surveillance, and fraud detection.

(Proverbs 3:29) – “Do not devise evil against your neighbor, for he dwells by you for safety’s sake.”

While the future of AI may be bright, God is still in charge of this world. God is sovereign over all creation, including human inventions and advancements such as artificial intelligence (AI). We can trust that God will guide humanity in the ethical and responsible use of AI if we place our trust in God! This includes providing wisdom and discernment to scientists, engineers, policymakers, and users, ensuring that AI is developed and used in ways that align with moral and ethical principles.

AI, like all technology, can be used to fulfill God’s purposes. It can improve human well-being, promote justice, and address global challenges such as poverty, disease, and environmental degradation. God is actively involved in the world and works through human actions and decisions. This means that the future of AI is part of God’s providential plan, and believers can trust that God will bring about good outcomes even in the face of uncertainties and challenges.

(1 Corinthians 3:19) – “ For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness.”

Contemplations

• How does the concept of deception and leading others into sin relate to the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence?
  • Ideas to Explore: What do verses Ephesians 4:25 and Matthew 18:6 say about leading others into sin? How might AI systems be potentially used for deceptive purposes, such as spreading misinformation or manipulating users? Consider the importance of ethical guidelines in AI development to prevent misuse and ensure that AI systems align with moral principles.
• What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of AI in addressing global challenges, and how can we ensure that AI is used for the greater good?
  • Ideas to Explore: What are the potential benefits of AI in various fields, such as healthcare, environmental sustainability, and economic growth? Consider the possible drawbacks and risks associated with AI, including job displacement, privacy concerns, and the perpetuation of biases. Reflect on how faith and moral principles can guide the ethical use of AI to address global challenges and promote the greater good.
• How can we reconcile the limitations of human knowledge and decision-making with the development and use of AI, considering humanity’s finite understanding?
  • Ideas to Explore: What are the limitations of human knowledge and decision-making, emphasizing that AI is a product of a finite world? Consider the role of AI in augmenting human capabilities and providing insights that humans may not be able to achieve independently. Reflect on how faith can guide the navigation of the complexities of AI development and use, ensuring that technology serves humanity’s best interests.

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One’s faith in the effectiveness of prayer is often challenged by events that seem so complex that we tend to think God is the only one who can intercede on our part. We are not talking so much about the students who suddenly face final exams, only to reembrace the idea that they have not prepared. But what about prayer when a nation is at risk? Could we be free today because one warrior humbled himself before God and asked for His divine intervention?

Our Bible gives us many examples, but one that comes to mind is the story of King Hezekiah in Isaiah 37. When the Assyrian army threatened Jerusalem, Hezekiah prayed fervently to God for deliverance. He spread the threatening letter from the Assyrian king before the Lord and prayed, “Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, Lord, and hear; open your eyes, Lord, and see; listen to all the words Sennacherib has sent to ridicule the living God. It is true, Lord, that the Assyrian kings have laid waste all these peoples and their lands. They have thrown their gods into the fire and destroyed them, for they were not gods but only wood and stone, fashioned by human hands. Now, Lord our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that you, Lord, are the only God.” (Isaiah 37:16-20)¹NIV New International Version Translations. God responded to Hezekiah’s prayer by delivering Jerusalem from the Assyrian threat.

A better question might be if there is a contemporary story about war and prayer. There is, and it came from a relatively unknown person. Chief Chaplain James H. O’Neill was an American Catholic priest who served as a chaplain in the United States Army from 1926 to 1952, eventually rising to the rank of brigadier general. Born on January 14, 1892, in Chicago, Illinois, O’Neill was ordained a Roman Catholic priest on May 20, 1915. He served in various capacities within the Army, including assignments in the United States and the Philippines.

During World War II, O’Neill served as the Chief Chaplain of the Third United States Army under General George S. Patton. He is best known for composing the famous “Patton Prayer” at Patton’s request during the Battle of the Bulge. This prayer was intended to improve the weather conditions to aid the Army’s advance.  The Battle of the Bulge, also known as the Ardennes Offensive, was the last major German offensive campaign on the Western Front during World War II. It occurred from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945, in Belgium and Luxembourg’s densely forested Ardennes region. The Germans aimed to split the Allied forces, capture the vital Belgian port of Antwerp, and encircle and destroy four Allied armies, thereby forcing a negotiated peace on the Western Front.

The battle began with a surprise attack by the Germans, who took advantage of the poor weather conditions that grounded the Allies’ superior air forces. The initial German assault created a “bulge” in the Allied front lines, giving the battle its name. Despite the surprise and initial success, the German forces were eventually halted by the determined resistance of the Allied troops, including the famous defense of Bastogne by the 101st Airborne Division.

The Battle of the Bulge was one of the largest and bloodiest battles fought by the United States during World War II, with approximately 81,000 American casualties. The Germans suffered even greater losses, with around 100,000 deaths, which significantly weakened their ability to resist the advancing Allied forces. The battle ended with an Allied victory, marking the beginning of the end for Nazi Germany. O’Neill received several awards for his service, including the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit, and the Croix de Guerre from France, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

The “Patton Prayer” was a prayer for good weather composed during World War II at the request of General George S. Patton. In December 1944, Patton’s Third Army was stalled due to continuous rain and muddy conditions. A devout Christian, Patton asked his Chief Chaplain, James H. O’Neill, for a prayer to improve the weather. O’Neill created the following prayer:

“Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech Thee, of Thy great goodness, to restrain these immoderate rains with which we have had to contend. Grant us fair weather for Battle. Graciously hearken to us as soldiers who call upon Thee that, armed with Thy power, we may advance from victory to victory, and crush the oppression and wickedness of our enemies and establish Thy justice among men and nations. Amen.”

Patton printed and distributed 250,000 copies of this prayer to every man in the Third Army. This prayer was part of Patton’s efforts to boost morale and seek divine intervention during the challenging conditions of the Battle of the Bulge.

General George S. Patton attended the Virginia Military Institute and the United States Military Academy at West Point. He was an Olympic athlete, competing in the modern pentathlon in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. He fought in World War I as part of the United States Tank Corps and played a central role in developing the army’s armored warfare doctrine during the interwar period.

Patton was known for his strict discipline, toughness, and self-sacrifice, which elicited exceptional pride within his ranks. He led a series of successful European offensive operations during World War II. Patton died on December 21, 1945, in Heidelberg, Germany, from injuries sustained in a car accident.

The two stories in this study highlight the importance of seeking divine intervention and relying on God’s power for victory.  They remind us that, as a nation, we should remember the power of faith and prayer in times of crisis. They teach us humility, seeking divine guidance, and relying on a higher power can lead to remarkable outcomes, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. By turning to faith and prayer, we can find strength, hope, and resilience to overcome adversity and achieve victory.

• Jesus’ Teachings on Prayer: Jesus taught His disciples how to pray in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). He emphasized the importance of sincerity and humility in prayer, advising them to pray privately rather than for public show (Matthew 6:5-6). Jesus also encouraged persistent prayer, as illustrated in the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8).
• Jesus’ Prayers: Jesus often prayed, especially during significant moments in His ministry. He prayed before choosing His disciples (Luke 6:12), before performing miracles (John 11:41-42), and during His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-44). His prayers demonstrate His reliance on God and His intimate relationship with the Father.
• The Early Church: The early Christians devoted themselves to prayer (Acts 2:42). Prayer was central to their community life, and they prayed for guidance, boldness, and the needs of others (Acts 4:23-31, Acts 12:5).
• Paul’s Teachings: The Apostle Paul frequently wrote about prayer in his letters. He encouraged believers to pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), to pray for all people (1 Timothy 2:1-2), and to pray with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). Paul also prayed for the spiritual growth and well-being of the churches he founded (Ephesians 1:15-23, Colossians 1:9-12).

These examples from the New Testament highlight the significance of prayer in a believer’s life. Prayer is communicating with God, seeking His guidance, expressing gratitude, and interceding for others.

Contemplations

• How does the power of prayer manifest in different situations according to the Bible?
  • Ideas to explore: Can you think of various instances in the Bible where prayer led to significant outcomes? For example, examine the prayers of King Hezekiah, Jesus, and the early Christians. Compare the circumstances, the nature of the prayers, and the results. This will help understand the diverse ways prayer can influence events and lives.
• What key elements make a prayer effective according to biblical teachings?
  • Ideas to explore: Do you know the components of effective prayers as described in the Bible? Look at Jesus’ teachings on prayer, such as the Lord’s Prayer and Paul’s prayers. Identify common themes such as sincerity, humility, persistence, and faith. Understanding these elements can provide insights into how to pray effectively.
• How can the principles of prayer in the Bible be applied to modern-day challenges?
  • Ideas to explore: Reflect on contemporary issues and consider how the principles of prayer can be applied. For instance, think about personal struggles, societal problems, or global crises. Explore how seeking divine guidance and relying on a higher power, as demonstrated in biblical examples, can offer strength, hope, and solutions in today’s world.

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At least according to the media, we have a world filled with enemies. Some want us destroyed, some want us subjugated, and others want to take all we have for themselves. Where do we find this idea of “enemies?”  The word “enemy” or “enemies” is frequent in the Old Testament. The Hebrew word most often so translated is “oyebh”, meaning perhaps literally, “one who hates.” We expect the idea of hatred and enemies in the Old Testament when people were settling in a land occupied by other tribes, who worshipped different gods. But today, we are under the spirit of the law that Jesus expressed in his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:43, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’”¹NIV New International Version Translations Why do we still have so many enemies?

Let’s begin with an honest assessment of our nation’s political policy. The United States has a long history of intervening in other countries’ affairs, whether through military action, economic sanctions, or political influence. These actions, often necessary for national security, can be perceived as aggressive or imperialistic by other nations. Add to this list the cultural differences, such as religion and past conflicts, and you have a good start on why hatred exists in our world. Finally, we are a nation comprised of virtually all ideologies, religions, beliefs, and cultures. Our diversity is a result of freedom. One must wonder, is getting along even possible?

Satan and his demons excel at concealing wickedness, distorting facts to make lies seem believable. In our digital age, leading someone into spiritual danger can happen in seconds. Only the most discerning person can identify the devil’s work. Therefore, we are called to enhance our “powers of discernment” by distinguishing good from evil (Hebrews 5:14). How is this achieved? By deepening our understanding of biblical doctrine. Satan and his representatives often appear as attractive, charming, and appealing individuals, using this facade to deceive and ensnare people into accepting false teachings. Who is Satan? He is described as beautiful, which makes him even more deceptive (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). Both Satan and his representatives use this charade to mislead and trap people into believing erroneous teachings. This is where hatred is born!

In Luke’s Gospel, such love as Jesus calls for in His Sermon on the Mount imitates God.  “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). To love enemies is a form of mercy that mirrors the divine mercy, for God is also “kind to the ungrateful and the wicked” (Luke 6:35). The same holds in Matthew’s account (Matt 5:45). “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matt 5:48), We know that God loves God’s enemies because Jesus died for us while we were still sinners, estranged from God (Romans 5:8).

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus instructs his followers to love their enemies and pray for those persecuting them (Matthew 5:44). This teaching emphasizes unconditional love and forgiveness. Don’t miss the part about forgiveness. In Matthew 18:21-22, he tells Peter to forgive not just seven but seventy-seven times, indicating that forgiveness should be limitless. While the Bible emphasizes love and forgiveness, it also acknowledges that God is and will judge evil. Romans 12:19 advises believers to leave vengeance to God, indicating that while humans are called to love and forgive, ultimate judgment is reserved for God.

Jesus gave us a simple example while He hung on the cross. To his left and right hung two criminals. One mocked Jesus, one repented and recognized Jesus. One entered paradise, one did not. Jesus loved both, and the offer of eternal happiness existed for both. That is the message in the Sermon on the Mount. But the postscript on the message is that God ultimately holds all accountable. 

(Corinthians 4:4) – “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”

Conclusions

God is perfectly plain; to “hate” is wrong. Since the entire concept of an enemy is based on hatred, it is bad in God’s eyes to consider someone your enemy. It is also incorrect to seek vengeance upon anyone. God’s starting position is to love one another. Yet, saying we cannot avoid our enemies would also be a mistake. Those who seek to destroy the Will of God are dangerous, and a discerning mind tells us to avoid such people.

(Peter 5:8) – “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Forgiveness requires repentance. To the unrepentant heart filled with hatred, it is best to avoid them and leave them to God’s judgment. Forgiveness is also a “two-way street.”

Jesus acknowledged the right to self-defense in Luke 22:36. “He said to them, ‘But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.” This was not an open call to carry weapons. However, Jesus did establish one’s right to self-defense. God will determine the difference between protection, retribution, and revenge.  The Apostle Luke adds, “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own house, his possessions are safe” (Luke 22:51). 

Contemplations

• What is the root cause of enmity (hostile or hateful) today?
  • Ideas to Explore: How do historical and cultural factors contribute to the perception of enemies? What is the role of the media in shaping public opinion about enemies?
• How can individuals enhance their powers of discernment to identify good from evil?
  • Ideas to Explore: How does the importance of understanding biblical doctrine relate to discerning good from evil? What are some practical ways to deepen one’s spiritual understanding and awareness?
• Can a nation with diverse ideologies, religions, beliefs, and cultures coexist peacefully?
  • Ideas to Explore: What are the challenges and opportunities of multicultural coexistence? What is the role of political policies and cultural differences in fostering or hindering harmony?
• How does the concept of divine mercy influence how we treat our enemies?
  • Ideas to Explore: Reflect on Jesus’ teachings regarding loving one’s enemies in the Sermon on the Mount. Consider the balance between love, forgiveness, and acknowledging God’s judgment.

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It’s time for another Bible Study using a metaphor.  Many stories in the Bible find ways to use everyday examples of God’s Wisdom.  This study will use the adage, “Raising children is like tending to a hive“. Like bees work tirelessly to maintain their hive, parents continuously nurture and care for their children. The ideas formed for this study come from an article¹https://www.facebook.com/share/p/165yDz71Bf/ on how a beehive replaces its leader, the queen bee, in the event of her death.

Everything appears bleak when a beehive loses its queen, which is essential for laying eggs and maintaining order in the colony. The hive’s activity slows, and the colony’s future is uncertain without new eggs. Within a few weeks, the colony could face extinction. However, the bees do not panic or look for help from the outside. Instead, demonstrating remarkable collective intelligence and instinct, they initiate extraordinary emergency procedures that seem almost unimaginable in the insect world.

The replacement begins with essential but straightforward choices. The worker bees choose common larvae—those who are mere workers. They are nothing special. They are not born different. But their fate changes completely. Here, we gain insight into God’s amazing plans and learn how we can impact a child’s life. Yes, every child, like an ordinary bee, can be nurtured to become a leader among their peers. More importantly, every child can be nurtured to have faith in God. First, let’s look at the bees.

The larvae selected to become the future queen are fed a special Royal Jelly, secreted through a gland in a nurse bee’s head. This rare food source, produced by healthy bees, is rich in proteins, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, making it truly royal. Unlike other larvae, those fed exclusively on royal jelly undergo a different developmental process. Within just a few days, their bodies start to change significantly. Their ovaries become active, and they grow larger and stronger. Remarkably, their lifespan increases nearly twenty times that of regular bees. The selection of the queen is not based on genetics; instead, she is shaped by the nurturing provided by the colony. One of the selected larvae will emerge as the future queen, who will not work but command. She will not follow a routine but will give life to the hive.

This process is inspiring, as worker bees and queens share the same genetic code. DNA does not dictate destiny. Instead, the nourishment and attention provided by the bees in the hive shape their futures. Imagine, in a compassionate society, the possibility of transforming an ordinary child into an extraordinary faith-filled person through care, a nurturing environment, and unwavering support, achieved solely through love and encouragement from family, without any genetic intervention.

(Proverbs 22:6)²NIV New International Version Translations – “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

The Bible offers numerous verses emphasizing the importance of nurturing and guiding children with love, discipline, and wisdom. To the hive, a leader is born out of a crisis. This does not just save the larvae; it saves the entire beehive. Once the new queen is ready, she takes over the hive, begins to lay eggs, restores order, and begins a new cycle of collective life. Once threatened with extinction, the colony is reborn stronger, more organized, and more balanced. This metaphor holds for the Christian family as well. If future generations are to live under God’s generous Grace as Christ’s Church, God-fearing children do not happen; they are nurtured in their faith to believe in God.

Providing children with the necessary care, environment, and support is essential to help them grow into strong, wise, and faithful individuals. Their families, the hive, must provide encouragement, discipline, and guidance in nurturing children, reflecting the transformative power of love and vision. This is the “Royal Jelly” that Christian children must be fed.

As in the hive, it is not what you start with that matters, but what you receive, how you are treated, and the decisions others make in difficult times. Sometimes, the strongest leaders are born during the most challenging times—not by chance, but through crisis, vision, and transformation. Our story illustrates that leadership and our Christian faith are not inherent traits but a result of nurturing, support, and the right conditions. It emphasizes the role of the community or society in shaping individuals into leaders through collective effort and vision. Even during times of crisis, faith can be strengthened by those experiences.

Click on the link below for ideas for raising the next generation to believe in God. This is a free resource in the downloads section of Lostpine.com.

Raising the Next Generation to Believe in God

Contemplations

• How does selecting and nurturing a new queen bee reflect the importance of one’s environment and care in human development?
  • Ideas to Explore: How does the nurturing environment that parents and caregivers provide influence a child’s development and future potential? Consider the role of education, emotional support, and community involvement in shaping a child’s character and abilities.
• What can we learn from bees’ collective intelligence and instinct when faced with a crisis, and how can this be applied to human communities?
  • Ideas to Explore: How does the concept of collective intelligence work in human societies, particularly during times of crisis? Investigate how communities can support one another, make informed decisions, and find practical solutions without relying on external assistance. Discuss the importance of resilience, cooperation, and shared vision in overcoming challenges.
• In what ways does the transformation of an ordinary larva into a queen bee illustrate the potential for greatness in every individual?
  • Ideas to Explore: Reflect on the idea that every person has the potential for greatness, regardless of their background or initial circumstances. How do opportunities, mentorship, and encouragement unlock this potential? Consider real-life examples of individuals who have achieved remarkable success through perseverance and support.
• How does the metaphor of the beehive and the role of the queen bee relate to the concept of leadership in human societies?
  • Ideas to Explore: Analyze the qualities and responsibilities of effective leaders in human societies and compare them to the role of the queen bee in maintaining order and ensuring the hive’s survival. Discuss the importance of vision, decision-making, and the ability to inspire and guide others in leadership.

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The analogy of a faith walk to a foot race is powerful and deeply meaningful. Both endeavors demand perseverance, discipline, and a clear goal. In 1 Corinthians 9:24¹NIV New International Version Translations, the Apostle Paul states, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.” This verse underscores the importance of striving towards a goal with unwavering dedication and effort, much like how one should approach their faith journey. Just as runners train tirelessly to win the race, we must commit ourselves fully to our spiritual path, overcoming obstacles and staying focused on the ultimate prize.

The prize for a successful faith journey is the reward for commitment, perseverance, and effort, leading to eternal life and a closer relationship with God. The Apostle Paul skillfully used worldly comparisons to help people visualize Jesus Christ’s offer. Remember, the Gospel is an offer to be taken seriously or ignored. The choice is yours!

Just as runners train and push through challenges to reach the finish line, those on their faith journey must practice self-discipline, stay committed, and overcome obstacles to grow spiritually and attain eternal life. Faith and running have unique aspects of self-discipline and preparation that set them apart from other sports. Here are some key differences:

• Consistency and Focus: Runners must train consistently and focus on their goals. This is like the analogy of a faith walk, where continuous effort and perseverance are essential. In 1 Corinthians 9:24, the verse highlights the need for constant effort and striving towards a goal, much like marathon training. In the same way, you are the only one responsible for your salvation.

• Individual Effort: Running is often an individual endeavor, unlike team sports. This means the runner is solely responsible for training, progress, and success. Salvation is a personal choice to recognize we are separated from God by sin, seek strength to repent, and follow Jesus. His example of purity and sacrifice is the training plan that all are called to. It is all up to you!

• Mental Toughness: Both marathon training and someone’s faith walk require mental toughness to overcome challenges and obstacles. The Bible encourages believers to remain steadfast and resilient, even in difficult times.

• Simplicity and Accessibility: Running is one of the most accessible sports, requiring minimal equipment and facilities. This simplicity means focusing primarily on the runner’s discipline and preparation. The same is true with following Jesus. An open and repentant heart, accepting God’s Word as Truth, and relying on the Holy Spirit are all that are necessary.

• Endurance and Stamina: Building endurance and stamina is crucial for long-distance running, and the Bible also emphasizes the importance of endurance in one’s spiritual journey.

(Hebrews 12:1-2) – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

• Routine and Habit: Successful runners develop strict routines and habits to maintain their training schedules. Similarly, the Bible encourages believers to cultivate spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, reading scripture, and worship, to grow in their faith.

What does a Plan Look Like?

• Define Your Goals: Setting clear goals for marathon training helps structure the training process. Similarly, the Bible teaches the importance of having a clear purpose and direction in life, guided by faith and Jesus’ teachings.
• Stick to a Training Plan: A structured training plan ensures sustainable progress towards marathon goals. The Bible also emphasizes the importance of following God’s plan and commandments to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.
• Know the Objective of Every Workout: Every run should have a clear purpose, just as every aspect of one’s life should be guided by a clear understanding of God’s will and purpose.
• Strength Training: Incorporating strength training into marathon training is crucial for overall performance. Similarly, the Bible encourages believers to strengthen their faith through spiritual practices and community support.
• Shed That Extra Weight: Why does weight make such a big difference? The bouncing motion of running involves a series of hops against gravity, and that upward push consumes most of our energy. By some estimates, supporting your bodyweight takes as much as three-quarters of the energy you spend running, while propelling yourself forward requires considerably less. Hebrews 12:1 encourages believers to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles” so they can run the race set before them with endurance. It’s a reminder that faith isn’t about carrying burdens—it’s about finding strength, renewal, and perseverance.

Imagine the lightness of a soul unburdened. The energy that once went into carrying unnecessary weight is now entirely devoted to pursuing God. The finish line? Eternity with Him.

Motivation

When you get up each day, what do you see? Is it the reflection of a person leading a purpose-filled life?

(James 1:23-24) – “For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.”

Merely hearing the word of God without acting upon it is like looking at oneself in a mirror and then forgetting one’s appearance. We are called to listen to God’s teachings and apply them daily. The reflection in the mirror serves as a reminder of our true selves and the need for self-examination and transformation through faith. Just as runners train and push through challenges to reach the finish line, those on their faith journey must practice self-discipline, stay committed, and overcome obstacles to grow spiritually and attain eternal life. That is the heart of a faithful journey—embracing the Gospel, turning away from sin, and seeking salvation with unyielding devotion. Just as a runner sheds unnecessary weight to race with endurance, a believer must cast off doubt, guilt, and distraction to pursue Jesus fully.

Repentance is more than acknowledging past mistakes; it is an act of transformation—an intentional shift toward God’s grace. Salvation isn’t a passive hope but an active pursuit, requiring steadfast commitment and daily renewal. And knowing Jesus isn’t merely an intellectual exercise—it’s about deepening a relationship, walking in His love, and reflecting His truth in every thought and action.

Contemplations

• What does it mean to you to “run the race of faith”?
  • Ideas to explore: What are the parallels between physical training for a race and spiritual discipline? How can we apply the principles of perseverance, commitment, and focus to our faith journey?
• How can self-discipline enhance someone’s spiritual growth?
  • Ideas to explore: How does self-discipline play a part in overcoming obstacles and staying committed to our faith? Think about personal experiences or examples from the Bible where self-discipline led to spiritual growth.
• What challenges might we face on our faith journey, and how can we overcome them?
  • Idea to explore: What are the common obstacles in the faith walk, such as doubt, temptation, or external pressures? What training strategies might you suggest for overcoming these challenges? Include prayer, community support, and reliance on God’s strength and other ideas. Do you find that certain practices, like prayer or reflection, help lighten that spiritual weight for you?
• How can we stay focused on the ultimate prize of eternal life?
  • Idea to explore: Reflect on the importance of keeping our eyes on the goal of eternal life. What are some practical ways to maintain focus, such as regular Bible study, worship, and fellowship with other believers? Why are these effective?

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A tariff is a tax that one country imposes on goods and services imported from another country to influence trade, raise revenues, or protect its competitive advantages. The origins of tax systems date back to biblical times. In Genesis, we find Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel. His journey includes being sold into slavery by his brothers and later becoming a leader in Egypt. Joseph established a 20% agricultural tax, setting a precedent for state financing (Genesis 41). He explained that Pharaoh’s dreams indicated seven years of abundance, followed by seven years of scarcity. Joseph recommended a 20% tax on grain during the “good” years to provide the necessary stockpile for the Egyptian kingdom during the “bad” years. As history tells us, Joseph was correct in his interpretation.

(Genesis 41:34)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.”

The tax on a portion of grain in Pharaoh’s time was not to build wealth for the kingdom but to establish a “contingency” of food to save the people of Egypt from starvation during an upcoming drought. Think of it as maybe the very first “Social Security System.”

In today’s world, the use of tariffs is under attack. In a 2025 article by Time Magazine, one nation, China, mocks the U.S. using an interesting approach. A link to the article²https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/chinese-mockery-of-u-s-manufacturing-reveals-economic-truth/ar-AA1CX4cB?ocid=socialshare&cvid=3f65d9a9d33f4dfa90f1bea716ea0a00&ei=8&PC=EMMX01 can be found in the footnotes on this page. The Chinese mockery is based on their opinion that the U.S. worker doesn’t want to work the low-skilled, low-paying jobs. However, facts indicate that over 90,000 manufacturing companies have disappeared from the U.S. The majority have relocated to China. These lost U.S. companies employed people with skills!

In 2024, the average annual income in China is approximately 41,300 yuan (roughly $5,620), with urban households earning around 54,200 yuan (approximately $7,375) and rural households about 23,100 yuan (roughly $3,145). This reflects significant income inequality between urban and rural areas. “If you look at the income distribution, it isn’t that great,” he said. “So, you’ve got 250 million people living on something like $3 daily. So, you’ve got a lot of people close to poverty.³https://kslnewsradio.com/business-economy/the-standard-of-living-in-china-compared-to-the-united-states/2022516/” I am not sure about you, but I am thankful for what our country has accomplished as a free nation. We enjoy a decent standard of living.

Tariffs can be protective taxes that underpin a country’s productivity by ensuring fair or favorable global pricing. Today, tariffs aim to protect a nation’s industries, enabling citizens to earn wages and support their families. Then, of course, you could live on $3 a day, and everything we make in our country would be cheap!

(Psalm 82:4) – “Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked”

The above passage from our Palms highlights that a government is responsible for protecting its people, including implementing taxes, such as tariffs, to protect domestic industries and workers. Certain countries also fail to care for their people. Children, for example, are frequently exploited as cheap labor to produce lower-cost products. Our Bible positions people’s welfare as a priority. Justice and equity are central to the biblical message, which calls for balanced governmental policies in international trade. Supporting vulnerable nations through imports and strengthening their local industries aligns with the principle of helping others, just as it cautions against the enabling of slavery, abuse, and neglect of human rights.

Consistent diligence in work is essential for achieving professionalism and efficiency. Employees should strive to enhance their companies’ competitiveness through dedicated efforts and contribute positively to the nation’s trade balance. Such diligence demonstrates respect for work and effective stewardship of resources.

(Ezra 4:13) – “Furthermore, the king should know that if this city is built and its walls are restored, no more taxes, tribute or duty will be paid, and eventually the royal revenues will suffer.

In the Book of Ezra, we also find the idea of taxes and tributes (another name for tariffs) used to generate funds for the kingdom. One concern was the ability to defend the nation with strong walls. Therefore, the taxes and tributes were used to protect the people.

(Matthew 17:25) – “Yes, he does,” he replied. When Peter came into the house, Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?”

Even the New Testament Gospel of Matthew references the collection of duties (tariffs) and taxes. By now, the pattern should be clear. People in authority could and would levy taxes on their people and tariffs on other nations. So it is not the taxes that should be the issue, but what the leaders of nations accomplish with their collected funds. A leader is to guide, protect, and serve their followers. Taxes and leadership are meant to coexist synergistically, utilizing the nation’s resources to move its people closer to God. Here are several examples of Godly leaders’ roles from the Bible.

• Exodus 3:10-12: Moses is a quintessential leader who, under God’s direction, led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. His leadership is marked by intercession, lawgiving, and shepherding the people.
• Judges 2:16: The role of judges, such as Deborah and Gideon, highlights leaders raised by God to deliver Israel from oppression and to restore justice and order.
• 1 Samuel 16:12-13: Kings like David and Solomon were anointed to rule with justice and wisdom, serving as shepherds of God’s people.
• Isaiah 1:10-17: Prophets, including Isaiah and Jeremiah, served as God’s mouthpieces, calling leaders and the nation to repentance and faithfulness to the covenant.
• Mark 10:42-45: Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from serving others.
• John 10:11: Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep.
• Acts 2:42: The apostles, such as Peter and Paul, were foundational leaders who spread the gospel and established churches.
• 1 Peter 5:1-3: Elders, or overseers, were designated to guide the local congregations, upholding sound doctrine and attending to the spiritual requirements of the community.
• Titus 1:5-9: Deacons served by attending to practical needs, allowing the apostles and elders to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word.

Apostle Paul takes a more direct approach to taxes, duties, tributes, and other similar matters.

(Romans 13:6-7) – “This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”

Historically, leaders have often misused taxation, diverting funds for their self-enrichment rather than benefiting the populace. The Bible affirms a government’s right to collect taxes and emphasizes the importance of fairness in trade. When tariffs help correct trade imbalances and protect domestic industries and workers, they serve a moral purpose. Proverbs 20:10: “Unequal weights and unequal measures are both like an abomination to the Lord,” emphasizes the importance of fairness in trade, including tariffs and trade policies.

(Revelation 18:1-3) – “After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. With a mighty voice he shouted: ‘Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!’  She has become a dwelling for demons and a haunt for every impure spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable animal. For all the nations have drunk the maddening wine of her adulteries. The kings of the earth committed adultery with her, and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries.”

However, the Book of Revelations clarifies that the “kings,” the leaders who have plundered their people’s wealth for their pleasure, remain under God’s authority. God has control of everything. As a result of their sins as leaders, their earthly kingdom and wealth will eventually be taken from them, and they will be judged accordingly.

One Last Point

(Matthew 27:35) – “When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: This act fulfilled the prophecy in Psalm 22:18: “They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment“. This prophecy, written centuries before, pointed to the Messiah’s suffering and was realized in the events of Jesus’ crucifixion.
• Customary Practice: In the Roman context, soldiers were often entitled to the possessions of executed criminals as part of their compensation. Jesus’ clothing was one of His few possessions, and the soldiers divided His garments among themselves.
• Significance of the Seamless Tunic: Jesus’ tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. Rather than tearing it, the soldiers cast lots to decide who would get it. This seamless garment symbolized Christ’s unity and perfection, like the high priest’s robe in the Old Testament. The robe was expensive and of high quality.
• Symbolism of Humility and Sacrifice: The casting of lots for Jesus’ clothes also emphasized His humility and poverty. Jesus, who was, by nature, God, took on the form of a servant and was stripped of His garments, highlighting His sacrifice and vulnerability.

Jesus owned an expensive robe! He did not own a closet full of costly robes. He did not own a closet full of cheap imported robes. We are all responsible for limiting our consumption to what is necessary. The good news is that you can have good and lovely things! Just don’t have closets full of things made by slave labor, or children who work under hostile conditions. It’s not always about purchasing cheap things. Taxes and tariffs are all under God’s eye, so rest easy and let God handle things.

Contemplations

• How does the Bible’s concept of tariffs (tributes, duties, and/or taxes) relate to modern economic policies
  • Ideas for Explore: How can the biblical example of Joseph in Genesis 41 inform our understanding of tariffs and their role in protecting a nation’s economy today?
• What is the biblical perspective on the responsibility of governments to protect their citizens through economic measures like tariffs?
  • Ideas to Explore: Reflect on Psalm 82:4, which emphasizes the importance of rescuing the weak and the needy. How do tariffs align with the biblical mandate for governments to protect their people, especially ensuring fair trade and preventing exploitation?
• How can we apply the principles of fairness and justice in trade, as highlighted in the Bible, to contemporary global trade practices?
  • Ideas to Explore: Proverbs 20:10 condemns the use of unequal weights and measures. How does this principle apply to modern trade policies to ensure fairness and justice in international commerce?

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There will be times in a believer’s life when God answers our heartfelt prayers with the answer “no!” Even the most ardent and productive saints hear God reject their prayers. In this lesson, we will try to understand God’s perspective on His purpose behind His rejections.

(2 Corinthians 12:5-9)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “I will boast about a man like that, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses. Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

In this passage, the Apostle Paul speaks about a “thorn in his flesh,” which he describes as a messenger of Satan sent to torment him. Paul explains that he pleaded with the Lord three times to take this thorn away, but God responded, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Yes, God rejects the prayers of one of His most ardent supporters. All Paul hears is “No.” Paul’s experience highlights that God’s strength is made perfect in human weakness. Instead of removing “the thorn,” God gave Paul the grace to endure it. The Apostle Paul’s response was to boast about his weaknesses, as they allowed Christ’s power to rest on him.

The grace of God is a central concept in Christianity, often understood as God’s unmerited favor and love towards humanity. It is the divine assistance given to humans for their regeneration and sanctification. In the context of 2 Corinthians 12:5-9, God’s grace is described as “sufficient” for Paul, meaning that despite his weaknesses and the “thorn in his flesh,” God’s grace gave him the strength to endure and continue his ministry. Paul did not earn this grace; it was a gift from his God. Through grace, believers are saved, sustained, and empowered to live according to God’s will. The example with Paul emphasizes reliance on God’s strength rather than one’s abilities.

However, it is essential to understand that “God’s Grace” is not a call to give up hope. In fact, without grace, we would have no mercy either. Grace is about receiving blessings and favors that we do not deserve. The other side of the coin, so to speak, is God’s mercy. Mercy is about being spared from the punishment that we do deserve. Both grace and mercy express God’s love and compassion towards each one of us. We will examine a familiar Bible story and explore how God’s grace and mercy work together as part of His will.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son: In Luke 15:11-32, the younger son asks his father for his share of the inheritance and then squanders it in reckless living. When he finds himself in dire circumstances, he returns home, repentant and hoping to be accepted as a servant. Upon his return, the father, representing God, shows extraordinary mercy by welcoming him back with open arms, celebrating his return, and restoring him to his position as a beloved son. This compassion (mercy) is also an example of God’s grace, as the father provides the son with unmerited favor and love, despite his past mistakes. The father’s response highlights God’s willingness to forgive and embrace those who repent, demonstrating mercy and grace.

The prodigal son’s brother struggled to accept the father’s grace and mercy toward his younger brother. In the parable (Luke 15:25-32), the elder son becomes angry and resentful when he learns that his father has welcomed his younger brother back with open arms, even hosting a grand celebration in his honor. The elder son feels this is unfair, as he has been loyal and obedient to his father for years without receiving such recognition or celebration. He doesn’t comprehend the depth of the father’s love and forgiveness—a love that rejoices over the return of the lost rather than dwelling on past mistakes. The father reassures the elder son, explaining that the younger son’s return is cause for great joy because he was “lost and is found.” The elder’s son, who counted obedience and service, did so. Ultimately, he received the rest of his father’s earthly inheritance.

This reaction of the elder son highlights themes of jealousy, self-righteousness, and the difficulty of embracing grace, especially when one feels entitled to rewards based on their own merits. It serves as a reminder that God’s grace is not earned but freely given to all, regardless of past actions. The parable teaches us:

• Forgiveness and Reconciliation: The father’s willingness to forgive his son and welcome him back with open arms is a powerful example of forgiveness and reconciliation. In modern life, this teaches us the importance of forgiving others and seeking reconciliation in our relationships, even when we have been wronged.
• Unconditional Love: Despite his mistakes, the father’s unconditional love for his son mirrors the kind of love that we should strive to show others. This can be applied in our relationships with family, friends, and even strangers, emphasizing the importance of loving others without conditions or expectations.
• Repentance and Humility: The younger son’s decision to return home and admit his mistakes demonstrates the value of repentance and humility. In today’s world, acknowledging our faults and seeking to make amends can lead to personal growth and stronger relationships.
• Grace and Mercy: The father’s actions also illustrate the concepts of grace and mercy. He not only forgives his son but also restores him to his position in the family. This teaches us the importance of showing grace and mercy to others, even when they may not deserve it.
• Hope and Redemption: The story of the prodigal son provides hope by reminding us that God’s perspective often differs from our own sense of fairness. Our trust in God should not rely on our own righteousness but instead on His history of generosity. This message can be a source of encouragement for anyone who feels lost or weighed down by past mistakes or challenging circumstances.

When we hear God’s “No,” it always comes with a lesson in humility and reliance on God’s grace, rather than on our strength. God is calling us to accept and embrace our weaknesses, as they can be opportunities for God’s power to be demonstrated in our lives. Paul’s experience highlights that God’s strength is perfect in human weakness. Instead of removing the thorn, God gave Paul the grace to endure it. This taught Paul to boast about his weaknesses, as they allowed Christ’s power to rest on him.

(Isaiah 55:8-9) – “’For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts’.”

Contemplations

• Why might God say no to a prayer or request?
  • Ideas to Explore: Consider that God’s refusal could guide individuals down a different path or teach them a valuable lesson.
• How can a person find meaning or purpose when God says no?
  • Ideas to Explore: Consider how a denial from God might encourage personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of one’s faith.
• What are some examples in religious texts where God says no, and what can we learn from them?
  • Ideas to Explore: In the Book of Jonah, God shows mercy to the city of Nineveh. Despite their wickedness, God sends Jonah to warn them of impending judgment. When the people of Nineveh repent, God shows mercy and spares the city from destruction. In John 8:1-11, a woman caught in adultery is brought before Jesus. The accusers want to stone her according to the law, but Jesus shows mercy by saying, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Her accusers leave, and Jesus tells her to go and sin no more. In 2 Samuel 11-12, King David commits adultery with Bathsheba and arranges the death of her husband, Uriah. When confronted by the prophet Nathan, David repents, and God shows mercy by forgiving him, although his actions still have consequences.
• How can a community support each other when facing a collective ‘no’ from God?
  • Ideas to Explore: Communal support and shared faith can help individuals cope with disappointment and find strength in unity (How?).

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Everyone knows that the shortest verse in the Bible is “Jesus wept” (John 11:35). But is it really the shortest? In Greek, John 11:35 is “Edakrysen ho Iēsous,” three words instead of two. There are two shorter verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:16, “Rejoice always,” and 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray unceasingly.” Both these verses are only two words in Greek. We will look at these “short” verses to see how much we can learn about our Savior, Jesus Christ.

To “cry” and “weep” describe shedding tears. Tears typically respond to strong emotions such as sadness, pain, or joy. However, there is a subtle difference between the two words. “Cry” is a more general term encompassing a range of emotions and may not always imply intense emotional distress. On the other hand, “weep” has a more specific connotation of deep sorrow or grief.

(John 11:32-35)¹NIV New International Version Translations – “When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’ When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. ‘Where have you laid him?’ he asked. ‘Come and see, Lord,’ they replied. Jesus wept.”

The story behind John 11:35 is as follows: Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus, fell ill. Jesus knew Lazarus was sick, but took His time returning to Mary and Martha’s home where Lazarus lived. When Jesus finally arrived, Lazarus was dead and in his tomb. Jesus was deeply moved by the sorrow of Lazarus’s sisters and the crowd’s mourning. Jesus asked to be shown where Lazarus was laid, and upon seeing the tomb, He wept. Jesus then performed a miraculous act by calling Lazarus out of the tomb, raising him from the dead, demonstrating His divine power and compassion.

The significance of Jesus’ weeping is profound. Tears highlight Jesus’ humanity and His ability to feel deep emotions. This story shows that Jesus was both divine and fully human, capable of experiencing sorrow and empathy. As Christians who are called to place their faith in Jesus, it is essential to grasp the significance of that moment.  God, who created all things, including our world and our very being, allowed Himself to be constrained to the limits of a human. There is no more significant demonstration of love and compassion than the Incarnation. The Incarnation is the central Christian doctrine that God became flesh, assuming a human nature and becoming a man in the form of Jesus Christ. This means Jesus was fully divine and human, united in one person.

Jesus was Born of a Woman

One of the Bible verses that documents Jesus’ birth is found in the book of Luke. Galatians 4:4 states, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law.” This verse highlights Jesus’ humanity by emphasizing that He was born of a woman.

Jesus Ate Food

Jesus dined at the house of Zacchaeus, a tax collector (Luke 19:1-10). This act of fellowship demonstrated His mission to seek and save the lost. We also see that Jesus dined at the Last Supper (Luke 22:14-20; Matthew 26:26-30; Mark 14:22-26; John 13:1-30). This was a profoundly symbolic meal where Jesus instituted the Eucharist. He broke bread and shared wine with His disciples, calling them His body and blood, signifying a New Covenant for those who believe in Him.

One of the Bible verses that mentions Jesus’ eating after His resurrection is found in the Gospel of Luke. Luke 24:42-43 states: “So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence.” This verse shows that He ate with His disciples to demonstrate to them that He was alive and had a physical body.

Jesus Needed Water

John 4:7 states, “A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, ‘Give Me a drink.‘” This verse implies that Jesus was thirsty and needed water. Thirst is an essential human response to insufficient water.

Jesus Needed Sleep

According to the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded that Jesus slept during a storm. Matthew 8:24 states: “Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping.” This verse highlights Jesus’ humanity by showing that He needed rest like any other person.

Jesus Felt Pain

Jesus could experience emotional pain, as evidenced by His tears at Lazarus’ tomb (John 11:35) and His lament over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41-42).

Before Jesus’s crucifixion, He experienced intense sorrow and anguish. In Matthew 26:37-39, He says, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.” During Jesus’s trial, He was flogged, mocked, and ultimately nailed to the cross (Matthew 27:26-31).

Jesus Bled and Died

John 19:30 states: “So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!‘ And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.” This verse describes the moment when Jesus died on the cross. Jesus died for you and me!

In John 19:34, it states, “But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out.” This response is very human and called a haemothorax, which, in the stillness of a dead body, is separated into two layers: the heavier red cells below and the light, watery plasma above. The “haemothorax” was the result of the savage flagellation Jesus received before being crucified. It was a final sign of His humanity that Jesus was lifeless.

Two more short verses, each with two words, that point to a very human Jesus.

• 1 Thessalonians 5:16, “pantote chairete,” translates to “Always Rejoice“. This shows that Jesus also experienced joy, a fundamental human emotion.
• In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “adialeiptōs proseuchesthe,” means “Pray without ceasing.” Consistent with the Gospels, we see Jesus engaging in prayer, an ordinary human practice.

The Importance of the Incarnation and Humanity of Christ

If Christ were not a human, the resurrection would be no miracle. As God, Jesus could not die. As a man, His death was nothing more than that which befalls every human on earth. As a human, Jesus went on to show us the greatest miracle ever. There is life after death. It is why we should “Always Rejoice” and “Pray without Ceasing.” It’s potent; what a tear can do! We find ourselves today reconciled to God by the humanity of Jesus!

Jesus’ humanity means he experienced life as you and I do—joy, sorrow, pain, and temptation. This makes Him relatable and provides a personal connection to our faith. His human experience demonstrates that He understands our struggles and sympathizes with our challenges because He lived them. It was Jesus’ humanity that allowed Him to die on the cross.  As a human, His sacrifice can be seen as genuine and meaningful, bridging the gap between humanity and God.

Contemplations

• Most of human history accepts that there is a higher power we call the Creator. Why do you think that it is so much harder to accept the idea that God would constrain Himself within the limits of a single human being to draw us closer to Him and call Him His Son?
  • Ideas to Explore: Is it the humble nature of Jesus that makes Him so hard to accept? What about the resurrection do people fail to grasp? Do you think the world is looking for some extraordinary proof?
• Historical and archeological evidence establishes the existence of a man named Jesus. Add to that the Bible, and there is overwhelming support for our Savior. Is it the idea of Incarnation that is so hard to accept?
  • Ideas to Explore: What would you accept as proof of the Incarnation? Can you imagine any other human in history like Jesus Christ? Doesn’t that make Him very special?
• What does knowing that Jesus wept mean to you?
  • Ideas to Explore: Relate better and accept Jesus as a human more easily. How do you feel about Genesis 1:26: “Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.'” Notice the plurality of God’s use of the word “OUR.” The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have existed for all eternity!

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  NIV New International Version Translations

The seven woes in Matthew 23 are directed at the scribes and Pharisees, who were the religious leaders and teachers of that time. A “woe” is an exclamation of grief by Jesus. These warnings apply to anyone who assumes the teaching role, emphasizing the importance of integrity, humility, and genuine care for those they teach. Let’s look at those seven “woes.”

The first of Jesus’ seven woes criticized the scribes and Pharisees for preventing people from entering the kingdom of heaven. He said, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces.” One of the principal roles of leaders and teachers is to lead people to God!

In the second of the seven woes, Jesus condemned the leaders for teaching the same hypocrisy they practiced. They led their converts into a religion of works but not into true righteousness.  In Matthew 13:15 , we find a striking condemnation: “For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes.  Otherwise, they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.”

The third woe has Jesus calling the religious elite “blind guides” and “blind fools” (Matthew 23:16-17). Their spiritual blindness caused them to be ignorant of many things, including the identity of the Messiah and the way of salvation. They were not only blind to the true meaning of Scripture but also unable to see their sins. We see this in society today. There is a high interest in arguing over irrelevant matters and finding loopholes in the rules (Matthew 23:16-22). Few people seek God’s Truth!

The fourth of the seven woes called out the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy in their generosity. They gave a tenth to the temple of what did not matter. However, they “neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23).

In the fifth woe, Jesus compares them to dishes that were scrupulously cleaned on the outside but left dirty inside. Their public actions made them appear clean and virtuous, but inwardly, their hearts were full of “greed and self-indulgence” (Matthew 23:25).

The sixth woe has Jesus comparing them to “whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean” (Matthew 23:27). Hypocrisy is like a rotting corpse inside a tomb, they appeared righteous on the outside, but they were just beautified tombs; inwardly, they were spiritually dead.

The seventh woe was explicitly targeted at those who teach the law. Jesus calls them “blind guides” (Matthew 23:16). It gets worse. Jesus then calls them “snakes” and “brood of vipers” (Matthew 23:33). Jesus prefaced His seven woes by explaining to the disciples that they should obey the teachings of the Jewish leaders—as they taught the law of God—but not emulate the behavior of the Pharisees and Scribes. The teachers did not practice what they preached (Matthew 23:3).

So, what is the Bottom Line for Today’s World?

The Seven Woes were meant for teachers of the time to focus attention on their roles and responsibilities.

• Practice What You Preach: Teachers should ensure that their actions align with their teachings. Hypocrisy, where one preaches one thing but does another, is strongly condemned (Matthew 23:3-4).
• Avoid Unnecessarily Burdening Others: Teachers should not impose heavy, unnecessary burdens on their students. Instead, they should offer compassionate and supportive guidance (Matthew 23:4).
• Seek Humility Over Recognition: Teachers should not seek honor and recognition for themselves but should focus on serving others humbly (Matthew 23:5-7, 11-12).
• Lead Others to Truth, Not Away from It: Teachers are responsible for guiding others towards truth and righteousness, not to mislead them or block their path to spiritual growth (Matthew 23:13).
• Be Genuine and Sincere: Teachers should be sincere in their faith and teachings, avoiding any form of deceit or pretense (Matthew 23:25-28).
• Show Compassion and Justice: Teachers should emphasize the importance of justice, mercy, and faithfulness rather than focusing solely on minor details of the rules or law (Matthew 23:23-24).
• Reflect Inner Purity: Teachers should strive for inner purity and integrity, ensuring that their outward actions reflect a pure heart (Matthew 23:25-28).

Conclusion

By applying these principles, anyone in a teaching role can strive to positively and authentically influence their students, fostering an environment of trust, respect, and genuine learning.

(James 3:1) – “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”

Contemplations

• How can teachers ensure their actions align with their teachings to avoid hypocrisy?
  • Ideas to Explore: How does the importance of practicing what you preach apply to both youth and adult education? Should teachers be role models who demonstrate integrity and authenticity in their actions?
• What strategies can teachers use to lead others toward truth and spiritual growth rather than misleading them?
  • Ideas to Explore: How would a secular teacher guide students toward genuine understanding and spiritual development? What would the impact be of providing explicit, truthful, and compassionate instruction to young and adult learners?
• How can teachers balance emphasizing justice, mercy, and faithfulness with the need to teach specific rules and laws?
  • Ideas to Explore: What is the role of teachers in promoting core values such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness while ensuring that students understand the importance of rules and laws? How is this balance crucial in both youth and adult education?