God's Eternal Covenant with Israel: Understanding What Scripture Really Says

In a world filled with conflicting opinions about the nation of Israel, we must return to the most authoritative source available: the Word of God. While political commentators, social media influencers, and news analysts offer endless perspectives, the question remains—what does God actually say about Israel?

The answer is both clear and unchanging. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture presents a consistent narrative about God's special relationship with the Jewish people and the land He promised them. This isn't about politics or personal preference; it's about taking God at His word.

God Initiates the Relationship
The story begins in Genesis 12 with a man named Abram. God sought him out and made an extraordinary promise: "Go forth from your country and from your relatives and from your father's house to the land which I will show you, and I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing. And I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth will be blessed."
This wasn't Abram's idea. God initiated this covenant relationship. He promised Abram—later renamed Abraham—three things: a people, a place, and a purpose. There would be a distinct ethnic group, a specific geographical land, and a mission to bless all nations.
Notice the clarity of God's promise. When He said "land," He meant actual dirt—a specific geographic location. When He said "nation," He meant a people group with borders, government, and economy. And when He said "blessing," He meant tangible favor that would impact the entire world.
The Abrahamic covenant includes both promise and warning: God will bless those who bless Israel and curse those who curse them. This isn't a suggestion or metaphor—it's a divine declaration that has held true throughout history.

Chosen by Grace, Not Merit
Why did God choose Abraham and his descendants? Was it because they were numerous, powerful, or righteous? Absolutely not.
Deuteronomy 7:7-8 makes this crystal clear: "The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any of the peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples." God chose Israel not because of their greatness but in spite of their smallness.
Later, Moses reminds them: "It is not for your righteousness or for the uprightness of your heart that you are going to possess their land" (Deuteronomy 9:5). Israel's selection was purely an act of divine grace—the same kind of grace that saves believers today.
This should resonate deeply with every Christian. None of us were chosen because we deserved it. God's grace is the foundation of both Israel's calling and our salvation. If God can work through Israel despite their failures, He can certainly work through us.

An Everlasting Covenant
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of God's promise to Israel is its eternal nature. In Genesis 15, God formalized His covenant in a dramatic ceremony involving divided animals. Typically, both parties would walk between the pieces, binding themselves to the agreement. But in this case, only God—represented by a smoking oven and flaming torch—passed through.
Why? Because God was making a unilateral, unconditional promise. Israel's faithfulness wasn't required for God to keep His word.
Genesis 17:7 states: "I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you."
How long is everlasting? Forever. Not until the church age. Not until Jesus came. Forever means forever.
God reinforces this promise throughout Scripture. In Jeremiah 31:35-37, He declares that Israel will cease to be a nation only if the sun, moon, and stars stop functioning—or if someone can measure the heavens and search out the foundations of the earth. In other words, never.
Psalm 89:34 is equally emphatic: "My covenant I will not violate, nor will I alter the utterance of My lips."

The Promise of Restoration
Throughout history, Israel has been scattered, persecuted, and exiled. Yet God repeatedly promises to regather and restore them to their land.
Isaiah 11:11-12 prophesies: "Then it will happen on that day that the Lord will again recover the second time with His hand the remnant of His people...and will assemble the banished ones of Israel, and will gather the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth."
Ezekiel 36 describes a future restoration where God will not only bring Israel back to their land but will transform their hearts: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you...I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes."
Has this been completely fulfilled? Not yet. While the re-establishment of Israel as a nation in 1948 was significant, the full restoration described in Scripture—where all Israel returns, the land extends to its promised boundaries, and the people worship God in righteousness—remains future.

Salvation Comes Through the Jews
For Christians, the most compelling reason to stand with Israel is simple: our salvation came through the Jewish people. Jesus Christ, the Messiah we worship, was born Jewish, lived as a Jew, taught Jewish disciples, and died with the sign "King of the Jews" above His head.
Jesus Himself told the Samaritan woman, "Salvation is from the Jews" (John 4:22). Paul wrote that the gospel is "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek" (Romans 1:16).
The entire redemptive plan of God flows through Israel. The patriarchs were Jewish. The prophets were Jewish. The apostles were Jewish. The Scriptures were written by Jewish authors. To reject God's ongoing plan for Israel is to undermine the very foundation of our faith.

Standing Firm in Truth
Throughout history, Israel has faced constant opposition. From Pharaoh's infanticide to Haman's genocide plot, from Roman destruction to the Holocaust, from surrounding hostile nations to modern terrorism—the Jewish people have been under attack.
This shouldn't surprise us. When God makes something clear, there's always a voice from the enemy asking, "Did God really say that?" This was Satan's first tactic in the Garden of Eden, and it remains his strategy today.
We hear it in claims that modern Jews aren't "real" Jews, that the land doesn't really belong to them, or that God's covenant promises have been transferred to the church. These are distortions of Scripture designed to undermine God's clear word.
As believers, we must stand on what God has said, not on popular opinion or political correctness. God initiated His relationship with Israel. He chose them by grace. He secured an eternal covenant with them. He promises to restore them. And He brought salvation through them.
Our response should be unwavering support, fervent prayer, and deep gratitude for the Jewish people through whom our Messiah came. This doesn't mean we agree with every political decision made by the modern state of Israel—even God doesn't agree with everything Israel has done throughout history. But it does mean we recognize God's sovereign purpose and unfailing promises.
The God who keeps His promises to Israel is the same God who promises eternal life to all who believe in His Son. His faithfulness to them assures us of His faithfulness to us.

Some of us have lived long enough to know this is true: activity does not equal impact, and busyness does not automatically produce influence.
You can have full calendars, packed rooms, multiple programs, nonstop motion—and still look back and wonder, Did any of it matter? Did it move the needle? Did it change anyone? Did it please the Lord?
That question isn’t just personal. It’s a church question too.
Every church has activity. People coming and going. Services. Music. Sermons. Ministries. Events. Meetings. But how do we know if we’re the kind of church the Lord is pleased to use? What is God looking for when He looks at a local assembly and says, I can bless that. I can use that. I can trust that with more?

Acts 13 gives us a clear answer.
The church in Antioch is a pivotal church in the book of Acts. It becomes a launching point for the gospel going farther into the Gentile world, and it shows us five marks of a church God uses—principles that are just as true today.

1) The Church God Uses Depends on Prayer and Fasting, Not Methods
Acts 13 begins with a picture of the leadership at Antioch: prophets and teachers—Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, and Saul.
Their backgrounds are diverse. Their stories are different. Their life experiences don’t match. And yet they’re unified around one thing: Jesus Christ and His mission.
Then comes the key line:

“While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said…”

Notice what they were doing when the Spirit spoke: not strategizing, not marketing, not planning events, not building a brand.
They were ministering to the Lord—worshiping, seeking His face, praying, and fasting.
This is the posture God blesses: dependence.
Prayer and fasting are not religious add-ons. They are the declaration: Lord, we don’t trust our ideas to accomplish Your work. We need You.
That’s why “church growth” without prayer is hollow. Crowds don’t equal fruit. Numbers don’t equal disciples. In Jesus’ ministry, crowds followed Him everywhere—but only a few truly surrendered and followed.
God’s work is never primarily built by human energy.

• “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain.”
• “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord.
• “Apart from Me you can do nothing.”

A praying and fasting church is a church that says, “Jesus, You’re primary here.” And when churches preference Jesus, Jesus shows up.

2) The Church God Uses Proclaims God’s Word Boldly
After prayer and fasting, the Holy Spirit speaks:

“Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”

Then the church fasts and prays again, lays hands on them, and sends them out.
And the first thing Barnabas and Saul do on mission is simple and clear:

“They began to proclaim the word of God…”

They didn’t lead with programs. They didn’t lead with a social plan. They didn’t lead with friendly networking.
They led with the Word.
Because mission is not ultimately about activity—it’s about proclamation: Jesus Christ is Lord. The gospel is the power of God for salvation. People are transformed by hearing truth.
And this is true for every believer, not just missionaries. Wherever you go Monday through Saturday—workplace, neighborhood, classroom, gym—you are an ambassador for Christ.
What fills you will spill out of you.
If your heart is filled with sports, you’ll talk sports.
If your heart is filled with money, you’ll talk money.
If your heart is filled with Jesus, you’ll talk about Jesus.
The church God uses doesn’t whisper the Word. It boldly speaks the Word—because the Word is what God uses to change hearts.

3) The Church God Uses Expects and Endures Opposition
The moment the gospel advances, resistance appears.
In Acts 13, a political leader—Sergius Paulus—wants to hear the Word. But a magician and false prophet opposes them, trying to turn him away from the faith.
That’s not random. That’s spiritual.
Scripture says our struggle isn’t ultimately with people—it’s with the unseen forces of darkness that hate God and hate what sets people free.
We shouldn’t be shocked by resistance. We should expect it.

• “All who desire to live a godly life… will be persecuted.”
• “If the world hates you, remember it hated Me first.”

Opposition doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. Often it means you’re doing something right. If there is no resistance anywhere, it may be because the gospel isn’t advancing anywhere.
The church God uses doesn’t run when it gets hard. It endures. It stands. It keeps speaking truth in love.

4) The Church God Uses Walks in the Power of the Holy Spirit
Acts 13 says:

“Saul (who was also known as Paul), filled with the Holy Spirit…”

Being filled with the Spirit means being controlled by the Spirit. Yielded. Obedient. Responsive.
And in that moment, Paul speaks with clarity and authority—naming deception for what it is, refusing to let the enemy derail the mission, and trusting God’s power to do what only God can do.
Now, most of us aren’t going to see the exact same miracle as Acts 13 in the same way—but the point is this:
We have access to the same Spirit.
The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in every believer.
We often live like we are powerless—like we need more confidence, more hype, more willpower, more technique.
But we don’t need more of that.
We need more surrender.
We need to stop trying to fix what only Jesus can heal. We need to stop living like the enemy has the upper hand. We need to resist the devil, stand in our identity, and walk in the Spirit.
Because light always beats darkness. Every time.

5) The Church God Uses Trusts God for the Results
After the confrontation and miracle, Acts 13 ends with this:

“Then the proconsul believed… being amazed at the teaching of the Lord.”

Notice what he was amazed by: not just the sign, but the truth. The teaching. The Word.
And this is where many churches—and many Christians—get tempted to take control.
We want guaranteed outcomes. We want the results to look a certain way. We want to measure faithfulness by visible success.
But obedience is our job. Results are God’s.
Our calling is to pray, fast, proclaim, endure, walk in the Spirit, and keep surrendering. God’s role is to save, transform, and produce fruit that lasts.
The church God uses doesn’t manipulate. It trusts.

A Final Word for Us
Acts 13 isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a mirror.
It asks every church—and every believer—some searching questions:

• Are we dependent on the Spirit or impressed with our methods?
• Are we seeking Jesus or just staying busy?
• Are we bold with the Word or careful with truth?
• Do we shrink back at opposition or stand firm?
• Are we walking in the Spirit—or trying to do spiritual work in human strength?
• Are we trusting God for results—or trying to control outcomes?

The good news is this: God is not looking for a perfect church. He’s looking for a surrendered church.
And when a church seeks His face, honors His Word, and yields to His Spirit—God can do more than we can ask or imagine.
Prayer
Father, we give You all glory, honor, and praise. Make us a people who depend on You—who pray, fast, and seek Your face. Make us bold with Your Word. Strengthen us to endure opposition. Fill us with the Holy Spirit. And teach us to trust You for the results. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The Best Thing You Can Do for Your Pastor
There’s something about leadership that forces uncomfortable honesty. You can spend years believing the answer is more—more strategy, more charisma, more polish, more production value, more “if we just tweak this one thing.” And then God, in His kindness, starts stripping away what’s secondary until you’re left with what’s essential.
And what’s essential—painfully, beautifully—is this:
Your pastor doesn’t need to become a better brand.
He needs to burn hotter in his relationship with the Lord.

The Glow That Can’t Be Faked
One of the most haunting pictures of spiritual leadership in Scripture isn’t a platform moment. It’s Moses coming down the mountain.
Not with new marketing. Not with better speech patterns. Not with a “five-step plan” for momentum.
He comes down with a face that’s glowing—because he’s been with God.
There’s a holiness that can’t be manufactured. There’s authority that doesn’t come from volume. There’s a weight to a man’s life that can’t be built with talent alone.
And whether people know how to say it or not, they need that more than they need anything else.
They need a pastor who’s been with Jesus.

The Hidden Whiplash of Pastoral Life
Most people only see the public side of ministry—Sunday sermons, leadership moments, a confident presence. But the week-to-week reality is often emotional whiplash.
One minute your pastor is celebrating a breakthrough: a man opening his Bible again for the first time in ten years, a family coming alive spiritually, someone stepping into faith with joy and clarity.
The next minute, he’s walking into the ashes of someone else’s crisis: a marriage unraveling, a child wandering, a betrayal, a funeral, a phone call that changes everything.
And in between those moments, he’s still supposed to lead his home well. Love his wife well. Shepherd his kids well. Carry a vision. Lead a team. Make wise decisions. Absorb criticism. Stay steady when people are shaky. Keep his heart soft when his schedule is hard.
That’s the burden.
Not for sympathy—so you understand the battlefield.

Praise and Criticism: Two Opposite Dangers
Here’s something every lead pastor learns quickly: the role comes with praise you don’t deserve and criticism you don’t deserve.
If you believe the praise, it inflates you.
If you absorb the criticism, it crushes you.
Either way, it can take you out.
And that’s why the real fight isn’t on the stage. It’s in the soul.
Because long before a pastor falls publicly, his relationship with Jesus has usually cooled privately.
That’s the danger. Not that he stops working—but that he stops walking with God.

So What Can the Congregation Do?
If you want to care for your pastor in a way that actually matters, here it is:

1) Pray for his holiness, not just his success
Pray he stays close to Jesus. Pray his private life matches his public calling. Pray his heart stays tender. Pray the fear of the Lord stays strong.
Because the church doesn’t just need a gifted communicator—it needs a consecrated shepherd.

2) Pray for protection and covering
Your pastor is not Superman. He’s a man. He’s a target. The enemy studies pastors. He has “game film.” He knows where the weak spots are—discouragement, temptation, isolation, exhaustion, pride, insecurity.
Pray protection over his mind, his marriage, his integrity, his joy.

3) Encourage him in specific ways
Generic encouragement is nice. Specific encouragement is oxygen.
A group of men texting their pastor daily with a personal prayer—most people have no idea how much that matters. It reminds him he’s not alone. It reinforces that someone is standing guard with him.

4) Offer solutions, not drive-by criticism
A critical mind can be helpful. A critical spirit is destructive.
If you see a problem and you’re in a position to help, bring solutions. Bring clarity. Bring humility. Don’t be a “keyboard cowboy” firing off opinions without context.
Your pastor knows details you don’t. The goal isn’t to protect him from accountability—the goal is to strengthen him with maturity.

5) Treat him like a human being
Rejoice with him when he rejoices. Weep with him when he weeps.
Don’t demand perfection. Expect progress. Don’t put Jesus-sized expectations on a man who’s trying to follow Jesus.

Why Men Matter (And Why That’s Not Anti-Woman)
In a conversation that spanned leadership, church revitalization, and cultural challenges, one theme kept surfacing: when a church reaches men, it reaches families.
Not because women aren’t strong (they are). Not because women aren’t vital (they are). But because Scripture assigns men a weight of responsibility—and when men abandon it, everyone feels it.
When men are passive, families weaken.
When men are discipled, families stabilize.
When men lead with humility, women flourish.
When men love their wives like Christ, homes become safer.
This isn’t anti-woman. It’s pro-woman. Pro-family. Pro-church.
And in a culture full of confusion about masculinity—confidence crisis, mentorship crisis, Scripture crisis—the church cannot afford to be silent.
Men don’t need to be entertained. They need to be challenged. Equipped. Called up. Trained.
Because men will seek coaching for golf and football and business—but avoid coaching for the soul.
And that’s backward.
Every man needs a coach. Every man needs brothers. Every man needs the Word.
The Gift of the Church
Podcasts help. Tools help. Content helps.
But one of the most important lines in the conversation was simple:
You don’t need another podcast. You need the church.
Because the church is where mentorship becomes normal. Where older, wiser men can say, “I’ve been hit before—hang on.” Where discipleship becomes life-on-life. Where newly married couples learn from seasoned couples. Where fathers of teenagers find other fathers of teenagers. Where somebody can say, “Can I buy you coffee and ask you how you’ve done this?”
That’s not a program. That’s Christianity.
The Way Forward Isn’t New
And maybe this is the best news of all:
The strategy isn’t new. The gospel isn’t outdated. The Word still works.
In a post-Christian culture, what the church needs is not panic. It needs conviction.
Preach the Bible like you believe it.
Live like it’s true.
Let the lion out of the cage.
Faithful gospel witness—week after week—will not return void.
Not through flash. Not through trendy innovation. Not through endless programs.
Through Jesus. Through Scripture. Through prayer. Through holiness.

One Simple Takeaway
If you want to do something that genuinely strengthens your pastor and protects your church, start here:
Pray that your pastor stays close to Jesus—white hot, steady, faithful, humble, and holy.
Because when the Lord reigns, prisons open, pretenders fall, and the Word advances.
And when your pastor burns hot with God, the whole church feels the warmth.

When the Lord Reigns: What Acts 12 Teaches Us About Power, Prayer, and Peace

There’s a game many of us played as kids called King of the Hill. The rules were simple: there’s only one king, and the king is whoever is standing on top of the hill. The goal was to fight your way up… and once you got there, your job was to keep everyone else down so you could stay there.
If we’re honest, a lot of people are still playing that game—just in grown-up ways.
Some build their throne on money, sports, status, relationships, or influence. Others build their throne on control, approval, or image. But Acts 12 shows us there’s another way to live—one where Jesus Christ sits on the throne, and everything changes.
In Acts 12, we see what happens when the Lord reigns—in the world, in the church, and in the heart of a believer.

1) When the Lord Reigns, Pretenders Abuse Authority
The story opens with a hard reality: worldly power often turns cruel.
Herod lays hands on believers “in order to mistreat them.” He has James executed. Then he arrests Peter—because he sees that persecution earns him public applause.
That’s what pretenders do. They don’t use authority to bless people. They use authority to protect themselves, build their platform, and keep others down.
Herod even places Peter under maximum security—four squads of soldiers guarding him—because he’s determined nothing will threaten his control.
But here’s the truth: Jesus is already reigning.
Herod may look powerful, but his authority is temporary. Christ’s authority is eternal.
And we still see this today.
Pretenders creep into every sector of life—politics, business, homes, friendships, and even pulpits. People insecure in their identity don’t lead with humility. They lead with intimidation. They want you to feel their authority.
But the way of Jesus is different.
Herod kills James to please people.
Jesus lays down His life so people can live.
That’s the difference between a pretender and the true King.

2) When the Lord Reigns, God’s People Pray Without Panic
Here’s what the church does in response to Herod’s threat:
They pray.
Acts 12 says, “Prayer for him was being made fervently by the church to God.” They didn’t begin with strategy. They began with surrender.
Then we get one of the most striking lines in the whole chapter:
“Peter was sleeping.”
Peter is hours away from execution… and he’s asleep.
That’s not denial. That’s faith.
It’s the kind of peace you only have when you know you’re not ultimately in Herod’s hands—you’re in God’s hands.
We live in an anxious culture. People are overwhelmed, reactive, and constantly on edge. But Scripture calls God’s people to a different posture:

• Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer…
• Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.
• He will keep in perfect peace the one whose mind is stayed on Him.

When the Lord reigns, God’s people don’t pretend problems aren’t real. They just refuse to panic—because they know God is sovereign, God is good, and God is present.

3) When the Lord Reigns, God Opens What No Man Can Shut
In the middle of the night, an angel appears in Peter’s cell. Light fills the room. The angel nudges Peter awake, the chains fall off, and Peter is led straight out.
Then the iron gate opens “by itself.”
Herod says, “Not under my watch.”
God says, “Watch this.”
Acts 12 is a reminder that God is the Deliverer. And the timing isn’t accidental. Peter is arrested during the days of Unleavened Bread—when God’s people are celebrating the Exodus and remembering that the Lord is the One who rescues.
And He still does.
God may not always deliver in the way we want, on the timeline we prefer, or with the outcome we would choose—but He is always faithful.
In Acts 12, James is martyred and Peter is rescued. Both outcomes glorify Christ. Both strengthen the church. Both advance the gospel.
God’s reign is not measured by comfort. It’s measured by His unstoppable purpose.

4) When the Lord Reigns, Prayer Stretches Your Faith
Peter goes to the house where believers are gathered in prayer. He knocks.
A servant girl named Rhoda hears his voice, gets so excited she forgets to open the door, and runs inside shouting:
“Peter is here!”
And the church responds:
“You are out of your mind.”
It’s one of the most human moments in all of Scripture.
They’re literally praying for Peter… and when God answers, they struggle to believe it.
That’s why prayer stretches your faith. Prayer confronts you with a deeper question:
Do you actually believe God can do what you’re asking?
Sometimes our most honest prayer sounds like this:
“Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief.”
And the good news is: God’s faithfulness is not limited by the weakness of our faith. He responds because He is faithful.

5) When the Lord Reigns, Imposters Fall and God’s Word Advances
Herod’s story ends the way every false king eventually ends.
He receives worship that belongs to God. He refuses to give glory to the Lord—and judgment falls. Acts says he was struck down and died.
And then Scripture gives the real headline:
“But the word of the Lord continued to grow and to be multiplied.”
That’s the pattern of history.
You can arrest apostles.
You can threaten Christians.
You can attack the church.
You can pretend you’re king.
But you cannot stop what God has spoken.
The Word advances. The gospel spreads. Jesus builds His church.
The Big Question: Who Is on the Throne of Your Life?
Acts 12 isn’t just a story about Herod and Peter.
It’s an invitation.

There are only two thrones you can build:

1. A throne where you rule—and spend your life defending it
2. A throne where Jesus rules—and you spend your life surrendering to Him

Believing facts about Jesus isn’t the same as surrendering to Jesus.
The real question is: Have you surrendered?
Is Jesus at the center of your life—your relationships, your money, your plans, your future, your purpose?
Because when Jesus reigns, you don’t have to keep fighting to be king of the hill.
You’re free.

A Simple Prayer of Surrender
If you’ve never trusted Christ, or you need to re-center your life on Him, you can pray something like this:
Lord Jesus, sit on the throne of my life.
I repent of my sin and receive Your forgiveness.
Lead me, rule me, and change me.
I surrender all to You.
In Jesus’ name, amen.

The Power That Changes Everything
In Acts 2, the disciples had been doing exactly what Jesus told them—waiting together for the promised Spirit.

"Suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind… and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit." (Acts 2:2–4)

This wasn’t symbolic. It was an actual, history-altering moment. Tongues of fire rested on each person, the sound drew a crowd, and suddenly these ordinary Galileans were speaking in languages they had never learned—proclaiming “the mighty deeds of God” to people from at least 15 different nations.
The Holy Spirit’s presence is both personal and powerful—and this moment fulfilled promises God had made centuries earlier (Jeremiah 31, Joel 2). Jesus had told His disciples He would send “another Helper,” and He kept His word.
What the Holy Spirit Does in a Believer
At the moment of salvation, the Spirit:

1. Regenerates – Makes spiritually dead people alive.
2. Baptizes – Places us into the family of God (1 Corinthians 12:13).
3. Seals – Marks us as belonging to Christ forever (Romans 8:9).
4. Indwells – Lives within us permanently.
5. Fills – Empowers us as we surrender more of our lives to Him (Ephesians 5:18).

When the Spirit comes in, He doesn’t move in piecemeal. You receive all of Him. The question is—does He have all of you?
Evidence of the Spirit’s Reign
When the Holy Spirit is fully at work in your life, you can’t help but speak about Jesus.
This isn’t forced evangelism—it’s the overflow of love. We naturally talk about what we love most: a sports team, a great vacation, a favorite restaurant. In Acts 2, the believers spoke about the glory of God because their hearts were consumed with Him.
If you find yourself silent about your faith, it’s worth asking: Is there any area of my life I haven’t surrendered to Him?
Empowered for a Purpose
The Spirit’s gifts are not given just for “holy huddles” inside the church—they’re given so we can build up the body of Christ and proclaim Jesus to the world.
Your spiritual gift, when empowered by the Spirit, can bring life to others like rain in a desert. The enemy will lie to you, saying you have nothing to offer. That’s because he knows what happens when you operate in Spirit-filled obedience.
Expect Mixed Responses
In Acts 2, some were “amazed” and wanted to know more. Others mocked and dismissed it. The same will happen today.
The gospel divides—it draws a clear line: you are either in Christ or you are not. The Holy Spirit’s role is to glorify Jesus, and that message will always confront people with a choice.
How to Walk in the Spirit’s Fullness
This isn’t about trying harder—it’s about daily surrender.
Ask the Lord:

• Is there any unforgiveness I’m holding onto?
• Any attitude or habit that’s grieving You?
• Any area I’m unwilling to let You touch?

When He shows you, confess it and surrender it. The Spirit will fill what you yield.
The Invitation Today
If you’ve never been born again, you can ask Christ to forgive your sins, come into your life, and take over—not just with your words, but with your whole heart.
If you are a believer, you can start fresh today. The Spirit is gracious. No matter how far you’ve drifted, He can restore you.

Choose Hope: Finishing the Wall When Opposition Won’t Quit

If you truly live for Jesus, you will face external opposition and internal conflict (cf. 2 Tim. 3:12). Nehemiah lived it: called by God out of comfort, resourced and blessed, then met with growing resistance and fear from without and within. Sound familiar?
In moments like these, we’re tempted to sigh, “Well, we lose here but we win in heaven.” But the gospel gives more: present hope—a future certainty that invades our now (Heb. 11:1). Jesus Christ is Lord, “the same yesterday and today and forever,” and what He has done, He still does.

Where do you need hope today? Singleness? Marriage? Parenting? School? Work? Ministry? Nehemiah 6 offers four choices that cultivate hope right in the thick of resistance

1) Stay Focused on the Mission—Don’t Get Distracted by Adversaries (Neh. 6:1–4)
Sanballat and friends begged for a meeting. Nehemiah refused:

“I am doing a great work and I cannot come down.”

When God calls you, the work is great because He is great. Expect relentless distraction—requests, rumors, pull-asides—all designed to pull you off the wall. Your mission is clear: make disciples (Matt. 28:18–20). Everything else in life—marriage, dating, vocation—fits under that mission. If it doesn’t serve it, it doesn’t deserve your time.
Practice: Write your “wall statement” this week: “I am doing a great work—[name it]—and I cannot come down.” Keep it visible.

2) Be Fortified in Your Identity—Not Disturbed by the World’s Narrative (Neh. 6:5–9)
An “open letter” accused Nehemiah of grabbing a crown. He simply answered:

“Such things as you say have not been done—you are inventing them in your own mind.”

Lies aim to frighten and discourage you off the work. Answer with truth, then pray specifically for strength to do the task:

“Now, O God, strengthen my hands.” (v. 9)

Remember who you are in Christ: loved, holy, adopted, secure, and sent (Eph. 1–2). You don’t fight for identity—you live from identity.
Practice: When criticism comes, pray directly into the assignment: “Lord, strengthen my hands to [teach the class / love my spouse / share the gospel / finish this build].”

3) Stand Firm in God’s Word—Don’t Compromise Your Integrity (Neh. 6:10–14)
An insider urged Nehemiah to hide in the temple—pious-sounding advice that violated Scripture. Nehemiah refused. Why? Compromising integrity to “save your skin” always backfires.

You can’t control your reputation; you can control your integrity.

When counsel contradicts the Bible, it is not from God, no matter how urgent or religious it sounds. Nehemiah again prayed and left his enemies in God’s hands.
Practice: Before big decisions, ask: “Does this require me to bend God’s Word?” If yes, the answer is no.

4) Stay Faithful Today—Even When Betrayed (Neh. 6:15–19)
After 130+ years of rubble, the wall was finished in 52 days (v. 15). Not even two months. Faithfulness today opens space for God-sized outcomes tomorrow.
Enemies lost confidence and admitted,

“This work had been accomplished with the help of our God.” (v. 16)

And yet, intrigue lingered—letters leaked, loyalties blurred. Even then, Nehemiah kept building, eyes on God.
Practice: Ask, “What is my obedience today?” Do that. Trust God with day 52.
Gospel-Centered Hope
We don’t reduce the gospel to “afterlife insurance.” The gospel is the power of God to make dead hearts alive now. Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. All who repent and believe receive forgiveness, new life, and the Spirit who empowers perseverance.

So, choose hope:

• In your nation and your neighborhood
• In your church and your home
• In your marriage, your singleness, your calling

God’s track record? 100% faithfulness. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but desire fulfilled is a tree of life” (Prov. 13:12). Keep building—your 52-day story may be closer than you think.

Reflection & Response

• Where are you most tempted to “come down from the wall”? Name the distraction.
• What lie is loudest right now? Counter it with Scripture and a simple prayer: “Strengthen my hands.”
• Is there any “urgent but unbiblical” counsel you need to reject? Choose integrity over image.
• What faithfulness looks like today: one conversation, one apology, one invitation, one brick.

In our Clarify the Call series, we’ve already talked about clarifying the mission. This week, we turn to clarifying the foundation—the non‑negotiables that position us for a move of God.

We find our roadmap in Acts 1:12–26—a passage that many skip over on the way from the Ascension in chapter 1 to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in chapter 2. But here, tucked away in what seems like simple historical detail, God gives us four foundational principles that unlock His work through His people.

1. Obey Without Delay
When Jesus told His disciples to stay in Jerusalem until they received the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49), they didn’t stall, debate, or negotiate. They went—immediately. All eleven remaining apostles obeyed.
Obedience is the first step to spiritual empowerment. We often wait for more clarity, but clarity often comes after obedience, not before.

“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” —John 14:15

When God speaks through His Word, He’s not giving us goosebumps—He’s calling us to action. Delayed obedience is disobedience. The Spirit moves most fully through believers who do what God says, when He says it.
Reflection Question: Where in your life is God prompting you to act right now—without delay?

2. Unite in Prayer
While waiting for the Holy Spirit, the disciples and other believers (about 120 in all) “all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:14).
Prayer was not an event—it was a lifestyle. And it was unified prayer. They set aside division, laid down grudges, and sought God together.
Unity is not optional; it’s a prerequisite for revival. Jesus prayed for it in John 17. Psalm 133 says God commands a blessing where there is unity.
Every major move of God—throughout Scripture and history—began in a prayer room.
Reflection Question: Who do you need to reconcile with so that prayer in your life can be unhindered?

3. Study the Scriptures
When Judas betrayed Jesus and died, Peter didn’t react emotionally—he went to the Word of God. He quoted Psalms to understand the situation and guide the next step.
The Bible is not just for information—it’s for transformation. It’s a living book that reads us as we read it.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” —Psalm 119:105

In confusing or painful moments, the question should be: “What does Scripture say about this?”
Reflection Question: Do you open the Bible to check a box, or to hear God speak into your real‑time situation?

4. Seek God’s Will
The early church needed to replace Judas. They had requirements for the role, but ultimately they prayed: “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show us…” (Acts 1:24).
They didn’t push their own preferences—they surrendered to God’s choice.
Seeking God’s will is less about getting Him to approve our plans and more about aligning ourselves with His. And when we pray according to His will, we can expect an answer.

Reflection Question: Are your prayers about getting what you want, or about God getting what He wants?
The Launch Sequence for Revival
Obedience. Prayer. Scripture. Surrender.

These are not side issues—they are the launch sequence for God’s work. When these align, God moves.

The devil wants us to skip over passages like Acts 1:12–26 because they’re packed with the very things that unleash the Spirit’s power. But when we clarify and commit to these foundations, God can use us in ways we’ve never seen before.
Call to Action for This Week:

• Obey Without Delay: Take the next step you know God is calling you to.
• Unite in Prayer: Join us for First Tuesday—come expectant and unified.
• Study the Scriptures: Open the Bible this week looking for God’s perspective on a specific situation in your life.
• Seek His Will: In your next major decision, genuinely pray, “Lord, I want what You want.”

When we live this way, we’re not just attending church—we’re becoming the kind of people God can use to transform our city.

Clarify the Call: You Hold the Mission
There are moments in life when you feel the weight of responsibility drop on your shoulders. Maybe it was your first promotion, the first time you held the keys to a car or home, or the overwhelming moment you held your child for the very first time. These moments are sobering. Why? Because they force you to ask, “Am I ready for what I’ve just been entrusted with?”
As believers in Jesus Christ, we’ve been entrusted with something infinitely weightier than a promotion, a set of keys, or even parenthood. We’ve been entrusted with the mission of the gospel. And it’s not optional. Jesus Christ, having conquered death and risen in victory, has passed the baton to us.
This is the mission. And you hold it.

1. Jesus Finished the Work
The gospel doesn’t begin with us. It begins with Jesus. He lived, died, and rose again—completing the work of salvation. As Luke writes in Acts 1, the gospel is a continuation of all that Jesus began to do and teach. The cross wasn’t a halfway point; it was a full declaration: “It is finished.”
The evidence is overwhelming. Jesus appeared after His resurrection with “many convincing proofs” (Acts 1:3)—to the apostles, to Thomas, to 500 at once. This wasn’t secret revelation passed down by one person in the woods. This was a public declaration witnessed by hundreds.
Jesus conquered death. He is the only way, the only truth, and the only life. And He entrusted His mission to us.

2. The Spirit Fuels the Work
The mission is too great for human strength. That’s why Jesus told His followers to wait—not run out and work, but wait for the promised Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just help us; He fills us, empowers us, seals us, and indwells us. Without Him, our efforts are like pushing a car with no gas. With Him, we are moved by supernatural power.
Every true believer has the Spirit. And when we yield to Him—when we stop clinging to parts of our lives as “ours” and surrender them to Him—He flows through us like streams of living water. The Spirit is not a footnote in the mission. He is the fuel.

3. You Carry the Work
Jesus didn’t just complete the mission and hand it to the apostles. He handed it to every generation after them—including us.
“You will be my witnesses,” Jesus said in Acts 1:8. Not spectators. Not consultants. Witnesses. And that word “witness” comes from the Greek word for martyr. It means we bear the gospel with our lives, with our words, and with our sacrifices.
You carry the mission into your workplace, your family, your friendships, your finances, your singleness, your marriage—every sphere of your life. The gospel isn't just a Sunday message. It's your daily call.
And here’s the sobering truth: if everyone served, gave, prayed, shared, and worshiped like you do—how would the kingdom be doing?

4. Time Is Short. Get to Work.
Jesus ascended into heaven right in front of His followers, and two angels appeared asking, “Why are you standing here looking into the sky?” In other words—don’t just stand and stare. Go! The mission doesn’t pause.
He’s coming back. And when He does, He’s not coming to take attendance. He’s coming for a bride that’s on mission, living surrendered, and leveraging everything for His kingdom.
Church is not a spectator sport. It’s a battleground. The Spirit of God is looking for people fully yielded, fully surrendered, fully alive in Christ. The time is now.

The Gospel. The Kingdom. The Church.
Let’s be clear:

• The gospel is Christ’s finished work—His death and resurrection for our sins. It’s done.
• The kingdom is the visible demonstration of Christ’s authority in every area of your life.
  
• The church is the body of believers committed to carrying out His mission, living the kingdom, and proclaiming the gospel.

That means every area of your life is on mission—your time, your talents, your treasure, your relationships, your future. All of it.

Final Thoughts: The Farmer Doesn’t Procrastinate
There’s no such thing as a procrastinating farmer. Because if he doesn’t till, plant, water, and harvest—there’s no crop.
Likewise, we cannot be procrastinating Christians.
We all say we want revival. But revival begins with surrender. You can’t pray for God to transform the world while refusing to let Him transform your life.
So here’s the invitation:

• Ask the Lord: “Is there anything in my life that I haven’t given to you?”
• Be willing to say yes before He even asks the question.
  
• Open your heart. Surrender your plans. Step into your calling.

The mission is clear. The power is present. The time is now.
You hold the mission.

This past weekend, we concluded our journey through the book of 1 Thessalonians—a powerful letter from the Apostle Paul that calls the church to holiness, readiness, and unwavering faith. And what a journey it’s been. But even as we close one chapter, a new one is beginning. Next week, we launch into a brand-new series titled Clarify the Call—a word I believe God is leading us into for such a time as this. You won’t want to miss it.
Before we look ahead, though, let’s reflect on the message God had for us as we finished 1 Thessalonians: The Life God Sanctifies.

What Does It Mean to Be Sanctified?
Sanctification is the ongoing process by which God molds us into the image of His Son. After He saves us—by grace through faith—He doesn't stop working. He begins transforming us. Bit by bit. Day by day. From the inside out.
It’s not about self-effort. You don’t sanctify yourself. God does the work. Our role is to posture ourselves before Him—humble, hungry, surrendered—so He can do what only He can do.

And Paul gives us five marks of the life God sanctifies in the final verses of his letter. Let’s take a deeper look.

1. It’s Marked by Spirit-Filled Joy
Paul begins:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess. 5:16–18)

Want to know God’s will for your life? Start here. Rejoice—always. Pray—constantly. Give thanks—in everything.
Not for every circumstance, but in every circumstance. Whether you’re in a season of celebration or suffering, God is still sovereign. He’s still good. And He’s still working—for you, not against you.
Spirit-filled joy is not circumstantial—it’s theological. It flows from the deep assurance that God is on the throne and His purposes for your life will prevail.

2. It’s Tuned to God’s Voice

“Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.” (vv. 19–22)

To live a sanctified life, we must remain sensitive to the Spirit’s promptings.
Sometimes God speaks through His Word. Sometimes He speaks through people. The key is to weigh everything against Scripture—and to obey when He speaks.
When you resist the Spirit, His voice grows fainter. But when you respond in faith, His voice becomes louder and clearer. Don’t quench the Spirit. Don’t ignore conviction. Tune your heart to God’s frequency—and walk in obedience.

3. It’s Yielded to God’s Ability

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely…” (v. 23)

Here’s the heart of it: Sanctification is God's work, not yours.
You can’t fix yourself. You can’t reform yourself. You can’t white-knuckle your way into holiness. But God can—and will—transform every part of you: spirit, soul, and body.
The only requirement? Surrender.
When you finally reach the end of yourself and say, “Lord, I can’t do this,” you’re right where He wants you. That’s when He steps in. And His sanctifying grace goes to work—chiseling away everything that doesn’t look like Jesus.

4. It’s Invested in Christ’s Body

“Brethren, pray for us. Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss. I adjure you…to have this letter read to all the brethren.” (vv. 25–27)

Sanctification doesn’t happen in isolation. It happens in community.
The Christian life is not a solo journey—it’s a family adventure. We need one another. We grow together. We correct one another, encourage one another, and spur one another on to love and good deeds.
This is why the local church matters. You cannot be the fullness of who God created you to be apart from the body of Christ. So plant yourself. Pray for others. Be known. Be involved.

5. It’s Anchored in God’s Grace

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” (v. 28)

This is the final word—and the foundation of everything: grace.
You were saved by grace. You are sustained by grace. And you will be sanctified and glorified by that same grace. There’s never a moment in your life when you don’t need it.
Grace is your oxygen. Without it, you can’t breathe, let alone grow. So put your spiritual oxygen mask on daily. Trust God to meet you in your weakness and move you forward in your faith.

A Final Word
You don’t have to fix yourself. You don’t have to fake it. You don’t have to force growth.
You just have to posture yourself before the living God—who loves you, who saved you, and who promises to finish the good work He started in you.
Let the life you live be the life God sanctifies. Choose joy. Tune in. Surrender often. Stay rooted in the body. And never lose sight of the grace that carries you every step of the way.
Get ready—because next week we begin Clarify the Call. And I believe God’s going to do something fresh in your life.
Let’s go, BRAVE Church. The best is still ahead.

Watch the Podcast Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jCrszCC0e0&t=852s

There’s a growing pressure in the church—both from the culture around us and from within our own walls. The world says, “Don’t preach the full counsel of God.” And the temptation inside the church whispers, “Keep it quiet. Stay safe. Don’t stir it up.” But as pastors, leaders, and followers of Jesus Christ, we’re not called to safety or silence—we’re called to faithfulness.

Whether you shepherd a small rural flock or lead a large urban congregation, your calling is the same: to equip God’s people to both live the gospel and proclaim it. The gospel is not merely something we embody—it is also a message we declare.

Recently, I sat down with William Wolfe, Executive Director of the Center for Baptist Leadership, on The BRAVE Way Podcast. William and I met just weeks ago at the White House during a surreal and powerful moment of prayer for President Trump. What brought us together again in Colorado was something more urgent—a deeply concerning bill, HB 1312, threatening parental rights and Christian freedom.

We stood at the Colorado Capitol on Good Friday, not as politicians, but as pastors, compelled by love and truth. This legislation doesn’t just affect believers—it affects every parent, every family, every child in our state. It criminalizes biblical convictions. It tears at the very fabric of God’s creation order. And yet, many in the church remain silent.
Silence is not neutrality. It is surrender.

William put it best: “You may not care about politics, but politics cares about you.” And if the church doesn’t speak up now, we will be complicit in our own collapse. We are watching, in real time, the world of God come under violent assault—the very design of male and female, parent and child, right and wrong.

This is not about partisan politics. This is about standing on the Word of God when it’s no longer popular, profitable, or protected. It’s about training our people to obey everything Jesus commanded—not just the easy parts. It’s about biblical justice. And it’s about preparing the next generation to stand when we’re gone.

We’ve seen what happens when the church prioritizes being “nice” over being faithful. We’ve softened the truth. We’ve apologized for clarity. We’ve exchanged conviction for comfort. But being nice is not a fruit of the Spirit—kindness is. And kindness speaks the truth in love, even when it costs.

At BRAVE, we’ve decided: we will not comply with anything that contradicts the Word of God. We will preach, gather, disciple, and speak—no matter what laws pass or what threats come. If that means persecution, so be it. We were never promised ease, only victory in Christ.

As pastors and believers, we must reject the lie that we should retreat from the public square. We are not called to hide behind our pulpits—we are called to engage our culture with the truth of God’s Word. We must stop saying “that’s politics” and start saying, “That’s the Lord’s territory.”

God’s creation, God’s design, and God’s Word belong in every sphere—church, school, government, and home. If we don’t speak, who will? If we don’t stand, who will? If we don’t train our people to live and tell the gospel, we are raising a generation of cowards in a time that demands courage.

To my fellow pastors: stay faithful. Preach the Word. Love your people. Defend the truth. And don’t apologize for standing firm.
Because when you stand, you’ll find you’re not alone—and that the gospel, boldly lived and boldly told, still has power to change lives, change cultures, and change history.

Good shepherds don’t just preach—they carry the burdens of their people. They don’t merely celebrate victories—they prepare others to walk through suffering. In 1 Thessalonians 3, the Apostle Paul reveals the heart of a spiritual leader who truly cares. His words challenge every pastor, parent, small group leader, and disciple-maker to reflect the heart of God in how we lead and love.

Let me show you what that kind of shepherding looks like.
1. A Good Shepherd Feels the Burdens of the People
Paul couldn’t stand not knowing how the Thessalonians were doing. He sent Timothy, his best leader, not for his own comfort, but to strengthen and encourage the church. That’s what love does—it gives away what it needs most for the sake of others.
As spiritual leaders, we’re called to step into the pain and pressure of those we lead. We carry their concerns in prayer, with tears, and with the hope of Christ.

2. A Good Shepherd Prepares People for Suffering
Paul reminded the Thessalonians they were “destined” for affliction. He didn’t sugarcoat the cost of discipleship. In today’s world, we must be clear: following Jesus comes with challenges—persecution, resistance, and heartache. But knowing that suffering is part of the journey doesn’t make us quit. It makes us lean deeper into God’s grace.
We must prepare our people not just for mountain-top moments, but for the valleys too.

3. A Good Shepherd Delights in the Faith and Love of the Church
When Timothy returned with news that the church was still standing strong in faith and abounding in love, Paul said, “Now we really live.” Why? Because nothing matters more than seeing the people of God live out the gospel.
Let me ask you: Do you rejoice when others grow in Christ? Do you find deep joy in seeing lives changed by the power of the gospel?

4. A Good Shepherd Rejoices in Growth but Longs for More
Paul was thrilled with the church’s progress, but he wasn’t satisfied. He longed to return and “complete what is lacking” in their faith. Why? Because we never arrive. We keep growing.
No matter how long you’ve been walking with Jesus, there’s always more of Him to know, more of His love to show, more of His mission to fulfill.

5. A Good Shepherd Prays for Holiness
Paul prayed day and night—not for convenience or comfort, but for holiness. He asked that God would establish the hearts of His people “without blame in holiness” until the return of Christ.
That’s the kind of prayer that changes people. That’s the kind of love that reflects the Father’s heart.

Final Thought: Shepherd Like the Father
Whether you're leading a church, discipling your kids, or encouraging a friend, remember: God is our model. He knows us completely, sees us constantly, and loves us relentlessly.
He is omniscient—He knows everything.
He is omnipresent—He’s everywhere.
He is omnipotent—He’s all-powerful.
And He’s also merciful, patient, and good.
So let’s lead like Him. Let’s speak truth with boldness, walk with people in tenderness, and pray like it all depends on God—because it does.
Jesus is coming soon. Let’s shepherd well until He returns.

Who Is Our Heavenly Father?

Today, I want to share some thoughts on who the Father is. In our study of the Godhead, we see that God is revealed as a Trinity—three distinct persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) sharing one complete essence. It’s important to note: the Father is not the Son or the Spirit; the Spirit is not the Father or the Son; and the Son is not the Father or the Spirit. This isn’t about different manifestations of one person—it’s about three co-eternal, distinct persons.
Last week, we explored the compassion of the Father by looking at three moving stories in Luke 15. Today, our focus shifts to the glory of the Father. No sermon (or series of sermons) could fully capture His glory, but we can pull back the curtain just a little so that our view expands beyond what we normally imagine. No matter how big our idea of God may be, it’s always too small. And as we discover more about who He is, our response must be one of praise, obedience, and a desire to follow Him wholeheartedly.

Three Attributes of Our Glorious Father
In this post, I’d like to highlight three key attributes of our Father—each of which demands a response from us—and then suggest three ways we might respond to Him.

1. Omniscience: He Knows It All
Our Father is omniscient—all-knowing. Consider Psalm 139:1-4:

"O Lord, you have searched me and known me!

You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways."

Think about that: there isn’t a single thought, action, or word that escapes His notice. He knows our deepest secrets—even before a word is on our tongue.

• Personal Reflection: As a child, I learned about God’s omniscience in a Lutheran classroom. I remember playing on the playground and thinking, “He knows everything about me—even the silly things I try to hide!”
• Why It Matters: Whether you have experienced a great earthly father or not, our Heavenly Father is perfect. He knows us intimately—even our sins—and yet He still loves us unconditionally.

2. Omnipresence: He Is Everywhere
Our Father is omnipresent—there is no place we can go where He isn’t. Psalm 139 continues:

"Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I ascend to heaven, you are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there."

No matter where life takes you—even in your loneliest moments—God is right there with you.

• Everyday Illustration: Whether you’re driving through the wide open spaces of Colorado or wandering through a quiet, empty street, know that He is with you.
• Why It Matters: In times when you feel alone or misunderstood, remember that the One who created you is always present, watching over you and guiding you.

3. Omnipotence: He Is All-Powerful
Our Father is omnipotent—all powerful. Reflect on Psalm 139:13-16:

"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made..."

God’s creative power is beyond human comprehension. From the vastness of the universe down to the intricate details of our bodies (60 trillion cells, countless nerve fibers, and bones perfectly arranged), God’s power is evident in every aspect of life.

• Everyday Illustration: Think of the sun—93 million miles away, yet it bathes our world in light. We don’t worship the sun; we worship the One who created it.
• Why It Matters: Recognizing God’s omnipotence should remind us that He is the author of our very lives. Every good and perfect gift comes from Him.

Our Response: How Should We React to Our Glorious Father?

Knowing who God is compels us to respond. Here are three ways we might answer the call:
1. Praise Him
When you grasp the enormity of His omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence, let your heart overflow with praise. David declares in Psalm 139 how His thoughts toward us are as numerous as the grains of sand—truly infinite.

• Practical Step: Sing, pray, or simply pause to thank God for knowing you, for always being with you, and for the incredible power behind His creation.

2. Honor Him
Recognize that our lives are a testimony to His glory. No matter our circumstances, remember that God’s perfection far exceeds our human experience.

• Practical Step: In moments of frustration or when witnessing injustice, bring those concerns before the Lord. Ask Him to search your heart, guide you, and lead you in the way everlasting (cf. Psalm 139:23-24).

3. Follow Him
Our response should be to align our lives with His will. As Jesus called His disciples to “follow me” and as Paul exhorted us to imitate Christ, we are to yield our plans and desires to our Father.

• Practical Step: Reflect on your life choices. Ask God, “Lord, search me and know my heart. Lead me in the way everlasting.” Let His intimate knowledge of you transform your daily walk with Him.

Embracing a Legacy of the Father
Understanding the Father isn’t just an intellectual exercise—it’s a call to live differently. Whether you’ve had a perfect earthly father or not, our Heavenly Father is the model of perfect fatherhood. He values you, cherishes you, and has ordained every day of your life before you were born. Recognizing His unfathomable love and power should inspire us to build a legacy—a generation that honors Him by following His ways.
Remember:

• God’s thoughts about you outnumber the grains of sand.
• He is everywhere, and nothing can hide from Him.
• His power brought you into existence, and His power sustains you.

When you encounter life’s challenges, know that you are never alone. His merciful love reaches out to you even when you feel unworthy. And as you grow in intimacy with Him, you’ll find that obeying His call brings true joy and transformation.

Final Word
Whether you’re new to this journey or have been walking with the Lord for many years, our Heavenly Father invites you to know Him deeper. Embrace His omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence. Let these truths guide you to praise, honor, and follow Him in every aspect of your life.

Exploring the Giftings of the Holy Spirit
This morning I want to talk about the giftings of the Holy Spirit. In our series, “The Only God,” we’ve spent four weeks exploring who Jesus is—the eternal God who became incarnate, died on the cross for our sins, rose from the dead, and is coming again. Then we turned our focus to the Holy Spirit. Remember when Jesus said,

“If I leave, I will send the Helper…” (John 14:16)

Today, every believer is baptized and indwelled by the Holy Spirit. We have the incredible advantage of living in liberation and freedom because there is no condemnation for those in Christ. This means that God’s work through us—the work He prepared for our lives—is enabled by the Spirit dwelling within us.

Spiritual Gifts: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?
When you’re converted, the Holy Spirit bestows upon you one or more spiritual gifts. Some gifts may come naturally; others you might grow into over time. The purpose of these gifts is not for personal gain or for our own glorification. Instead, they are given so that we can build up the body of Christ. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12, spiritual gifts are supernatural abilities given by the same Spirit for the common good.

Key Points:

• Supernatural Abilities: These are not skills we learn on our own but gifts from the Holy Spirit to empower us to serve one another.
• Diversity in Unity: There are many gifts (scholars list anywhere from 18 to 28), yet each one is essential. No single gift is more important than another, and every member has a unique role—much like puzzle pieces in a giant picture.
• Purpose: The gifts are meant to build up the church, advance God’s kingdom, and glorify Jesus Christ.

Deploying Your Gift in Community
One of the greatest challenges—and joys—is recognizing and using your gift. Whether you’re gifted in teaching, serving, prayer, evangelism, or even intercession, know that your gift is valuable.

“When I hear someone say, ‘I don’t go to church,’ I think, ‘Well, then you’re not deploying your gift.’”

I remember a youth retreat in Wisconsin where it was a bitter –35°F outside. The kids, determined and full of joy, trotted across knee-deep snow to an ice-covered lake for a cold plunge. Later, we put together a 1,000-piece puzzle—only to find one piece was missing. That missing piece reminded me that when believers do not use their gifts, the church is incomplete.

If you’re uncertain of what your gift might be, here are a few ideas:

1. Serve Actively: Join a ministry team or volunteer. Often, you discover your gift in the process.
2. Seek Feedback: Sometimes others notice strengths in you before you do.
3. Take Baby Steps: It might not happen overnight. Remember, I didn’t know I had the gift of preaching until I began stepping up in ministry.

The Delivery of Spiritual Gifts: Love and Humility
Paul teaches us in 1 Corinthians 13 that even the most spectacular spiritual gift is worthless if not exercised in love. Whether it’s speaking in tongues or prophesying, if love isn’t at the heart of our ministry, the gift loses its power.

“If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.”
—1 Corinthians 13:1

This means that as you use your gift, let God’s love and humility flow through you. The aim is to edify the body of Christ, not to draw attention to ourselves.

A Personal Journey with Spiritual Gifts
I want to share a personal story that illustrates the reality of these gifts. Back in 2007, while running the Chicago Marathon on a sweltering day, I experienced an unexpected prompting. Around mile 18, feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, I noticed a man lying on the street with blood coming from his mouth. Something inside me stirred—prompting me to stop, kneel, and pray for him. I began praying in a tongue I didn’t fully understand, and those mysterious words poured out as I interceded for him.
Later, I learned that the man, Chad Scheiber, had died. I spoke with his church, and the pastor confirmed that Chad had been taken by angels to heaven. I was even invited to share that story at his funeral, where I witnessed the power of intercessory prayer firsthand. This experience deepened my appreciation for the gift of tongues—and for the importance of exercising all spiritual gifts in love, order, and humility.

Unity in Diversity: The Body of Christ
No one gift defines our spiritual maturity. Whether you have the gift of tongues, prophecy, or another ability, the Holy Spirit has uniquely equipped you to serve. We are all parts of one body, each with a role that only you can fill. As we work together in our local fellowship, let’s celebrate not only our individual gifts but also the gifts of others, recognizing that every contribution builds up the church.

“Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.”
—1 Corinthians 12:27

Final Thoughts and Communion
As we prepare for communion today across all our campuses, remember this:
Regardless of our differences in spiritual gifts, our unifying truth is that Jesus Christ is Lord. He died for our sins, rose again, and now lives through us by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Let’s continue to pray, serve, and deploy our gifts in ways that honor Him. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or just beginning to discover your gifting, know that God has a unique plan for you. Embrace your role, encourage others, and together, let’s build a church that reflects the glory of God.

Closing Prayer
Father in heaven, we thank You for Your incredible work on the cross, Your resurrection, and the power of Your Holy Spirit. As we step forward into new seasons of ministry—whether through our upcoming Warrior Summit or our everyday acts of service—help us to use the gifts You have given us to build up Your church. May our lives be marked by love, humility, and unity. We praise You for every piece You have placed in this body, knowing that together, we reflect Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Number One Reason Christians Stop Maturing
I want to talk about something that weighs on many believers: Why do Christians stop growing in their faith? Perhaps you’re in a season where you feel stuck, or maybe you’ve been a Christian for a long time but haven’t felt spiritual momentum in a while. The good news is that in Christ, we are given everything we need to continue maturing. Yet, there’s often one major stumbling block:
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” —Galatians 5:1

Freed From vs. Freed To vs. Freed With
The heart of the message is this: you have been freed from the old ways of living, freed to grow in a new life with Christ, and freed with a powerful resource—the love of God through His Holy Spirit.
1. Freed From…

1. Condemnation
   “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” —Romans 8:1
   Jesus paid the full penalty for your sins. If you are in Christ, shame and guilt do not define you.
2. Sin’s Power
   Christ not only removed the penalty of sin but also gives you the power to overcome it. It no longer rules over you when you yield to the Holy Spirit.
3. Legalistic Rule-Keeping
   We can’t be saved or grow by simply following a list of rules. Jesus fulfilled the Law. Our growth is in Him, not in our performance.
4. Spiritual Ignorance
   The Holy Spirit opens our eyes to understand God’s Word and His ways. We are no longer “in the dark.”
5. Death’s Finality
   “But if Christ is in you… the Spirit gives life.” —Romans 8:10–11
   Christ’s resurrection means eternal life for believers. Death is no longer the end; it’s a doorway to eternity with Him.

2. Freed To…

1. Worship Christ
   Real worship goes beyond songs on Sunday—it’s daily, wholehearted allegiance to Jesus.
2. Pray to Christ
   Prayer is relational, not ritual. It’s our privilege to converse with the God who created the universe.
3. Grow in Christ
   The same grace that saves you also teaches you to say “no” to sin and “yes” to holiness. You are meant to keep maturing in faith.
4. Venture Out in Faith
   True faith often involves risk, stepping into the unknown and trusting God will meet you there. Without faith, it’s impossible to please Him.
5. Serve in Christ’s Body
   Every believer is gifted to serve in the local church. Ephesians 2:10 tells us we were created for good works, planned by God long ago. Serving is not a chore but a joyful step in our spiritual journey.

3. Freed With… Love
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” —John 13:35
All our service, gifts, and growth must be anchored in love—love for God and love for others. First Corinthians 13, often read at weddings, was originally placed between chapters on spiritual gifts to emphasize that no gift matters without love.

Walking in Freedom
So, what keeps us from maturing? Often, it’s failing to walk in the freedom Christ has already secured. We slip into shame, slip back into sin, or slip under legalistic burdens when God’s desire is for us to live freely in His Spirit.

• No condemnation: You’re forgiven!
• Freedom from sin’s power: You can overcome!
• Freedom to grow: Keep maturing in Christ.
• Freedom to serve: There’s a place for you in God’s kingdom work.
• Done in love: Let love be the motive for all you do.

Wherever you are on your spiritual journey—brand new to the faith or decades in—remember that you have everything you need to grow because the Holy Spirit lives in you. Embrace the liberty He provides, and look forward to the many ways God will use you as you step out boldly in faith.

Happy New Year! As we begin this season, we’re stepping into our annual 21 days of prayer and fasting. Every year, this time together is designed to help us fall more in love with the Lord Jesus Christ. As we gather on all our campuses, we’re seeking His face, drawing closer to Him, and preparing our hearts to receive from His living and active Word.
This month, we’re focusing on the Holy Spirit. For many Christians, the Holy Spirit is a mystery. Some have encountered extremes, and others may have been taught little about Him at all. But Jesus told His disciples it was to their advantage that He would go away, so He could send the Holy Spirit. Think about that. Having the Holy Spirit with us is better than having Jesus physically present!

So, why is the Holy Spirit so important?

The Holy Spirit Is God
The Holy Spirit isn’t an “it” or a force. He’s God—the third person of the Trinity. Just as the Father is God, and Jesus is God, the Holy Spirit is God. He’s not less than the Father or the Son, but He submits to them to magnify Jesus and glorify the Father. His role is to make Jesus look good and to help us live lives that honor Him.

The Holy Spirit Empowers Believers
When you come to Christ, you’re regenerated by the Spirit—He makes you alive in Christ. You’re baptized into the body of Christ and sealed as His own, marked with a guarantee of your future inheritance. The Holy Spirit indwells you forever. And here’s the truth: you can’t live the Christian life by yourself. That’s why the Holy Spirit is called the Helper. He’s here to do in and through you what you could never do on your own.
The Holy Spirit empowers you to live holy—not necessarily perfectly, but increasingly. He gives you the ability to overcome sin, live morally, and reflect Christ in your daily life. And when you yield to Him, when you let Him control your actions and attitudes, you’re filled with the Spirit, living a life that glorifies Jesus.

The Holy Spirit Convicts the World
The Spirit also convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. He reveals that Jesus is the Christ, that we’re in need of Him, and that judgment is real. Even as believers, the Spirit continues to convict us—not to shame us, but to sanctify us, to make us more like Christ.

The Holy Spirit Glorifies Christ
Above all, the Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus. He’s always pointing us to Christ, magnifying His name, and helping us grow in our faith. When you abide in Christ and let His Word abide in you, you’ll bear fruit, and the Father will be glorified.

So, What’s the Takeaway?
The Holy Spirit is a gift. Jesus said it’s to your advantage to have Him, and He wasn’t exaggerating. The Spirit’s work in your life is constant—He’s thinking about you, helping you, and transforming you. When you feel convicted, it’s because God loves you and is shaping you into who He’s called you to be.

You might think going all in with the Lord means giving up something or doing something you fear. But here’s the truth: when you go all in with Jesus, you’ll find your greatest satisfaction. God wants to use you—your gifts, your personality, your unique design—to bring Him glory.
So, as we continue this journey together, remember this: You have the Helper. You’re not alone. And with the Holy Spirit, all things are possible.

Staying the Course: Understanding Real Saving Faith
As believers, we must often pause and examine our hearts. Are we truly on the course that God has set for us? One day, each of us will stand before the Lord Jesus Christ and give an account for our lives. It’s crucial to ask ourselves now: Are we ready?

The Apostle Peter gives us profound insight into what it means to have real saving faith in the opening verses of 2 Peter 1:1-4. As we dive into this passage, let's reflect on five essential aspects of genuine faith and examine if they’re evident in our own lives.

1. Real Saving Faith Transforms Pride into Humility and Service
Peter introduces himself as a “bondservant and apostle of Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). Despite being a prominent leader, he identifies first as a servant—literally a slave—of Christ. This humility is the hallmark of real saving faith. It transforms our pride into a willingness to serve and obey Christ.
Ask yourself: Do I see myself as a servant of Christ first? Do I define my identity by my relationship with Him rather than by my achievements, status, or role in life? Genuine faith leads us to humble ourselves before God and serve others, not because we have to, but because we are joyfully committed to Him.

2. Real Saving Faith Celebrates the Gift of Christ's Righteousness
Peter speaks of those who have received “a faith of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:1). Salvation is a gift we receive, not something we earn. We are declared righteous not because of our deeds but because of what Christ has done for us.
Are you celebrating Christ’s righteousness in your life? Do you rest in the fact that you’ve been made righteous by His work on the cross? It’s not about striving to be good enough; it’s about recognizing that Jesus paid it all. When we understand this, our faith becomes a celebration of what He has done, not a performance to earn His love.

3. Real Saving Faith Believes that Deeper Intimacy with Jesus Multiplies Grace and Peace
Peter prays that “grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord” (2 Peter 1:2). The deeper we grow in our relationship with Christ, the more grace and peace we experience in our lives. This knowledge isn’t just head knowledge; it’s an experiential, personal relationship with the living Christ.
Do you desire to know Jesus more? Are you seeking to grow closer to Him daily? As you invest time in His Word, prayer, and worship, you’ll find that His grace and peace will overflow in your life. When we pursue Him with our whole hearts, He multiplies His presence in ways we never imagined.

4. Real Saving Faith Recognizes the Sufficiency of the Gospel for Everything
Peter reminds us that God’s “divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3). Through Christ, we have everything we need for this life and the next. The gospel isn’t just the starting point; it’s the foundation, the middle, and the end of our journey.
Do you recognize that Christ is sufficient for all your needs? Whether you’re facing challenges in your marriage, your finances, your career, or your health, the answer is found in Jesus. When we rely on Him, we realize that He provides everything we need for life and godliness.

5. Real Saving Faith Relies on God’s Promises and Partnership to Escape Worldliness
Peter says that God has given us “His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust” (2 Peter 1:4). Real saving faith isn’t just about avoiding sin; it’s about embracing God’s promises and partnering with His divine nature.
Are you actively relying on God’s promises in your daily life? As you hold on to His Word, you’ll find the strength to resist the temptations and distractions of the world. It’s through His power that we can live a life that honors Him.

Staying the Course in Your Faith Journey
Staying the course with Jesus is about more than just starting strong; it’s about finishing well. It’s about allowing Him to transform us, guide us, and grow us into His image. Whether you’ve been walking with Christ for years or are just beginning your journey, these truths about real saving faith are foundational.

Take time today to examine your heart. Are these five aspects of saving faith evident in your life? Are you allowing Christ to transform you, celebrate His righteousness, seek intimacy with Him, recognize His sufficiency, and rely on His promises?
As we continue on this journey together, let’s commit to staying the course with Jesus Christ—faithfully, humbly, and wholeheartedly

Choosing to Serve God Today
I believe that by God’s grace, if He has called you to Himself in salvation, He has the power to transform every area of your life. Maybe you feel like you’ve made mistakes or you’re stuck, but God is ready to meet you right where you are.

Our passage today comes from Joshua 24:14-15, where Joshua calls the people of Israel to choose whom they will serve. He says, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This is a powerful declaration and a reminder that we all have choices to make in our walk with God.

Here are five choices we can make today to experience God's work in our lives:
1. Choose to Remember God's Faithfulness
Take time to reflect on all the ways God has been faithful to you. It’s easy to focus on what we don’t have or what hasn’t happened yet, but when we pause and thank God for His blessings, our hearts shift toward gratitude. Remember, every good and perfect gift comes from Him.

2. Worship and Serve the Lord Jesus Christ
Worship isn’t just about Sunday morning; it’s a lifestyle. Choose to make worship a priority in your life, whether you’re married, single, young, or old. Men, lead your families to church every week and show them that God comes first.

3. Love and Forgive One Another
The love and forgiveness we’ve received from Jesus are meant to be shared with others. Let’s choose to extend grace to our spouses, children, friends, and even those who have wronged us. Remember, love never fails, and forgiveness sets us free.

4. Obey the Truth Wholeheartedly
God’s Word is our guide, even when it’s challenging. Are you willing to follow Him fully, even when it’s uncomfortable? Obeying God’s truth opens the door to His blessings in our lives.
5. Choose Honesty and Authenticity Over Shame
Many of us carry shame, hiding parts of ourselves that we’re afraid others might judge. But God’s grace is greater than our shame. In Christ, we are set free, so let’s live authentically, trusting that His love covers all.

As we wrap up today, let’s remember that we have a choice to make: whom will we serve? God invites us to serve Him with our whole hearts, trusting that His grace will cover us in every area of our lives. Thank you for being part of our Brave Church family. Let's continue to support, love, and serve one another as we grow in Christ.

Friends, you've been lied to. The world around us is filled with lies about what it means to be single, what marriage looks like, and everything in between. Our culture, politicians, social media, even some churches that don’t open up the Bible, have all spread misconceptions about God’s design for singleness and marriage. But today, we’re going to focus on God's truth, especially as it relates to singleness.

You see, we've been talking about how God designed us in His image, created us as male and female, and established marriage. But one topic we often overlook is how God views singleness. And so today, I want to address that. If you’re single, I want you to know that God sees you, and His Word speaks directly to you.

God’s Perspective on Singleness
Let's be clear—you’re either married or you’re single. If you’ve never been married, you’re single. If you’re widowed or divorced, you’re single. And God has something to say about that. Too often, we view singleness through a lens of pity or as something to be "fixed." When I Googled "Christian singles," I was shocked to see how the verses that popped up were the same ones you'd give to someone in hospice care! Friends, singles aren’t dying—they’re living! And God has a plan for their lives just as much as He does for anyone else.

The Truth About Being Single
God designed us first as singles. Every one of us started that way. Even two of the most impactful people in the Bible, Jesus Christ and the Apostle Paul, were single. They weren't walking around feeling sorry for themselves. They were living out God’s mission with passion and purpose!
If you’re single, it’s not a waiting period or a time to feel incomplete. It’s an opportunity to maximize your faithfulness and grow deeper in your relationship with Christ. So, how can you make the most of your singleness?

1. Trust God’s Leading
Deuteronomy 31:8 says, "The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Trust that God knows exactly where He’s leading you. He's not up there wringing His hands, wondering what to do with your life. He’s got a plan, and it's a good one. Singles, trust that God’s got you. Trust that He’s leading you even when you can’t see it.

2. Trust God’s Presence
God isn’t just ahead of you—He's with you right now. Whether you’re single, married, divorced, or widowed, God’s presence is the most intimate relationship you’ll ever experience. And if you’re not finding fulfillment in Christ as a single, marriage won’t fix that.
Take this time to fall deeper in love with Jesus. Serve Him, pray, grow in community, and experience His presence. When you do, you'll realize that no earthly relationship can ever fill what only He was meant to fulfill.

3. Trust God’s Ability
If God can create the universe in six days, part the Red Sea, and raise Jesus from the dead, He certainly has the power to bring the right person into your life if that’s His will. He’s more than able to provide, guide, and fulfill your desires according to His perfect plan. So, don’t settle. Don’t compromise. Trust His ability to write your story in a way that glorifies Him.

4. Trust God’s Counsel
God’s Word says, “Do not fear or be dismayed.” So many singles walk around in fear—fear of missing out, fear of being alone, fear of never finding "the one." But God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear. Surround yourself with godly people who will speak truth into your life. Lean into the wisdom of others who have walked this journey before you.

Final Encouragement:
If you’re single, know this: You are not a "second-class citizen" in God’s kingdom. You are valuable, you are loved, and you have a unique role to play in God’s mission. Don’t waste this season waiting for what’s next. Dive deep into your relationship with Jesus, live on mission, and trust that He will guide you every step of the way.
And if you’re married, be reminded that your spouse is not meant to complete you—that’s Christ’s job. Instead, see your marriage as a way to grow in your walk with God together.
Let’s continue to trust in God’s timing, His plan, and His goodness, whether we’re married or single. And remember this: God is with you, and He will never leave you or forsake you.

The Foundation of Family
Today, as we continue our "Families Fortified" series, I want to remind you of something: Before I got married, I thought I was a marriage expert. My wife and I used to counsel married couples when we were single, thinking, “What’s their problem? This is so easy to figure out!” Then we got married and quickly realized we weren’t experts at all.
The same goes for parenting. Before we had kids, we thought we had it all figured out. We read the books, made our plans, and then our first child arrived. Suddenly, everything changed. We went from being strict disciplinarians to checking if our baby was breathing every few minutes and responding to every little whimper.
Parenting is challenging, and every family is unique. But as we explore God’s plan for the family, we want to focus on what He says about raising the next generation. It’s not about following a specific method or technique; it’s about aligning our lives with God’s principles.

God’s Generational Strategy
Let’s open our Bibles to Deuteronomy 6. In this chapter, God gives us a generational strategy for parenting. These principles apply whether you’re preparing to be a parent, already raising kids, or have grown children. God’s Word is timeless, and His commands are meant to guide us through every season of life.

1. Train Your Children to Fear and Obey God
   God’s first instruction to parents is to teach our children to fear and obey Him so they can enjoy His promises. In Deuteronomy 6:1-2, Moses tells the Israelites that the commandments and statutes of God are to be obeyed so that their children and grandchildren might fear the Lord. This fear isn’t about being scared of God; it’s about reverence and respect for who He is.
   The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). When we teach our children to fear God, we’re teaching them to live with an awareness that every thought, word, and deed will be accountable to Him. This isn’t just about religious practice; it’s about a lifestyle of obedience.
   Do your children see you living in the fear of the Lord? Do they witness your obedience to His commands? As parents, we must model this behavior, showing our children that we make decisions based on our desire to honor God, even when it’s difficult.
2. Train Your Children to Hear and Love God
   Next, we must teach our children to hear and love God so they can experience His provisions. Deuteronomy 6:4-6 tells us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and might. This means submitting our passions, choices, and thoughts to God, making Him the center of our lives.
   Our children need to see us seeking God’s guidance in everything we do. Do you read the Bible together as a family? Do you pray together, asking God for wisdom? When your children see you prioritizing God’s Word and seeking His voice, they learn how to do the same.
3. Train Your Children to Honor and Worship God
   God also commands us to teach our children to honor and worship Him. Deuteronomy 6:12-15 warns us not to forget the Lord when He blesses us. In times of prosperity, it’s easy to become complacent, thinking we no longer need God. But we must remember that every good thing comes from Him.
   Do your children see you honoring God in all areas of your life? Is worship a priority in your home? Do they know that gathering with the church is non-negotiable, regardless of the weather, sports events, or other distractions? Modeling consistent worship and honor for God teaches our children that He deserves our best.
4. Train Your Children to Testify and Trust God
   Finally, we must train our children to testify about God’s goodness and trust Him in all circumstances. Deuteronomy 6:20-25 encourages us to share our testimony with our children, telling them about God’s faithfulness in our lives.
   When your children ask why you do what you do, are you ready to testify? Do they know the stories of God’s deliverance and provision in your life? Sharing these stories helps them see that God is real and active in your life, and it encourages them to trust Him with their own lives.

Conclusion
As parents, we have the privilege and responsibility of raising the next generation to know, love, and serve the Lord. It’s not always easy, and we won’t do it perfectly. But God’s grace is sufficient, and He is with us every step of the way.
Today, as we prepare to take communion, let’s reflect on how we can better align our lives with these principles. Let’s confess where we’ve fallen short and ask God for the strength to lead our families according to His Word.
God loves you, He created you, and He cares for you. His mercies are new every morning, and His grace is available to help you raise your children in the way they should go.

The Divine Design of Family Roles

Everything that is designed has a purpose. When a designer sits down to put something together, there's a reason for it. A watch tells time, a phone communicates, and a vehicle gets you from point A to point B. Every design has a purpose, including us.
As we started this Families Fortified series, we discussed how God, the ultimate designer, created us with inherent value because we are made in His image. Unlike the stars or the moon, humans are uniquely created in the image of God, giving each person intrinsic value and worth.

We also learned that God created two genders, male and female, as stated in Psalm 139. Our gender is definitive of the purpose that God has for us on this planet, ultimately to propagate the gospel through our families. This is why the family unit is constantly under attack.

Today, we focus on the purpose within our genders and how these roles play out in the family. This topic can be controversial, but I am not here to be a PR agent for the Lord. I am a proclaimer. We must understand that God's design for family roles is perfect and brings Him glory.

In Ephesians 5:22-33, we see that husbands and wives have distinct roles. Wives are called to submit to their husbands as to the Lord, and husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church, giving Himself up for her. This submission and love are not about value but about order and function within the family, much like the Trinity, where Jesus submits to the Father and the Holy Spirit submits to the Father and the Son, yet all are equal in value.

Submission is a position of strength, not weakness. It is about willingly placing oneself under another's authority for the sake of order and function. For wives, this means respecting and submitting to their husbands in everything, as long as it does not lead to sin or harm.

Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, to sanctify and cleanse them with the word, and to present them holy and blameless. This love involves daily suffering and sacrifice, not just dying for their wives but living for them in a way that honors God.
Men, your most important title is husband. Your wife's needs should come before anything else. Love her as Christ loves the church, with unconditional, sacrificial love. Wives, respect your husbands and submit to their leadership as you would to Christ.

If we all commit to these roles, our marriages will reflect God's glory, and our families will be fortified. The spiritually mature one starts, so let's all take what the Lord has shown us and put it into practice. This is how we honor God in our families and set a foundation for the next generation.

May we all strive to hear those words one day, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Amen.

I'm very excited to kick off this Families Fortified series, and there are many ways we could tackle this. But I want to tell you from the onset, when I say the word "family," I know it elicits an emotional response. For some of you, it’s a response of delight. You think about your mom, your dad, perhaps your current family—your wife or husband or children—and you’re like, "Family's the best." Family is where we connect, build each other up, love, and be ourselves.
But for others, the word "family" brings different feelings—abuse, absence of a father, divorce, pain, shattering, hurt. It’s where was dad? How come I had to endure that? Where was God? I realize I’m talking to a wide audience—young children, older people, those who have never been married and want to be, those who are married and divorced,those who are widowed, and those wondering what to do next. Family elicits a range of emotions because it's foundational to who we are and how we relate to the world.

Understanding Family Through God's Word
So, as we begin this series, let’s start with the Word of God. Open your Bibles to Genesis chapter one. We're going to start right in the beginning because that's where God begins to speak about this topic. Specifically, we'll focus on verses 26 to 31.
Genesis 1:1 says, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This is the most controversial passage in the Bible. Our world doesn't want to hear it, but before anything ever was, God says, "I am," and He created it all. Genesis 1 tells us that God created everything out of nothing in six literal days and rested on the seventh. If you believe the Bible, you'll come to that conclusion because God tells us plainly.

Created in God's Image
On the sixth day, God did something different. He created humankind in His image. Let’s read Genesis 1:26-27: "Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.' God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them."
You are distinct from anything else in all of God's creation. Mentally, relationally, morally, spiritually, and willfully, you reflect God's nature. This is where your value comes from. Even if you woke up today feeling worthless, remember that the God of the universe created you and gave you your life. That's why you have value.

Rooted in Our Gender
Now, your purpose is also rooted in your God-given gender. Genesis 1:27 tells us, "Male and female He created them." According to God's Word, there are two genders: male and female. Your gender is not a mistake; it's a gift from God, integral to His plan for your life.
Psalm 139:13-14 says, "For you formed my inward parts; you wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are your works, and my soul knows it very well." God designed every part of you. If you're born a boy, God wants you to grow into a man. If you're born a girl, God wants you to grow into a woman. Embrace that identity because it’s part of His perfect plan.

The Mission: Establishing Godly Families
God’s first command to humanity in Genesis 1:28 is to be fruitful and multiply. Marriage and family are at the heart of God's plan. Genesis 2:24-25 says, "For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed." God designed marriage as a union between one man and one woman, reflecting His image and furthering His kingdom. Your mission, rooted in establishing a godly family, is central to God’s design. Families are the primary means through which God’s love and truth are propagated. By raising godly offspring and nurturing them in the faith, we ensure the continuation of His work on earth. This mission requires intentional effort and dedication but promises great reward and fulfillment.

Facing Challenges with Faith
We acknowledge that family life can be challenging. Whether dealing with personal struggles, relational issues, or societal pressures, we must rely on God’s strength and guidance. In times of difficulty, let us remember that God is with us, providing the grace and wisdom needed to navigate these challenges.

Conclusion: 
As we reflect on God’s mandate for families, let us commit to prioritizing family in our lives. Whether we are single, married, or navigating complex family dynamics, we can contribute to the strength and vitality of families within our community. By embracing our identity in God, fulfilling our gender roles, and committing to the mission of family, we honor God and further His kingdom. May we stand firm in our faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, as we build strong families that reflect God’s love and truth to the world. Amen. 

Introduction
Hey everyone, I’m so glad you’re here for the next installment of our "Fortified Families" series! Last week, we dove into Genesis 1, exploring how God created the world and humankind in His image, the significance of our gender, and our mission to establish families. Today, we're going to dig deeper into what happens when we get married, the significance of our vows, and how to fight for what God has created.

The Foundation of Oneness in Marriage
Let's start with Genesis 2:24-25: "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed."
This passage beautifully illustrates the essence of oneness in marriage. When we get married, we’re not just two individuals anymore. We make a vow before God to become one. God sees us as one entity, united in purpose and mission.

Five Truths About Marriage
1. Listening: A Regular Opportunity for Oneness
Listening is crucial. James 1:19 tells us to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry." Listening means valuing the person speaking, understanding their perspective, and being humble enough to learn from them. In marriage, listening shows that we value and honor our spouse. It fosters a sense of being understood and cherished.
2. Honor: Showing Preference for One Another
Romans 12:10 says, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor." Honor means appreciating how the other person thinks and feels, and valuing their preferences. Preferring one another in everyday decisions builds a stronger, more respectful relationship.
3. Intimacy: Trusting One Another
Genesis 2:25 describes Adam and Eve as being "both naked and were not ashamed." Intimacy in marriage involves trust and honesty. It’s about being emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically open with one another. Building trust is crucial for a fulfilling intimate relationship. Remember, the most important sex organ you bring into a marriage is your mind.
4. Prayer: Interceding for One Another
Jeremiah 33:3 promises, "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Couples that pray together stay together. Praying for and with your spouse strengthens your bond and invites God's guidance into your relationship. Pray blessings over your spouse, pray for their growth, and pray for your relationship.
5. Forgiveness: Releasing One Another
Forgiveness is vital in marriage. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to "be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Forgiveness means letting go of past hurts and not holding grudges. It’s about releasing your spouse and allowing grace to heal your relationship.

Conclusion
No marriage is perfect, but by applying these principles, you can grow and thrive together. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or widowed, these truths can help you build stronger, more fulfilling relationships.
If you're feeling convicted or wish you had done things differently, remember that God offers grace and redemption. Reflect on the cleansing power of Jesus' blood, invite Him into your singleness or marriage, and allow Him to guide you in starting afresh today.