All posts by John (HFJ Director)

All Powerful / King of All, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Persecution / Glorifying God, Protector / Deliverer, Salvation, Satan, Spiritual Warfare, Strong in Our Weakness

Keep God’s Commandments AND Hold to the Testimony of Christ

Revelation 12 lays out some key fundamentals in the spiritual warfare between Satan and YHWH’s people in some attention-grabbing visualizations. Notice you will find no labels of “Jewish” or “Christian”. These labels are not always meaningful as many call themselves by these names but do not follow YHWH or do not hold to the testimony of Yeshua. In verse 17 we see that the key is not what label someone claims, but if you actually “keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus”.

It seems obvious that the Jewish people do not hold to the testimony of Yeshua. However, it may only be slightly less obvious that most who identify as “Christian”, holding to the testimony of Christ, do not keep the whole of the commandments of YHWH. Common Christian teaching holds to some commandments and dismisses many others. It is not simply about “the 10 commandments”. There is so much more to be learned and followed in studying the foundational books of the Bible, the Torah (written by Moses), and the writings of the prophets. For many, they do well to genuinely focus on starting to really live out the 10 commandments in their lives. This is a good place to begin.

I encourage Jewish people to seek Messiah in Yeshua. I encourage Christians to seek to study the Bible and challenge to deepen our understanding of the Hebrew roots of our faith and the fullness of the wonderful things in the law of YHWH.  (Focused Ministries – Understanding the Hebrew Roots of Christianity)

Revelation 12

The Woman, Israel

     1A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; 2and she was with child; and she cried out, being in labor and in pain to give birth.

The Red Dragon, Satan

     3Then another sign appeared in heaven: and behold, a great red dragon having seven heads and ten horns, and on his heads were seven diadems. 4And his tail swept away a third of the stars of heaven and threw them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to give birth, so that when she gave birth he might devour her child.

The Male Child, Christ

     5And she gave birth to a son, a male child, who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron; and her child was caught up to God and to His throne. 6Then the woman fled into the wilderness where she had a place prepared by God, so that there she would be nourished for one thousand two hundred and sixty days.

The Angel, Michael

     7And there was war in heaven, Michael and his angels waging war with the dragon. The dragon and his angels waged war, 8and they were not strong enough, and there was no longer a place found for them in heaven. 9And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. 10Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying,
“Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, he who accuses them before our God day and night. 11“And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even when faced with death. 12“For this reason, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them. Woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you, having great wrath, knowing that he has only a short time.”

      13And when the dragon saw that he was thrown down to the earth, he persecuted the woman who gave birth to the male child. 14But the two wings of the great eagle were given to the woman, so that she could fly into the wilderness to her place, where she was nourished for a time and times and half a time, from the presence of the serpent. 15And the serpent poured water like a river out of his mouth after the woman, so that he might cause her to be swept away with the flood. 16But the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened its mouth and drank up the river which the dragon poured out of his mouth. 17So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please help open my eyes to both the testimony of Yeshua and obedience to all Your commandments. Help me fully embrace You and Your ways and not only do so in part as so many do. I want to do more than just claim Your name and go to church. I want to live my life for You. I know I fall short, but please help me. Amen.  

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Contentment, Greed, Money / Finances / Wealth, Peace / Rest, Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Be Content with What God Provides (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20)

Are you so focused on what you do not have that you forget to enjoy what God has already given?

Key Verse:
“Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one’s labor…” —Ecclesiastes 5:18 NASB

Background Context:
In Ecclesiastes 5:8–17, Solomon reflects on the emptiness of loving money and the endless striving that often accompanies wealth and possessions. He observes that earthly gain alone cannot provide lasting peace or satisfaction.

Now in Ecclesiastes 5:18–20, Solomon shifts toward a more hopeful conclusion, emphasizing that true enjoyment and contentment come not from endless accumulation, but from receiving life and daily blessings as gifts from God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Ecclesiastes 5:18–20

      18Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one’s labor in which he toils under the sun during the few years of his life which God has given him; for this is his reward. 19Furthermore, as for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, He has also empowered him to eat from them and to receive his reward and rejoice in his labor; this is the gift of God. 20For he will not often consider the years of his life, because God keeps him occupied with the gladness of his heart.

Reflection on Ecclesiastes 5:18–20:
After describing the frustration and anxiety tied to wealth, Solomon pauses and says:

“Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting…”

This marks an important shift.

Instead of continuing to focus on what is empty “under the sun,” Solomon points toward something good:
receiving life as a gift from God.

He mentions simple things:

  • eating
  • drinking
  • enjoying one’s labor

These are ordinary parts of life.

And that is exactly the point.

Contentment is often not found in extraordinary achievement or endless accumulation, but in gratefully receiving the daily blessings God already provides.

This is deeply important because the human heart naturally drifts toward dissatisfaction.

People often believe:

  • “I’ll be content when…”
  • “I’ll enjoy life once I achieve…”
  • “I’ll finally have peace when I possess more…”

But Solomon repeatedly shows that endless striving does not satisfy.

Instead, he says that the ability to enjoy life itself is a gift from God.

This is a major theme in Ecclesiastes.

Not everyone who possesses wealth actually enjoys it. Some spend their lives accumulating while remaining anxious, restless, or discontent.

But the person who receives life gratefully from God experiences something different.

This does not mean life becomes perfect or free from hardship.

Rather, it means that joy is no longer dependent entirely on circumstances.

Solomon says:
“For he will not often consider the years of his life, because God keeps him occupied with the gladness of his heart.”

This is a beautiful picture.

A grateful heart is not consumed constantly with frustration, comparison, regret, or endless striving. Instead, it learns to enjoy the gifts God gives in the present season.

This connects closely with other Scriptures.

Philippians 4:11–13 speaks of learning contentment in every circumstance.

James 1:17 reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from God.

True contentment is not rooted in having everything we want.

It is rooted in trusting God and gratefully receiving what He provides.

This passage challenges us to slow down and ask:

Are we constantly chasing what is next?
Or are we learning to thank God for what He has already given?

Because a life consumed by striving will rarely experience peace.

But a life centered on gratitude can find joy even in ordinary moments.

Solomon reminds us that:

  • work can be meaningful
  • daily provision can be joyful
  • and life itself can be received as a gift

when it is viewed through the perspective of God’s goodness.

Application:

  • Practice gratitude for the daily blessings God has already given you.
  • Guard your heart against endless striving and comparison.
  • Learn to enjoy simple gifts and ordinary moments.
  • Remember that true contentment comes from God, not possessions.
  • Trust God to provide what you truly need for each season of life.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the many gifts and blessings You provide each day. Teach me to live with gratitude and contentment rather than endless striving. Help me to enjoy the life You have given and to trust You fully in every season. Guard my heart from comparison and dissatisfaction, and fill me with joy rooted in Your goodness. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Courage / Fear, Faith / Trusting God, Learning To Pray Effectively, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms

Let Fear Give Way to Praise (Psalm 57)

Where do you run when life feels overwhelming and danger surrounds you?

Key Verse:
“Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge until destruction passes by.” —Psalm 57:1 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 57 was written by David when he fled from Saul into the cave (1 Samuel 22:1; 24:1–3). David was under pressure, hunted by enemies, and living in uncertainty.

Following Psalm 56, which emphasized trusting God in the midst of fear, Psalm 57 continues that theme but shifts more strongly toward worship, confidence, and praise in the middle of hardship.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 57

Prayer for Rescue from Persecutors.

For the choir director; set to Al-tashheth. A Mikhtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave.

     1Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me,
For my soul takes refuge in You;
And in the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge
Until destruction passes by.

      2I will cry to God Most High,
To God who accomplishes all things for me.

      3He will send from heaven and save me;
He reproaches him who tramples upon me.

Selah.

God will send forth His lovingkindness and His truth.

      4My soul is among lions;
I must lie among those who breathe forth fire,
Even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows
And their tongue a sharp sword.

      5Be exalted above the heavens, O God;
Let Your glory be above all the earth.

      6They have prepared a net for my steps;
My soul is bowed down;
They dug a pit before me;
They themselves have fallen into the midst of it.

Selah.

      7My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast;
I will sing, yes, I will sing praises!

      8Awake, my glory!
Awake, harp and lyre!
I will awaken the dawn.

      9I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples;
I will sing praises to You among the nations.

      10For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens
And Your truth to the clouds.

      11Be exalted above the heavens, O God;
Let Your glory be above all the earth.

Reflection on Psalm 57:
David begins this psalm crying out for mercy.

He is still in danger.
His circumstances are still difficult.
The threat has not disappeared.

Yet immediately, David declares where his refuge is found:

“In the shadow of Your wings I will take refuge…”

This is a beautiful picture of protection, safety, and closeness to God.

David is not placing his ultimate confidence in:

  • caves
  • hiding places
  • military strength
  • or human solutions

His true refuge is God Himself.

This is important because it reminds us that peace is not ultimately found in perfect circumstances. Real security comes from resting in the presence and care of God.

David says he will cry out to “God Most High,” the One who accomplishes all things for him.

Even while hiding in a cave, David believes God is still sovereign and still working.

This is a powerful expression of faith.

It is easy to trust God after deliverance comes.
It is harder to trust Him while still waiting in the cave.

David describes enemies surrounding him:

  • people whose words wound like spears and arrows
  • those seeking to trap and destroy him

Yet the psalm begins shifting.

Instead of remaining focused entirely on fear and danger, David turns his attention upward:

“Be exalted above the heavens, O God…”

This statement appears twice in the psalm and becomes its anchor.

David chooses worship in the middle of trouble.

This is one of the most powerful lessons in Psalm 57.

Worship is not reserved only for easy seasons.

David praises God before the situation changes.

He says:
“My heart is steadfast…”

Not because life is easy.
Not because danger is gone.

But because his confidence is rooted in God.

Then David says something remarkable:
“Awake, my glory… I will awaken the dawn!”

Instead of being consumed by fear through the night, David stirs himself toward praise.

The psalm ends not with despair, but with worship and confidence in God’s lovingkindness and faithfulness.

This progression is deeply encouraging.

David begins hiding in a cave.
He ends exalting God above the heavens.

What changed?

His focus shifted from the size of his danger to the greatness of God.

Psalm 57 reminds us that even in seasons of fear, uncertainty, and waiting:

  • God remains faithful
  • God remains worthy of worship
  • and God remains our refuge

Sometimes faith is not denying the difficulty around us.

Sometimes faith is choosing to worship while still in the middle of it.

Application:

  • Run to God as your refuge when fear and pressure rise.
  • Choose worship even before circumstances improve.
  • Remind yourself regularly of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty.
  • Refuse to let fear become the center of your focus.
  • Develop a steadfast heart rooted in trust and praise.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being my refuge and shelter in difficult seasons. Help me to trust You when fear and uncertainty surround me. Teach me to worship You even while I am still waiting for deliverance. Strengthen my heart to remain steadfast and focused on Your faithfulness rather than my circumstances. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Knowing, Faith / Trusting God, Revelation

Trusting God When the Full Picture Is Hidden (Revelation 10)

What do you do when God reveals enough to trust Him—but not enough to fully understand everything?

Key Verse:
“Take it and eat it; it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.” —Revelation 10:9 NASB

Background Context:
After the intense trumpet judgments of Revelation 8–9, Revelation 10 provides a pause in the middle of escalating judgment. Rather than focusing primarily on destruction, the chapter shifts attention toward God’s authority, His unfolding plan, and the continued mission of proclaiming His truth.

John encounters a mighty angel, hears mysterious thunderous voices, and receives a little scroll with instructions that carry both sweetness and bitterness.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 10

The Angel and the Little Book

      1I saw another strong angel coming down out of heaven, clothed with a cloud; and the rainbow was upon his head, and his face was like the sun, and his feet like pillars of fire; 2and he had in his hand a little book which was open. He placed his right foot on the sea and his left on the land; 3and he cried out with a loud voice, as when a lion roars; and when he had cried out, the seven peals of thunder uttered their voices. 4When the seven peals of thunder had spoken, I was about to write; and I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Seal up the things which the seven peals of thunder have spoken and do not write them.” 5Then the angel whom I saw standing on the sea and on the land lifted up his right hand to heaven, 6and swore by Him who lives forever and ever, WHO CREATED HEAVEN AND THE THINGS IN IT, AND THE EARTH AND THE THINGS IN IT, AND THE SEA AND THE THINGS IN IT, that there will be delay no longer, 7but in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he is about to sound, then the mystery of God is finished, as He preached to His servants the prophets.

      8Then the voice which I heard from heaven, I heard again speaking with me, and saying, “Go, take the book which is open in the hand of the angel who stands on the sea and on the land.” 9So I went to the angel, telling him to give me the little book. And he said to me, “Take it and eat it; it will make your stomach bitter, but in your mouth it will be sweet as honey.” 10I took the little book out of the angel’s hand and ate it, and in my mouth it was sweet as honey; and when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter. 11And they said to me, “You must prophesy again concerning many peoples and nations and tongues and kings.”

Reflection on Revelation 10:
After the heaviness of Revelation 9, Revelation 10 changes the pace dramatically.

John sees a mighty angel descending from heaven:

  • clothed with a cloud
  • a rainbow over his head
  • face shining like the sun
  • feet like pillars of fire

The imagery reflects majesty, authority, and the glory of God.

The angel places one foot on the sea and one on the land, symbolizing authority over the whole earth. Then he cries out, and seven thunders respond.

But something unexpected happens.

John is told not to write down what the seven thunders said.

This is important.

Not everything is revealed.

Even in Revelation—a book filled with prophecy and disclosure—God still withholds certain details.

This reminds us that God does not give humanity complete knowledge of everything He is doing. There are mysteries that remain under His authority and wisdom.

That can be difficult for us.

We often want:

  • complete explanations
  • precise timelines
  • full understanding

But faith often requires trusting God even when we do not have every answer.

The angel then declares:
“There will be delay no longer…”

God’s plan is moving toward fulfillment.

What has been unfolding through generations is advancing toward completion exactly according to God’s timing.

Again we see a theme repeated throughout Scripture:
God’s timing is deliberate and purposeful.

John is then told to take the little scroll and eat it.

In his mouth it is sweet like honey, but in his stomach it becomes bitter.

This powerful picture reflects the nature of God’s message.

God’s truth is sweet because:

  • it comes from Him
  • it reveals His purposes
  • it brings hope and salvation

But it is also bitter because:

  • it includes judgment
  • it exposes sin
  • it involves suffering and difficult realities

This tension appears throughout Scripture.

Following God brings joy and life, yet faithfully proclaiming His truth can also involve hardship, rejection, and grief over sin and judgment.

The prophet Ezekiel experienced something similar in Ezekiel 2–3 when he was told to eat a scroll containing God’s message before speaking to the people.

John’s final instruction is important:
“You must prophesy again…”

Even after seeing terrifying judgment and difficult truths, the mission continues.

God’s message still needs to be proclaimed.

This chapter reminds us that:

  • we will not always understand everything God is doing
  • God’s truth contains both comfort and warning
  • and followers of Christ are still called to remain faithful and continue speaking truth

Faith is not built on having every answer.

Faith is built on trusting the One who holds the answers.

Application:

  • Trust God even when you do not fully understand His plan.
  • Accept both the comforting and challenging parts of God’s truth.
  • Remain faithful to God’s calling even when it becomes difficult.
  • Remember that God’s timing is purposeful and never out of control.
  • Continue seeking and proclaiming truth with humility and obedience.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust You even when I do not fully understand what You are doing. Teach me to accept both the sweetness and the difficulty of Your truth. Strengthen me to remain faithful and obedient in every season. Thank You that Your plans are wise, purposeful, and completely under Your control. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Love, Persecution / Glorifying God

What Does It Really Mean to Love Your Enemies? (Matthew 5:43–48)

How do we love people who oppose us, mistreat us, or reject God’s truth?

Key Verse:
“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” —Matthew 5:44 NASB

Background Context:
In Matthew 5:43–48, Yeshua continues teaching during the Sermon on the Mount, calling His followers to live differently than the world around them. While people naturally love those who treat them well, Yeshua challenges believers to reflect the character of God by showing love even toward enemies and persecutors.

This teaching goes far beyond outward behavior—it addresses the condition of the heart and what it means to truly reflect God’s character in difficult relationships.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Matthew 5:43–48

  43“You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’ 44“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46“For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47“If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48“Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Reflection on Matthew 5:43–48:
Jesus says something that completely challenges human nature:

“Love your enemies.”

The world understands loving friends, family, and those who treat us kindly. But Yeshua points His followers toward something radically different.

He asks:
“If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that?”

Even unbelievers do that.

The distinguishing mark of a follower of Christ is not loving people when it is easy—it is reflecting God’s character when it is difficult.

But it is important to understand what loving enemies actually means.

Loving someone does not mean:

  • approving of their sin
  • ignoring evil
  • abandoning truth
  • or allowing someone to destroy you

Biblical love is not passive acceptance of everything a person does.

1 Corinthians 13:4–7 describes love as patient, kind, enduring, and truthful. Importantly, it says that love “does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth.”

True love cares enough to value truth.

Sometimes loving someone means warning them that they are walking in sin and encouraging them to repent. Ignoring destructive behavior is not loving—it is indifference.

If children were playing with a sharp knife, loving them would not mean silently watching while they hurt themselves. Love would speak up because love cares about the outcome.

In the same way, speaking truth with humility and compassion can be an act of love.

This is exactly what we see throughout Scripture. God’s love does not ignore sin—He calls people away from it because He desires life, restoration, and transformation.

Jesus also says:
“Pray for those who persecute you.”

Again, this does not mean praying for evil to succeed. It means praying for hearts to change.

Pray:

  • for them to know truth
  • for them to encounter Christ
  • for repentance
  • for transformation
  • for salvation

This reflects the heart of God.

One of the greatest examples is Saul in Acts 9. Saul persecuted Christians fiercely, yet after encountering Yeshua, his life was completely transformed. He became Paul—one of the greatest missionaries and teachers of the Gospel.

Imagine if believers had only hated Saul and never desired his repentance.

God’s power can transform even those who strongly oppose Him.

This passage ultimately points us toward the character of God Himself.

Jesus says the Father:

  • sends rain on the just and unjust
  • shows kindness even toward sinners
  • extends mercy broadly

As His followers, we are called to reflect that same heart.

This does not mean abandoning wisdom, boundaries, or truth.

It means refusing to let hatred, bitterness, and revenge control us.

It means responding in a way that reflects Christ rather than merely mirroring the world.

The command to “be perfect” points toward spiritual maturity and completeness—a growing reflection of the Father’s character in how we love, forgive, speak truth, and pray for others.

This is not natural.

It is something God develops within us as we follow Him.

Application:

  • Pray for those who oppose, mistreat, or persecute you.
  • Remember that loving someone does not mean approving of sin.
  • Speak truth with humility, compassion, and a desire for repentance.
  • Guard your heart from bitterness, hatred, and revenge.
  • Reflect God’s character by responding differently than the world.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to love others the way You have called me to love. Teach me to respond with grace, truth, humility, and compassion even when others oppose or mistreat me. Guard my heart from bitterness and revenge, and help me to pray sincerely for those who need transformation through Christ. Shape my character so that my life reflects Your love and truth. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Grace / Patience, Humility, Patient, Revenge

Respond Differently Than the World (Matthew 5:38-42)

How do you respond when someone treats you unfairly or disrespectfully?

Key Verse:
“But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.” —Matthew 5:39 NASB

Background Context:
In Matthew 5:38–42, Yeshua continues teaching during the Sermon on the Mount. The people knew the Old Testament principle of “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth,” which originally served to limit excessive punishment and establish fair justice (Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20).

But Yeshua shifts the focus away from personal retaliation and toward a radically different response—one marked by patience, humility, generosity, and love.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Matthew 5:38-42

     38“You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’ 39“But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40“If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also. 41“Whoever forces you to go one mile, go with him two. 42“Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.

Reflection on Matthew 5:38–42:
Jesus teaches something that feels completely opposite to the way the world naturally responds.

The world says:

  • “Get even.”
  • “Don’t let anyone disrespect you.”
  • “Make them pay.”
  • “Fight back.”

But Yeshua points His followers toward a different way.

He does not encourage revenge.

At the same time, He is also not teaching passive surrender to evil in every possible situation. It is important to recognize the examples He gives.

A slap on the cheek is insulting and disrespectful, but not life-threatening. Carrying a soldier’s gear another mile is inconvenient and difficult, but not destructive. Giving up a coat in a legal dispute is sacrificial, but not equivalent to abandoning all responsibility or stewardship.

Yeshua is deliberately speaking about relatively minor personal offenses and inconveniences.

And in none of these examples are believers being asked to:

  • deny God
  • compromise truth
  • participate in sin
  • or enable evil behavior

Instead, He is challenging us to give up our instinct for personal retaliation.

This is deeply difficult because pride naturally wants revenge.

When someone insults us, we want to insult back.
When someone mistreats us, we want them to suffer as well.

But Yeshua calls us to respond differently.

Why?

Because our response can reflect the character of God.

Romans 12:17–21 teaches a similar principle:
“Never pay back evil for evil to anyone… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

This does not mean justice never matters. Scripture still supports justice, protection of the innocent, and appropriate authority structures. But personally, believers are not to be driven by bitterness, vengeance, or pride.

Instead, Yeshua teaches:

  • patience over retaliation
  • generosity over selfishness
  • humility over pride
  • love over revenge

The extra mile illustration is especially powerful.

Roman soldiers could legally compel someone to carry equipment for one mile. Going a second mile voluntarily would have been shocking.

Why?

Because it transformed the interaction.

Instead of responding with resentment alone, the believer responds in a way that reflects a changed heart.

This kind of response stands out.

It reveals that Christ has transformed us internally.

1 Peter 2:20–23 points to Yeshua Himself as the example. When He suffered unjustly, He did not retaliate or threaten revenge, but entrusted Himself to the Father.

This is the heart of the teaching.

Followers of Christ are called to respond differently than the world—not because weakness is good, but because God’s way reflects something greater than pride and revenge.

Sometimes the most powerful testimony is not winning an argument or getting even.

Sometimes it is showing patience, grace, and self-control when the world expects anger.

This passage challenges us to ask:

When people mistreat us, do they see a response shaped by the world… or shaped by Christ?

Application:

  • Resist the temptation to seek personal revenge when treated unfairly.
  • Respond to minor offenses with patience, humility, and grace.
  • Remember that your reactions can reflect Christ to others.
  • Distinguish between enduring inconvenience and compromising biblical truth.
  • Ask God to help you overcome evil with good rather than bitterness.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to respond to others with the love, patience, and humility that Yeshua taught. Guard my heart from pride, bitterness, and revenge. Teach me to reflect Your character even when others treat me unfairly. Give me wisdom to respond with both grace and truth, and let my life point others toward You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Holy / Set Apart, Intgegrity / Honesty

Can People Trust Your Word? (Matthew 5:33-37)

Would the people around you trust your word without needing a promise?

Key Verse:
“But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.” —Matthew 5:37 NASB

Background Context:
In Matthew 5:33–37, Yeshua teaches about honesty, integrity, and truthfulness as part of the Sermon on the Mount. Rather than focusing merely on outward vows or religious formulas, He addresses the deeper issue of whether a person’s character and words can be trusted consistently.

At the time, people often strengthened their statements by swearing oaths or vows to convince others they were telling the truth. But Yeshua teaches that His followers should live with such integrity that additional vows are unnecessary.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Matthew 5:33-37

     33“Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FALSE VOWS, BUT SHALL FULFILL YOUR VOWS TO THE LORD.’ 34“But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING. 36“Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37“But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.

Reflection on Matthew 5:33–37:
Yeshua says something simple, yet deeply challenging:

“Let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no.’”

In other words:

  • say what you mean
  • mean what you say
  • and live in a way that makes your words trustworthy

This goes beyond avoiding lies.

It speaks to integrity.

A person of integrity does not need dramatic promises, exaggerated assurances, or repeated vows for others to believe them. Their consistent character gives weight to their words.

Yeshua contrasts this with the practice of making vows:

  • “By heaven”
  • “By earth”
  • “By Jerusalem”

People were attaching extra language to their promises in order to appear more trustworthy.

But Yeshua points to a deeper issue:
Why should extra wording be necessary at all?

If we feel the need to say:

  • “I promise…”
  • “I swear…”
  • “Trust me…”

then it may be worth reflecting honestly on why others need that reassurance.

Have we become inconsistent?
Do we often fail to follow through?
Have our words lost credibility through repeated disappointment?

This is not meant to produce shame, but conviction and growth.

Scripture repeatedly emphasizes truthfulness and integrity.

Proverbs 12:22 tells us that “lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.”

James 5:12 echoes the teaching of Yeshua almost directly:
“Let your yes be yes, and your no, no…”

God cares deeply about truthfulness because our words reflect our hearts.

This applies to:

  • commitments
  • relationships
  • work
  • parenting
  • marriage
  • friendships
  • and our witness to others

Trust is built slowly through consistent honesty and follow-through.

And trust can be damaged when our words repeatedly fail to align with our actions.

Yeshua is calling His followers to something higher than outward religious speech.

He is calling us to become people whose character is trustworthy every day.

Not just when making vows.
Not just in important moments.
But consistently.

As followers of Christ, our words should reflect:

  • honesty
  • humility
  • reliability
  • and integrity

Because our speech says much about the condition of our hearts.

Application:

  • Speak truthfully and honestly in all situations.
  • Follow through on commitments you make to others.
  • Reflect honestly on whether your words have become trustworthy over time.
  • Avoid making exaggerated promises to compensate for inconsistency.
  • Ask God to shape your character so your words reflect integrity consistently.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to live with honesty and integrity in my words and actions. Teach me to speak truthfully and to follow through faithfully on my commitments. Reveal any areas where my words and actions are inconsistent, and help me grow into a person whose character reflects Your truth. Let my “yes” mean yes and my “no” mean no. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Consequences of Sin, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Traditions / Holidays

The Ultimate Act of Love: Reflections on Memorial Day

As we recognize Memorial Day, it is a good time to reflect on and appreciate those who have laid down their lives for the rest of us to be able to live free in the United States of America. It is a good time to pray for those who are actively serving, have served, or are surviving family of those who have died in service to our country. God gave us this unique nation based on Judeo-Christian values and heritage. Many have served and died protecting it.

Yeshua demonstrated and taught that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for his friends. He laid down His life for all those who choose to follow Him and submit to Him. We can be thankful for sure that our sins can be forgiven because of Him. We could never pay that debt.

Yeshua also encouraged His disciples to show this kind of love for one another as well… to lay down their life for one another. So, too, are we encouraged to lay down our lives for one another. At times, we may face a situation where we literally must make that choice in an instant. Other times we lay down our lives by how we live for others rather than living for ourselves.

As we read, we should not overlook that Yeshua said that “You are my friends if you do what I command you.” This is clearly important, but a different context in our relationship with Him vs. relationships with each other that we may consider friends. We should obey Yeshua to be His “friend”. We do not need to obey each other to be friends.

John 15:12-17

Disciples’ Relation to Each Other

12“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. 13“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. 14“You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. 16“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. 17“This I command you, that you love one another.

Take time to pray for those who risk their lives or lose them for others. Pray also for their families. Of course, not everyone in uniform is righteous or acts with righteous motives, but many have sacrificed none the less to protect our country and our freedom. Pray also for the leadership in our government so that they would lead well and not recklessly. Further, pray for the people of our nation that they would hold in high regard those that serve to protect our nation and risk their lives to do so.

Take time to also pause and reflect on our Savior, Yeshua, who laid down his life for us so we could be forgiven and reconciled with the Father. Give thanks to him. Do not let that offer be wasted. Rather, submit to him, turn from your sin, and seek him. Let him be Lord of your life. You will find greater joy and peace in this world and after.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You that You sent Yeshua to lay down His life for me, so that I could be forgiven and reconciled to You. Thank You for the people that have sacrificed personally to protect and build up our nation as a free nation built on individual liberty and not dominated by tyrants or a ruling class that controls the people. Please help protect and maintain that nation based on Your principles and ideals from those who would change it for something else, like socialism or simply giving up more and more individual freedom to government control. Please raise up the righteous and bring restoration to the land that we would be a light for the world to bring You glory. 

Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Money / Finances / Wealth, Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Chasing What Cannot Last (Ecclesiastes 5:8-17)

How much is enough before a person finally feels satisfied?

Key Verse:
“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income…” —Ecclesiastes 5:10 NASB

Background Context:
In Ecclesiastes 5:1–7, Solomon emphasizes reverence before God, warning against careless words and shallow worship.

Now in Ecclesiastes 5:8–17, Solomon turns to another common pursuit “under the sun”—wealth, success, and possessions. He observes the corruption, anxiety, and emptiness that often accompany the love of money and earthly gain.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Ecclesiastes 5:8-17

      8If you see oppression of the poor and denial of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be shocked at the sight; for one official watches over another official, and there are higher officials over them. 9After all, a king who cultivates the field is an advantage to the land.

The Folly of Riches

      10He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income. This too is vanity. 11When good things increase, those who consume them increase. So what is the advantage to their owners except to look on? 12The sleep of the working man is pleasant, whether he eats little or much; but the full stomach of the rich man does not allow him to sleep.

      13There is a grievous evil which I have seen under the sun: riches being hoarded by their owner to his hurt. 14When those riches were lost through a bad investment and he had fathered a son, then there was nothing to support him. 15As he had come naked from his mother’s womb, so will he return as he came. He will take nothing from the fruit of his labor that he can carry in his hand. 16This also is a grievous evil—exactly as a man is born, thus will he die. So what is the advantage to him who toils for the wind?

Reflection on Ecclesiastes 5:8–17:
Solomon begins by observing oppression and corruption within human systems.

When people see injustice, abuse of power, and exploitation, they should not be surprised. Those in authority often answer to others above them, creating layers of brokenness and self-interest.

This is a sobering reminder that human systems alone cannot fully solve the problem of sin.

But Solomon quickly shifts toward a deeper issue:
the love of wealth.

“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money…”

This is one of the clearest and most timeless statements in Ecclesiastes.

The pursuit of wealth promises satisfaction, security, and fulfillment. Yet Solomon—who possessed extraordinary wealth and success—declares that money itself never fully satisfies.

Why?

Because desire grows alongside abundance.

The more people gain, the more they often want:

  • more comfort
  • more success
  • more possessions
  • more security
  • more recognition

Contentment remains just out of reach.

Solomon also observes that increased wealth often brings increased burdens.

“When good things increase, those who consume them increase.”

Possessions create responsibility, stress, and anxiety. Wealth can attract:

  • dependence from others
  • fear of loss
  • endless striving
  • sleeplessness

Meanwhile, the laborer who works simply often sleeps more peacefully than the wealthy person consumed by worry.

This reveals an important truth:
peace does not come automatically from abundance.

Solomon then describes another painful reality:
wealth can disappear suddenly.

Riches gained and stored carefully can be lost through difficult circumstances, poor decisions, or unexpected events. And ultimately, no one carries earthly possessions beyond death.

“As he had come naked from his mother’s womb, so will he return…”

This echoes themes Solomon has repeated throughout Ecclesiastes:
earthly things are temporary.

This does not mean money itself is evil.

Scripture does not condemn responsible work, wise stewardship, or provision. Rather, 1 Timothy 6:10 warns that “the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil.”

The issue is where the heart places its trust and hope.

When wealth becomes:

  • identity
  • security
  • purpose
  • or ultimate pursuit

it cannot carry the weight people place upon it.

Only God can provide lasting fulfillment and peace.

This passage challenges us to examine our hearts honestly.

Are we pursuing God while responsibly handling resources?

Or are we chasing possessions as though they will finally satisfy what only God can fill?

Solomon’s observations remain deeply relevant today because the human heart has not changed.

People still strive endlessly for “more,” believing satisfaction waits just beyond the next achievement or purchase.

But Ecclesiastes reminds us:
without God, the pursuit never ends.

True contentment is not found in having everything.

It is found in trusting the One who provides everything.

Application:

  • Examine whether money or possessions have become too central in your heart.
  • Pursue contentment rather than endless striving for “more.”
  • Remember that earthly possessions are temporary and cannot satisfy fully.
  • Practice gratitude for what God has already provided.
  • Place your trust and security in God rather than wealth.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to guard my heart from the love of money and the endless pursuit of worldly gain. Teach me to be content with what You provide and to trust You as my true source of peace and security. Help me to use resources wisely without allowing them to become my focus or identity. Thank You for faithfully providing for my needs. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Courage / Fear, Faith / Trusting God, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

Trusting God When Fear Takes Hold (Psalm 56)

What do you do when fear feels overwhelming and people seem against you?

Key Verse:
“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You.” —Psalm 56:3 NASB

Background Context:
Psalms 56 was written by David when the Philistines seized him in Gath (1 Samuel 21:10–15). David found himself surrounded by enemies, vulnerable, and afraid.

Following Psalm 55, which focused on anxiety and betrayal, Psalm 56 continues the theme of distress but places even greater emphasis on choosing trust in God in the middle of fear.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 56

Supplication for Deliverance and Grateful Trust in God.

For the choir director; according to Jonath elem rehokim. A Mikhtam of David, when the Philistines seized him in Gath.

     1Be gracious to me, O God, for man has trampled upon me;
Fighting all day long he oppresses me.

      2My foes have trampled upon me all day long,
For they are many who fight proudly against me.

      3When I am afraid,
I will put my trust in You.

      4In God, whose word I praise,
In God I have put my trust;
I shall not be afraid.
What can mere man do to me?

      5All day long they distort my words;
All their thoughts are against me for evil.

      6They attack, they lurk,
They watch my steps,
As they have waited to take my life.

      7Because of wickedness, cast them forth,
In anger put down the peoples, O God!

      8You have taken account of my wanderings;
Put my tears in Your bottle.
Are they not in Your book?

      9Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call;
This I know, that God is for me.

      10In God, whose word I praise,
In the LORD, whose word I praise,

      11In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid.
What can man do to me?

      12Your vows are binding upon me, O God;
I will render thank offerings to You.

      13For You have delivered my soul from death,
Indeed my feet from stumbling,
So that I may walk before God
In the light of the living.

Reflection on Psalm 56:
One of the most comforting aspects of this psalm is David’s honesty.

He does not pretend to be fearless.

Instead, he openly admits:
“When I am afraid…”

This is important.

Faith does not mean we never experience fear. Even strong believers encounter moments of anxiety, uncertainty, and vulnerability.

The difference is not the absence of fear.

The difference is what we choose to do with it.

David says:
“I will put my trust in You.”

Fear becomes a turning point toward trust rather than away from God.

David describes people attacking him continually:

  • opposing him
  • twisting his words
  • watching for opportunities against him

He feels surrounded and pressured.

Yet in the middle of all this, David repeatedly returns to the same foundation:
trust in God.

He says:
“In God, whose word I praise…”

This phrase appears multiple times.

David anchors himself not merely in changing circumstances, but in the reliability of God and His word.

This is a key lesson for us.

Fear grows when our focus remains fixed only on:

  • circumstances
  • threats
  • uncertainty
  • and human opposition

Trust grows when we remember:

  • who God is
  • what He has said
  • and that He remains faithful

David then makes a powerful declaration:
“What can mere man do to me?”

This does not mean people cannot hurt us physically or emotionally. David clearly understands danger.

Rather, he is recognizing that human power is limited while God’s authority is ultimate.

Another beautiful moment comes when David says:
“You have taken account of my wanderings; put my tears in Your bottle.”

This reveals the personal care of God.

God is not distant from our pain.
He notices our tears.
He remembers our struggles.

Nothing we experience is unseen by Him.

David’s confidence grows throughout the psalm until he ends with praise and thanksgiving.

He declares that God has delivered his soul from death and enabled him to walk before Him in the light of life.

This progression is important.

David begins afraid.
He ends worshiping.

What changed?

Not necessarily his circumstances.

His focus changed.

Psalm 56 reminds us that fear itself is not failure. The question is whether fear will drive us deeper into anxiety—or deeper into trust.

God does not ask us to pretend fear is absent.

He calls us to trust Him in the middle of it.

Application:

  • Bring your fears honestly before God rather than hiding them.
  • Choose trust in God even when circumstances feel uncertain.
  • Anchor your thoughts in God’s Word rather than fear-driven thinking.
  • Remember that God sees your struggles and cares deeply for you.
  • Let fear become an opportunity to grow in dependence on God.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that I can bring my fears honestly before You. Help me to trust You when anxiety and uncertainty rise in my heart. Remind me that You see every tear and every struggle. Strengthen my faith so that fear drives me closer to You rather than away from You. Teach me to rest confidently in Your faithfulness and care. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.