Category Archives: Merciful

Learning To Pray Effectively, Merciful, Obeying God, Psalms, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Grateful Praise for a Delivering God (Psalm 116)

How do you respond to a God who hears your cries and delivers you?

Psalm 116 is a heartfelt declaration of love and gratitude to God for His faithfulness in delivering the psalmist from distress. It reminds us of God’s attentive care and calls us to respond with a life of gratitude, obedience, and worship.

Key Verse:
“I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy.” – Psalm 116:1 (NIV)

Background Context:
Psalm 116 is one of the “Hallel” psalms, traditionally sung during Passover and other Jewish festivals. It reflects personal thanksgiving for God’s deliverance from a life-threatening situation. The psalmist’s words show deep love for God, gratitude for His salvation, and a commitment to living a life that honors Him. This psalm teaches us to trust God in times of trouble and to respond with praise and obedience when He answers our prayers.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 116

Thanksgiving for Deliverance from Death.

     1I love the LORD, because He hears
My voice and my supplications.

      2Because He has inclined His ear to me,
Therefore I shall call upon Him as long as I live.

      3The cords of death encompassed me
And the terrors of Sheol came upon me;
I found distress and sorrow.

      4Then I called upon the name of the LORD:
“O LORD, I beseech You, save my life!”

      5Gracious is the LORD, and righteous;
Yes, our God is compassionate.

      6The LORD preserves the simple;
I was brought low, and He saved me.

      7Return to your rest, O my soul,
For the LORD has dealt bountifully with you.

      8For You have rescued my soul from death,
My eyes from tears,
My feet from stumbling.

      9I shall walk before the LORD
In the land of the living.

      10I believed when I said,
“I am greatly afflicted.”

      11I said in my alarm,
“All men are liars.”

      12What shall I render to the LORD
For all His benefits toward me?

      13I shall lift up the cup of salvation
And call upon the name of the LORD.

      14I shall pay my vows to the LORD,
Oh may it be in the presence of all His people.

      15Precious in the sight of the LORD
Is the death of His godly ones.

      16O LORD, surely I am Your servant,
I am Your servant, the son of Your handmaid,
You have loosed my bonds.

      17To You I shall offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving,
And call upon the name of the LORD.

      18I shall pay my vows to the LORD,
Oh may it be in the presence of all His people,

      19In the courts of the LORD’S house,
In the midst of you, O Jerusalem.
Praise the LORD!

Reflection on Psalm 116:

  • God Hears Our Cries: The psalmist begins with a declaration of love for God because He listens to their prayers: “He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy” (Psalm 116:1). This intimate assurance reminds us that God is attentive to the cries of His people. Are you bringing your troubles to God in prayer, trusting that He hears you? Take comfort in knowing that He is always listening and cares deeply for you.
  • God’s Deliverance Brings Gratitude: The psalmist recalls how God saved them from death and restored their soul, prompting deep gratitude and joy. When we experience God’s deliverance, whether from physical danger or spiritual struggles, it should lead us to thanksgiving. Are you pausing to thank God for the ways He has delivered you in the past? Reflect on His faithfulness and let gratitude overflow in your heart.
  • Walking in Obedience as a Response: The psalmist commits to walking before the Lord “in the land of the living” (Psalm 116:9). Gratitude for God’s deliverance should lead to a life of obedience and devotion. Are you living in a way that reflects your love for God? Seek to honor Him with your actions, knowing that obedience is a form of worship.
  • Paying Our Vows to the Lord: The psalmist resolves to fulfill their vows in the presence of God’s people as a public act of worship (Psalm 116:14). This shows the importance of following through on our commitments to God, especially in gratitude for His goodness. Are there promises or commitments you need to renew before God? Honor Him by living faithfully to what you have pledged.
  • Gratitude Leads to Worship: The psalmist’s response to God’s goodness is a life of worship and service. This includes lifting up “the cup of salvation” and calling on the name of the Lord (Psalm 116:13). True worship is rooted in recognizing God’s mercy and offering our lives as a response. How are you worshiping God in your daily life? Let your gratitude inspire acts of worship that honor His name.

Summary Key Points:

  • God Hears Our Prayers: He listens attentively to the cries of His people, offering mercy and compassion.
  • Deliverance Inspires Gratitude: Reflecting on God’s faithfulness leads to a heart full of thanksgiving.
  • Obedience Is a Response to God’s Mercy: Gratitude for God’s goodness should lead to a life of faithfulness and devotion.
  • Fulfill Your Commitments to God: Living out our promises and vows is an act of worship and gratitude.
  • Gratitude Fuels Worship: Recognizing God’s mercy prompts us to worship Him with our lives and actions.

Application:
Reflect on the ways God has delivered you in the past and take time to thank Him for His faithfulness. Commit to walking in obedience and fulfilling any vows or promises you have made to Him. Let your gratitude fuel acts of worship, both privately and publicly, as a testimony to God’s goodness. Seek to live a life that honors Him, recognizing His mercy and love in all you do.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for hearing our cries and delivering us from trouble. We are grateful for Your mercy and faithfulness in our lives. Help us to respond with gratitude, obedience, and worship, living in a way that honors You. Strengthen us to fulfill our commitments to You and to walk in Your ways. May our lives reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This devotional calls us to trust in God’s deliverance, respond with gratitude and obedience, and live lives of worship that reflect His goodness and mercy.

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.

Faithful, Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Justice / Judgment, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms

Trusting God’s Justice in Times of Injustice (Psalm 109)

How do you respond when you’re wronged or unfairly treated?

Psalm 109 is David’s cry for justice in the face of betrayal, showing us the power of entrusting our deepest hurts to God rather than seeking revenge ourselves.

Key Verse: “But You, O GOD, the Lord, deal kindly with me for Your name’s sake; because Your lovingkindness is good, deliver me.” – Psalm 109:21 (NASB)

Background Context: Psalm 109 is one of David’s “imprecatory” psalms, where he expresses deep distress over being wronged and prays for God’s intervention. David faced betrayal and unjust accusations, likely from close friends or trusted companions. Rather than taking matters into his own hands, David poured out his anguish before God, asking for protection and justice. This psalm reminds us that we can bring our pain to God, trusting Him to handle our struggles and injustices.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 109

Vengeance Invoked upon Adversaries.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1O God of my praise,
Do not be silent!

      2For they have opened the wicked and deceitful mouth against me;
They have spoken against me with a lying tongue.

      3They have also surrounded me with words of hatred,
And fought against me without cause.

      4In return for my love they act as my accusers;
But I am in prayer.

      5Thus they have repaid me evil for good
And hatred for my love.

      6Appoint a wicked man over him,
And let an accuser stand at his right hand.

      7When he is judged, let him come forth guilty,
And let his prayer become sin.

      8Let his days be few;
Let another take his office.

      9Let his children be fatherless
And his wife a widow.

      10Let his children wander about and beg;
And let them seek sustenance far from their ruined homes.

      11Let the creditor seize all that he has,
And let strangers plunder the product of his labor.

      12Let there be none to extend lovingkindness to him,
Nor any to be gracious to his fatherless children.

      13Let his posterity be cut off;
In a following generation let their name be blotted out.

      14Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembered before the LORD,
And do not let the sin of his mother be blotted out.

      15Let them be before the LORD continually,
That He may cut off their memory from the earth;

      16Because he did not remember to show lovingkindness,
But persecuted the afflicted and needy man,
And the despondent in heart, to put them to death.

      17He also loved cursing, so it came to him;
And he did not delight in blessing, so it was far from him.

      18But he clothed himself with cursing as with his garment,
And it entered into his body like water
And like oil into his bones.

      19Let it be to him as a garment with which he covers himself,
And for a belt with which he constantly girds himself.

      20Let this be the reward of my accusers from the LORD,
And of those who speak evil against my soul.

      21But You, O GOD, the Lord, deal kindly with me for Your name’s sake;
Because Your lovingkindness is good, deliver me;

      22For I am afflicted and needy,
And my heart is wounded within me.

      23I am passing like a shadow when it lengthens;
I am shaken off like the locust.

      24My knees are weak from fasting,
And my flesh has grown lean, without fatness.

      25I also have become a reproach to them;
When they see me, they wag their head.

      26Help me, O LORD my God;
Save me according to Your lovingkindness.

      27And let them know that this is Your hand;
You, LORD, have done it.

      28Let them curse, but You bless;
When they arise, they shall be ashamed,
But Your servant shall be glad.

      29Let my accusers be clothed with dishonor,
And let them cover themselves with their own shame as with a robe.

      30With my mouth I will give thanks abundantly to the LORD;
And in the midst of many I will praise Him.

      31For He stands at the right hand of the needy,
To save him from those who judge his soul.

Reflection on Psalm 109:

  • Honest Expression of Pain: David doesn’t hold back in expressing his anguish. He describes his enemies’ actions in detail, from deceitful words to malicious attacks. By bringing his pain honestly before God, David shows that we don’t need to suppress our emotions. God knows our hearts and can handle our most intense feelings. When we face betrayal or hurt, we can take our raw emotions to God, knowing He listens with compassion. Are there burdens or injustices you need to bring before God? Be encouraged to share your pain openly, trusting that He hears you.
  • Resisting the Urge for Revenge: Despite his hurt, David does not take revenge. Instead, he turns to God, asking Him to act in response to the injustice. In verse 4, David says, “In return for my love they act as my accusers; but I am in prayer.” This response speaks volumes—David’s first instinct is not retaliation, but prayer. Rather than lashing out, he surrenders the situation to God. This challenges us to consider how we respond when others wrong us. Are we quick to defend ourselves or seek retaliation, or are we willing to trust God to bring justice in His time?
  • Trusting God’s Character: In the midst of his pain, David appeals to God’s character: “But You, O GOD, the Lord, deal kindly with me for Your name’s sake; because Your lovingkindness is good, deliver me” (Psalm 109:21). David reminds himself of God’s mercy, kindness, and goodness, even in a difficult season. By focusing on who God is, David shifts his perspective from his suffering to God’s nature. When we’re overwhelmed by injustice, remembering God’s character can give us hope and reassurance. God is good, merciful, and just, and He will act in His perfect timing.
  • God as Our Defender: In verses 26-27, David prays, “Help me, O LORD my God; save me according to Your lovingkindness. And let them know that this is Your hand; You, LORD, have done it.” David’s desire is not just for personal vindication but for God’s power and justice to be seen. He seeks God’s intervention so that others will recognize God’s hand at work. This is a reminder that God is our ultimate defender. When we trust Him to handle our battles, we allow His glory to shine through our situation. Are you facing a challenge where you need God to be your defender? Release the situation to Him, trusting that He will act on your behalf.
  • Choosing Forgiveness and Mercy: While Psalm 109 contains strong words against those who wronged David, it’s also a model for releasing bitterness and seeking God’s help. David’s approach is not to harbor hatred but to leave the outcome to God. As followers of Christ, we’re called to forgive and extend mercy, even when it’s difficult. Jesus Himself taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). This does not mean ignoring injustice, but it does mean entrusting the matter to God rather than allowing bitterness to take root. Are there areas where you need to forgive and release someone to God’s justice? Pray for strength to let go, knowing that God sees and will act with perfect wisdom.

Summary Key Points:

  • Be Honest with God About Your Pain: God welcomes our honest prayers. When we’re hurting, we can bring our struggles and frustrations to Him, knowing He understands.
  • Trust God to Handle Injustice: Instead of seeking revenge, we are called to entrust our battles to God, believing He will bring justice in His timing.
  • Remember God’s Character in Difficult Times: Focusing on God’s goodness, mercy, and faithfulness can give us hope and strength in the face of adversity.
  • God Is Our Ultimate Defender: When we allow God to handle our battles, we give Him space to work on our behalf and show His power.
  • Choose Forgiveness Over Bitterness: Forgiving those who wrong us, even as we pray for justice, allows us to release bitterness and trust God to bring healing and resolution.

Application: Reflect on a time when you felt wronged or misunderstood. How did you respond? If there are any unresolved hurts or lingering bitterness, take time to bring them before God. Ask for His help to release the situation and trust Him with the outcome. Choose to forgive, knowing that God is your defender and will act justly. Pray for a heart that is willing to forgive and a spirit that leans on God’s justice, not your own.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being our refuge and defender. When we face injustice or betrayal, help us to bring our pain to You honestly. Give us the strength to resist seeking revenge and instead to trust Your perfect timing and justice. Remind us of Your goodness and lovingkindness, even in difficult moments. Teach us to choose forgiveness and to release bitterness, allowing You to work in our lives and in the lives of others. We trust You to act on our behalf and to bring resolution in Your way. In Jesus’ 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.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Doubt / Lacking Faith, Hope, Justice / Judgment, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Repenting from Sin

God’s Redeeming Love in the Face of Rebellion (Hosea 1)

What does it mean to love someone who has been unfaithful?

In Hosea 1, we see a powerful image of God’s enduring love and His willingness to redeem even when His people have turned away from Him.

Key Verse: “When the Lord began to speak through Hosea, the Lord said to him, ‘Go, marry a promiscuous woman and have children with her, for like an adulterous wife this land is guilty of unfaithfulness to the Lord.’” – Hosea 1:2 (NIV)

Background Context: Hosea is a prophet called by God to deliver a difficult and heart-wrenching message to the people of Israel. At the time, Israel was steeped in idolatry, unfaithfulness, and rebellion against God. In a striking and symbolic command, God tells Hosea to marry a woman who would be unfaithful to him, representing Israel’s unfaithfulness to God. Hosea’s relationship with his wife, Gomer, becomes a living parable of God’s relationship with Israel—a relationship marked by betrayal, yet also by God’s relentless love and desire to redeem His people.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Hosea 1

Hosea’s Wife and Children

      1The word of the LORD which came to Hosea the son of Beeri, during the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and during the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of Israel.

      2When the LORD first spoke through Hosea, the LORD said to Hosea, “Go, take to yourself a wife of harlotry and have children of harlotry; for the land commits flagrant harlotry, forsaking the LORD.” 3So he went and took Gomer the daughter of Diblaim, and she conceived and bore him a son. 4And the LORD said to him, “Name him Jezreel; for yet a little while, and I will punish the house of Jehu for the bloodshed of Jezreel, and I will put an end to the kingdom of the house of Israel. 5“On that day I will break the bow of Israel in the valley of Jezreel.”

      6Then she conceived again and gave birth to a daughter. And the LORD said to him, “Name her Lo-ruhamah, for I will no longer have compassion on the house of Israel, that I would ever forgive them. 7“But I will have compassion on the house of Judah and deliver them by the LORD their God, and will not deliver them by bow, sword, battle, horses or horsemen.”

      8When she had weaned Lo-ruhamah, she conceived and gave birth to a son. 9And the LORD said, “Name him Lo-ammi, for you are not My people and I am not your God.”

      10Yet the number of the sons of Israel
Will be like the sand of the sea,
Which cannot be measured or numbered;
And in the place
Where it is said to them,
“You are not My people,”
It will be said to them,
“You are the sons of the living God.”

      11And the sons of Judah and the sons of Israel will be gathered together,
And they will appoint for themselves one leader,
And they will go up from the land,
For great will be the day of Jezreel.

Reflection on Hosea 1:

  • The Pain of Unfaithfulness: God instructs Hosea to marry a promiscuous woman as a prophetic act symbolizing Israel’s spiritual adultery (Hosea 1:2). Just as Gomer would be unfaithful to Hosea, so Israel had been unfaithful to God by worshiping other gods and turning away from His covenant. This is a powerful and painful picture of what unfaithfulness feels like, both in human relationships and in our relationship with God. For us, this is a sobering reminder that sin and idolatry break the heart of God. When we pursue things that take His place in our lives, we are turning away from the love and faithfulness He has shown us.
  • God’s Judgment and Mercy: As the chapter continues, Hosea and Gomer have three children, and God gives each child a symbolic name representing His judgment on Israel. The first child, Jezreel, symbolizes the coming punishment for Israel’s bloodshed (Hosea 1:4-5). The second child, Lo-Ruhamah, means “not loved,” indicating that God’s patience has run out, and He will no longer show love to Israel in their rebellion (Hosea 1:6). The third child, Lo-Ammi, means “not My people,” signifying the broken relationship between God and Israel due to their unfaithfulness (Hosea 1:9). While these names represent judgment, they also point to God’s desire to correct His people, drawing them back to Himself. Even in judgment, God’s ultimate purpose is restoration.
  • The Depth of God’s Love: Despite the harshness of the judgment foretold in Hosea 1, the overarching theme of the book is God’s redeeming love. Though Israel has been unfaithful, God does not give up on His people. He remains committed to bringing them back to Himself, no matter the cost. This points us to the character of God—His love is not based on our faithfulness, but on His unchanging nature. Even when we turn away, God continues to pursue us with a love that seeks to redeem and restore.
  • A Call to Repentance: Hosea’s life and marriage were a prophetic message calling Israel to repentance. The unfaithfulness of Gomer was a mirror of Israel’s sin, but Hosea’s continued pursuit of her reflects God’s pursuit of His people. In the same way, when we realize we have turned away from God in some area of our lives, the response He desires is repentance—a turning back to Him. God is always ready to forgive and restore, but we must acknowledge our need for Him and seek His grace.
  • Hope in Restoration: Though Hosea 1 highlights judgment, it also contains the seeds of hope. In verse 10, after declaring the separation between God and His people, God promises that the children of Israel will one day be called “children of the living God” (Hosea 1:10). This verse points to the restoration that God desires. No matter how far we stray, God’s love is relentless. He desires to restore us to a right relationship with Him, offering forgiveness and the opportunity to once again be called His people. This message of hope ultimately points forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, through whom God’s redeeming love is fully realized.

Summary Key Points:

  • Unfaithfulness Breaks God’s Heart: Just as Hosea experienced the pain of unfaithfulness in his marriage, God grieves when we turn away from Him through sin and idolatry.
  • God’s Judgment and Mercy: Though judgment is a necessary response to sin, God’s ultimate purpose is to bring His people back to Himself. Even in judgment, He longs to restore.
  • The Depth of God’s Love: God’s love is not based on our faithfulness but on His unchanging character. He pursues us even when we have turned away, seeking to redeem and restore.
  • A Call to Repentance: Just as Hosea’s message called Israel to repentance, God calls us to turn back to Him when we recognize our sin. Repentance opens the door to forgiveness and restoration.
  • Hope in Restoration: Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God promises restoration. This hope is fulfilled in Christ, through whom we are called “children of the living God.”

Application: Reflect on your own life and consider if there are areas where you have been unfaithful to God—whether through placing other things above Him or neglecting your relationship with Him. Take time to repent and turn back to God, knowing that He is ready to forgive and restore. Consider the depth of God’s love for you—a love that pursues you even when you have turned away. Let this love lead you to a deeper commitment to walk faithfully with God. If you are struggling with the weight of past sins, take comfort in the promise of restoration—God’s desire is to bring you back into a close, loving relationship with Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your relentless love that pursues us even when we have been unfaithful. Forgive us for the times we have turned away from You, placing other things before You in our lives. Help us to recognize the areas where we need to repent and turn back to You. We are humbled by Your mercy and Your desire to restore us. Thank You for calling us Your children and for the hope we have in Jesus Christ, through whom we are redeemed. In Jesus’ 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.

Arrogance, Grace / Forgiveness, Humility, Merciful

The Posture of the Heart: Humility in Prayer (Luke 18:9-14)

How do you approach God in prayer—boasting in your own righteousness or humbly acknowledging your need for His mercy?

In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus tells a parable that challenges us to examine the posture of our hearts when we come before God.

Key Verse: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” – Luke 18:14 (ESV)

Background Context: In this passage, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee, confident in his own righteousness, prays by listing his good deeds and comparing himself to others. The tax collector, on the other hand, humbly acknowledges his sin and pleads for God’s mercy. Jesus uses this parable to illustrate the dangers of self-righteousness and the importance of humility before God. The passage speaks to the heart of how we relate to God and others in prayer and in life.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 18:9-14       9And He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt: 10“Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11“The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12‘I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.’ 13“But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, the sinner!’ 14“I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

Reflection on Luke 18:9-14:

  • The Pharisee’s Self-Righteousness: The Pharisee in the parable stands in the temple, praying loudly and confidently. He thanks God, but his prayer is filled with pride and comparison. Instead of confessing his need for God, he lists his religious accomplishments—fasting, tithing, and moral superiority to others (Luke 18:11-12). His prayer is not a genuine conversation with God but a self-congratulatory declaration of his own righteousness. This serves as a warning for us: when we approach God, are we truly seeking Him, or are we trying to justify ourselves before Him? The Pharisee’s focus on external actions shows how easy it is to miss the deeper need for inner transformation.
  • The Tax Collector’s Humility: In stark contrast to the Pharisee, the tax collector stands far off, unwilling even to lift his eyes to heaven. His posture and words reveal a deep sense of unworthiness and repentance (Luke 18:13). His simple prayer—”God, have mercy on me, a sinner”—is full of humility and an awareness of his need for God’s grace. Unlike the Pharisee, the tax collector does not attempt to present himself as righteous. He knows that only God’s mercy can save him. This heart posture is what Jesus commends. When we come to God in prayer, we are called to come as the tax collector did—humbly, honestly, and fully aware of our need for grace.
  • The Danger of Comparing Ourselves to Others: The Pharisee’s prayer reveals a key flaw: his righteousness is based on comparison. He thanks God that he is not like other people—extortioners, adulterers, or even the tax collector standing nearby (Luke 18:11). But righteousness before God is not measured by how we stack up against others. The Pharisee’s comparison blinds him to his own need for God’s mercy. We, too, can fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, thinking that our “goodness” justifies us before God. But true righteousness comes from humility and dependence on God, not from outperforming others in our religious duties.
  • God’s Response to Humility: Jesus concludes the parable by saying that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God (Luke 18:14). The tax collector’s humble plea for mercy resulted in God’s forgiveness and justification. The Pharisee, who trusted in his own righteousness, left unchanged. This reveals an essential truth about how God relates to us: He exalts the humble and brings low the proud. God looks at the heart, not at outward appearances or actions. True justification comes from recognizing our need for God and seeking His mercy.
  • The Heart of True Prayer: This parable teaches us that true prayer is not about boasting in our accomplishments or comparing ourselves to others. It is about coming before God with a heart of humility, repentance, and dependence. The Pharisee’s self-righteousness kept him from experiencing God’s grace, while the tax collector’s humility opened the door to God’s forgiveness. The posture of our hearts matters far more than the words we speak or the actions we perform.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Danger of Self-Righteousness: The Pharisee’s prayer shows the danger of trusting in our own righteousness and comparing ourselves to others. True righteousness comes from God, not from our own efforts.
  • Humility in Prayer: The tax collector’s humble prayer—acknowledging his sin and need for mercy—is the kind of heart posture God desires. When we come to God in humility, He responds with grace and forgiveness.
  • God’s Response to Humility: Jesus makes it clear that those who humble themselves before God will be exalted, while those who exalt themselves will be humbled. God looks at the heart, not at outward appearances or actions.
  • The Importance of Heart Posture: True prayer is about coming before God in honesty and humility, seeking His mercy rather than boasting in our own accomplishments.

Application: Consider the posture of your heart when you come before God in prayer. Are you like the Pharisee, focusing on your own righteousness and comparing yourself to others, or are you like the tax collector, humbly acknowledging your need for God’s mercy? Take time today to examine your heart and approach God with honesty and humility. Confess any areas of pride or self-righteousness, and ask God to fill you with His grace and forgiveness. Remember that God responds to those who seek Him in humility.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging our need for Your mercy and grace. Forgive us for the times we have trusted in our own righteousness or compared ourselves to others. Teach us to come before You with a heart of humility, knowing that only Your mercy can make us right before You. Help us to live in dependence on Your grace, trusting in Your forgiveness rather than our own efforts. In Jesus’ 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.

Humility, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Merciful, Repenting from Sin

Praying for Mercy: Daniel’s Heartfelt Intercession (Daniel 9)

When was the last time you prayed not just for yourself, but for others—your nation, your community, or even for the repentance of people you may never meet?

In Daniel 9, we see a powerful example of intercessory prayer, where Daniel’s humility and heartfelt repentance stand as a model for seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness.

Key Verse: “We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy.” – Daniel 9:18 (NIV)

Background Context: Daniel 9 begins with Daniel studying the writings of the prophet Jeremiah and realizing that the 70 years of captivity for Israel were coming to an end. Moved by the knowledge of God’s promise and the state of his people, Daniel turns to God in fasting, prayer, and confession. His prayer reflects a deep awareness of Israel’s sin and rebellion but also a profound trust in God’s mercy and covenant promises. Daniel prays for God to forgive, restore, and act for the sake of His great name.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Daniel 9

Daniel’s Prayer for His People

      1In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of Median descent, who was made king over the kingdom of the Chaldeans— 2in the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, observed in the books the number of the years which was revealed as the word of the LORD to Jeremiah the prophet for the completion of the desolations of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years. 3So I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes. 4I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed and said, “Alas, O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments, 5we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly and rebelled, even turning aside from Your commandments and ordinances. 6“Moreover, we have not listened to Your servants the prophets, who spoke in Your name to our kings, our princes, our fathers and all the people of the land.

      7“Righteousness belongs to You, O Lord, but to us open shame, as it is this day—to the men of Judah, the inhabitants of Jerusalem and all Israel, those who are nearby and those who are far away in all the countries to which You have driven them, because of their unfaithful deeds which they have committed against You. 8“Open shame belongs to us, O Lord, to our kings, our princes and our fathers, because we have sinned against You. 9“To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him; 10nor have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in His teachings which He set before us through His servants the prophets. 11“Indeed all Israel has transgressed Your law and turned aside, not obeying Your voice; so the curse has been poured out on us, along with the oath which is written in the law of Moses the servant of God, for we have sinned against Him. 12“Thus He has confirmed His words which He had spoken against us and against our rulers who ruled us, to bring on us great calamity; for under the whole heaven there has not been done anything like what was done to Jerusalem. 13“As it is written in the law of Moses, all this calamity has come on us; yet we have not sought the favor of the LORD our God by turning from our iniquity and giving attention to Your truth. 14“Therefore the LORD has kept the calamity in store and brought it on us; for the LORD our God is righteous with respect to all His deeds which He has done, but we have not obeyed His voice.

      15“And now, O Lord our God, who have brought Your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand and have made a name for Yourself, as it is this day—we have sinned, we have been wicked. 16“O Lord, in accordance with all Your righteous acts, let now Your anger and Your wrath turn away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; for because of our sins and the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Your people have become a reproach to all those around us. 17“So now, our God, listen to the prayer of Your servant and to his supplications, and for Your sake, O Lord, let Your face shine on Your desolate sanctuary. 18“O my God, incline Your ear and hear! Open Your eyes and see our desolations and the city which is called by Your name; for we are not presenting our supplications before You on account of any merits of our own, but on account of Your great compassion. 19“O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and take action! For Your own sake, O my God, do not delay, because Your city and Your people are called by Your name.”

Gabriel Brings an Answer

      20Now while I was speaking and praying, and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, and presenting my supplication before the LORD my God in behalf of the holy mountain of my God, 21while I was still speaking in prayer, then the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision previously, came to me in my extreme weariness about the time of the evening offering. 22He gave me instruction and talked with me and said, “O Daniel, I have now come forth to give you insight with understanding. 23“At the beginning of your supplications the command was issued, and I have come to tell you, for you are highly esteemed; so give heed to the message and gain understanding of the vision.

Seventy Weeks and the Messiah

      24“Seventy weeks have been decreed for your people and your holy city, to finish the transgression, to make an end of sin, to make atonement for iniquity, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy place. 25“So you are to know and discern that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks; it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress. 26“Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah will be cut off and have nothing, and the people of the prince who is to come will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined. 27“And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate.”

Reflection on Daniel 9:

  • Daniel’s Understanding of God’s Word: The chapter begins with Daniel reading from the prophet Jeremiah and understanding that the time of exile was nearly completed (Daniel 9:2). Daniel’s response is instructive—he turns to God in prayer. This shows us the importance of knowing God’s Word and allowing it to move us into action. Understanding God’s promises should not lead us to complacency but to earnest prayer and seeking His will. Daniel doesn’t assume that because the 70 years are nearly over, he should wait passively; instead, he engages with God in a deep and humble way.
  • A Prayer of Confession and Repentance: Daniel’s prayer is characterized by confession. He acknowledges the sins of Israel, their rebellion, and their failure to listen to the prophets (Daniel 9:5-6). Daniel identifies himself with the sins of his people, even though he personally is portrayed as a righteous man throughout the book. This is a powerful example of intercessory prayer, where we come before God not just for ourselves, but for others. Daniel’s heart breaks for the sins of his people, and he pleads for God’s mercy, not because they deserve it, but because of God’s great compassion.
  • God’s Righteousness and Mercy: In his prayer, Daniel contrasts Israel’s sinfulness with God’s righteousness and mercy (Daniel 9:7-9). He acknowledges that they deserve the punishment they have received, but he appeals to God’s character as compassionate, merciful, and forgiving. Daniel knows that the hope of forgiveness and restoration does not lie in Israel’s goodness but in God’s mercy. This truth is just as relevant for us today—our hope is not in our ability to earn God’s favor but in His abundant grace and mercy.
  • Pleading for God’s Name: One of the most remarkable aspects of Daniel’s prayer is his plea for God to act for the sake of His name and reputation (Daniel 9:17-19). Daniel’s concern is not only for the well-being of Israel but also for the glory of God. He prays that God’s restoration of Israel would demonstrate His greatness to the nations. This teaches us that our prayers should be aligned with God’s purposes, seeking His glory above all else.
  • God’s Response to Prayer: As Daniel is praying, the angel Gabriel appears and gives Daniel a vision and explanation concerning the future of Israel and God’s redemptive plan (Daniel 9:20-23). Gabriel reassures Daniel that from the moment he began to pray, his prayer was heard. This reminds us that God hears the prayers of those who come to Him with humility and faith. Even when the answers are delayed or involve a greater plan than we can comprehend, we can trust that God is working in response to our prayers.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Importance of Knowing God’s Word: Daniel’s prayer is rooted in his understanding of God’s Word. We, too, should study Scripture and let it drive us to prayer and action.
  • Confession and Repentance: Daniel’s prayer is marked by humility, confession, and repentance, not only for himself but for his people. This teaches us to intercede for others and acknowledge our need for God’s mercy.
  • Trust in God’s Mercy, Not Our Righteousness: Daniel knows that Israel’s hope lies not in their own righteousness but in God’s great mercy. Our confidence in prayer is based on God’s character, not our own merits.
  • Praying for God’s Glory: Daniel’s prayer focuses on the glory of God and His reputation. We should pray with a heart that seeks God’s will and desires to see His name glorified.
  • God Hears and Responds to Prayer: Gabriel’s appearance and message remind us that God hears our prayers and responds according to His perfect plan and timing.

Application: Reflect on the content of your prayers—are they focused only on your own needs, or do they include intercession for others, for your nation, and for God’s glory? Like Daniel, take time to confess your sins and the sins of your community, humbly acknowledging the ways we have fallen short. Trust in God’s mercy, knowing that He is eager to forgive and restore. Lastly, align your prayers with God’s purposes, seeking not only His blessings but also the fulfillment of His will and the display of His glory in the world.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You humbly, confessing our sins and acknowledging our deep need for Your mercy. We thank You for the forgiveness and grace You offer through Jesus Christ. Teach us to pray like Daniel, with hearts that are broken for the sins of others and a desire to see Your name glorified. Align our prayers with Your will and give us confidence that You hear us when we call upon You. May our lives reflect Your mercy and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ 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.

Faith / Trusting God, Healer, Merciful, Miracles, Thankfulness

A Heart of Gratitude: Returning to Give Thanks (Luke 17:11-19)

Have you ever received a blessing and then moved on without stopping to thank the One who provided it?

In Luke 17:11-19, the story of the ten lepers reveals the importance of gratitude and how it deepens our relationship with God.

Key Verse: “Then Jesus answered and said, ‘Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they? Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?'” – Luke 17:17-18 (NASB)

Background Context: As Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem, He passed through a village between Samaria and Galilee where He encountered ten lepers. These men, suffering from a disease that isolated them from society, cried out to Jesus for mercy. Jesus responded by instructing them to show themselves to the priests, which was the customary procedure for being declared clean. As they obeyed, they were miraculously healed. Yet, only one of the ten, a Samaritan, returned to Jesus to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus’ response highlights the significance of gratitude and faith.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 17:11-19

Ten Lepers Cleansed

     11While He was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee. 12As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him; 13and they raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were cleansed. 15Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice, 16and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan. 17Then Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they? 18“Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?” 19And He said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has made you well.”

Reflection on Luke 17:11-19:

  • The Cry for Mercy: The ten lepers, standing at a distance due to their condition, called out to Jesus for mercy (Luke 17:12-13). Their plea was not just for physical healing but for restoration to society and the ability to return to their families and communities. This cry reflects the universal human need for mercy, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Like these lepers, we too must recognize our need and call out to Jesus, the only one who can truly heal and restore us.
  • Obedience and Healing: Jesus’ instruction to the lepers to go and show themselves to the priests required faith (Luke 17:14). At the moment Jesus spoke, they were not yet healed, but as they obeyed and began their journey, they were cleansed. This highlights the principle that obedience to God often precedes the manifestation of His blessings. When we act in faith, even before seeing the outcome, God’s power is released in our lives.
  • The One Who Returned: Out of the ten men who were healed, only one, a Samaritan, returned to Jesus to express his gratitude (Luke 17:15-16). This man recognized that his healing was not just a physical miracle but a profound act of God’s mercy. His return to Jesus, glorifying God and giving thanks, shows the depth of his understanding and faith. This teaches us the importance of not only receiving God’s blessings but also of returning to give Him the glory and thanks He deserves.
  • The Significance of Gratitude: Jesus’ question, “Where are the other nine?” points to the rarity of true gratitude (Luke 17:17). The fact that only one returned to thank God underscores how easily we can take His blessings for granted. Gratitude is a vital expression of our relationship with God, deepening our awareness of His goodness and drawing us closer to Him.
  • Faith and Wholeness: Jesus tells the grateful leper, “Your faith has made you well” (Luke 17:19). This statement goes beyond physical healing, indicating that the man’s faith and gratitude brought him into a deeper, more complete relationship with God. It’s a reminder that while God’s blessings are abundant, it is our faith and gratitude that bring true wholeness to our lives.

Summary Key Points:

  • Recognizing Our Need for Mercy: Like the ten lepers, we all have areas of our lives where we need Jesus’ mercy and healing. Recognizing and crying out to Him is the first step toward receiving His grace.
  • Obedience Precedes Blessing: The lepers were healed as they obeyed Jesus’ command to go to the priests. Our obedience, even when we don’t yet see the outcome, positions us to receive God’s blessings.
  • The Power of Gratitude: True gratitude not only acknowledges God’s blessings but also returns to give Him glory. It deepens our relationship with God and honors Him for His goodness.
  • Faith Leads to Wholeness: The grateful leper’s faith and thanksgiving resulted in more than just physical healing; it brought him into a deeper wholeness, reflecting the transformative power of a heart that truly recognizes God’s work.

Application: Take a moment to reflect on the blessings you have received from God. Have you taken the time to return and thank Him? Consider how gratitude can deepen your relationship with God and bring a greater sense of wholeness to your life. Are there areas where God is calling you to act in faith and obedience, even before you see the results? Make a conscious effort to express your gratitude to God daily, recognizing that every good gift comes from Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your abundant blessings in our lives. Help us to recognize our need for Your mercy and to cry out to You in faith. Teach us to obey Your Word, even when we don’t yet see the outcome, trusting that You will bring about Your perfect will. Give us hearts of gratitude that return to You with thanksgiving, glorifying You for all that You have done. May our faith in You lead to a deeper, more complete relationship with You, bringing wholeness and peace to our lives. In Jesus’ 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.

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Repenting from Sin, Thankfulness

The Prodigal Love of Our Father: Returning to Grace (Luke 15:11-32)

Have you ever wandered away from God, thinking something else would bring more fulfillment, only to realize the emptiness of life apart from Him?

The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 is a powerful reminder of God’s grace and love, urging us to return to Him no matter how far we’ve strayed.

Key Verse: “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” – Luke 15:20 (ESV)

Background Context: In Luke 15, Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son, a story that illustrates the depth of the Father’s love for those who turn away but choose to return to Him. It is a story of rebellion, repentance, and restoration. The younger son’s decision to demand his inheritance and leave represents a conscious rejection of his father’s provision and authority. Yet, the father’s response upon his return reveals the incredible grace and forgiveness that God extends to each of us.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 15:11-32

The Prodigal Son

     11And He said, “A man had two sons. 12“The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that falls to me.’ So he divided his wealth between them. 13“And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and went on a journey into a distant country, and there he squandered his estate with loose living. 14“Now when he had spent everything, a severe famine occurred in that country, and he began to be impoverished. 15“So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16“And he would have gladly filled his stomach with the pods that the swine were eating, and no one was giving anything to him. 17“But when he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired men have more than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger! 18‘I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight; 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me as one of your hired men.”’ 20“So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. 21“And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22“But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; 23and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; 24for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.’ And they began to celebrate.

      25“Now his older son was in the field, and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26“And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be. 27“And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.’ 28“But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him. 29“But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you have never given me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends; 30but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.’ 31“And he said to him, ‘Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32‘But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has begun to live, and was lost and has been found.’”

Reflection on Luke 15:11-32:

  • The Rebellion and the Fall: The younger son’s journey begins with an act of rebellion. He demands his inheritance and leaves home in pursuit of what he believes will be a better life (Luke 15:12-13). This parallels the ways in which many of us, at some point, turn away from God, chasing after worldly pleasures or desires that ultimately leave us empty and broken.
  • Hitting Rock Bottom: The son’s decision leads to inevitable ruin. After wasting his inheritance in reckless living, he finds himself impoverished and desperate, feeding pigs and longing for the food they eat (Luke 15:14-16). This depicts the spiritual emptiness we experience when we distance ourselves from God, seeking fulfillment in things that cannot satisfy.
  • The Moment of Repentance: In his desperation, the son comes to his senses. He realizes the depth of his mistake and resolves to return to his father, not as a son but as a servant (Luke 15:17-19). This moment of humility and repentance is crucial. It demonstrates that true repentance involves recognizing our sin, humbling ourselves, and turning back to God with a heart seeking forgiveness.
  • The Father’s Response: The father’s reaction is nothing short of extraordinary. He doesn’t wait for his son to reach the doorstep—he runs to him while he is still a long way off, embraces him, and welcomes him home with joy (Luke 15:20). This is a picture of God’s amazing grace. No matter how far we have wandered, God is ready to run to us with open arms when we return in repentance.
  • Restoration and Celebration: The father’s love doesn’t just stop at forgiveness. He fully restores his son, clothing him in a robe, placing a ring on his finger, and preparing a feast in celebration of his return (Luke 15:22-24). This is a beautiful image of how God restores us when we return to Him—He doesn’t just forgive; He restores us to a place of honor as His beloved children.
  • The Older Son’s Struggle: The parable also addresses the reaction of the older son, who becomes angry when he sees the celebration for his wayward brother (Luke 15:25-30). The father’s response to him is gentle but firm, reminding him that all that the father has is his as well (Luke 15:31-32). This teaches us about grace—that it’s not something we earn, but something God freely gives to all who come to Him, regardless of their past.

Summary Key Points:

  • Conscious Rebellion: Like the prodigal son, many of us have consciously chosen to walk away from God, seeking fulfillment elsewhere.
  • Repentance and Return: True repentance involves humility and the decision to return to God, recognizing our need for His grace.
  • The Father’s Grace: God, like the father in the parable, is eager to forgive and restore us, no matter how far we have wandered.
  • Restoration and Celebration: God doesn’t just forgive; He restores us to our rightful place as His children, celebrating our return.
  • Understanding Grace: The story challenges us to recognize God’s grace for ourselves and others, avoiding the attitude of the older brother.

Application: Reflect on your own life—have you ever strayed from God, seeking satisfaction in something else? Know that no matter how far you’ve gone, God is waiting for you with open arms, ready to forgive and restore you. If you’ve already experienced His grace, celebrate it and extend it to others, remembering that God’s love and mercy are for everyone who returns to Him in repentance.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your amazing grace and forgiveness. Like the prodigal son, many of us have wandered away from You in search of fulfillment elsewhere, only to realize that true life is found in Your presence. Help us to repent and return to You with humble hearts, trusting in Your love and restoration. May we celebrate Your grace and extend it to others, knowing that You rejoice over every lost soul that is found. In Jesus’ 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.

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Merciful, Repenting from Sin

The Joy of Finding What Was Lost: God’s Relentless Pursuit (Luke 15:1-10)

Have you ever lost something valuable and felt the overwhelming relief and joy when you finally found it?

In Luke 15:1-10, Jesus teaches us about the immense joy in heaven when even one sinner repents and is found by God.

Key Verse: “Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” – Luke 15:10 (ESV)

Background Context: Luke 15:1-10 includes two parables: the Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable of the Lost Coin. Jesus shares these stories in response to criticism from the Pharisees and scribes, who disapproved of His association with sinners. Through these parables, Jesus reveals God’s heart for the lost and His relentless pursuit to bring them back into His fold.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 15:1-10

The Lost Sheep

     1Now all the tax collectors and the sinners were coming near Him to listen to Him. 2Both the Pharisees and the scribes began to grumble, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.”

      3So He told them this parable, saying, 4“What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open pasture and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? 5“When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6“And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7“I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

The Lost Coin

     8“Or what woman, if she has ten silver coins and loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9“When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin which I had lost!’ 10“In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Reflection on Luke 15:1-10:

  • The Lost Sheep: In the first parable, Jesus describes a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep in the open country to search for one lost sheep until he finds it (Luke 15:4). This illustrates God’s deep concern for every individual, no matter how far they have strayed. The shepherd’s actions show that no one is beyond God’s reach, and He will go to great lengths to bring us back to safety.
  • The Joy of Restoration: When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he joyfully carries it home on his shoulders and calls his friends and neighbors to celebrate (Luke 15:5-6). This reflects the joy in heaven when one sinner repents and returns to God. It emphasizes that God’s love is personal and filled with joy when the lost are found.
  • The Lost Coin: In the second parable, Jesus compares God to a woman who loses a coin and diligently searches her entire house until she finds it (Luke 15:8). Just like the woman, God values every soul and does not give up on those who are lost. The joy she experiences upon finding the coin is a picture of God’s joy when a sinner repents.
  • Heaven’s Celebration: Both parables conclude with the reminder that there is great rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:7, 10). This teaches us that repentance and restoration are causes for celebration in God’s kingdom, highlighting the immense value God places on each individual.

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Relentless Pursuit: God seeks out the lost with relentless love, never giving up on those who have strayed.
  • The Value of Each Individual: Every person is valuable to God, and He desires that none should be lost.
  • Joy in Heaven: There is great joy in heaven when even one sinner repents and returns to God.
  • God’s Personal Love: God’s love is personal and joyful, celebrating the restoration of each lost soul.

Application: Reflect on the times when you may have felt lost or distant from God. Know that God is actively seeking you, desiring to bring you back into His fold. If you have already experienced His restoration, rejoice in His relentless love and consider how you can share this joy with others. Remember, every soul is valuable to God, and there is great rejoicing in heaven when even one person repents and returns to Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your relentless love and pursuit of each of us, even when we have strayed far from You. Help us to understand the value You place on every soul and to rejoice in the restoration of those who are lost. May we reflect Your heart by seeking out those in need of Your love and sharing the joy of Your salvation with others. In Jesus’ 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.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Grace / Forgiveness, Merciful, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Repentance and Fruitfulness: Embracing God’s Patience (Luke 13:1-9)

Have you ever questioned why suffering happens or wondered about the urgency of repentance?

Luke 13:1-9 challenges us to consider our own lives, urging us to repent and bear fruit in response to God’s patience and grace.

Key Verse:
“I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” – Luke 13:3 (NKJV)

Background Context:
In Luke 13:1-9, Jesus addresses the questions and concerns of those around Him regarding tragic events and the fate of those who suffer. He uses these discussions to teach about the necessity of repentance and follows with the parable of the barren fig tree, highlighting God’s patience and the expectation of fruitfulness from His people.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 13:1-9

Call to Repent

     1Now on the same occasion there were some present who reported to Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2And Jesus said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans because they suffered this fate? 3“I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4“Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? 5“I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”

      6And He began telling this parable: “A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and did not find any. 7“And he said to the vineyard-keeper, ‘Behold, for three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree without finding any. Cut it down! Why does it even use up the ground?’ 8“And he answered and said to him, ‘Let it alone, sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer; 9and if it bears fruit next year, fine; but if not, cut it down.’”

Reflection on Luke 13:1-9:

• The Call to Repentance: In response to questions about why certain people suffered tragic deaths, Jesus emphasizes that such events should lead us to examine our own lives and repent (Luke 13:1-5). He makes it clear that unless we repent, we too will perish, highlighting the universal need for repentance.
• The Parable of the Fig Tree: Jesus then tells the parable of the barren fig tree, which symbolizes God’s people. The owner of the vineyard, representing God, finds no fruit on the tree for three years and orders it to be cut down. However, the gardener, symbolizing Jesus, pleads for one more year to cultivate and fertilize it in hopes that it will bear fruit (Luke 13:6-9). This parable illustrates God’s patience and mercy, giving us time to repent and become fruitful.
• Urgency and Opportunity: The fig tree’s additional year represents the grace period God grants us to turn from our sins and live righteously. It underscores the urgency of repentance and the opportunity we have to align our lives with God’s will before it’s too late.

Summary Key Points:

• Universal Need for Repentance: Tragedies and suffering should prompt us to examine our lives and repent, recognizing our own need for God’s forgiveness.
• God’s Patience and Mercy: The parable of the fig tree illustrates God’s patience, giving us time to repent and bear fruit.
• Expectation of Fruitfulness: God expects us to be fruitful in our lives, demonstrating the transformation that comes from true repentance.

Application:
Let us take Jesus’ words to heart and examine our lives for areas where we need to repent. May we not take God’s patience for granted, but instead use the time we are given to cultivate our hearts and bear fruit for His kingdom. Let us strive to live lives that reflect the transformative power of repentance, showing love, kindness, and righteousness in all that we do.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your patience and mercy towards us. Help us to recognize our need for repentance and to turn from our sins. Cultivate our hearts, Lord, and make us fruitful for Your kingdom. May we use the time You have given us wisely, living lives that honor You and reflect Your love. In Jesus’ 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.

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Learning To Pray Effectively, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God

Seeking God’s Mercy for Our Nation (Psalm 85)

Have you ever wondered about the spiritual state of our nation? Psalm 85 offers profound insights into the dynamics between a nation and its Creator, reflecting on the blessings that come with obedience and the consequences of turning away from God.

Background Context: Psalm 85 reflects on Israel’s spiritual journey, from times of favor and restoration to seasons of rebellion and divine discipline. It resonates with nations like the United States, founded on faith yet grappling with secularism and moral relativism over time.

Reconnect: Just as Israel experienced cycles of faithfulness and waywardness, nations today, including the USA, face similar challenges. We must examine our collective conscience and turn back to God’s timeless principles to restore His favor upon our land.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 85

Prayer for God’s Mercy upon the Nation.

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

1O LORD, You showed favor to Your land;
You restored the captivity of Jacob.

      2You forgave the iniquity of Your people;
You covered all their sin.

Selah.

      3You withdrew all Your fury;
You turned away from Your burning anger.

      4Restore us, O God of our salvation,
And cause Your indignation toward us to cease.

      5Will You be angry with us forever?
Will You prolong Your anger to all generations?

      6Will You not Yourself revive us again,
That Your people may rejoice in You?

      7Show us Your lovingkindness, O LORD,
And grant us Your salvation.

      8I will hear what God the LORD will say;
For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones;
But let them not turn back to folly.

      9Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him,
That glory may dwell in our land.

      10Lovingkindness and truth have met together;
Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

      11Truth springs from the earth,
And righteousness looks down from heaven.

      12Indeed, the LORD will give what is good,
And our land will yield its produce.

      13Righteousness will go before Him
And will make His footsteps into a way.

Key Summary Points:

  • Divine Expectations: God desires reverence and obedience from nations. We cannot redefine morality according to cultural whims and expect His blessings.
  • National Repentance: Like Israel, nations need sincere repentance to experience God’s forgiveness and restoration of His favor.
  • Hope in God’s Mercy: Despite national shortcomings, God is merciful. He waits for our collective return to Him, ready to forgive and bless abundantly.

Call to Action:

  • Personal Examination: Reflect on your own relationship with God and how it influences your impact on society.
  • Intercessory Prayer: Pray for revival among believers in your nation, that they may shine God’s light and influence others to seek Him.
  • National Repentance: Pray for leaders and citizens to turn from worldly ideologies and embrace God’s truth, leading to national healing and renewal.

Closing: As we meditate on Psalm 85, let us earnestly seek God’s mercy for our nation. May we, as individuals and communities of faith, embody His truth and grace, serving as beacons of hope and reconciliation in a world in need of His divine intervention.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You, acknowledging our nation’s need for Your mercy and forgiveness. Grant us the courage to repent and turn from our worldly ways. Strengthen Your people to boldly proclaim Your truth and love, leading others to seek Your face. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in our nation as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ 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.