Category Archives: Loving / Kind

Evidence in Scripture, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Miracles, Miracles

Breakfast by the Sea (John 21:1-14)

Even after conquering death, Yeshua came back to serve, to provide, and to restore His disciples — showing that true greatness is always wrapped in humility.

Have you ever stopped to marvel that the risen Lord of all creation still chose to serve His friends breakfast by the sea?

Key Verse:
“Jesus said to them, ‘Come and have breakfast.’ None of the disciples ventured to question Him, ‘Who are You?’ knowing that it was the Lord.” —John 21:12 NASB

Background Context:
After Yeshua’s resurrection, several of His disciples returned to Galilee. Unsure of what to do next, Peter said, “I’m going fishing.” The others joined him, but after working all night, they caught nothing. At daybreak, a man on the shore called out, instructing them to cast their net on the right side of the boat — and suddenly, the net overflowed with fish. John recognized Him first: “It is the Lord!” Peter, eager as always, jumped into the water to reach Him. When they arrived on shore, they found a fire burning, fish laid upon it, and bread prepared — breakfast made by the resurrected Messiah Himself.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 21:1-14

Jesus Appears at the Sea of Galilee

     1After these things Jesus manifested Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and He manifested Himself in this way. 2Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together. 3Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will also come with you.” They went out and got into the boat; and that night they caught nothing.

      4But when the day was now breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. 5So Jesus said to them, “Children, you do not have any fish, do you?” They answered Him, “No.” 6And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch.” So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish. 7Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord.” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put his outer garment on (for he was stripped for work), and threw himself into the sea. 8But the other disciples came in the little boat, for they were not far from the land, but about one hundred yards away, dragging the net full of fish.

      9So when they got out on the land, they saw a charcoal fire already laid and fish placed on it, and bread. 10Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.” 11Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.

Jesus Provides

     12Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples ventured to question Him, “Who are You?” knowing that it was the Lord. 13Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish likewise. 14This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.

Reflection on John 21:1–14:
It’s hard to miss the miraculous in this passage — Yeshua has risen from the dead! The very fact that He stands alive before His disciples fulfills prophecy and confirms the hope of resurrection for all who believe. Yet, beyond the miracle, there’s something profoundly tender here. The risen Savior doesn’t appear in majesty or thunder from heaven — He shows up on a quiet shore with breakfast ready.

Even after conquering death, Yeshua continues to model the servant’s heart. He provides a miraculous catch where the disciples’ efforts failed, then cooks the fish Himself. The Creator who spoke the seas into being kneels to serve His followers once more. It’s a breathtaking display of humility, patience, and love.

This moment also proves beyond doubt that His resurrection was not imaginary or symbolic. As the Gospels tell us, He appeared to many over forty days, speaking, eating, and walking among them. The risen Messiah was physically present — living, breathing, and serving.

Yeshua’s example reminds us that service is not beneath greatness — it is greatness. Even in His glorified state, He remains the Good Shepherd who provides for His sheep. When our nets are empty, He fills them. When we are weary, He feeds us. When we wander in confusion, He gently calls us back with provision and grace.

Application:

  • Don’t grow numb to the miracle. Never lose your awe that Jesus truly rose from the dead — this truth changes everything.

  • Serve as He served. True followers of Yeshua reflect His humility and love through acts of care and compassion.

  • Trust His provision. Even when your efforts fail, remember that He stands on the shore, ready to guide and provide.

  • Recognize His presence in simple moments. A fire on the beach. A meal shared. The risen Savior meeting you in the ordinary.

Like the disciples, you may sometimes return to what’s familiar — to “go fishing” again. But Yeshua stands ready to meet you there, to fill your emptiness, and to serve you in love so that you may serve others in His name.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Yeshua, thank You for Your patience and compassion. Even after rising from the grave, You came to serve, provide, and restore. Help me never to take Your resurrection for granted or to forget the humility that defines Your greatness. Teach me to serve others with the same love You’ve shown me and to trust that You are always near — providing, guiding, and calling me to deeper fellowship with You. In Your holy 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, Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Loving / Kind

Blessed Are Those Who Believe (John 20:19-29)

When Jesus enters the room, fear gives way to peace and doubt turns into faith.

Have you ever needed God to meet you right where you were — behind the closed doors of fear, uncertainty, or unbelief?

Key Verse:
“Then He said to Thomas, ‘Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.’ Thomas answered and said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God!’” —John 20:27–28 NASB

Background Context:
On the evening of the resurrection, the disciples gathered behind locked doors, afraid of persecution. Into their fear, Jesus suddenly appeared, standing among them and saying, “Peace be with you.” He showed them His hands and side, proving that He was truly risen. Then He breathed on them, giving them the Holy Spirit, commissioning them to carry the message of forgiveness to the world.
Later, Thomas — who was not present that evening — doubted their testimony. He insisted that unless he could see and touch the wounds of Jesus, he would not believe. Eight days later, Jesus appeared again and invited Thomas to see and touch for himself. Thomas fell to his knees in worship, declaring, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus replied, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 20:19-29

Jesus among His Disciples

     19So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” 22And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23“If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained.”

      24But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25So the other disciples were saying to him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

      26After eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors having been shut, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” 27Then He said to Thomas, “Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.” 28Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!” 29Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”

Reflection on John 20:19–29:
This passage captures two scenes of transformation — one of fear turned to peace, and one of doubt turned to faith. In both, Jesus meets His followers exactly where they are. Locked doors and guarded hearts cannot keep Him out.

When Jesus spoke, “Peace be with you,” it wasn’t just a greeting — it was a declaration of victory. The cross had made peace possible. The very hands that bore the nails now extended forgiveness and courage. His breath, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, gave new life and purpose to those who had been paralyzed by fear.

Thomas’s moment reminds us that faith is often born out of struggle, not shame. Jesus didn’t scold him — He invited him closer. The wounds that proved His suffering also proved His identity. Thomas’s confession — “My Lord and my God!” — became one of the clearest declarations of Jesus’ divinity in all of Scripture.

Jesus’ words to Thomas reach forward through time to every believer: “Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have believed.” That’s us — those who walk by faith, trusting the eyewitnesses and the Spirit’s testimony in our hearts. The same peace Jesus offered that night still fills every believer who opens the door to Him.

Application:
Where is fear or doubt trying to lock the doors of your heart? Invite Jesus to meet you there. Ask for His peace to replace anxiety and His truth to silence unbelief. Remember that the same Spirit who raised Christ from the dead lives in you. Believe not only that He rose, but that His resurrection power is at work in your life today.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for entering the locked rooms of my fear and doubt with Your peace. Thank You that Your wounds testify not only to Your suffering but to my salvation. Strengthen my faith when I cannot see and remind me that You are alive and present in every circumstance. Help me to live boldly in the power of Your resurrection and to share Your peace with others. In Your 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.

Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Salvation

It Is Finished (John 19:28–37)

The cross didn’t end in defeat — it ended in victory.

Key Verse:
“Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, ‘It is finished!’ And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” —John 19:30 NASB

Background Context:
As Jesus hung on the cross, every detail of His suffering fulfilled prophecy. Soldiers cast lots for His clothing (Psalm 22:18). He was counted among the transgressors (Isaiah 53:12). Nearing death, Jesus, knowing that all things had been accomplished, said, “I am thirsty,” fulfilling Psalm 69:21. A jar of sour wine was lifted to His lips, and after receiving it, He declared, “It is finished,” bowed His head, and gave up His spirit. The soldiers, ensuring He was dead, pierced His side — and immediately blood and water flowed out, confirming both His death and the fulfillment of Scripture: “Not a bone of Him shall be broken” and “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.”

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 19:28-37

 28After this, Jesus, knowing that all things had already been accomplished, to fulfill the Scripture, said, “I am thirsty.” 29A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth. 30Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

Care of the Body of Jesus

      31Then the Jews, because it was the day of preparation, so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. 32So the soldiers came, and broke the legs of the first man and of the other who was crucified with Him; 33but coming to Jesus, when they saw that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water came out. 35And he who has seen has testified, and his testimony is true; and he knows that he is telling the truth, so that you also may believe. 36For these things came to pass to fulfill the Scripture, “NOT A BONE OF HIM SHALL BE BROKEN.” 37And again another Scripture says, “THEY SHALL LOOK ON HIM WHOM THEY PIERCED.”

Reflection on John 19:28–37:
The words “It is finished” were not a cry of defeat, but a declaration of triumph. In Greek, the word tetelestai means “paid in full” or “completed.” Jesus’ work of redemption — the plan established before the foundation of the world — was now perfectly accomplished. The debt of sin was fully paid; nothing more could be added.

Every prophecy had been fulfilled, every demand of justice satisfied, and every barrier between God and humanity torn down. The blood and water that flowed from His side symbolize both cleansing and new life — the redemption that purifies and the Spirit that renews. Jesus did not simply die; He gave His spirit. Even in death, He remained sovereign, willingly laying down His life in obedience to the Father.

“It is finished” is the anthem of grace — the assurance that salvation is complete and cannot be earned, only received.

Application:
Reflect on what “It is finished” means in your own life. Are you still striving to earn God’s favor or trying to pay a debt He already settled? Rest in the finished work of Christ. Let His words quiet your striving and fill you with gratitude. Worship Him not by trying to repay Him, but by living in the freedom He secured — not freedom to do as we please, but freedom to live as God designed.

Closing Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for finishing the work of salvation on the cross. Thank You that my debt is paid and my soul redeemed. Help me to rest in Your grace and to live each day in gratitude for what You have done. Teach me to trust that nothing I face is beyond the victory You’ve already won. In Your name I pray, 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.

Bitterness / Resentment, Envy / Jealousy / Coveting, Hope, Learning To Pray Effectively, Loving / Kind, Seeking God

God Hears the Cry of the Outcast (Genesis 21:8-21)

Have you ever felt pushed aside, forgotten, or left without hope?

Key Verse:
“God heard the voice of the boy, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, ‘What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the boy where he is.’” —Genesis 21:17 ESV

Background Context:
In Genesis 21:8–21, the tension in Abraham’s family comes to a head. After Isaac is weaned, Sarah sees Ishmael mocking and demands that Hagar and her son be sent away. Though Abraham is distressed, God tells him to listen to Sarah, affirming that Isaac is the promised heir. Hagar and Ishmael are sent into the wilderness, and when their water runs out, Hagar despairs. Yet God hears Ishmael’s cry, provides water, and renews His promise to make him a great nation.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 21:8-21

     8The child grew and was weaned, and Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned.


Sarah Turns against Hagar

      9Now Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, mocking. 10Therefore she said to Abraham, “Drive out this maid and her son, for the son of this maid shall not be an heir with my son Isaac.” 11The matter distressed Abraham greatly because of his son. 12But God said to Abraham, “Do not be distressed because of the lad and your maid; whatever Sarah tells you, listen to her, for through Isaac your descendants shall be named. 13“And of the son of the maid I will make a nation also, because he is your descendant.” 14So Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar, putting them on her shoulder, and gave her the boy, and sent her away. And she departed and wandered about in the wilderness of Beersheba.

      15When the water in the skin was used up, she left the boy under one of the bushes. 16Then she went and sat down opposite him, about a bowshot away, for she said, “Do not let me see the boy die.” And she sat opposite him, and lifted up her voice and wept. 17God heard the lad crying; and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter with you, Hagar? Do not fear, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. 18“Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him by the hand, for I will make a great nation of him.” 19Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water; and she went and filled the skin with water and gave the lad a drink.

      20God was with the lad, and he grew; and he lived in the wilderness and became an archer. 21He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt.

Reflection on Genesis 21:8–21:
This passage is a powerful reminder that God sees and hears the outcast. Though Ishmael was not the child of the covenant, he was not forgotten. God met him and his mother in their deepest moment of despair. The wilderness that looked like the end became the place where God revealed His compassion and provision.

For us, it is a comfort to know that God does not ignore the brokenhearted. Even when we feel abandoned, overlooked, or cast aside, He hears our cries and meets us where we are. His provision may not come as we expect, but it will always come right on time.

Application:
If you are walking through a season of loneliness, rejection, or hardship, remember that God hears your cry. No one is invisible to Him. Just as He opened Hagar’s eyes to see the well, He can open your eyes to His provision and care. Trust that even in the wilderness, God is near and faithful.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You that You see me even when I feel unseen. Help me to trust Your compassion and provision in the wilderness seasons of life. Open my eyes to the wells of Your grace that sustain me day by day. 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.

Loving / Kind

Love One Another (John 13:31-38)

The world will know we belong to Jesus—not by our words, but by our love.

Key Verse:
“By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.” —John 13:35 NASB

Background Context:
After Judas leaves, Jesus begins preparing His disciples for what’s coming. He speaks of His impending glorification through the cross and gives them a “new commandment”: to love one another as He has loved them. This kind of love goes beyond duty—it is sacrificial, selfless, and deeply transformative. Peter, eager to prove his devotion, promises to lay down his life for Jesus, but Jesus foretells his denial. Even so, His command to love stands as the defining mark of all who follow Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 13: 31-38

      31Therefore when he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in Him; 32if God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and will glorify Him immediately. 33“Little children, I am with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ 34“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

      36Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered, “Where I go, you cannot follow Me now; but you will follow later.” 37Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.” 38Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times.

Reflection on John 13:31–38:
Jesus ties His coming death—the moment of His greatest glory—to the call for His disciples to love one another. Why? Because His love for us at the cross is the standard for our love toward others. This isn’t optional; it’s the evidence of discipleship.

Notice, too, that Jesus calls it a new commandment. Loving others wasn’t new in itself (see Leviticus 19:18), but loving as He loves—with a willingness to serve, sacrifice, and forgive—was radical. This kind of love isn’t rooted in emotion but in deliberate, Christ-like action.

Peter’s boldness quickly falters as Jesus predicts his coming denial. It’s a reminder that even our best intentions fall short without God’s grace. Yet Jesus doesn’t withdraw His love. Even knowing Peter’s failure, He continues to call him His disciple.

Application:
How are you loving others? Not just those who love you back, but those who are hard to love? Jesus calls us to reflect His love—a love that serves, forgives, and sacrifices.

If you’ve failed like Peter, don’t run from Him. Jesus still loves you, still calls you His own, and still invites you back into His mission of love.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for loving me with a perfect, sacrificial love. Help me to love others the way You have loved me, even when it’s hard. Strengthen me to reflect Your heart so that others may see You through me. 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.

Forgive Others / Seek Forgiveness, Loving / Kind, Purposeful / Intentional

The God Who Knew and Still Loved (John 13: 18-30)

Jesus wasn’t surprised by betrayal—He faced it with love and purpose.

Key Verse:
“After receiving the piece of bread, he went out immediately; and it was night.” —John 13:30 NASB

Background Context:
As the Passover meal continues, Jesus reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him. This announcement stuns the group, and Peter motions for John to ask who it is. Jesus identifies Judas by giving him a piece of bread—a gesture of intimacy and friendship—yet Judas receives it with a heart already set on treachery. Then Judas departs into the night, setting into motion the events that will lead to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

John 13: 18-30

18“I do not speak of all of you. I know the ones I have chosen; but it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.’ 19“From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He. 20“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.”

Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

21When Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, that one of you will betray Me.” 22The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking. 23There was reclining on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. 24So Simon Peter gestured to him, and said to him, “Tell us who it is of whom He is speaking.” 25He, leaning back thus on Jesus’ bosom, said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” 26Jesus then answered, “That is the one for whom I shall dip the morsel and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the morsel, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. 27After the morsel, Satan then entered into him. Therefore Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.” 28Now no one of those reclining at the table knew for what purpose He had said this to him. 29For some were supposing, because Judas had the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, “Buy the things we have need of for the feast”; or else, that he should give something to the poor. 30So after receiving the morsel he went out immediately; and it was night.

Reflection on John 13:18–30:
Jesus knew Judas would betray Him. He knew the pain, the injustice, and the darkness ahead—and yet He washed Judas’ feet and shared bread with him anyway. That’s staggering grace.

The giving of bread was a sign of honor, yet Judas took this act of love and used it as his moment to leave for betrayal. John’s haunting note—“And it was night”—is more than a time stamp. It’s a spiritual reality. Judas walked out of the Light and into the darkness he had chosen.

Still, nothing here is out of God’s control. Jesus says these things are happening so Scripture will be fulfilled. Even in betrayal, God’s plan for redemption moves forward.

Application:
Have you ever been betrayed by someone close? Jesus understands. He shows us that we can face even the deepest wounds with a heart that trusts the Father and chooses love.

Also, examine your heart: are there places where you’ve resisted Jesus’ invitation, walking away from His Light toward the shadows? He calls you back before the night overtakes you.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for loving me even when I’ve resisted You. Help me to forgive those who have betrayed or hurt me, as You forgave. Keep me in Your Light, and give me courage to stay near when it’s easier to walk away. 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.

Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Grace / Forgiveness, His Timing Not Ours, Loving / Kind, Merciful

When We Run Ahead of God (Genesis 16)

Impatience can lead us to take matters into our own hands, but God’s mercy still meets us there.

Key Verse:
“Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, ‘You are a God who sees’; for she said, ‘Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?’” —Genesis 16:13 NASB

Background Context:
Years after God promised Abram a son, Sarai remains barren. In her frustration, she proposes a solution: Abram should father a child through her Egyptian maid, Hagar. Abram agrees, and Hagar conceives—but tension quickly erupts between Sarai and Hagar, leading to harsh treatment and Hagar’s flight into the wilderness. There, the Angel of the Lord meets Hagar, instructing her to return and reassuring her that her son will become the father of a multitude. Hagar names God El Roi—“the God who sees me”—a powerful declaration of His compassion and care for the overlooked and hurting.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 16

Sarai and Hagar

      1Now Sarai, Abram’s wife had borne him no children, and she had an Egyptian maid whose name was Hagar. 2So Sarai said to Abram, “Now behold, the LORD has prevented me from bearing children. Please go in to my maid; perhaps I will obtain children through her.” And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai. 3After Abram had lived ten years in the land of Canaan, Abram’s wife Sarai took Hagar the Egyptian, her maid, and gave her to her husband Abram as his wife. 4He went in to Hagar, and she conceived; and when she saw that she had conceived, her mistress was despised in her sight. 5And Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done me be upon you. I gave my maid into your arms, but when she saw that she had conceived, I was despised in her sight. May the LORD judge between you and me.” 6But Abram said to Sarai, “Behold, your maid is in your power; do to her what is good in your sight.” So Sarai treated her harshly, and she fled from her presence.

      7Now the angel of the LORD found her by a spring of water in the wilderness, by the spring on the way to Shur. 8He said, “Hagar, Sarai’s maid, where have you come from and where are you going?” And she said, “I am fleeing from the presence of my mistress Sarai.” 9Then the angel of the LORD said to her, “Return to your mistress, and submit yourself to her authority.” 10Moreover, the angel of the LORD said to her, “I will greatly multiply your descendants so that they will be too many to count.”

11The angel of the LORD said to her further,
“Behold, you are with child,
And you will bear a son;
And you shall call his name Ishmael,
Because the LORD has given heed to your affliction.

      12“He will be a wild donkey of a man,
His hand will be against everyone,
And everyone’s hand will be against him;
And he will live to the east of all his brothers.”

13Then she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, “You are a God who sees”; for she said, “Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?” 14Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered.

      15So Hagar bore Abram a son; and Abram called the name of his son, whom Hagar bore, Ishmael. 16Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore Ishmael to him.

Reflection on Genesis 16:
Sarai and Abram’s impatience reminds us how easy it is to try to “help” God fulfill His promises. But our attempts to shortcut His timing often create pain and conflict. Sarai’s plan brought immediate results but also division and deep hurt.

Yet even here, God’s mercy shines. Hagar, the marginalized servant, encounters the living God in the wilderness. She isn’t forgotten. In her desperation, she discovers a profound truth: El Roi—the God who sees. This name reveals God’s heart for the unseen, the wounded, and the cast aside. He saw Hagar, He heard her cries, and He gave her hope for her future.

This chapter reminds us that God’s plans don’t need our shortcuts—and that even in our failures, He redeems and restores.

Application:
Are you tempted to run ahead of God because His promises seem slow? Wait on Him. His timing is perfect, and His plans are far better than anything you can orchestrate.

And if you feel unseen or forgotten, take comfort in Hagar’s words: God sees you. He knows your pain, your fears, and your situation. Trust Him to meet you in the wilderness and give you hope.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve run ahead of Your plans out of impatience or fear. Help me to trust Your timing and surrender my own solutions. Thank You for being El Roi, the God who sees me, even when I feel lost or overlooked. 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 Powerful / King of All, Loving / Kind

A Table of Nations, A Thread of Purpose (Genesis 10)

Even in long lists of names, God’s plan is unfolding.

Key Verse:
“These are the families of the sons of Noah, according to their genealogies, by their nations; and out of these the nations were separated on the earth after the flood.” —Genesis 10:32 NASB

Background Context:
Genesis 10 is often called the Table of Nations. It traces the descendants of Noah’s sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—as they repopulate the earth after the flood. The chapter includes over 70 names and shows how the nations spread geographically and culturally. While it might seem like a dry genealogy at first glance, this chapter is actually a critical link in the biblical narrative. It shows that all nations trace back to one family and sets the stage for what will come in Genesis 11 (the Tower of Babel) and ultimately the calling of Abraham through the line of Shem.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 10

Descendants of Noah

      1Now these are the records of the generations of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, the sons of Noah; and sons were born to them after the flood.

      2The sons of Japheth were Gomer and Magog and Madai and Javan and Tubal and Meshech and Tiras. 3The sons of Gomer were Ashkenaz and Riphath and Togarmah. 4The sons of Javan were Elishah and Tarshish, Kittim and Dodanim. 5From these the coastlands of the nations were separated into their lands, every one according to his language, according to their families, into their nations.

      6The sons of Ham were Cush and Mizraim and Put and Canaan. 7The sons of Cush were Seba and Havilah and Sabtah and Raamah and Sabteca; and the sons of Raamah were Sheba and Dedan. 8Now Cush became the father of Nimrod; he became a mighty one on the earth. 9He was a mighty hunter before the LORD; therefore it is said, “Like Nimrod a mighty hunter before the LORD.” 10The beginning of his kingdom was Babel and Erech and Accad and Calneh, in the land of Shinar. 11From that land he went forth into Assyria, and built Nineveh and Rehoboth-Ir and Calah, 12and Resen between Nineveh and Calah; that is the great city. 13Mizraim became the father of Ludim and Anamim and Lehabim and Naphtuhim 14and Pathrusim and Casluhim (from which came the Philistines) and Caphtorim.

      15Canaan became the father of Sidon, his firstborn, and Heth 16and the Jebusite and the Amorite and the Girgashite 17and the Hivite and the Arkite and the Sinite 18and the Arvadite and the Zemarite and the Hamathite; and afterward the families of the Canaanite were spread abroad. 19The territory of the Canaanite extended from Sidon as you go toward Gerar, as far as Gaza; as you go toward Sodom and Gomorrah and Admah and Zeboiim, as far as Lasha. 20These are the sons of Ham, according to their families, according to their languages, by their lands, by their nations.

      21Also to Shem, the father of all the children of Eber, and the older brother of Japheth, children were born. 22The sons of Shem were Elam and Asshur and Arpachshad and Lud and Aram. 23The sons of Aram were Uz and Hul and Gether and Mash. 24Arpachshad became the father of Shelah; and Shelah became the father of Eber. 25Two sons were born to Eber; the name of the one was Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided; and his brother’s name was Joktan. 26Joktan became the father of Almodad and Sheleph and Hazarmaveth and Jerah 27and Hadoram and Uzal and Diklah 28and Obal and Abimael and Sheba 29and Ophir and Havilah and Jobab; all these were the sons of Joktan. 30Now their settlement extended from Mesha as you go toward Sephar, the hill country of the east. 31These are the sons of Shem, according to their families, according to their languages, by their lands, according to their nations.

      32These are the families of the sons of Noah, according to their genealogies, by their nations; and out of these the nations were separated on the earth after the flood.

Reflection on Genesis 10:
It can be easy to skim past long lists of names in Scripture, but Genesis 10 isn’t just a record—it’s a roadmap. It shows that God is not just a God of individuals, but of families, tribes, and nations. He cares about every people group, every culture, every language.

Though these names represent diversity, they all trace back to Noah. That means humanity is one extended family. And more importantly, God is working through all of it. Through the line of Shem will come Abraham. Through Abraham will come Israel. And through Israel will come Yeshua—the Savior of all nations.

This chapter also reminds us that God is sovereign over history and geography. He sets times and boundaries (Acts 17:26) and moves within every nation to draw people to Himself. The great commission begins here—in the roots of every people group on earth.

Application:
Don’t overlook the parts of Scripture—or the people in your life—that seem less “exciting.” Sometimes, the most powerful truths are embedded in the details. God is weaving a story that includes every nation, every person, and every place—including you.

Take time to pray for the nations. Ask God how you can reflect His heart for all people. And remember, your spiritual heritage traces back to a faithful God who has always been working through families, generations, and nations to bring about redemption.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for reminding me that You care about every nation, every language, and every generation. Help me to see Your purpose even in the details I might overlook. Give me a heart for the nations and a willingness to be part of Your plan to bring the good news to all. 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.

Blessed, Compassionate, Loving / Kind

A New Beginning, A Lasting Covenant (Genesis 9:1-19)

God’s promise is greater than our past.

Key Verse:
“I have set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall serve as a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth.” —Genesis 9:13 NASB

Background Context:
After the floodwaters recede and Noah’s family steps onto dry land, God gives them a fresh start. Genesis 9:1–19 records God’s blessings, commands, and a covenant. God reaffirms humanity’s calling to be fruitful and multiply, establishes new boundaries for justice and food, and introduces a powerful sign of His promise—the rainbow. This passage is the foundation of God’s commitment to never again destroy all life with a flood. It also emphasizes the sacredness of life and humanity’s accountability before God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 9 (1-19)

Covenant of the Rainbow

      1And God blessed Noah and his sons and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth. 2“The fear of you and the terror of you will be on every beast of the earth and on every bird of the sky; with everything that creeps on the ground, and all the fish of the sea, into your hand they are given. 3“Every moving thing that is alive shall be food for you; I give all to you, as I gave the green plant. 4“Only you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood. 5“Surely I will require your lifeblood; from every beast I will require it. And from every man, from every man’s brother I will require the life of man.

      6“Whoever sheds man’s blood,
By man his blood shall be shed,
For in the image of God
He made man.

      7“As for you, be fruitful and multiply;
Populate the earth abundantly and multiply in it.”

      8Then God spoke to Noah and to his sons with him, saying, 9“Now behold, I Myself do establish My covenant with you, and with your descendants after you; 10and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you; of all that comes out of the ark, even every beast of the earth. 11“I establish My covenant with you; and all flesh shall never again be cut off by the water of the flood, neither shall there again be a flood to destroy the earth.” 12God said, “This is the sign of the covenant which I am making between Me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all successive generations; 13I set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth. 14“It shall come about, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow will be seen in the cloud, 15and I will remember My covenant, which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and never again shall the water become a flood to destroy all flesh. 16“When the bow is in the cloud, then I will look upon it, to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” 17And God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth.”

      18Now the sons of Noah who came out of the ark were Shem and Ham and Japheth; and Ham was the father of Canaan. 19These three were the sons of Noah, and from these the whole earth was populated.

Reflection on Genesis 9:1–19:
The flood was over. Judgment had come and gone. But now came restoration. God didn’t just dry the land—He reaffirmed His purpose for humanity. “Be fruitful and multiply.” The same blessing given to Adam was now spoken to Noah. This wasn’t just a reset of earth—it was a restoration of calling.

God then establishes a covenant—not just with Noah, but with all living creatures for generations to come. The rainbow would be the sign, not just for mankind, but for God to “remember” His everlasting promise of mercy. It’s a visible reminder that, though humanity may fail, God’s mercy endures.

This covenant also includes a renewed value on life. Human life is declared sacred—created in God’s image and not to be taken lightly. In a world that had been filled with violence, God was reestablishing order, dignity, and justice.

Noah’s sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—are now the carriers of this blessing and responsibility. From these three would come all the nations of the earth.

Application:
Have you ever needed a fresh start after a storm? Genesis 9 reminds us that God is not only a righteous Judge but also a merciful Redeemer. He restores purpose, affirms identity, and offers promises that reach beyond our failures.

Look for the “rainbows” in your life—reminders that God has not abandoned you. Embrace your calling again. Choose to walk in the blessing of obedience, honoring the life He’s given you and extending His covenant love to others.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being a God of second chances and everlasting promises. Help me walk in the calling You’ve placed on my life and honor the sacredness of the life You’ve given me. When I see the rainbow, let it stir me to remember Your mercy and Your covenant love. 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.