Category Archives: Loving / Kind

Fear / Reverence for God, Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Hypocrisy, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Share the Good News

The Fear of the Lord: Embracing Boldness and Integrity (Luke 12:1-12)

Do you ever find yourself hesitant to live out your faith openly?

Luke 12:1-12 calls us to embrace boldness and integrity, trusting in God’s protection and guidance.

Key Verse: “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.” – Luke 12:8 (NKJV)

Background Context: In Luke 12:1-12, Jesus addresses His disciples amidst a large crowd. He warns them about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and encourages them to live with integrity and fear of God, rather than fear of people. Jesus speaks about God’s omniscience, the value He places on His followers, and the importance of acknowledging Him before others.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 12:1-12

God Knows and Cares

     1Under these circumstances, after so many thousands of people had gathered together that they were stepping on one another, He began saying to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2“But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. 3“Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops.

      4“I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. 5“But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him! 6“Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. 7“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.

      8“And I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God; 9but he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10“And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him. 11“When they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not worry about how or what you are to speak in your defense, or what you are to say; 12for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

Reflection on Luke 12:1-12:

  • Warning Against Hypocrisy: Jesus cautions His disciples to beware of the “leaven of the Pharisees,” which is hypocrisy (Luke 12:1). He emphasizes that nothing hidden will remain concealed; everything will be revealed (Luke 12:2-3). This teaches us the importance of living authentically and transparently before God and others.
  • Fear of the Lord: Jesus instructs His disciples not to fear those who can kill the body but have no power beyond that. Instead, they should fear God, who has authority over eternal destiny (Luke 12:4-5). This shifts our perspective from earthly fears to a reverent fear of God.
  • God’s Care and Value: Jesus reassures His disciples of their immense value to God, comparing them to sparrows. He reminds them that God knows even the number of hairs on their heads (Luke 12:6-7). This assures us of God’s intimate care and attention to our lives.
  • Confessing Christ: Jesus underscores the importance of acknowledging Him before others. He promises that those who confess Him will be acknowledged before the angels of God, while those who deny Him will be denied (Luke 12:8-9). This encourages us to boldly profess our faith.
  • The Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Jesus assures His disciples that the Holy Spirit will provide the necessary words when they face persecution and trials for their faith (Luke 12:11-12). This highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering and guiding believers.

Summary Key Points:

  • Integrity Over Hypocrisy: We are called to live authentically, knowing that God sees all.
  • Reverent Fear of God: Our primary concern should be to honor and revere God, rather than fearing people.
  • God’s Care: We are deeply valued by God, who knows and cares for every detail of our lives.
  • Bold Confession: We are encouraged to boldly confess Christ, trusting in His acknowledgment before the angels.
  • Holy Spirit’s Empowerment: In times of trial, the Holy Spirit will guide and empower us to speak the truth.

Application: Let us examine our lives for any areas of hypocrisy and strive to live with integrity, knowing that God sees all. May we shift our fear from human opinion to a reverent fear of God, recognizing His ultimate authority over our lives. Let us embrace the boldness to confess Christ before others, assured of His care and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with a desire to live authentically and boldly for You. Help us to overcome any hypocrisy in our lives and to walk in integrity. Teach us to fear You above all else, knowing that You hold our eternal destiny. Remind us of Your deep care for us and give us the courage to confess Christ before others. Fill us with the Holy Spirit, guiding and empowering us in times of trial. 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.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Grace / Forgiveness, Hope, Justice / Judgment, Loving / Kind, Protector / Deliverer, Strong in Our Weakness

Rebuilding Hope: A Prayer in the Midst of Desolation (Psalm 79)

Ever felt like hope was slipping through your fingers, leaving you in despair and uncertainty?

In times of distress and hopelessness, turning to God can be our only lifeline. Psalm 79 resonates with the cries of those who have tasted the bitterness of defeat and sought refuge in the arms of the Almighty.

Reconnect: Before delving into Psalm 79, it’s essential to recall the overarching narrative of the Psalms. These poetic expressions encapsulate the range of human experiences, from exultant praise to deep lamentation. In Psalm 79, we find a heartfelt plea for deliverance amidst the ruins—a theme resonant with the broader context of lament found throughout the Psalter.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 79

A Lament over the Destruction of Jerusalem, and Prayer for Help.

A Psalm of Asaph.

    1O God, the nations have invaded Your inheritance;
They have defiled Your holy temple;
They have laid Jerusalem in ruins.

      2They have given the dead bodies of Your servants for food to the birds of the heavens,
The flesh of Your godly ones to the beasts of the earth.

      3They have poured out their blood like water round about Jerusalem;
And there was no one to bury them.

      4We have become a reproach to our neighbors,
A scoffing and derision to those around us.

      5How long, O LORD? Will You be angry forever?
Will Your jealousy burn like fire?

      6Pour out Your wrath upon the nations which do not know You,
And upon the kingdoms which do not call upon Your name.

      7For they have devoured Jacob
And laid waste his habitation.

      8Do not remember the iniquities of our forefathers against us;
Let Your compassion come quickly to meet us,
For we are brought very low.

      9Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Your name;
And deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name’s sake.

      10Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?”
Let there be known among the nations in our sight,
Vengeance for the blood of Your servants which has been shed.

      11Let the groaning of the prisoner come before You;
According to the greatness of Your power preserve those who are doomed to die.

      12And return to our neighbors sevenfold into their bosom
The reproach with which they have reproached You, O Lord.

      13So we Your people and the sheep of Your pasture
Will give thanks to You forever;
To all generations we will tell of Your praise.

Psalm 79: The psalmist begins by painting a grim picture of desolation, with Jerusalem laid waste, the temple defiled, and God’s people subjected to scorn and ridicule by their enemies. The anguish is palpable as they cry out to God for mercy and intervention. They plead for justice against their oppressors and restoration for the sake of God’s glory.

Key Points:

  • A Cry for Mercy Amidst Desolation: The psalmist lays bare the devastation wrought upon God’s people, appealing to His compassion in the face of overwhelming distress.
  • Justice and Vindication: Amidst the lament, there is a fervent plea for God to act on behalf of His people, not merely for their sake but for the vindication of His holy name.
  • Hope Amidst Ruins: Despite the prevailing despair, there remains a glimmer of hope as the psalmist entrusts the nation’s plight into God’s hands, believing in His faithfulness to deliver and restore.

Call to Action: In times of personal or collective upheaval, let us follow the example of the psalmist by turning to God in prayer, laying bare our fears, frustrations, and hopes before Him. As we intercede for our own needs and those of others, may we also commit to trusting in God’s sovereignty and steadfast love, even when circumstances seem dire.

  • Turn to Prayer: In the face of adversity, cultivate a habit of turning to God in prayer, pouring out your heart before Him with honesty and humility.
  • Hold Fast to Hope: Anchor your faith in the unchanging character of God, finding reassurance in His promises and His past faithfulness to His people.
  • Act in Compassion: As you seek God’s intervention in your own life, extend compassion and support to those around you who are also struggling, embodying the love of Christ in tangible ways.

In the turbulent seas of life, may we find solace in the unwavering presence of our God, who hears the cries of His people and responds with mercy and grace. As we navigate the ruins of our broken world, let us cling to the hope of restoration and redemption, trusting in the God who makes all things new.

Prayer: Gracious God, in times of trouble and despair, we turn to You as our refuge and strength. Hear our cries, O Lord, and incline Your ear to our supplications. Grant us the assurance of Your presence amidst the storms of life, and lead us into paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake. As we lift our voices in prayer, may Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 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, Faithful, Hope, Loving / Kind, Psalms

Remember God’s Faithfulness (Psalm 78)

Ever been captivated by timeless stories about the struggles of man and their ups and downs in staying faithful to God?

Psalm 78 is like that—a treasure trove of tales revealing humanity’s journey with God, filled with ups and downs, victories and defeats.

Reconnect: As we delve into Psalm 78, let’s reconnect with the broader narrative of the Psalms. These poetic reflections encapsulate the highs and lows of humanity’s relationship with God, offering solace, praise, and instruction for all generations.

Psalm 78 serves as a timeless reminder of God’s enduring faithfulness amidst the fickleness of humanity. It recounts the multifaceted story of Israel, portraying God’s miraculous interventions and the people’s recurrent lapses into disobedience.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 78

God’s Guidance of His People in Spite of Their Unfaithfulness

     1Listen, O my people, to my instruction;

            Incline your ears to the words of my mouth.

      2I will open my mouth in a parable;
I will utter dark sayings of old,

      3Which we have heard and known,
And our fathers have told us.

      4We will not conceal them from their children,
But tell to the generation to come the praises of the LORD,
And His strength and His wondrous works that He has done.

      5For He established a testimony in Jacob
And appointed a law in Israel,
Which He commanded our fathers
That they should teach them to their children,

      6That the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born,
That they may arise and tell them to their children,

      7That they should put their confidence in God
And not forget the works of God,
But keep His commandments,

      8And not be like their fathers,
A stubborn and rebellious generation,
A generation that did not prepare its heart
And whose spirit was not faithful to God.

      9The sons of Ephraim were archers equipped with bows,
Yet they turned back in the day of battle.

      10They did not keep the covenant of God
And refused to walk in His law;

      11They forgot His deeds
And His miracles that He had shown them.

      12He wrought wonders before their fathers
In the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan.

      13He divided the sea and caused them to pass through,
And He made the waters stand up like a heap.

      14Then He led them with the cloud by day
And all the night with a light of fire.

      15He split the rocks in the wilderness
And gave them abundant drink like the ocean depths.

      16He brought forth streams also from the rock
And caused waters to run down like rivers.

      17Yet they still continued to sin against Him,
To rebel against the Most High in the desert.

      18And in their heart they put God to the test
By asking food according to their desire.

      19Then they spoke against God;
They said, “Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?

      20“Behold, He struck the rock so that waters gushed out,
And streams were overflowing;
Can He give bread also?
Will He provide meat for His people?”

      21Therefore the LORD heard and was full of wrath;
And a fire was kindled against Jacob
And anger also mounted against Israel,

      22Because they did not believe in God
And did not trust in His salvation.

      23Yet He commanded the clouds above
And opened the doors of heaven;

      24He rained down manna upon them to eat
And gave them food from heaven.

      25Man did eat the bread of angels;
He sent them food in abundance.

      26He caused the east wind to blow in the heavens
And by His power He directed the south wind.

      27When He rained meat upon them like the dust,
Even winged fowl like the sand of the seas,

      28Then He let them fall in the midst of their camp,
Round about their dwellings.

      29So they ate and were well filled,
And their desire He gave to them.

      30Before they had satisfied their desire,
While their food was in their mouths,

      31The anger of God rose against them
And killed some of their stoutest ones,
And subdued the choice men of Israel.

      32In spite of all this they still sinned
And did not believe in His wonderful works.

      33So He brought their days to an end in futility
And their years in sudden terror.

      34When He killed them, then they sought Him,
And returned and searched diligently for God;

      35And they remembered that God was their rock,
And the Most High God their Redeemer.

      36But they deceived Him with their mouth
And lied to Him with their tongue.

      37For their heart was not steadfast toward Him,
Nor were they faithful in His covenant.

      38But He, being compassionate, forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them;
And often He restrained His anger
And did not arouse all His wrath.

      39Thus He remembered that they were but flesh,
A wind that passes and does not return.

      40How often they rebelled against Him in the wilderness
And grieved Him in the desert!

      41Again and again they tempted God,
And pained the Holy One of Israel.

      42They did not remember His power,
The day when He redeemed them from the adversary,

      43When He performed His signs in Egypt
And His marvels in the field of Zoan,

      44And turned their rivers to blood,
And their streams, they could not drink.

      45He sent among them swarms of flies which devoured them,
And frogs which destroyed them.

      46He gave also their crops to the grasshopper
And the product of their labor to the locust.

      47He destroyed their vines with hailstones
And their sycamore trees with frost.

      48He gave over their cattle also to the hailstones
And their herds to bolts of lightning.

      49He sent upon them His burning anger,
Fury and indignation and trouble,
A band of destroying angels.

      50He leveled a path for His anger;
He did not spare their soul from death,
But gave over their life to the plague,

      51And smote all the firstborn in Egypt,
The first issue of their virility in the tents of Ham.

      52But He led forth His own people like sheep
And guided them in the wilderness like a flock;

      53He led them safely, so that they did not fear;
But the sea engulfed their enemies.

      54So He brought them to His holy land,
To this hill country which His right hand had gained.

      55He also drove out the nations before them
And apportioned them for an inheritance by measurement,
And made the tribes of Israel dwell in their tents.

      56Yet they tempted and rebelled against the Most High God
And did not keep His testimonies,

      57But turned back and acted treacherously like their fathers;
They turned aside like a treacherous bow.

      58For they provoked Him with their high places
And aroused His jealousy with their graven images.

      59When God heard, He was filled with wrath
And greatly abhorred Israel;

      60So that He abandoned the dwelling place at Shiloh,
The tent which He had pitched among men,

      61And gave up His strength to captivity
And His glory into the hand of the adversary.

      62He also delivered His people to the sword,
And was filled with wrath at His inheritance.

      63Fire devoured His young men,
And His virgins had no wedding songs.

      64His priests fell by the sword,
And His widows could not weep.

      65Then the Lord awoke as if from sleep,
Like a warrior overcome by wine.

      66He drove His adversaries backward;
He put on them an everlasting reproach.

      67He also rejected the tent of Joseph,
And did not choose the tribe of Ephraim,

      68But chose the tribe of Judah,
Mount Zion which He loved.

      69And He built His sanctuary like the heights,
Like the earth which He has founded forever.

      70He also chose David His servant
And took him from the sheepfolds;

      71From the care of the ewes with suckling lambs He brought him
To shepherd Jacob His people,
And Israel His inheritance.

      72So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart,
And guided them with his skillful hands.

Summary Key Points:

  1. God’s Unfailing Love: Throughout Psalm 78, we witness the unyielding love of God, who remains faithful even when His people falter. His acts of deliverance and provision stand as enduring testimonies to His character.
  2. Human Forgetfulness: Despite experiencing God’s miraculous deeds, the Israelites often succumbed to forgetfulness, neglecting His commandments and doubting His provision. This cycle of disobedience underscores the frailty of human nature.
  3. Call to Remember: In light of Israel’s forgetfulness, Psalm 78 issues a poignant call to remembrance. By recalling God’s faithfulness and teaching future generations His statutes, we guard against the pitfalls of unbelief and ingratitude.
  4. Hope in Restoration: While Psalm 78 paints a sobering portrait of human waywardness, it also points to the hope of restoration. God’s faithfulness extends beyond Israel’s failures, offering the promise of renewal and redemption for all who turn to Him.

Call to Action:

  • Reflect on God’s Faithfulness: Take time to reflect on God’s faithfulness in your own life and in the broader sweep of history. Consider keeping a journal of His provision and answered prayers.
  • Teach the Next Generation: Just as Psalm 78 urges us to pass on God’s truths to future generations, commit to sharing your faith journey with others. Whether through mentoring relationships or family discussions, invest in the spiritual growth of those around you.

Closing Prayer: Lord, as we reflect on the stories and lessons from Psalm 78, we are reminded of Your faithfulness throughout history. Help us to learn from the mistakes and triumphs of those who came before us, and guide us in our journey of faith. Give us the wisdom to follow Your ways and the strength to remain steadfast in times of trial. May Your Word continue to inspire and transform us each day. In Your name, we 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.

Hope, Interceding for Others, Justice / Judgment, Loving / Kind, Prophecy, Rebuke Wrong Behavior, Repenting from Sin, Teachable, Through Prophets, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Judgment and Redemption (Ezekiel 6)

Have you ever considered the consequences of forsaking God’s ways?

In Ezekiel 6, we witness the prophet Ezekiel delivering a powerful message of judgment against the idolatry and rebellion of Israel. Through vivid imagery and prophetic warnings, Ezekiel portrays both the severity of divine judgment and the hope of redemption for those who turn back to God.

Reconnect:
Continuing the prophetic narrative of Ezekiel, chapter 6 serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of Israel’s persistent disobedience and the promise of restoration for the faithful remnant.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 6

Idolatrous Worship Denounced

      1And the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“Son of man, set your face toward the mountains of Israel, and prophesy against them 3and say, ‘Mountains of Israel, listen to the word of the Lord GOD! Thus says the Lord GOD to the mountains, the hills, the ravines and the valleys: “Behold, I Myself am going to bring a sword on you, and I will destroy your high places. 4“So your altars will become desolate and your incense altars will be smashed; and I will make your slain fall in front of your idols. 5“I will also lay the dead bodies of the sons of Israel in front of their idols; and I will scatter your bones around your altars. 6“In all your dwellings, cities will become waste and the high places will be desolate, that your altars may become waste and desolate, your idols may be broken and brought to an end, your incense altars may be cut down, and your works may be blotted out. 7“The slain will fall among you, and you will know that I am the LORD.

      8“However, I will leave a remnant, for you will have those who escaped the sword among the nations when you are scattered among the countries. 9“Then those of you who escape will remember Me among the nations to which they will be carried captive, how I have been hurt by their adulterous hearts which turned away from Me, and by their eyes which played the harlot after their idols; and they will loathe themselves in their own sight for the evils which they have committed, for all their abominations. 10“Then they will know that I am the LORD; I have not said in vain that I would inflict this disaster on them.”’

      11“Thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Clap your hand, stamp your foot and say, “Alas, because of all the evil abominations of the house of Israel, which will fall by sword, famine and plague! 12“He who is far off will die by the plague, and he who is near will fall by the sword, and he who remains and is besieged will die by the famine. Thus will I spend My wrath on them. 13“Then you will know that I am the LORD, when their slain are among their idols around their altars, on every high hill, on all the tops of the mountains, under every green tree and under every leafy oak—the places where they offered soothing aroma to all their idols. 14“So throughout all their habitations I will stretch out My hand against them and make the land more desolate and waste than the wilderness toward Diblah; thus they will know that I am the LORD.”’”

Summary Key Points:

  • Idolatrous Practices:
    Ezekiel condemns the idolatrous practices of the Israelites, who have turned away from the true God to worship idols and commit spiritual adultery. The prophet foretells the destruction of their sacred places and the desolation of their land as a consequence of their rebellion. Idolatry extends beyond the worship of false gods to include any object or desire that takes precedence over our devotion to God. Today, idolatry manifests in various forms, such as materialism, obsession with success, or prioritizing relationships with people above God.
  • Divine Judgment:
    Through symbolic acts and prophetic pronouncements, Ezekiel vividly portrays the severity of God’s judgment upon Israel for their idolatry and apostasy. The Lord declares His intention to execute fierce judgment against the people, leaving their cities in ruins and their sanctuaries desolate.
  • Promise of Restoration:
    Amidst the backdrop of divine judgment, God extends a promise of redemption and restoration to the faithful remnant of Israel. He assures them that He will preserve a remnant who will be scattered among the nations but ultimately restored to their land in accordance with His covenant promises.

Call to Action:

  • Repentance and Turning Back to God:
    Examine your heart and life for any areas of idolatry or disobedience, and earnestly seek repentance and turning back to God. Renounce any false gods or idols that have taken precedence in your life, and recommit yourself to wholehearted devotion to the Lord.
  • Intercession for Restoration:
    Intercede fervently for the restoration of God’s people and the fulfillment of His promises. Pray for spiritual awakening and revival among individuals and nations, believing in God’s power to bring about transformation and renewal.
  • Commitment to Faithfulness:
    Commit yourself to a life of faithfulness and obedience to God’s commands. Align your thoughts, words, and actions with His will, trusting in His faithfulness to fulfill His promises and bring about His plans for redemption and restoration.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we humbly acknowledge Your righteous judgment upon rebellion and idolatry, yet we cling to the hope of redemption and restoration offered through Your mercy and grace. Grant us the strength to repent and turn back to You wholeheartedly, and empower us to live lives of faithful obedience and devotion. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, we 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.

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Protector / Deliverer, Submitted / Servant, Traditions / Holidays

Passover and Our Path to Salvation Through Yeshua (Jesus)

As we draw near to the season of Passover and Unleavened Bread, we’re reminded of the profound significance these celebrations hold in our journey of faith. They’re not merely historical observances but pivotal events that invite us to reflect on the sacrifice of Yeshua (Jesus) for our sins and the remarkable gift of salvation available to us through Him. This season provides a unique lens through which to view the message of the cross—a message that is both beautifully simple for a child to grasp and infinitely rich for scholars to explore.

The Gospel according to John and the teachings of Paul provide foundational insights into the nature of belief and the essence of the gospel message. John 3:16-21 eloquently expresses God’s immense love for humanity, a love so great that it led to the ultimate sacrifice—sending His only Son to save us, not to condemn us but to offer eternal life through belief in Him.

However, understanding “belief” in its biblical context requires more than acknowledging Yeshua’s existence or His role in history. True belief necessitates a submission to Yeshua as Lord, evidenced by a life increasingly reflective of His character and teachings. It’s a belief that transforms, impacting not just our thoughts but our actions and priorities (James 2:14-20).

Sin, our inherent separation from God, demands a price we’re unable to pay. Yet, through God’s grace and mercy, Yeshua paid that price on our behalf. He lived a sinless life, took on our sins, and overcame death, offering us a path to reconciliation with God. Acknowledging this gift involves repentance—a genuine turning away from sin—and embracing Yeshua as the Lord of our lives (Romans 3:23, Matthew 5:21-48).

The call to salvation is a call to transformation. It’s not merely about attending church or identifying as a Christian but about a deep, personal submission to God. This journey begins with accepting Yeshua’s lordship, continues with living out our faith through our actions, and requires us to share this truth with the world (Matthew 5:21-48).

For those ready to take this step, to move from acknowledging Yeshua academically to surrendering to Him heart and soul, consider this prayer:

Heavenly Father, in the name of Yeshua, I confess my sins and seek Your forgiveness. I believe Yeshua died for me and rose again, and I accept Him as my Lord and Savior. Guide me to turn from my sinful ways and to live in a manner that honors You. Help me to boldly declare my faith and to find fellowship with those who genuinely seek You. Thank you for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life. Amen.

This decision marks the beginning of a lifelong journey—a journey of growing closer to God, understanding His Word, and living out His teachings. It’s a path marked by learning, love, and an unwavering commitment to follow Yeshua.

As we observe Passover, let’s embrace the full depth of its connection to the message of the cross. Let’s allow it to deepen our understanding of God’s love, Yeshua’s sacrifice, and the transformative power of embracing salvation through faith in Him.

For those seeking to explore this path further, we invite you to take the next step by exploring our teachings on Celebrating God’s Holy Days (Moedim). Let this Passover be a time of reflection, renewal, and rejoicing in the salvation Yeshua offers.

May this season inspire us all to reflect deeply on our response to Yeshua’s call and to live out the true meaning of belief in every aspect of our lives.

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, Traditions / Holidays

What Is Love? Exploring Biblical Love around Valentine’s Day

What is love?

This is a very old question with many answers. Context is important.

We may “love pizza”, but that is different than when we say we “love our spouse”. Today, the world even steals the word “love” as a replacement for “sex”, which is completely incorrect.

These are certainly not the same meaning. Greek, the language in which the New Testament was largely written, had multiple different words for different types of love. In English, we have one word and we must therefore pay close attention to context.

Many put a lot of time and focus into the highly marketed cultural holiday of Valentine’s Day. Candy makers will tell you that you must buy chocolates to show you love your spouse. Greeting card makers insist you must “care to send the very best” and thus spend $5 or more on a card, and send one to everyone you know. Flowers are a must, right? But now they even sell gold-dipped flowers. Wow. Of course, not to be outdone, Jewelers insist that you are a buffoon if you don’t buy diamonds for that special someone in your life. One company even suggests you should buy from them a new luxury car. We do well to remember that this is marketing intended to sell things and get our money. This is not how God tells us to show love to one another.

God calls us to show love to one another daily, not once a year, or on a few annual special occasions!

1 Corinthians 13

The Excellence of Love

      1If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

      4Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

      8Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

If you want to give a gift, and it is wisely within your budget to do so, go ahead. But don’t do so because you “have to” or are “expected to”.  These gifts mean little and will ultimately have a very limited impact if you do not show love the way God tells you to. Often just giving gifts on designated marketing holidays comes to be expected and not appreciated as much. If you choose to give an expensive gift, don’t do it because it is Valentine’s Day. Consider intentionally giving it at some other time besides the widely marketed holidays for an even greater impact.

Warning… when you make changes in how you celebrate these marketing holidays, discuss it openly with your spouse ahead of time! Don’t surprise someone by not giving them something they already expect from years of habit.

When you are ready to truly grow in maturity, turn towards God’s definition of love and begin showing it today to those you love. No warning is necessary. They will greatly appreciate how you treat them. However, you may consider sharing the scripture with your spouse and helping one another as you both make the effort to shift focus from the world’s definition of love to God’s.

You can also ask yourself, if I am celebrating love, would it not be right to celebrate loving God as well as loving one another? And to come in thanksgiving to Him for all the love He has shown, is showing, and will show us? If we are to focus on love in the Biblical sense, Valentine’s Day just does not match up very well at all. If you explore the origins of this celebration you will find that once again the Catholic church embraced this festival, but it was based first on a pagan celebration. As followers of Christ, we are better off not letting these pagan holidays dictate how we show love for our spouse or loved ones. Instead, love people the way God teaches.

(World Religion News: Pagan origin of Valentines day)

One last parting thought… we can love YHWH and love others because He has first shown me love. Yeshua died for us to make a way for us to be forgiven our sins.

John 15:12-13

      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.

The best way to show love for one another is through how we treat one another every day of the year.

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

Loving / Kind, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Provider, Psalms, Thankfulness

Reflecting on God’s Abundant Blessings: Psalm 65

Have you ever stood in awe of the natural world and felt a deep connection to the Creator?

Psalm 65 invites us to contemplate the beauty of God’s creation and His abundant blessings poured out upon the earth and upon His people.

Reconnect: In the previous Psalms, we have explored various themes, including praise, thanksgiving, and seeking refuge in God’s presence. Psalm 65 continues this journey of reflection and worship.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 65

God’s Abundant Favor to Earth and Man.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David. A Song.

     1There will be silence before You, and praise in Zion, O God,
And to You the vow will be performed.

      2O You who hear prayer,
To You all men come.

      3Iniquities prevail against me;
As for our transgressions, You forgive them.

      4How blessed is the one whom You choose and bring near to You
To dwell in Your courts.
We will be satisfied with the goodness of Your house,
Your holy temple.

      5By awesome deeds You answer us in righteousness, O God of our salvation,
You who are the trust of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest sea;

      6Who establishes the mountains by His strength,
Being girded with might;

      7Who stills the roaring of the seas,
The roaring of their waves,
And the tumult of the peoples.

      8They who dwell in the ends of the earth stand in awe of Your signs;
You make the dawn and the sunset shout for joy.

      9You visit the earth and cause it to overflow;
You greatly enrich it;
The stream of God is full of water;
You prepare their grain, for thus You prepare the earth.

      10You water its furrows abundantly,
You settle its ridges,
You soften it with showers,
You bless its growth.

      11You have crowned the year with Your bounty,
And Your paths drip with fatness.

      12The pastures of the wilderness drip,
And the hills gird themselves with rejoicing.

      13The meadows are clothed with flocks
And the valleys are covered with grain;
They shout for joy, yes, they sing.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Praise for God’s Abundant Blessings: The psalmist begins by expressing praise and gratitude for the abundance of God’s blessings. From forgiving sins to choosing and drawing us near, God’s blessings are countless.
  2. Awe-Inspiring Nature: The psalmist marvels at God’s creation, acknowledging that the earth is filled with His wonders. From majestic mountains to roaring seas, nature reveals the glory of God’s craftsmanship.
  3. God’s Care for the Earth: Psalm 65 highlights God’s intimate care for the earth. He provides water for the fields, ensuring the land remains fruitful. His loving touch is seen in the way He nourishes the earth’s crops.
  4. A Harvest of Joy: The psalmist envisions the earth as a field ripe for harvest. Just as a farmer rejoices in the abundance of crops, God’s blessings cause the earth to burst forth in songs of joy.
  5. An Invitation to Worship: The psalmist calls on all people to join in worship, recognizing the God of abundant blessings. From the farthest horizons to the depths of the seas, creation is called to praise its Creator.

Call to Action: Take a moment to reflect on the abundance of God’s blessings in your life. Have you experienced His forgiveness, guidance, or provision? Spend time in prayer, offering your own words of praise and gratitude for the blessings you’ve received.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we stand in awe of Your abundant blessings and the beauty of Your creation. Thank You for Your forgiveness, guidance, and provision in our lives. May our hearts overflow with praise and gratitude for Your countless gifts. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion: Share with others the ways in which you have experienced God’s blessings in your life. How does the beauty of nature inspire your sense of awe and worship? Engage in discussions with friends and family, and feel free to share your reflections in the comments below.

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.

Free Will, Grace / Forgiveness, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Repenting from Sin

A True Clean Start: Embracing God’s Grace

As another year dawns, it’s a time when many of us contemplate the idea of a fresh start. The turning of the calendar seems to hold the promise of leaving behind past mistakes and embracing new opportunities. It’s a season of New Year’s resolutions, where we pledge to rid ourselves of bad habits or adopt better ones. However, as January fades into February, the enthusiasm for these “clean starts” often wanes, and we find ourselves back where we began.

But what if there’s a way to attain a genuine clean start—one infused with divine power and lasting transformation? The good news is that such an opportunity exists, and it’s not confined to the month of January. Through Christ, we can experience true forgiveness, redemption, and renewal. Our past sins need not define us, for God’s grace offers a pathway to a fresh beginning at any moment.

1. The Prodigal Son: A Story of Forgiveness (Luke 15:11-32)

“And He said, ‘A man had two sons…'” (Luke 15:11)

In the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus illustrates God’s unwavering love and forgiveness. The younger son squandered his inheritance in a distant land but came to his senses and returned home, expecting nothing more than to be a hired servant. However, his father’s response was a powerful demonstration of God’s grace. The father ran to embrace his wayward son, showering him with love, forgiveness, and a clean start.

2. God Awaits Our Return

God, our heavenly Father, awaits our return just as the father in the parable did. He watches the horizon for our humble repentance, ready to run and embrace us. There’s no sin too great for His forgiveness, no rebellion beyond His reach. It’s within our power to choose whether we return to Him or remain separated.

3. The Helper: God’s Power in Our Transformation (John 16:5-15)

“But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you…” (John 16:7)

When we turn to Christ for forgiveness and renewal, we receive more than forgiveness alone. God graciously sends the Holy Spirit as our Helper. The Spirit empowers us to overcome sin, make lasting changes, and embark on our fresh start. We are not alone in this journey; we have the divine power and guidance of God Himself.

4. A Call to Repentance and Obedience

While God’s forgiveness is boundless, it requires sincere repentance and a commitment to follow His ways. Repentance means turning away from our sinful past and submitting to God. The Bible is clear that we must obey God’s commandments and live according to His Word to walk in His grace.

5. God’s Promises of Forgiveness

God’s promises of forgiveness are abundant throughout the Scriptures:

  • “Come now, and let us reason together,” says the LORD, “Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow…” (Isaiah 1:18-20)
  • “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…” (Acts 3:19-21)
  • “In Him, we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace…” (Ephesians 1:3-14)

6. The Invitation to a Fresh Start

So, as the calendar turns from one year to the next, remember that a clean start isn’t limited to January. Through Christ, we can experience forgiveness, renewal, and transformation at any moment. God’s grace is always available, ready to wash away our sins and empower us to live according to His will.

Embrace Your Fresh Start

As you embark on this new year, remember that God’s grace offers you a fresh start—a clean slate free from the burdens of past mistakes. You need not rely on the changing of the calendar or societal norms for a new beginning. Instead, turn to God, repent of your sins, and submit to His guidance. Allow His Spirit to empower you in your journey of transformation. In God’s grace, every moment is an opportunity for a true clean start.

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

John Golda

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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.

Father / Yahweh, Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind

The Incomparable Nature and Sacrifice of Jesus

Many lose sight of the fact that Christ has always existed. He did not begin to exist when He became man and entered this world for a brief 33 years as a man. He has existed since the beginning.

He is one with the Father. Christ is the image of God revealed to us. Through Him all things were created. He is head of the church, the body of believers who follow Him. He chose to die for each of us so that He could bear the punishment for our sin… the punishment we deserve. That is mercy and grace and love. There is none like Christ.

Colossians 1:12-29

The Incomparable Christ

      13For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, 14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

      15He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. 17He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. 18He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. 19For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, 20and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven.

      21And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, 22yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— 23if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.

      24Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I do my share on behalf of His body, which is the church, in filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions. 25Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God, 26that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, 27to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28We proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ. 29For this purpose also I labor, striving according to His power, which mightily works within me.

Let us rejoice in our relationship with Christ… in His sacrifice for our sins. Let us not ignore this incredible sacrifice and gift of forgiveness. Embrace Him, ask forgiveness, change and turn away from sin. Become more like Him and build your relationship with Him. Share the good news of Christ with all whom you have the opportunity. What if no one else will tell them if you don’t?

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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.