Category Archives: Character of God

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Merciful, Obeying God

Running from God’s Call (Jonah 1)

What happens when we try to run from God’s purpose for our lives?

Jonah 1 introduces us to the prophet Jonah, who attempts to flee from God’s call. It reveals God’s sovereignty, the futility of running from Him, and His mercy even in discipline.

Key Verse:
“But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish.” – Jonah 1:3 (NIV)

Background Context:
Jonah, a prophet of Israel, is called by God to preach to the people of Nineveh, a wicked city. Instead of obeying, Jonah attempts to flee to Tarshish, the opposite direction. His disobedience leads to a storm at sea, endangering the sailors on his ship. This chapter highlights themes of God’s sovereignty, Jonah’s rebellion, and the consequences of running from God’s will.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Jonah 1

Jonah’s Disobedience

      1The word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, 2“Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.” 3But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.

      4The LORD hurled a great wind on the sea and there was a great storm on the sea so that the ship was about to break up. 5Then the sailors became afraid and every man cried to his god, and they threw the cargo which was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone below into the hold of the ship, lain down and fallen sound asleep. 6So the captain approached him and said, “How is it that you are sleeping? Get up, call on your god. Perhaps your god will be concerned about us so that we will not perish.”

      7Each man said to his mate, “Come, let us cast lots so we may learn on whose account this calamity has struck us.” So they cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8Then they said to him, “Tell us, now! On whose account has this calamity struck us? What is your occupation? And where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?” 9He said to them, “I am a Hebrew, and I fear the LORD God of heaven who made the sea and the dry land.”

      10Then the men became extremely frightened and they said to him, “How could you do this?” For the men knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the LORD, because he had told them. 11So they said to him, “What should we do to you that the sea may become calm for us?”—for the sea was becoming increasingly stormy. 12He said to them, “Pick me up and throw me into the sea. Then the sea will become calm for you, for I know that on account of me this great storm has come upon you.” 13However, the men rowed desperately to return to land but they could not, for the sea was becoming even stormier against them. 14Then they called on the LORD and said, “We earnestly pray, O LORD, do not let us perish on account of this man’s life and do not put innocent blood on us; for You, O LORD, have done as You have pleased.”

      15So they picked up Jonah, threw him into the sea, and the sea stopped its raging. 16Then the men feared the LORD greatly, and they offered a sacrifice to the LORD and made vows.

      17And the LORD appointed a great fish to swallow Jonah, and Jonah was in the stomach of the fish three days and three nights.

Reflection on Jonah 1:

  • God’s Call Requires Obedience:
    Jonah’s initial response to God’s call was to flee, illustrating how fear, prejudice, or discomfort can tempt us to resist God’s will. Are there areas in your life where you are resisting God’s call? Trust that His plan is always for your good and His glory.
  • Running from God Is Futile:
    Jonah’s attempt to escape led him straight into a storm (Jonah 1:4). This reminds us that we cannot outrun God’s presence or His purpose. Are you trying to avoid something God is asking you to do? Surrender to His plan and let Him guide you.
  • God’s Sovereignty Over All Creation:
    The storm highlights God’s control over nature and circumstances. Even Jonah’s rebellion could not thwart God’s plans. Do you trust in God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances seem chaotic?
  • God’s Mercy in Discipline:
    The storm and Jonah’s eventual encounter with the fish were not acts of vengeance but of mercy, redirecting Jonah toward obedience. Are you experiencing discipline in your life? Remember that God’s correction is an act of love meant to bring you back to Him.
  • The Impact of Disobedience on Others:
    Jonah’s rebellion endangered the sailors, showing how our disobedience can affect those around us (Jonah 1:5-6). Are your choices aligning with God’s will and reflecting His love to others?

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Call Demands Obedience: Trust His plan, even when it’s uncomfortable.
  • You Can’t Outrun God: His purpose will always prevail.
  • God’s Sovereignty Is Absolute: Trust Him in every circumstance.
  • Discipline Is Mercy: God’s correction is an act of love to draw you back to Him.
  • Our Choices Affect Others: Live in a way that reflects God’s will and love.

Application:
Reflect on areas in your life where you may be resisting God’s call. Surrender those areas to Him, trusting in His plan and purpose. Seek to align your actions with His will, understanding that your obedience can positively impact others. If you are experiencing discipline, view it as God’s loving correction and a call to return to Him.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your patience and mercy when we resist Your call. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and surrender to Your purpose for our lives. Teach us to see Your discipline as an act of love, drawing us closer to You. May we live in obedience, reflecting Your will and love to those around us. 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.

Faithful, Father / Yahweh, Hope, Immutable (unchanging), Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Purposeful / Intentional

A Sure and Steadfast Hope (Hebrews 6: 9-20)

What anchors your soul when life feels uncertain?

Hebrews 6:9-20 reassures believers of the steadfast promises of God and calls us to hold firmly to the hope we have in Him. It encourages perseverance, faith, and trust in God’s unchanging character.

Key Verse:
“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain.” – Hebrews 6:19 (NIV)

Background Context:
The author of Hebrews offers reassurance to believers after issuing a stern warning about falling away earlier in the chapter. This passage emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His promises, the importance of perseverance, and the unshakable hope we have in Yeshua, who intercedes for us as our High Priest.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Hebrews 6:9-20

Better Things for You

      9But, beloved, we are convinced of better things concerning you, and things that accompany salvation, though we are speaking in this way. 10For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints. 11And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full assurance of hope until the end, 12so that you will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.

      13For when God made the promise to Abraham, since He could swear by no one greater, He swore by Himself, 14saying, “I WILL SURELY BLESS YOU AND I WILL SURELY MULTIPLY YOU.” 15And so, having patiently waited, he obtained the promise. 16For men swear by one greater than themselves, and with them an oath given as confirmation is an end of every dispute. 17In the same way God, desiring even more to show to the heirs of the promise the unchangeableness of His purpose, interposed with an oath, 18so that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us. 19This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil, 20where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.

Reflection on Hebrews 6:9-20:

  • God’s Faithfulness to His Promises:
    The passage reminds us that God is not unjust and remembers the love and service we show to others in His name (Hebrews 6:10). His promises are certain because His character is unchanging. Are you trusting in God’s promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them?
  • The Call to Perseverance:
    Verses 11-12 encourage us to diligently pursue faith and patience to inherit God’s promises. Perseverance is key to remaining steadfast in our walk with Him. Are you holding firmly to your faith, even in difficult seasons? Trust that God strengthens those who endure.
  • God’s Unchanging Character:
    Using the example of Abraham, the author highlights God’s unchanging nature and the certainty of His promises, confirmed with an oath (Hebrews 6:13-18). This assurance reminds us that we can rely completely on God. Are you finding security in His unchanging nature and trusting in His Word?
  • A Hope That Anchors the Soul:
    The hope we have in Yeshua is described as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure (Hebrews 6:19). Yeshua, as our High Priest, has entered the inner sanctuary on our behalf, guaranteeing our access to God. Is your hope firmly anchored in Yeshua, or are you relying on things that cannot sustain you?
  • Encouragement to Hold Firmly:
    The passage ends with a reminder of the reliability of God’s promises and the importance of clinging to the hope we have in Him. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in God’s faithfulness. Are you clinging to this hope and allowing it to guide and sustain you?

Summary Key Points:

  • God Is Faithful: He remembers our service and fulfills His promises.
  • Perseverance Leads to Inheritance: Stay steadfast in faith and patience.
  • God’s Character Is Unchanging: His promises are certain and reliable.
  • Yeshua Is Our Anchor: Our hope in Him is firm and secure, sustaining us through life’s challenges.
  • Hold Firmly to Hope: Let God’s promises guide and strengthen you daily.

Application:
Reflect on where your hope is anchored. Are you trusting in the unshakable promises of God and relying on Yeshua as your High Priest? Commit to persevering in faith and patience, holding firmly to the hope that anchors your soul. Share this hope with others, encouraging them to trust in God’s faithfulness.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness and unchanging character. Help us to anchor our hope in You and to trust in Your promises. Teach us to persevere with faith and patience, knowing that You are always with us. Thank You for Yeshua, our High Priest, who secures our access to You. May we live daily in the confidence of Your steadfast 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.

Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness

Our Help Is in the Name of the Lord (Psalm 124)

Where would you be without God’s protection and deliverance?

Psalm 124 is a song of gratitude, acknowledging God’s intervention and help in times of great danger. It reminds us that our ultimate security and deliverance come from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Key Verse:
“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” – Psalm 124:8 (ESV)

Background Context:
Psalm 124 is one of the Songs of Ascents, attributed to David. It reflects on how God delivered His people from overwhelming threats, emphasizing that without His help, they would have been utterly consumed. This psalm invites us to recognize and praise God as our protector and deliverer in all circumstances.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 124

Praise for Rescue from Enemies.

A Song of Ascents, of David.

      1“Had it not been the LORD who was on our side,”
Let Israel now say,

      2“Had it not been the LORD who was on our side
When men rose up against us,

      3Then they would have swallowed us alive,
When their anger was kindled against us;

      4Then the waters would have engulfed us,
The stream would have swept over our soul;

      5Then the raging waters would have swept over our soul.”

      6Blessed be the LORD,
Who has not given us to be torn by their teeth.

      7Our soul has escaped as a bird out of the snare of the trapper;
The snare is broken and we have escaped.

      8Our help is in the name of the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.

Reflection on Psalm 124:

  • Acknowledging God’s Protection:
    The psalmist begins by declaring that if the Lord had not been on their side, their enemies would have overwhelmed them (Psalm 124:1-3). This humility acknowledges that their survival and victory were entirely dependent on God’s intervention. Are you recognizing and giving thanks for the ways God has protected and delivered you?
  • Deliverance from Overwhelming Danger:
    The imagery in verses 4-7—raging waters, a hunter’s trap—paints a vivid picture of dire circumstances. Yet, God delivered His people from every threat. Are you trusting God to deliver you from the overwhelming challenges in your life? Remember His past faithfulness and rely on His strength.
  • Freedom Through God’s Intervention:
    Verse 7 celebrates freedom from the snare, a powerful metaphor for how God breaks the traps set by the enemy. Are you living in the freedom God provides, or are you allowing fear or past struggles to hold you back? Trust in His power to break every chain.
  • Our Help Is in the Name of the Lord:
    The psalm concludes with a declaration of confidence in God as the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Psalm 124:8). Are you placing your full trust in the One who made heaven and earth, believing that He is able to help you in every situation?

Summary Key Points:

  • God Is Our Protector: Without Him, we would be overwhelmed by the challenges of life.
  • He Delivers from Great Danger: Trust in His power to rescue you from overwhelming threats.
  • He Sets Us Free: God breaks the traps of the enemy and gives us freedom.
  • Our Help Comes from the Creator: Trust in His sovereignty and ability to provide.

Application:
Reflect on the times in your life when God has delivered or protected you. Give Him thanks and praise for His faithfulness. Commit to trusting Him in the challenges you face today, relying on His strength and provision. Share your testimony of God’s deliverance with others to encourage them in their faith.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our protector and deliverer. We acknowledge that without You, we would be overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Help us to trust in Your strength and rely on Your provision. Thank You for breaking the traps set before us and setting us free. May we always place our hope and confidence in You, the Maker of heaven and earth. 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.

Father / Yahweh, Salvation

Eternal Security in Christ: Navigating the Depths of ‘Once Saved, Always Saved (Hebrews 6:1-8)

Ever heard the phrase “once saved, always saved”?

It’s a popular notion among many Christians, based on the comforting assurance of eternal security. But is this belief fully supported by Scripture, or are there more nuances to consider?

Key Verse: John 10:27-30 – “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.”

Additional Key Verse: Hebrews 6:4-6 – “For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame.”

Background Context: This discussion springs from John 10:27-30, where Jesus promises that no one can snatch His followers from His hand, suggesting a form of eternal security. However, Hebrews 6:4-6 presents a stark contrast, warning about the real danger of falling away after having experienced the gifts of salvation and the Holy Spirit. This juxtaposition challenges us to delve deeper into the implications of these teachings and the true nature of salvation and perseverance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Hebrews 6:1-8

The Peril of Falling Away

      1Therefore leaving the elementary teaching about the Christ, let us press on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, 2of instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment. 3And this we will do, if God permits. 4For in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, 5and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, 6and then have fallen away, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame. 7For ground that drinks the rain which often falls on it and brings forth vegetation useful to those for whose sake it is also tilled, receives a blessing from God; 8but if it yields thorns and thistles, it is worthless and close to being cursed, and it ends up being burned.

Reflection on John 10:27-30 and Hebrews 6:4-6:

  • Eternal Security vs. Personal Responsibility: John’s verses provide comfort in the security that Jesus’ sheep, who hear His voice, will never be lost. Conversely, Hebrews warns believers about the severe consequences of falling away after receiving the knowledge of the truth.
  • The Irrevocable Gift and the Conditional Promise: While salvation is a gift and secure in Christ, Hebrews highlights the conditional aspect of continuing in faith. It serves as a sober reminder that persistence in faith is essential.
  • The Role of Free Will in Salvation: The promise of never perishing is contingent upon following Christ, as indicated by the ongoing relationship of hearing and following Him mentioned in John. Hebrews emphasizes the critical role of ongoing faithfulness and the peril of neglect.

Summary Key Points:

  • Security in Christ is Assured for Those Who Persevere: John assures us of eternal security for those actively following Christ.
  • Warnings Against Complacency: Hebrews serves as a caution against taking salvation for granted, stressing the need for continual faith and repentance.
  • Balancing Assurance and Vigilance: These passages together encourage believers to cherish their salvation while remaining vigilant against spiritual decay.

Application: Reflect on your personal faith journey. Are you actively following and listening to Christ’s voice, or are you at risk of drifting away? Use these scriptures as a checkpoint for personal spiritual health and as a motivation to deepen your commitment to Christ.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to grasp the gravity of Your promises and warnings in Scripture. Strengthen us to remain faithful, to continually seek Your face, and to live in a manner worthy of the calling we have received. Protect us from complacency and empower us to persevere until the end. 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.

Consequences of Sin, Hope, Justice / Judgment, Pride

The Sovereignty of God in Judgment and Restoration (Obadiah 1)

How do you respond when pride and conflict arise in your life?

Obadiah 1 is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty over all nations. It warns against pride and hostility, exemplified by Edom’s attitude toward Israel, and reveals God’s ultimate plan for judgment and restoration.

Key Verse:
“For the day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head.” – Obadiah 1:15 (NIV)

Background Context:
The book of Obadiah addresses the conflict between Edom, descendants of Esau, and Israel, descendants of Jacob. Edom’s pride, betrayal, and violence against Israel led to God’s pronouncement of judgment upon them. Despite the harshness of the warning, Obadiah closes with hope for the restoration of God’s people and His ultimate reign over all nations.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Obadiah 1 

Edom Will Be Humbled

      1The vision of Obadiah.
Thus says the Lord GOD concerning Edom—
We have heard a report from the LORD,
And an envoy has been sent among the nations saying,
“Arise and let us go against her for battle”—

      2“Behold, I will make you small among the nations;
You are greatly despised.

      3“The arrogance of your heart has deceived you,
You who live in the clefts of the rock,
In the loftiness of your dwelling place,
Who say in your heart,
‘Who will bring me down to earth?’

      4“Though you build high like the eagle,
Though you set your nest among the stars,
From there I will bring you down,” declares the LORD.

      5“If thieves came to you,
If robbers by night—
O how you will be ruined!—
Would they not steal only until they had enough?
If grape gatherers came to you,
Would they not leave some gleanings?

      6“O how Esau will be ransacked,
And his hidden treasures searched out!

      7“All the men allied with you
Will send you forth to the border,
And the men at peace with you
Will deceive you and overpower you.
They who eat your bread
Will set an ambush for you.
(There is no understanding in him.)

      8“Will I not on that day,” declares the LORD,
“Destroy wise men from Edom
And understanding from the mountain of Esau?

      9“Then your mighty men will be dismayed, O Teman,
So that everyone may be cut off from the mountain of Esau by slaughter.

      10“Because of violence to your brother Jacob,
You will be covered with shame,
And you will be cut off forever.

      11“On the day that you stood aloof,
On the day that strangers carried off his wealth,
And foreigners entered his gate
And cast lots for Jerusalem—
You too were as one of them.

      12“Do not gloat over your brother’s day,
The day of his misfortune.
And do not rejoice over the sons of Judah
In the day of their destruction;
Yes, do not boast
In the day of their distress.

      13“Do not enter the gate of My people
In the day of their disaster.
Yes, you, do not gloat over their calamity
In the day of their disaster.
And do not loot their wealth
In the day of their disaster.

      14“Do not stand at the fork of the road
To cut down their fugitives;
And do not imprison their survivors
In the day of their distress.

The Day of the LORD and the Future

15“For the day of the LORD draws near on all the nations.
As you have done, it will be done to you.
Your dealings will return on your own head.

      16“Because just as you drank on My holy mountain,
All the nations will drink continually.
They will drink and swallow
And become as if they had never existed.

      17“But on Mount Zion there will be those who escape,
And it will be holy.
And the house of Jacob will possess their possessions.

      18“Then the house of Jacob will be a fire
And the house of Joseph a flame;
But the house of Esau will be as stubble.
And they will set them on fire and consume them,
So that there will be no survivor of the house of Esau,”
For the LORD has spoken.

      19Then those of the Negev will possess the mountain of Esau,
And those of the Shephelah the Philistine plain;
Also, possess the territory of Ephraim and the territory of Samaria,
And Benjamin will possess Gilead.

      20And the exiles of this host of the sons of Israel,
Who are among the Canaanites as far as Zarephath,
And the exiles of Jerusalem who are in Sepharad
Will possess the cities of the Negev.

      21The deliverers will ascend Mount Zion
To judge the mountain of Esau,
And the kingdom will be the LORD’S.

Reflection on Obadiah 1:

  • The Danger of Pride:
    Edom’s pride in their geographic security and alliances blinded them to their vulnerability before God (Obadiah 1:3-4). Pride leads to a false sense of security and alienates us from God’s sovereignty. Are there areas in your life where pride is causing you to rely on your strength instead of God’s? Surrender them to Him and seek humility.
  • The Sin of Betrayal and Hostility:
    Edom stood by and even rejoiced as Israel faced destruction, acting as an enemy rather than a brother (Obadiah 1:10-12). Their betrayal and violence against God’s people brought judgment upon them. Are you harboring hostility or failing to act as a faithful friend or sibling in Christ? Seek forgiveness and work to restore broken relationships.
  • God’s Sovereign Justice:
    Verse 15 emphasizes God’s justice: “As you have done, it will be done to you.” God’s judgment is impartial and righteous, holding all nations accountable for their actions. Do you trust in God’s sovereignty to bring justice, even in situations that seem unfair? Rest in His perfect plan and timing.
  • The Hope of Restoration:
    The chapter concludes with a vision of hope—God’s people will be restored, and His kingdom will reign over all nations (Obadiah 1:17-21). This points to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan through Yeshua. Are you placing your hope in God’s promises of restoration and His eternal reign?

Summary Key Points:

  • Pride Leads to Destruction: Rely on God, not on your own strength or resources.
  • Hostility Breeds Judgment: Betrayal and violence against others separate us from God.
  • God’s Justice Is Perfect: Trust in His sovereignty to bring justice in all situations.
  • Hope Is Found in Restoration: God’s promises are fulfilled in Yeshua, bringing renewal and eternal reign.

Application:
Examine your heart for pride, hostility, or betrayal that may be distancing you from God and others. Surrender these to God and seek reconciliation where needed. Trust in God’s sovereignty and justice, even in challenging situations, and place your hope in His promises of restoration through Yeshua.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your justice and mercy. Forgive us for the times we have allowed pride, hostility, or betrayal to separate us from You and others. Teach us to rely on Your strength and to act as faithful brothers and sisters in Christ. Thank You for the hope of restoration and Your eternal reign. Help us to trust in Your sovereignty and live in alignment with Your will. 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.

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

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

—-

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, Justice / Judgment, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer

The Restoration of God’s People (Amos 9)

How does God’s judgment pave the way for His ultimate restoration?

Amos 9 concludes the book with a vision of God’s judgment and the hope of restoration. It reminds us of His sovereignty over all nations, His righteous judgment, and His promise to rebuild and restore His people.

Key Verse:
“In that day I will restore David’s fallen shelter—I will repair its broken walls and restore its ruins—and will rebuild it as it used to be.” – Amos 9:11 (NIV)

Background Context:
Amos 9 begins with a vision of God’s inescapable judgment on Israel for their persistent sin. However, the chapter ends with a message of hope, promising restoration and renewal for His faithful remnant. This dual theme of judgment and restoration underscores God’s holiness and His steadfast love for His people.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 9

God’s Judgment Unavoidable

      1I saw the Lord standing beside the altar, and He said,
“Smite the capitals so that the thresholds will shake,
And break them on the heads of them all!
Then I will slay the rest of them with the sword;
They will not have a fugitive who will flee,
Or a refugee who will escape.

      2“Though they dig into Sheol,
From there will My hand take them;
And though they ascend to heaven,
From there will I bring them down.

      3“Though they hide on the summit of Carmel,
I will search them out and take them from there;
And though they conceal themselves from My sight on the floor of the sea,
From there I will command the serpent and it will bite them.

      4“And though they go into captivity before their enemies,
From there I will command the sword that it slay them,
And I will set My eyes against them for evil and not for good.”

      5The Lord GOD of hosts,
The One who touches the land so that it melts,
And all those who dwell in it mourn,
And all of it rises up like the Nile
And subsides like the Nile of Egypt;

      6The One who builds His upper chambers in the heavens
And has founded His vaulted dome over the earth,
He who calls for the waters of the sea
And pours them out on the face of the earth,
The LORD is His name.

      7“Are you not as the sons of Ethiopia to Me,
O sons of Israel?” declares the LORD.
“Have I not brought up Israel from the land of Egypt,
And the Philistines from Caphtor and the Arameans from Kir?

      8“Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD are on the sinful kingdom,
And I will destroy it from the face of the earth;
Nevertheless, I will not totally destroy the house of Jacob,”
Declares the LORD.

      9“For behold, I am commanding,
And I will shake the house of Israel among all nations
As grain is shaken in a sieve,
But not a kernel will fall to the ground.

      10“All the sinners of My people will die by the sword,
Those who say, ‘The calamity will not overtake or confront us.’

The Restoration of Israel

11“In that day I will raise up the fallen booth of David,
And wall up its breaches;
I will also raise up its ruins
And rebuild it as in the days of old;

      12That they may possess the remnant of Edom
And all the nations who are called by My name,”
Declares the LORD who does this.

      13“Behold, days are coming,” declares the LORD,
“When the plowman will overtake the reaper
And the treader of grapes him who sows seed;
When the mountains will drip sweet wine
And all the hills will be dissolved.

      14“Also I will restore the captivity of My people Israel,
And they will rebuild the ruined cities and live in them;
They will also plant vineyards and drink their wine,
And make gardens and eat their fruit.

      15“I will also plant them on their land,
And they will not again be rooted out from their land
Which I have given them,”
Says the LORD your God.

Reflection on Amos 9:

  • God’s Sovereign Judgment:
    Verses 1-10 portray God’s judgment as inescapable. He is sovereign over all creation, and no one can hide from His presence (Amos 9:1-4). His judgment is righteous, targeting those who persist in sin and rebellion. Are you living in a way that honors God’s holiness, or are there areas of unrepentant sin in your life? Surrender them to Him today.
  • A Remnant Will Be Saved:
    Despite the judgment, God promises that a remnant of Israel will be preserved (Amos 9:8). This reflects His mercy and commitment to His covenant. Even in the midst of discipline, God’s grace is evident. Are you trusting in God’s mercy and His ability to bring restoration in your life?
  • The Promise of Restoration:
    Verses 11-15 shift to a vision of hope, where God promises to restore David’s fallen tent, repair its broken walls, and rebuild it. This restoration points to the coming of Messiah, who fulfills this promise. Are you placing your hope in God’s ability to restore and rebuild what is broken in your life?
  • Blessings of the Restoration:
    The chapter ends with a vision of abundance and peace, where the land will flourish, and God’s people will be planted securely (Amos 9:13-15). This reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises in His eternal kingdom. Are you looking forward to the joy and peace of God’s eternal restoration?

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Judgment Is Righteous: No one can escape His sovereign authority.
  • A Remnant Will Be Saved: God’s mercy preserves His faithful people.
  • Restoration Is Promised: God rebuilds and renews what is broken through His power.
  • Messianic Fulfillment: The restoration points to Yeshua, who brings ultimate hope and redemption.
  • Abundance and Peace Await: God’s eternal kingdom will be a place of joy, security, and flourishing.

Application:
Examine your life for areas where you need to repent and align with God’s holiness. Trust in His mercy to restore and rebuild what is broken, placing your hope in Yeshua, who fulfills His promises. Look forward to the joy and peace of His eternal kingdom, and live in a way that reflects His holiness and grace.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your righteous judgment and Your merciful promise of restoration. Help us to repent of sin and trust in Your power to rebuild and renew. Thank You for the hope we have in Yeshua, who fulfills Your promises and brings eternal peace. Teach us to live in anticipation of Your eternal kingdom. 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.

Discerning / Judging, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Seeking God, Study the Word

The Call to Spiritual Maturity (Hebrews 5)

Are you growing in your understanding of God’s Word, or are you still drinking milk when you should be eating solid food?

Hebrews 5 reminds us of Yeshua’s role as our perfect High Priest and challenges us to mature in our faith, moving beyond the basics to a deeper understanding and application of God’s Word.

Key Verse:
“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” – Hebrews 5:14 (NIV)

Background Context:
Hebrews 5 explores Yeshua’s qualifications as our High Priest, emphasizing His appointment by God and His understanding of human weakness through His earthly experience. The chapter closes with a rebuke to believers who have not grown in their spiritual understanding, urging them to press on to maturity.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Hebrews 5

The Perfect High Priest

      1For every high priest taken from among men is appointed on behalf of men in things pertaining to God, in order to offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins; 2he can deal gently with the ignorant and misguided, since he himself also is beset with weakness; 3and because of it he is obligated to offer sacrifices for sins, as for the people, so also for himself. 4And no one takes the honor to himself, but receives it when he is called by God, even as Aaron was.

      5So also Christ did not glorify Himself so as to become a high priest, but He who said to Him,
“YOU ARE MY SON,
TODAY I HAVE BEGOTTEN YOU”;

6just as He says also in another passage,
“YOU ARE A PRIEST FOREVER
ACCORDING TO THE ORDER OF MELCHIZEDEK.”

7In the days of His flesh, He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His piety. 8Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. 9And having been made perfect, He became to all those who obey Him the source of eternal salvation, 10being designated by God as a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

      11Concerning him we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. 13For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. 14But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.

Reflection on Hebrews 5:

  • Yeshua, Our Perfect High Priest:
    Verses 1-10 highlight Yeshua’s unique role as High Priest, appointed by God and able to empathize with our weaknesses. Unlike earthly priests, He is without sin and provides eternal salvation to those who obey Him (Hebrews 5:9). Are you placing your trust in Yeshua as your mediator and guide? Reflect on His perfect sacrifice and role in your life.
  • Spiritual Immaturity Holds Us Back:
    The author admonishes believers for remaining spiritual infants, still needing milk instead of solid food (Hebrews 5:12). This stunts spiritual growth and keeps us from understanding deeper truths. Are you stuck in the basics of faith, or are you actively seeking to grow in your knowledge of God’s Word? Commit to digging deeper into Scripture and applying it to your life.
  • Training to Discern Good and Evil:
    Spiritual maturity involves constant use of God’s Word to train ourselves to distinguish good from evil (Hebrews 5:14). This requires discipline, practice, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Are you consistently studying God’s Word and allowing it to shape your decisions and attitudes? Make time daily to engage with Scripture and seek God’s guidance.
  • The Call to Maturity:
    Just as physical growth is expected in life, spiritual growth is essential for believers. Staying stagnant not only limits our understanding but also hinders our ability to live out God’s purpose. Are you taking steps to grow in your faith, or are you content with spiritual infancy? Challenge yourself to move forward, trusting God to guide your journey.

Summary Key Points:

  • Yeshua Is Our High Priest: He understands our weaknesses and offers eternal salvation.
  • Spiritual Growth Is Essential: Don’t remain in the basics of faith; press on to maturity.
  • God’s Word Trains Us: Regular engagement with Scripture helps us discern good from evil.
  • Maturity Reflects Obedience: Growing in faith involves applying God’s truth in daily life.
  • Seek Deeper Understanding: Pursue God with a heart eager to learn and grow.

Application:
Evaluate your spiritual growth and identify areas where you may need to move beyond the basics of faith. Commit to a deeper study of God’s Word, asking the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding and application. Seek accountability and encouragement from other believers to help you grow in maturity and live out your faith with purpose.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Yeshua as our perfect High Priest. Help us to trust in Him fully and grow in our understanding of Your Word. Teach us to move beyond spiritual infancy and pursue maturity in our faith. Shape our hearts and minds through Your truth so that we may live lives that glorify You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

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

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

Guide, Hope, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness

Trusting the Keeper of Our Souls (Psalm 121)

Where does your help come from when life’s challenges feel overwhelming?

Psalm 121 is a song of trust and assurance, reminding us that our help comes from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth. It speaks of God’s constant care and protection over His people.

Key Verse:
“My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” – Psalm 121:2 (NIV)

Background Context:
Psalm 121 is part of the Songs of Ascents, sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem. The psalmist lifts their eyes to the hills, perhaps reflecting on the physical challenges of their journey or the spiritual significance of looking to God’s dwelling place. It declares the Lord’s unfailing care and protection, emphasizing His role as our Keeper who watches over us at all times.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 121

The LORD the Keeper of Israel.

A Song of Ascents.

1I will lift up my eyes to the mountains;
From where shall my help come?

2My help comes from the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth.

3He will not allow your foot to slip;
He who keeps you will not slumber.

4Behold, He who keeps Israel
Will neither slumber nor sleep.

5The LORD is your keeper;
The LORD is your shade on your right hand.

6The sun will not smite you by day,
Nor the moon by night.

7The LORD will protect you from all evil;
He will keep your soul.

8The LORD will guard your going out and your coming in
From this time forth and forever.

Reflection on Psalm 121:

  • God Is Our Source of Help:
    The psalmist confidently declares that their help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:2). This acknowledgment reminds us to look beyond earthly solutions and place our trust in the Creator of all things. Are you turning to God for help in your challenges? Trust that He is able and faithful to provide.
  • The Lord Is Our Keeper:
    The psalm repeats the assurance that God watches over His people. He neither slumbers nor sleeps, ensuring constant vigilance (Psalm 121:3-4). This reflects His tireless care and attentiveness. Are you finding peace in knowing God is always watching over you? Rest in the assurance of His faithful protection.
  • God Guards Every Aspect of Our Lives:
    The psalmist describes God’s protection in both day and night, shielding us from harm and preserving our lives (Psalm 121:5-7). This highlights His comprehensive care over every part of our existence. Are you entrusting every area of your life to His care? Surrender your fears and uncertainties to Him, trusting in His sovereignty.
  • The Lord Preserves Our Coming and Going:
    The psalm concludes with the promise that God will guard our coming and going, both now and forevermore (Psalm 121:8). This assurance extends to all aspects of our journey through life. Are you seeking God’s guidance and protection in your daily walk? Trust Him to lead you in His perfect will.

Summary Key Points:

  • God Is the Source of Our Help: Look to Him as the Creator and Sustainer in every challenge.
  • God Is Always Watching Over Us: His care is constant and unfailing.
  • God Protects Every Aspect of Our Lives: Trust Him with both the big and small details.
  • God Guides Our Journey: He preserves our steps now and forevermore.

Application:
Lift your eyes to God in faith, acknowledging Him as the source of your help and protection. Reflect on areas of your life where you need to surrender your fears and uncertainties to His care. Trust in His constant vigilance and faithful guidance, and seek His direction in your daily walk. Let this psalm inspire you to rest in His promises and live confidently in His care.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being our Helper and Keeper. We trust in Your constant care and protection over every aspect of our lives. Help us to lift our eyes to You in faith, surrendering our fears and uncertainties. Guide us in our daily walk and preserve us in Your perfect will. Thank You for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. 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, Justice / Judgment, Prophecy, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Through Prophets

A Famine for Hearing the Word of the Lord (Amos 8)

What happens when we turn away from God’s Word and choose to walk in our own ways?

Amos 8 delivers a sobering message of judgment and a warning of a spiritual famine—not a lack of food or water but a famine of hearing the Word of the Lord. It calls us to reflect on the consequences of neglecting God’s truth and the urgent need to seek Him wholeheartedly.

Key Verse:
“‘The days are coming,’ declares the Sovereign Lord, ‘when I will send a famine through the land—not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.’” – Amos 8:11 (NIV)

Background Context:
Amos 8 is the fourth vision given to the prophet Amos, depicting a basket of ripe fruit symbolizing the end of Israel’s patience and the ripeness of their judgment. The chapter highlights Israel’s sins, including greed, exploitation of the poor, and disregard for God’s commands. The spiritual famine mentioned emphasizes the devastating impact of being separated from God’s truth and guidance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Amos 8

Basket of Fruit and Israel’s Captivity

      1Thus the Lord GOD showed me, and behold, there was a basket of summer fruit. 2He said, “What do you see, Amos?” And I said, “A basket of summer fruit.” Then the LORD said to me, “The end has come for My people Israel. I will spare them no longer. 3“The songs of the palace will turn to wailing in that day,” declares the Lord GOD. “Many will be the corpses; in every place they will cast them forth in silence.”

      4Hear this, you who trample the needy, to do away with the humble of the land,

5saying,
“When will the new moon be over,
So that we may sell grain,
And the sabbath, that we may open the wheat market,
To make the bushel smaller and the shekel bigger,
And to cheat with dishonest scales,

      6So as to buy the helpless for money
And the needy for a pair of sandals,
And that we may sell the refuse of the wheat?”

      7The LORD has sworn by the pride of Jacob,
“Indeed, I will never forget any of their deeds.

      8“Because of this will not the land quake
And everyone who dwells in it mourn?
Indeed, all of it will rise up like the Nile,
And it will be tossed about
And subside like the Nile of Egypt.

      9“It will come about in that day,” declares the Lord GOD,
“That I will make the sun go down at noon
And make the earth dark in broad daylight.

      10“Then I will turn your festivals into mourning
And all your songs into lamentation;
And I will bring sackcloth on everyone’s loins
And baldness on every head.
And I will make it like a time of mourning for an only son,
And the end of it will be like a bitter day.

      11“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord GOD,
“When I will send a famine on the land,
Not a famine for bread or a thirst for water,
But rather for hearing the words of the LORD.

      12“People will stagger from sea to sea
And from the north even to the east;
They will go to and fro to seek the word of the LORD,
But they will not find it.

      13“In that day the beautiful virgins
And the young men will faint from thirst.

      14“As for those who swear by the guilt of Samaria,
Who say, ‘As your god lives, O Dan,’
And, ‘As the way of Beersheba lives,’
They will fall and not rise again.”

Reflection on Amos 8:

  • A Basket of Ripe Fruit:
    The vision of the ripe fruit symbolizes that Israel’s time of judgment has come (Amos 8:1-2). God’s patience had reached its limit due to their continued rebellion and sin. Are there areas in your life where you are testing God’s patience by neglecting His commands? Repent and turn back to Him today.
  • The Sins That Lead to Judgment:
    The chapter outlines Israel’s sins, including greed, dishonesty in business, and exploiting the poor (Amos 8:4-6). These actions reflected a heart far from God. Are you examining your actions and attitudes to ensure they align with God’s righteousness? Seek His guidance in living justly and compassionately.
  • A Famine of Hearing God’s Word:
    Verse 11 warns of a coming famine—not of food or water but of hearing the Word of the Lord. This reflects the dire consequences of neglecting God’s truth and living apart from His guidance. Are you prioritizing God’s Word in your life, or are you allowing other influences to take precedence? Make time daily to hear and meditate on His Word.
  • The Desperation of Spiritual Hunger:
    Amos 8:12 describes people wandering in search of God’s Word but not finding it. This highlights the spiritual emptiness and despair that come from being disconnected from Him. Are you feeding your soul with the nourishment of God’s Word, or are you spiritually starving? Commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly and consistently.
  • The Urgency of Turning Back to God:
    God’s warning through Amos is a call to repentance and a reminder of the urgency of returning to Him before it’s too late. Are you responding to His call with urgency, or are you delaying your obedience? Don’t wait—turn to Him today and embrace His truth.

Summary Key Points:

  • God’s Patience Has Limits: Don’t delay repentance; turn to Him today.
  • Sin Leads to Separation from God: Examine your actions and live according to His righteousness.
  • A Spiritual Famine Is Devastating: Prioritize hearing and obeying God’s Word daily.
  • Feed Your Soul with God’s Word: Seek Him wholeheartedly to avoid spiritual emptiness.
  • Respond to God’s Call with Urgency: Don’t put off repentance or neglect His truth.

Application:
Reflect on whether you are prioritizing God’s Word in your life. Are there areas where sin or neglect has distanced you from Him? Turn to God in repentance, seeking His truth and guidance with urgency. Feed your soul with His Word daily, and commit to living in alignment with His will.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word and the guidance it provides. Forgive us for times when we have neglected Your truth or allowed sin to separate us from You. Teach us to seek You wholeheartedly and to prioritize hearing and obeying Your Word. Help us live justly and compassionately, reflecting Your righteousness in all we do. 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.