Category Archives: Holy / Set Apart

Faith / Trusting God, Holy / Set Apart, Money / Finances / Wealth

Living Differently Among the Nations (Genesis 23)

Even in grief, Abraham’s faith and integrity shone as a witness to those around him.

Key Verse:
“I am a stranger and a sojourner among you; give me property among you for a burying place, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” —Genesis 23:4 ESV

Background Context:
Genesis 23 records Sarah’s death at 127 years old and Abraham’s mourning for her. Though God had promised Abraham the land of Canaan, he still lived as a foreigner and owned none of it. He negotiated with the Hittites for a burial site and purchased the cave of Machpelah at full price. This became the first piece of land legally belonging to Abraham’s family in Canaan, a small but significant step of faith in God’s covenant promises.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 23

Death and Burial of Sarah

      1Now Sarah lived one hundred and twenty-seven years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. 2Sarah died in Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan; and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. 3Then Abraham rose from before his dead, and spoke to the sons of Heth, saying, 4“I am a stranger and a sojourner among you; give me a burial site among you that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” 5The sons of Heth answered Abraham, saying to him, 6“Hear us, my lord, you are a mighty prince among us; bury your dead in the choicest of our graves; none of us will refuse you his grave for burying your dead.” 7So Abraham rose and bowed to the people of the land, the sons of Heth. 8And he spoke with them, saying, “If it is your wish for me to bury my dead out of my sight, hear me, and approach Ephron the son of Zohar for me, 9that he may give me the cave of Machpelah which he owns, which is at the end of his field; for the full price let him give it to me in your presence for a burial site.” 10Now Ephron was sitting among the sons of Heth; and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the hearing of the sons of Heth; even of all who went in at the gate of his city, saying, 11“No, my lord, hear me; I give you the field, and I give you the cave that is in it. In the presence of the sons of my people I give it to you; bury your dead.” 12And Abraham bowed before the people of the land. 13He spoke to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, saying, “If you will only please listen to me; I will give the price of the field, accept it from me that I may bury my dead there.” 14Then Ephron answered Abraham, saying to him, 15“My lord, listen to me; a piece of land worth four hundred shekels of silver, what is that between me and you? So bury your dead.” 16Abraham listened to Ephron; and Abraham weighed out for Ephron the silver which he had named in the hearing of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, commercial standard.

      17So Ephron’s field, which was in Machpelah, which faced Mamre, the field and cave which was in it, and all the trees which were in the field, that were within all the confines of its border, were deeded over 18to Abraham for a possession in the presence of the sons of Heth, before all who went in at the gate of his city. 19After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field at Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. 20So the field and the cave that is in it, were deeded over to Abraham for a burial site by the sons of Heth.

Reflection on Genesis 23:
Abraham’s actions reveal lessons both in faith and character. First, he mourned deeply for Sarah. Faith does not cancel grief—losing a loved one hurts, and mourning is natural. Even when we know someone is with the Lord, we feel their absence here, and it is right to grieve.

Second, Abraham lived as a foreigner among the Hittites, yet they respected him greatly because of his integrity and faith. He bowed low before them, showing humility and respect, even though they worshiped other gods. He openly acknowledged his faith and identity, never hiding that he served the Lord.

Third, Abraham’s conduct in business was exemplary. Though the Hittites offered the land freely, Abraham insisted on paying the full price, refusing to haggle or take advantage. He conducted the transaction publicly with witnesses to avoid any suspicion of wrongdoing. His honesty and fairness left no question about his integrity.

As followers of Christ, we can learn much here. We live in a world where many around us do not serve God. Yet like Abraham, we are called to treat others with respect, to deal honorably, and to live openly as God’s people. Our lives should reflect the difference that comes from following Christ—humility, integrity, and faith that shine even in times of sorrow.

Application:
When you face times of grief, don’t be ashamed to mourn—it is part of loving deeply. But also remember Abraham’s example: show respect to others, even those who do not share your faith. Be honest and fair in your dealings, leaving no room for suspicion. And most of all, live openly for God, letting your faith be visible in how you conduct yourself. In doing so, you bear witness to His goodness and may open the door for others to see Him through you.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the example of Abraham’s faith and integrity, even in his grief. Teach me to mourn with hope, to treat others with respect, and to live openly as Your servant in this world. Help me to act with honesty and fairness, that my life would reflect Your truth and point others to You. 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.

Holy / Set Apart, Psalms, Purposeful / Intentional

Who May Dwell with God? (Psalm 15)

Closeness with God isn’t about perfection—it’s about walking in integrity before Him.

Key Verse:
“O Lord, who may reside in Your tent? Who may settle on Your holy hill? One who walks with integrity, practices righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart.” —Psalm 15:1–2 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 15, written by David, asks one of the most profound questions: “Who may dwell in Your sacred tent? Who may live on Your holy hill?” It’s a question about intimacy with God—about who can live in close fellowship with Him. David’s answer doesn’t focus on religious rituals but on character: integrity, righteousness, truthful speech, honoring others, and despising evil. This psalm gives a picture of the kind of life God desires from those who would draw near to Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 15

1 Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord?
    Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?
2 Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right,
    speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
3 Those who refuse to gossip
    or harm their neighbors
    or speak evil of their friends.
4 Those who despise flagrant sinners,
    and honor the faithful followers of the Lord,
    and keep their promises even when it hurts.
5 Those who lend money without charging interest,
    and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.
Such people will stand firm forever.

Reflection on Psalm 15:
David’s question reveals a deep longing: “Who can dwell with God?” It’s not about visiting Him briefly—it’s about living in His presence. And David’s answer makes it clear: nearness to God isn’t just for those who know the right words, but for those whose lives reflect His holiness.

This isn’t a list of boxes to check to earn God’s approval. Instead, it describes a life transformed by reverence for Him: walking in integrity, speaking truth from the heart, refusing to harm others, keeping promises even when it’s costly, and rejecting what is vile.

And the psalm closes with a promise: “The one who does these things will never be shaken.” Living in God’s presence gives unshakable stability, no matter the storms of life.

Application:
Do you long to dwell closely with God? Examine your walk. Are there areas where your integrity, words, or actions don’t reflect His holiness?

Ask God to shape your character so your life aligns with His heart. Remember—this isn’t about achieving perfection, but about daily surrender, letting His Spirit form Christ in you.

Closing Prayer:
Lord, I want to dwell in Your presence and live a life that honors You. Shape my heart to walk in integrity, speak truth, and love what You love. Strengthen me to keep my promises and live righteously in a world that often pulls the other way. Thank You for making me unshakable in You. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

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

John Golda

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

Holy / Set Apart, Purposeful / Intentional, Seeking God

Walking with God in a Corrupt World (Genesis 5)

In a world slipping into darkness, one man chose to walk with God.

Key Verse:
“Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.” —Genesis 5:24 NASB

Background Context:
Genesis 5 is a genealogy tracing the descendants of Adam through Seth, leading up to Noah. While it may read like a list of names and lifespans, this chapter quietly reveals something powerful: the impact of a life lived in close relationship with God. In the midst of generations that lived and died, one name stands out—Enoch. He didn’t just live. He walked with God. And God took him—he did not see death.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 5

Descendants of Adam

      1This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day when God created man, He made him in the likeness of God. 2He created them male and female, and He blessed them and named them Man in the day when they were created.

      3When Adam had lived one hundred and thirty years, he became the father of a son in his own likeness, according to his image, and named him Seth. 4Then the days of Adam after he became the father of Seth were eight hundred years, and he had other sons and daughters. 5So all the days that Adam lived were nine hundred and thirty years, and he died.

      6Seth lived one hundred and five years, and became the father of Enosh. 7Then Seth lived eight hundred and seven years after he became the father of Enosh, and he had other sons and daughters. 8So all the days of Seth were nine hundred and twelve years, and he died.

      9Enosh lived ninety years, and became the father of Kenan. 10Then Enosh lived eight hundred and fifteen years after he became the father of Kenan, and he had other sons and daughters. 11So all the days of Enosh were nine hundred and five years, and he died.

      12Kenan lived seventy years, and became the father of Mahalalel. 13Then Kenan lived eight hundred and forty years after he became the father of Mahalalel, and he had other sons and daughters. 14So all the days of Kenan were nine hundred and ten years, and he died.

      15Mahalalel lived sixty-five years, and became the father of Jared. 16Then Mahalalel lived eight hundred and thirty years after he became the father of Jared, and he had other sons and daughters. 17So all the days of Mahalalel were eight hundred and ninety-five years, and he died.

      18Jared lived one hundred and sixty-two years, and became the father of Enoch. 19Then Jared lived eight hundred years after he became the father of Enoch, and he had other sons and daughters. 20So all the days of Jared were nine hundred and sixty-two years, and he died.

      21Enoch lived sixty-five years, and became the father of Methuselah. 22Then Enoch walked with God three hundred years after he became the father of Methuselah, and he had other sons and daughters. 23So all the days of Enoch were three hundred and sixty-five years. 24Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him.

      25Methuselah lived one hundred and eighty-seven years, and became the father of Lamech. 26Then Methuselah lived seven hundred and eighty-two years after he became the father of Lamech, and he had other sons and daughters. 27So all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred and sixty-nine years, and he died.

      28Lamech lived one hundred and eighty-two years, and became the father of a son. 29Now he called his name Noah, saying, “This one will give us rest from our work and from the toil of our hands arising from the ground which the LORD has cursed.” 30Then Lamech lived five hundred and ninety-five years after he became the father of Noah, and he had other sons and daughters. 31So all the days of Lamech were seven hundred and seventy-seven years, and he died.

      32Noah was five hundred years old, and Noah became the father of Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

Reflection on Genesis 5:
This chapter records the slow march toward the flood—humanity filling the earth, but also drifting from the Lord. Yet right in the middle of it, we read about Enoch. Twice it says, “Enoch walked with God.” Not just believed in God. Not just obeyed occasionally. He walked with Him—daily, closely, faithfully.

Enoch’s life is a reminder that no matter how corrupt the culture becomes, it is still possible to live a life that pleases God. Hebrews 11:5 tells us that Enoch was taken because he had this testimony: he pleased God. Before judgment came upon the world through the flood, God had already been watching for those who sought Him. And Enoch did.

While others lived long lives and died, Enoch was taken directly into God’s presence. His life declares that intimacy with God is possible—and that it matters more than how long we live or how much we accomplish.

Application:
Ask yourself: am I walking with God—or just walking near Him? Are my days marked by ongoing communion with Him, or do I treat Him as an occasional stop along the way? Enoch lived in a world where sin was growing, but he chose closeness with God over conformity with the world.

You can too. In your family, your workplace, and your private moments—choose to walk with Him. Spend time in His Word, talk to Him, listen for His voice, and obey His prompting. That’s what it means to walk with God.

Closing Prayer:
Father, I don’t just want to believe in You—I want to walk with You. Teach me to stay close, to follow Your lead, and to live a life that pleases You. In a world filled with compromise, help me remain faithful. May my walk reflect intimacy, trust, and obedience to 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.

False Prophets / Teachers, Grace / Forgiveness, Holy / Set Apart

Refined by Fire, Cleansed by Grace (Zechariah 13)

Sometimes, the path to purity runs through fire. But YHWH uses it not to destroy, but to refine—so that we can truly be His people.

Key Verse:
“They will call on My name, and I will answer them; I will say, ‘They are My people,’ and they will say, ‘The Lord is my God.’” —Zechariah 13:9 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 13 follows the promises of restoration in chapter 12 with a vision of cleansing, purification, and judgment. It begins with a fountain opened for sin and impurity, foreshadowing the redemptive work of Yeshua, the pierced one spoken of in the previous chapter. The chapter also speaks of removing idolatry and false prophets from the land and culminates in a prophecy of refining the remnant of God’s people—two-thirds will be cut off, but the third that remains will be brought through the fire and refined like silver and gold.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 13

False Prophets Ashamed

      1“In that day a fountain will be opened for the house of David and for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for impurity.

      2“It will come about in that day,” declares the LORD of hosts, “that I will cut off the names of the idols from the land, and they will no longer be remembered; and I will also remove the prophets and the unclean spirit from the land. 3“And if anyone still prophesies, then his father and mother who gave birth to him will say to him, ‘You shall not live, for you have spoken falsely in the name of the LORD’; and his father and mother who gave birth to him will pierce him through when he prophesies. 4“Also it will come about in that day that the prophets will each be ashamed of his vision when he prophesies, and they will not put on a hairy robe in order to deceive; 5but he will say, ‘I am not a prophet; I am a tiller of the ground, for a man sold me as a slave in my youth.’ 6“And one will say to him, ‘What are these wounds between your arms?’ Then he will say, ‘Those with which I was wounded in the house of my friends.’

      7“Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd,
And against the man, My Associate,”
Declares the LORD of hosts.
“Strike the Shepherd that the sheep may be scattered;
And I will turn My hand against the little ones.

      8“It will come about in all the land,”
Declares the LORD,
“That two parts in it will be cut off and perish;
But the third will be left in it.

      9“And I will bring the third part through the fire,
Refine them as silver is refined,
And test them as gold is tested.
They will call on My name,
And I will answer them;
I will say, ‘They are My people,’
And they will say, ‘The LORD is my God.’”

Reflection on Zechariah 13:
The imagery of a fountain opened “for sin and for impurity” is a powerful symbol of cleansing that points forward to Messiah. Yeshua’s sacrifice offers that living water that cleanses us from all unrighteousness. Through Him, we are not just forgiven—we are made new.

God promises to remove the idols and lies from the land. This is not only about statues or false prophets from history. It’s about the idols and deceptions we entertain today—our pride, our self-reliance, our love of the world’s approval. He calls us to a radical purification where even the desire to prophesy falsely or pretend to be something we’re not is stripped away.

But perhaps the most sobering and encouraging part comes at the end of the chapter. A third is brought through the fire—not to be destroyed, but to be refined. Just as silver must be heated to remove its impurities, so God uses trials to shape us into vessels of honor. And what’s the result? A relationship. We call Him our God, and He calls us His people.

It’s not an easy road, but it’s the road to holiness. He refines us because He loves us. He wants to purify a people who belong fully to Him—no idols, no lies, no halfway obedience.

Application:
What idols or falsehoods are you still clinging to? Ask the Lord to open your eyes and to give you the courage to let them go. Don’t resist the refining fire—welcome it. God is not trying to harm you. He is making you holy.

Are you willing to be part of the faithful remnant who truly belong to Him? Then trust the process. Stay near the fountain of cleansing. Submit to the refining. Call on His name.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for opening a fountain of grace through Yeshua, our Messiah. Cleanse me from all impurity and lead me in Your truth. Refine me, even if it hurts, because I want to be wholly Yours. May I be counted among those who say, “The Lord is my God.” Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Holy / Set Apart, Lying / Deceiving, Repenting from Sin, Stealing / Theft, Visions, Wickedness / Evil

The Flying Scroll: A Warning Against Sin (Zechariah 5)

Sin will not go unnoticed or unpunished in the eyes of the Lord.

Key Verse:
“Then he said to me, ‘This is the curse that is going forth over the face of the whole land; surely everyone who steals will be purged away according to the writing on one side, and everyone who swears falsely will be purged away according to the writing on the other side.’” —Zechariah 5:3 (NASB)

Background Context:
Zechariah 5 presents two powerful visions: a flying scroll and a woman in a basket. These visions emphasize God’s coming judgment against sin among His people. The flying scroll represents a curse against those who commit two specific offenses: stealing and bearing false witness—both direct violations of God’s commandments. The imagery underscores that sin corrupts the land and its people, and God will not allow it to remain.

The second vision shows wickedness being personified and sealed inside a basket, carried away to a distant land—likely symbolizing Babylon—showing that sin will ultimately be removed from among God’s people and dealt with according to His perfect justice.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zechariah 5

The Flying Scroll

      1Then I lifted up my eyes again and looked, and behold, there was a flying scroll. 2And he said to me, “What do you see?” And I answered, “I see a flying scroll; its length is twenty cubits and its width ten cubits.” 3Then he said to me, “This is the curse that is going forth over the face of the whole land; surely everyone who steals will be purged away according to the writing on one side, and everyone who swears will be purged away according to the writing on the other side. 4“I will make it go forth,” declares the LORD of hosts, “and it will enter the house of the thief and the house of the one who swears falsely by My name; and it will spend the night within that house and consume it with its timber and stones.”

      5Then the angel who was speaking with me went out and said to me, “Lift up now your eyes and see what this is going forth.” 6I said, “What is it?” And he said, “This is the ephah going forth.” Again he said, “This is their appearance in all the land 7(and behold, a lead cover was lifted up); and this is a woman sitting inside the ephah.” 8Then he said, “This is Wickedness!” And he threw her down into the middle of the ephah and cast the lead weight on its opening. 9Then I lifted up my eyes and looked, and there two women were coming out with the wind in their wings; and they had wings like the wings of a stork, and they lifted up the ephah between the earth and the heavens. 10I said to the angel who was speaking with me, “Where are they taking the ephah?” 11Then he said to me, “To build a temple for her in the land of Shinar; and when it is prepared, she will be set there on her own pedestal.”

Reflection on Zechariah 5:
This chapter reminds us that sin is not a small thing to be ignored or tolerated. YHWH sees all and will bring judgment upon unrepentant sin. Even among His people, God calls for righteousness, honesty, and faithfulness.

While we are saved by grace through Yeshua, we are still called to live holy lives, demonstrating obedience to God’s ways. This vision should stir in us a healthy fear of the Lord and a deep commitment to repent of any sin we are tolerating in our lives. It should also encourage us that God will not allow wickedness to flourish forever. He will purify His people.

Application:
Examine your heart honestly. Are there areas where sin has crept in—perhaps through dishonesty, selfishness, or compromised integrity? Bring these before the Lord in repentance. Ask for His cleansing and strength to walk uprightly. Be diligent to remove sin from your life rather than making excuses for it. Trust that God’s refining work is for your good and His glory.

Closing Prayer:
Father, I acknowledge that nothing is hidden from Your sight. I ask You to reveal any hidden sin in my heart and help me to repent fully. Cleanse me by Your Spirit and make me holy as You are holy. Strengthen me to walk in truth and righteousness, reflecting Your light to the world around me. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Holy / Set Apart, Traditions / Holidays, Worldliness

Reconsidering St. Patrick’s Day: A Call to Focus on God’s Appointed Times

In today’s world, where cultural and religious traditions intermingle, St. Patrick’s Day stands as a testament to this blend of Christian roots and pagan practices.

However, it’s essential to peel back the layers of this celebration to understand its true significance and how it aligns with our faith.

The Legacy of St. Patrick

St. Patrick, by all accounts, was a remarkable missionary to Ireland whose life story is one of faith, perseverance, and dedication to spreading the word of Christ. Despite facing immense adversity, he chose to turn toward the Lord, shaping the spiritual landscape of Ireland indelibly. While St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in his honor, it’s crucial to remember the man behind the legend—a missionary who embodied Christ’s teachings.

Modern Celebrations: A Critical Reflection

When we think of St. Patrick’s Day today, images of green rivers, parades, and shamrocks dominate our perception. Yet, none of these symbols or activities bear any relation to Patrick’s mission or Christian teachings. This dissonance prompts us to question how a day meant to honor a saint’s devotion to God has drifted so far from its spiritual moorings.

The Influence of Pagan Traditions

History shows us that the inclusion of pagan customs in Christian celebrations was not uncommon, with holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and Easter showcasing this blend. This strategy aimed to assimilate non-believers, yet it often diluted the Christian essence of these celebrations. It’s a poignant reminder that our celebrations should not stray from the core of our faith to accommodate cultural populism.

A Call for Pure Worship

In light of this, how should we, as followers of Christ, approach St. Patrick’s Day? The answer lies in focusing on the aspects of the holiday that truly honor God’s work through Patrick’s missionary efforts. By consciously shifting our attention away from secular traditions, we can celebrate in a manner that genuinely reflects our faith.

Embracing Biblical Holy Days

The Bible delineates God’s appointed times, the Moedim, which offer us a blueprint for holy celebration. Unlike holidays marred by pagan influences, these days are divinely ordained, offering us a clear path to honor God. Observing these holy days not only aligns us with biblical teachings but also connects us more deeply with the heritage of our faith.

I would encourage you to consider learning more about Yahweh’s appointed times, or holy days. Consider our short teaching on Celebrating God’s Holy Days, which also contains links to ministries that can help you with further study in this area.

Spiritual Encouragement and Reflection

As we navigate our celebrations and daily lives, let us be guided by the Holy Spirit, seeking to honor Christ in all we do. Reflecting on “What did Jesus do?” rather than “What would Jesus do?” can provide us with a clearer model for our actions, emphasizing the importance of following Jesus’ example and observing the traditions He and His disciples upheld.

A Final Invitation

Before you partake in any celebration, ask yourself: Does this honor Christ, or does it distract from His message? We invite you to delve deeper into understanding and celebrating God’s holy days. Through our teachings and resources, you can explore the richness of these celebrations and their significance in our faith.

As we reconsider our approach to St. Patrick’s Day and other holidays, let’s strive to align our celebrations with the teachings of Christ, embracing the holy days appointed by God. In doing so, we not only honor our faith but also draw closer to the essence of what it means to be a follower of Christ.

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.

Am I on the path?, Holy / Set Apart, Marriage, Purposeful / Intentional

Godly Living in an Ungodly World (1 Peter 3)

How does your life reflect Christ in your relationships and daily interactions?

1 Peter 3 provides deep and practical guidelines for living in a godly way, especially within marriage and in our interactions with others. Peter continues the theme from chapter 2, where he encouraged believers—including servants—to submit even to unjust authorities. Here, he teaches how husbands, wives, and all believers are to live in a way that honors God, influences others for Christ, and brings blessing even in the face of suffering.

Key Verse:
“But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.” – 1 Peter 3:15 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter was writing to believers scattered throughout a pagan world, encouraging them to live differently—to reflect Christ in a culture that rejected Him. The instructions given here were countercultural then, just as they are today. Submission in marriage, returning good for evil, and suffering righteously are not natural human responses. Yet, these behaviors reflect Christ’s humility, love, and purpose. The ultimate goal is not personal comfort or power, but to glorify God and lead others to Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 3

Godly Living

      1In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, 2as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. 3Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; 4but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 5For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands; 6just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.

      7You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

      8To sum up, all of you be harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble in spirit; 9not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you might inherit a blessing.

10For,
“THE ONE WHO DESIRES LIFE, TO LOVE AND SEE GOOD DAYS,
MUST KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL AND HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT.

      11“HE MUST TURN AWAY FROM EVIL AND DO GOOD;
HE MUST SEEK PEACE AND PURSUE IT.

      12“FOR THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE TOWARD THE RIGHTEOUS,
AND HIS EARS ATTEND TO THEIR PRAYER,
BUT THE FACE OF THE LORD IS AGAINST THOSE WHO DO EVIL.”

      13Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED, 15but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; 16and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame. 17For it is better, if God should will it so, that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong. 18For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; 19in which also He went and made proclamation to the spirits now in prison, 20who once were disobedient, when the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah, during the construction of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through the water. 21Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22who is at the right hand of God, having gone into heaven, after angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him.

Reflection on 1 Peter 3:

Godly Submission and Honor in Marriage (1 Peter 3:1-7)

  • Wives: A Witness Through Submission
    Peter calls wives to submit to their husbands, even if they are unbelievers, so that their respectful and pure behavior may lead them to Christ (1 Peter 3:1-2). This is not about inferiority but about trusting God’s design for marriage and allowing godly conduct to be a testimony. Are you honoring God in the way you respond to your spouse?

  • True Beauty Comes from the Heart
    Rather than focusing on outward appearance, Peter urges women to cultivate “the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit” (1 Peter 3:4). This does not mean women should be silent, but that their strength should be rooted in faith, trust, and godly character. Is your focus more on outward beauty or inner holiness?

  • Husbands: Live With Understanding and Honor
    Peter commands husbands to dwell with their wives “in an understanding way” and to honor them as “fellow heirs of the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7). This means listening, valuing, and loving their wives as Christ loves the Church. Failure to do so can hinder their prayers. Are you treating your spouse with honor and understanding?

Living as a Reflection of Christ (1 Peter 3:8-17)

  • Bless, Even When You Are Insulted
    Peter calls all believers to be “harmonious, sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble” (1 Peter 3:8) and to “not return evil for evil” but instead offer blessings (1 Peter 3:9). This is how we demonstrate Christ’s love and righteousness in a world that often opposes us. How do you respond when treated unfairly?

  • Seek Peace and Pursue It
    “The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous, and His ears attend to their prayer” (1 Peter 3:12). God’s favor is upon those who pursue peace and righteousness. Do your words and actions reflect God’s peace in your daily life?

  • Be Ready to Give an Answer for Your Faith
    When suffering for righteousness, Peter encourages believers to be “ready to make a defense” for the hope within them, but “with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15). This means being prepared to share our faith in a way that reflects Christ’s love, not arrogance or argumentativeness. Can you explain your faith in a way that draws others to Christ?

Christ, Our Ultimate Example (1 Peter 3:18-22)

  • Suffering with Purpose
    Christ suffered unjustly to bring us to God (1 Peter 3:18). When we endure hardship for righteousness, we follow His example. Do you trust God’s plan, even when you suffer unfairly?

  • Baptism: A Symbol of Our Salvation
    Peter compares baptism to Noah’s salvation through the flood—symbolizing that believers have been saved through Christ’s resurrection (1 Peter 3:21). Baptism does not remove sin, but it is an outward declaration of our inward faith. Have you fully embraced your new identity in Christ?

Summary Key Points:

  • Wives’ submission is a testimony of faith, not inferiority.
  • Husbands are to honor their wives as co-heirs of God’s grace.
  • All believers are called to respond to evil with kindness and blessing.
  • We must be ready to defend our faith with gentleness and respect.
  • Christ’s suffering is our example—righteous suffering has a purpose.

Application:

  • If you are married, reflect on how you are honoring your spouse. Are you living in a way that glorifies God and reflects Christ’s love?
  • Examine how you respond to mistreatment—are you returning evil with kindness and entrusting justice to God?
  • Are you prepared to share your faith with others? Pray for opportunities to explain the hope you have in Christ.
  • When facing suffering, remind yourself that Christ endured unjust suffering for your sake. Stand firm in faith, knowing that God sees and honors righteousness.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to live in a way that honors You. Help me to be faithful in my relationships, responding to others with grace and humility. Give me the strength to endure trials with patience and to reflect Christ’s love in all I do. May my life be a testimony of Your goodness, and may I always be ready to share the hope that is in me. 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.

Holy / Set Apart, Purposeful / Intentional

Living as Strangers in the World (1 Peter 2:11-12)

Are you willing to stand out for God’s glory?

1 Peter 2:11-12 reminds us that as God’s people, we are called to be different from the world around us. Though we live among unbelievers, our lives should reflect holiness and honor God, leading others to glorify Him.

Key Verse:
“Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.” – 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter was writing to Jewish believers living among Gentile nations, urging them to remain set apart from the sinful behaviors of the world. Their calling was not to blend in but to reflect God’s holiness, even when it made them stand out. Today, as followers of Yeshua, we face a similar challenge. Many of us live in nations that are becoming increasingly ungodly. Peter’s message remains just as relevant—we are to live as foreigners, resisting worldly desires and maintaining godly character so that others may see our good works and glorify God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 2:11-12

     11Beloved, I urge you as aliens and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. 12Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which they slander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observe them, glorify God in the day of visitation.

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:11-12:

  • We Are Strangers in This World:
    Peter calls believers aliens and strangers (1 Peter 2:11). This means that our true home is not in this world but in God’s kingdom. We should not feel completely comfortable in a culture that does not honor God. Do you embrace your identity as someone set apart for God’s purposes?

  • Abstain from Fleshly Lusts:
    Peter warns that fleshly desires wage war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11). This is a battle between holiness and sin, between living for God or conforming to the world. Are you guarding yourself against the temptations that can weaken your faith?

  • Live in a Way That Glorifies God:
    Peter commands believers to keep their behavior excellent among unbelievers so that, even if they are slandered, their actions will ultimately lead others to glorify God (1 Peter 2:12). How do your actions reflect God’s holiness to those around you?

  • Expect to Be Different:
    Being set apart means we will not always fit in. We may face criticism, rejection, or misunderstandings because we follow God’s ways instead of the world’s. But this is our calling—to stand firm in faith and reflect God’s truth. Are you willing to be different for the sake of God’s glory?

Summary Key Points:

  • We are foreigners in this world: Our true citizenship is in God’s kingdom.
  • Sin wages war against our souls: We must actively resist temptation.
  • Our behavior should glorify God: People should see Yeshua reflected in our actions.
  • Being set apart means being different: Holiness will often make us stand out.
  • Our lives can lead others to God: Even those who criticize may eventually glorify Him.

Application:
Examine your daily life. Are you living in a way that is distinct from the world? Are there areas where you have compromised to fit in? Ask God to strengthen you to live set apart, even when it means standing out. Let your actions reflect His holiness and lead others to Him.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to be set apart for Your glory. Help me to resist the temptations of this world and to live a life that honors You. Strengthen me to stand firm in my faith, even when it means being different. May my actions lead others to see Your goodness and glorify You. 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.

Holy / Set Apart, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Purposeful / Intentional, Share the Good News

A Chosen People, A Holy Calling (1 Peter 2:4-10)

Do you see yourself the way God sees you?

1 Peter 2:4-9 reminds us that as believers, we are not just individuals—we are living stones in God’s spiritual house, chosen and set apart to proclaim His glory. This passage challenges us to embrace our identity in Christ and live as His holy people.

Key Verse:
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” – 1 Peter 2:9 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter writes to scattered believers who faced persecution and uncertainty. He encourages them by reminding them of their identity in Christ. Using imagery from the Old Testament, he describes Jesus as the cornerstone of God’s house and believers as living stones being built upon Him. This passage teaches us that our faith is not just personal—it connects us to a greater calling in God’s kingdom.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 2:4-10

As Living Stones

      4And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, 5you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

6For this is contained in Scripture:
“BEHOLD, I LAY IN ZION A CHOICE STONE, A PRECIOUS CORNER stone,
AND HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.”

7This precious value, then, is for you who believe; but for those who disbelieve,
“THE STONE WHICH THE BUILDERS REJECTED,
THIS BECAME THE VERY CORNER stone,”

8and,
“A STONE OF STUMBLING AND A ROCK OF OFFENSE”;
for they stumble because they are disobedient to the word, and to this doom they were also appointed.

      9But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:4-10:

  • Jesus, the Living Stone:
    Peter describes Jesus as the cornerstone, rejected by men but chosen and precious to God (1 Peter 2:4-6). Just as a cornerstone is the foundation of a building, Jesus is the foundation of our faith. Is your life built firmly upon Christ?

  • We Are Living Stones in God’s Spiritual House:
    As believers, we are not isolated—we are part of a greater structure that God is building (1 Peter 2:5). Together, we form a spiritual house where God dwells. Are you actively contributing to God’s kingdom, using your gifts to build up His people?

  • A Royal Priesthood:
    In Christ, we are called to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:5, 9). In the Old Testament, priests stood between God and the people, offering sacrifices. Now, as followers of Jesus, we have direct access to God and the privilege of offering our lives as spiritual sacrifices. Are you living as a priest, representing God to those around you?

  • A Holy Nation, A People for His Possession:
    God has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). We belong to Him, set apart for His purposes. This means living differently from the world, reflecting His holiness. Does your life reflect your identity as one of God’s chosen people?

  • Called to Proclaim His Excellencies:
    As those redeemed by Christ, we are called to proclaim His goodness and share His truth with others (1 Peter 2:9). Are you using your voice to glorify God and point others to Him?

Summary Key Points:

  • Jesus is our cornerstone: Our faith must be firmly built on Him.
  • We are living stones: Together, we form God’s spiritual house.
  • We are a royal priesthood: We have access to God and serve as His representatives.
  • We are set apart as God’s people: Our lives should reflect His holiness.
  • We are called to proclaim His greatness: Our purpose is to share His love and truth.

Application:
Take time to reflect on your identity in Christ. Are you living as a chosen, set-apart child of God? Ask God to help you build your life on Jesus as your foundation. Look for ways to serve as part of His spiritual house, offering your life as a living sacrifice and proclaiming His goodness to those around you.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for choosing me and calling me into Your marvelous light. Help me to live as part of Your spiritual house, built on Christ as my foundation. Teach me to walk in holiness, serve as a royal priest, and proclaim Your goodness to those around me. May my life glorify You in all things. 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.

Drunkenness, Holy / Set Apart, Idols / False Gods, Repenting from Sin, Self Control, Traditions / Holidays, Worldliness

What is Mardi Gras and Should Christians Celebrate It?

What is Mardi Gras and why do so many Christians celebrate it? I grew up in a Catholic church and never could quite figure out how people could say that Mardi Gras was a “Christian holiday”. People broadly seemed to have accepted the concept that Christ wants us to embrace wild parties, drunkenness, public nudity, gluttony and other sinful behavior as a precursor to a period of repentance which follows.

Some may say that they only celebrate the parades, or they don’t participate or support the more offensive parts of Mardi Gras. However, it is all linked together as different levels of engagement in a clearly pagan festival. Does God like it if we only participate a little in some fun activities focused around a false god? What if we don’t do the “child sacrifice” but only dance before the idol or have a party on the day others sacrifice to the false god?

If it is not obvious enough that celebrating Mardi Gras is not a way to edify, honor, or lift up Christ then try a more academic exercise. Where in scripture did Jesus demonstrate or teach that we should sin greatly before a period of repentance? It’s not there. In fact, the opposite.

The call to repentance is real, but not the call to sin before it.

This does not even begin to touch on the focus that Mardi Gras puts on pagan gods associated with parades and other events.

Matthew 4:17

      17From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Romans 6

      1What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? 2May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? 3Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. 5For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; 7for he who has died is freed from sin.

      8Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. 10For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

      12Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, 13and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

      15What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be! 16Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? 17But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, 18and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. 19I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification.

      20For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death. 22But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. 23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

We are called to righteousness and not to sin. How then can those in the church widely accept and embrace sin as a “Christian holiday”? The answer is that we have not followed the Lord’s instructions. He commands us not to learn the ways of the pagans and not to celebrate as they do. But all too often our common cultural holidays have been greatly influenced by pagan celebrations. The church has chosen to accept and blend pagan practices alongside or in place of how the Lord wants us to worship Him.

What Is Mardi Gras?

When Christianity arrived in Rome, religious leaders decided to incorporate these popular local traditions into the new faith, an easier task than abolishing them altogether. As a result, the excess and debauchery of the Mardi Gras season became a prelude to Lent, the 40 days of fasting and penance between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday.

Along with Christianity, Mardi Gras spread from Rome to other European countries, including France, Germany, Spain and England.

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/mardi-gras

Deuteronomy 12:1-5

   1“These are the statutes and the judgments which you shall carefully observe in the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you to possess as long as you live on the earth. 2“You shall utterly destroy all the places where the nations whom you shall dispossess serve their gods, on the high mountains and on the hills and under every green tree. 3“You shall tear down their altars and smash their sacred pillars and burn their Asherim with fire, and you shall cut down the engraved images of their gods and obliterate their name from that place. 4“You shall not act like this toward the LORD your God. 5“But you shall seek the LORD at the place which the LORD your God will choose from all your tribes, to establish His name there for His dwelling, and there you shall come.

In order to choose to follow the Lord His way, which is the only true way to follow Him, then we must turn away from and reject pagan celebrations which have been blended with or replaced God’s instructions for how we are to worship Him and how we are to live. Let us not make excuses, accepting the lifestyle of the pagans as our own, no matter how long the family traditions have been established. When we start making exceptions, we often end up with things like Mardi Gras… many who claim to be Christian accept it and would defend it… but none can justify it based on scripture or God’s word. It has become part of the culture based on a historical choices and family traditions. Let us seek the Lord and the Lord’s way alone to live submitted to Him. Let us not blend with the ways of the pagans but rather turn back to our Lord wholeheartedly and without hesitation.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.