Category Archives: Righteousness / Serving God

Government, Persecution / Glorifying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Submitting for the Lord’s Sake (1 Peter 2:13-20)

How do you respond to authority, especially when it’s difficult?

1 Peter 2:13-20 teaches us to submit to earthly authorities for the Lord’s sake, recognizing that our ultimate allegiance is to God. Even when treated unjustly, we are called to endure with patience, reflecting the character of Christ.

Key Verse:
“For such is the will of God, that by doing right you silence the ignorance of foolish people.” – 1 Peter 2:15 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter was writing to believers who were living under the rule of the Roman Empire, a government that was often unjust and hostile toward Christians. Instead of encouraging rebellion, Peter instructs them to submit to authorities, not because the authorities were always right, but because honoring them ultimately honors God. This passage challenges us to live with integrity, demonstrating a Christlike attitude even when we face unfair treatment.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 2:13-20

Honor Authority

      13Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, 14or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. 15For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men. 16Act as free men, and do not use your freedom as a covering for evil, but use it as bondslaves of God. 17Honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king.

      18Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable. 19For this finds favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a person bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly. 20For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God.

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:13-20:

  • Submit for the Lord’s Sake:
    Peter commands believers to submit to governing authorities for the Lord’s sake (1 Peter 2:13). This does not mean we agree with or support everything a government does, but that we respect authority because God has allowed it. Do you respond to authority in a way that honors God?

  • Do Good and Silence Critics:
    By living righteously, believers silence the ignorance of foolish people (1 Peter 2:15). Our lives should be a testimony that proves critics wrong. Are your actions showing the world what it truly means to follow Christ?

  • Live as Free People, But Not for Selfish Gain:
    Peter reminds us that in Christ, we are free, but we must not use that freedom as an excuse for sin or rebellion (1 Peter 2:16). Instead, we should use our freedom to serve God and others. Are you using your freedom responsibly?

  • Honor Everyone, Fear God:
    Believers are called to honor all people, love the brethren, fear God, and honor the king (1 Peter 2:17). This means treating others with respect and recognizing God’s sovereignty above all. Do you show honor even when you disagree?

  • Enduring Unjust Suffering Like Christ:
    Peter acknowledges that believers may suffer unjustly, yet he encourages them to endure with patience, as this finds favor with God (1 Peter 2:19-20). When we suffer for doing right, we follow in the footsteps of Christ. Do you trust God enough to endure hardship with a Christlike attitude?

Summary Key Points:

  • Submission is an act of obedience to God, not man.
  • Our righteous actions should silence critics.
  • Freedom in Christ is not an excuse for rebellion but a call to service.
  • We are called to honor all people, regardless of personal opinions.
  • Patiently enduring unjust suffering reflects Christ’s character.

Application:
Think about your attitude toward authority. Are you submitting in a way that reflects Christ’s humility? If you face unjust treatment, respond with patience and trust in God’s justice. Use your freedom to serve, not to rebel, and let your life be a testimony of God’s goodness.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to live in a way that honors You, even when it is difficult. Teach me to submit to authority with a heart that reflects Your righteousness. Give me strength to endure hardship with patience and to use my freedom to serve You faithfully. May my actions bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

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.

Peace / Rest, Wise

Wisdom from Above (James 3:13-18)

How do you know if you’re walking in true wisdom?

James 3:13-18 contrasts earthly wisdom with godly wisdom, showing us that true wisdom is demonstrated through humility, peace, and righteousness. It challenges us to examine whether our actions reflect the wisdom that comes from God or the selfish ambition of the world.

Key Verse:
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy.” – James 3:17 (NASB)

Background Context:
James continues his practical teaching on Christian living, now focusing on wisdom. In contrast to worldly wisdom, which leads to division and disorder, godly wisdom produces peace and righteousness. This passage reminds believers that true wisdom is not just about knowledge but about a transformed life that reflects God’s character.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

James 3:13-18

Wisdom from Above

      13Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. 14But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. 18And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

Reflection on James 3:13-18:

  • True Wisdom Is Shown Through Actions:
    James asks, “Who among you is wise and understanding?” (James 3:13). He then explains that wisdom is revealed not through words, but through good conduct marked by humility. Do your actions reflect wisdom that comes from God?

  • Earthly Wisdom Breeds Disorder:
    Worldly wisdom is characterized by bitter jealousy and selfish ambition (James 3:14-16). This kind of wisdom leads to conflict, pride, and instability. Are there areas in your life where selfish motives are guiding your decisions?

  • Wisdom from Above Reflects God’s Character:
    James describes godly wisdom as pure, peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, and free of hypocrisy (James 3:17). True wisdom leads to peace, righteousness, and unity. Are your choices guided by these qualities?

  • Sowing Peace Brings Righteousness:
    James concludes by saying that “the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace” (James 3:18). Those who pursue godly wisdom will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. Are you a peacemaker in your relationships and decisions?

Summary Key Points:

  • Wisdom is revealed through actions, not just words.
  • Worldly wisdom leads to jealousy, selfish ambition, and disorder.
  • Godly wisdom is pure, peaceful, gentle, merciful, and sincere.
  • True wisdom produces peace and righteousness.

Application:
Examine your heart and motives. Are your decisions rooted in godly wisdom or in selfish ambition? Seek wisdom from God by spending time in His Word, praying for discernment, and walking in humility. Choose to be a peacemaker in your interactions with others.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, grant me wisdom from above. Help me to live with humility, peace, and mercy, reflecting Your character in all I do. Remove any jealousy or selfish ambition from my heart, and let my life be guided by Your truth. May I sow peace and reap a harvest of righteousness for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms

Trusting God for Protection (Psalm 140)

Where do you turn when you feel attacked or overwhelmed?

Psalm 140 is a heartfelt cry for deliverance from enemies, reminding us that God is our refuge and defender. In times of trouble, we can trust Him to protect us and bring justice.

Key Verse:
“You are my God; listen, Lord, to the sound of my pleadings. God the Lord, the strength of my salvation, You have covered my head on the day of battle.” – Psalm 140:6-7 (NASB)

Background Context:
Psalm 140, written by David, is a prayer for protection from wicked people who seek to harm him. He describes the dangers of deceitful and violent enemies, but instead of seeking revenge, he turns to God for justice. This psalm teaches us that in the face of opposition, we must rely on God’s power rather than our own strength.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalms 140

Prayer for Protection against the Wicked.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1Rescue me, O LORD, from evil men;
Preserve me from violent men

      2Who devise evil things in their hearts;
They continually stir up wars.

      3They sharpen their tongues as a serpent;
Poison of a viper is under their lips.

Selah.

      4Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked;
Preserve me from violent men
Who have purposed to trip up my feet.

      5The proud have hidden a trap for me, and cords;
They have spread a net by the wayside;
They have set snares for me.

Selah.

      6I said to the LORD, “You are my God;
Give ear, O LORD, to the voice of my supplications.

      7“O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation,
You have covered my head in the day of battle.

      8“Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked;
Do not promote his evil device, that they not be exalted.

Selah.

      9“As for the head of those who surround me,
May the mischief of their lips cover them.

      10“May burning coals fall upon them;
May they be cast into the fire,
Into deep pits from which they cannot rise.

      11“May a slanderer not be established in the earth;
May evil hunt the violent man speedily.”

      12I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted
And justice for the poor.

      13Surely the righteous will give thanks to Your name;
The upright will dwell in Your presence.

Reflection on Psalm 140:

  • Calling on God for Deliverance:
    David begins by asking God to rescue him from evil and violent men (Psalm 140:1-3). He describes their deceitful words and malicious plans. When faced with attacks—whether verbal, emotional, or spiritual—do you take refuge in God first?

  • Trusting God’s Protection:
    David declares that the Lord is his strength and protector (Psalm 140:6-7). He trusts that God will shield him in the battle. Are you relying on God as your defender, or are you trying to fight your battles alone?

  • God Will Bring Justice:
    David expresses confidence that God will uphold the cause of the afflicted and bring justice to the oppressed (Psalm 140:12). Even when it seems like evil prevails, God is still in control. Do you believe in His perfect timing for justice?

  • The Righteous Will Dwell Securely:
    The psalm ends with a promise that the righteous will praise God and live in His presence (Psalm 140:13). No matter the trials we face, those who trust in the Lord will ultimately find peace in Him. Are you seeking refuge in God’s presence today?

Summary Key Points:

  • Turn to God in times of trouble: He hears and answers.
  • Trust in His protection: He is our strength and shield.
  • Believe in His justice: God will make things right in His perfect time.
  • Remain faithful and righteous: God’s people will dwell in His presence.

Application:
If you are facing opposition, take your burdens to God in prayer rather than trying to handle them alone. Trust in His protection and commit to living righteously, knowing that He sees, cares, and will bring justice.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come to You for protection and strength. Deliver me from the attacks of the enemy, and help me to trust in Your justice and perfect timing. Keep my heart pure, and may I always seek refuge in You. Thank You for being my defender and my peace. 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.

All Knowing, Omnipresent, Seeking God

Known and Loved by God (Psalm 139)

Did you know that God knows you better than you know yourself?

Psalm 139 is a beautiful reminder of God’s intimate knowledge of us, His constant presence, and His intentional design in creating us. No matter where we go or what we face, we are fully known and deeply loved by our Creator.

Key Verse:
“You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I get up; You understand my thought from far away.” – Psalm 139:1-2 (NASB)

Background Context:
Psalm 139 is a personal and reflective song written by David. It expresses awe at God’s complete knowledge of us, His ever-present nature, and His purposeful creation of every human being. This psalm also calls us to invite God’s searching gaze into our hearts, leading us toward righteousness.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 139

God’s Omnipresence and Omniscience.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

      1O LORD, You have searched me and known me.

      2You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thought from afar.

      3You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.

      4Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, O LORD, You know it all.

      5You have enclosed me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.

      6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot attain to it.

      7Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?

      8If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.

      9If I take the wings of the dawn,
If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,

      10Even there Your hand will lead me,
And Your right hand will lay hold of me.

      11If I say, “Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
And the light around me will be night,”

      12Even the darkness is not dark to You,
And the night is as bright as the day.
Darkness and light are alike to You.

      13For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother’s womb.

      14I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.

      15My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;

      16Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.

      17How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!

      18If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand.
When I awake, I am still with You.

      19O that You would slay the wicked, O God;
Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed.

      20For they speak against You wickedly,
And Your enemies take Your name in vain.

      21Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?

      22I hate them with the utmost hatred;
They have become my enemies.

      23Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;

      24And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.

Reflection on Psalm 139:

  • God Knows Everything About You:
    David marvels at how deeply God knows him—his thoughts, his actions, even his unspoken words (Psalm 139:1-6). There is nothing hidden from God. Do you find comfort in knowing that God fully understands you, even when others don’t?

  • God Is Always With You:
    David acknowledges that there is nowhere he can go where God’s presence does not reach (Psalm 139:7-12). Whether in the heights of joy or the depths of despair, God is there. Are you trusting in His presence, even in your darkest moments?

  • You Are Fearfully and Wonderfully Made:
    David praises God for knitting him together in his mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13-16). You are not an accident—God designed you with intention and purpose. Do you see yourself as a masterpiece created by God?

  • Invite God to Search Your Heart:
    The psalm ends with a powerful request for God to search and test our hearts, removing anything that is offensive to Him (Psalm 139:23-24). Are you willing to let God reveal areas in your life that need transformation?

Summary Key Points:

  • God knows you completely: There is nothing about you that He does not see or understand.
  • You are never alone: No matter where you are, God is with you.
  • You were created with purpose: Your life is not random—God designed you with care.
  • Let God search your heart: Invite Him to reveal and remove anything that hinders your walk with Him.

Application:
Take time today to thank God for knowing and loving you so deeply. Rest in the truth that you are never alone and that your life has divine purpose. Ask Him to search your heart and help you walk in righteousness.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for knowing me fully and loving me unconditionally. Help me to rest in Your presence, knowing that I am never alone. Search my heart and remove anything that is not pleasing to You. May my life reflect Your purpose and bring glory 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.

Obeying God, Seeking God, Teachable

Growing in the Word (1 Peter 2:1-3)

Are you feeding your soul with what truly nourishes?

1 Peter 2:1-3 reminds us to put aside sin and long for the pure spiritual nourishment of God’s Word. Just as newborn babies crave milk for growth, we must desire His truth to mature in our faith.

Key Verse:
“Like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.” – 1 Peter 2:2-3 (NASB)

Background Context:
Peter is writing to believers scattered throughout the Roman Empire, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their faith despite suffering. In the previous chapter, he called them to live holy lives in light of their salvation. Now, he urges them to put away sin and crave God’s Word, which is essential for spiritual growth.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

1 Peter 2:1-3

As Newborn Babes

      1Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, 2like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, 3if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.

Reflection on 1 Peter 2:1-3:

  • Put Aside Sin:
    Peter begins by instructing believers to rid themselves of malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander (1 Peter 2:1). These attitudes and behaviors hinder spiritual growth. Are there any sins you need to remove from your life to grow closer to God?

  • Crave Pure Spiritual Milk:
    Just as a newborn instinctively craves milk for survival and growth, we should have an intense desire for God’s Word (1 Peter 2:2). A healthy spiritual life requires daily nourishment from Scripture. Are you prioritizing time in God’s Word?

  • Taste and See the Lord’s Goodness:
    Peter reminds us that if we have truly tasted God’s kindness, we should long for more of Him (1 Peter 2:3). Once we experience His goodness, we won’t be satisfied with anything less. Have you experienced the richness of God’s presence in your life?

Summary Key Points:

  • Remove sinful attitudes: Sin hinders our growth and intimacy with God.
  • Desire God’s Word: Just as babies need milk to grow, we need Scripture to mature in faith.
  • Spiritual growth is intentional: We must actively seek nourishment from God’s truth.
  • Experience God’s goodness: Once we taste His kindness, we should desire more of Him.

Application:
Take time today to evaluate what you are feeding your soul. Are you consuming spiritual junk food, or are you nourishing yourself with God’s Word? Set aside distractions and make time for Scripture, allowing it to transform your heart and mind.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to remove anything that hinders my growth in You. Give me an insatiable hunger for Your Word and a desire to draw closer to You. Thank You for Your kindness and the nourishment You provide for my soul. 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.

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Hope, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Justice / Judgment

From Judgment to Joy (Zephaniah 3)

What if God’s discipline is actually His mercy calling you back?

Zephaniah 3 reveals both the consequences of rebellion and the hope of restoration. While God rebukes the corruption and disobedience of His people, He also promises to purify and restore a faithful remnant. This chapter reminds us that even in judgment, God’s heart is for redemption and joy for those who return to Him.

Key Verse:
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will rejoice over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.” – Zephaniah 3:17 (NASB)

Background Context:
Throughout the book of Zephaniah, God warns Judah of coming judgment due to their sin. However, chapter 3 shifts to a message of hope. After purifying His people, God will dwell among them, bringing peace and joy. This prophetic word not only applied to Judah’s immediate future but also points to the ultimate restoration found in Christ.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zephaniah 3

Woe to Jerusalem and the Nations

1Woe to her who is rebellious and defiled,
The tyrannical city!

      2She heeded no voice,
She accepted no instruction.
She did not trust in the LORD,
She did not draw near to her God.

      3Her princes within her are roaring lions,
Her judges are wolves at evening;
They leave nothing for the morning.

      4Her prophets are reckless, treacherous men;
Her priests have profaned the sanctuary.
They have done violence to the law.

      5The LORD is righteous within her;
He will do no injustice.
Every morning He brings His justice to light;
He does not fail.
But the unjust knows no shame.

      6“I have cut off nations;
Their corner towers are in ruins.
I have made their streets desolate,
With no one passing by;
Their cities are laid waste,
Without a man, without an inhabitant.

      7“I said, ‘Surely you will revere Me,
Accept instruction.’
So her dwelling will not be cut off
According to all that I have appointed concerning her.
But they were eager to corrupt all their deeds.

      8“Therefore wait for Me,” declares the LORD,
“For the day when I rise up as a witness.
Indeed, My decision is to gather nations,
To assemble kingdoms,
To pour out on them My indignation,
All My burning anger;
For all the earth will be devoured
By the fire of My zeal.

      9“For then I will give to the peoples purified lips,
That all of them may call on the name of the LORD,
To serve Him shoulder to shoulder.

      10“From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia
My worshipers, My dispersed ones,
Will bring My offerings.

      11“In that day you will feel no shame
Because of all your deeds
By which you have rebelled against Me;
For then I will remove from your midst
Your proud, exulting ones,
And you will never again be haughty
On My holy mountain.

A Remnant of Israel

12“But I will leave among you
A humble and lowly people,
And they will take refuge in the name of the LORD.

      13“The remnant of Israel will do no wrong
And tell no lies,
Nor will a deceitful tongue
Be found in their mouths;
For they will feed and lie down
With no one to make them tremble.”

      14Shout for joy, O daughter of Zion!
Shout in triumph, O Israel!
Rejoice and exult with all your heart,
O daughter of Jerusalem!

      15The LORD has taken away His judgments against you,
He has cleared away your enemies.
The King of Israel, the LORD, is in your midst;
You will fear disaster no more.

      16In that day it will be said to Jerusalem:
“Do not be afraid, O Zion;
Do not let your hands fall limp.

      17“The LORD your God is in your midst,
A victorious warrior.
He will exult over you with joy,
He will be quiet in His love,
He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.

      18“I will gather those who grieve about the appointed feasts—
They came from you, O Zion;
The reproach of exile is a burden on them.

      19“Behold, I am going to deal at that time
With all your oppressors,
I will save the lame
And gather the outcast,
And I will turn their shame into praise and renown
In all the earth.

      20“At that time I will bring you in,
Even at the time when I gather you together;
Indeed, I will give you renown and praise
Among all the peoples of the earth,
When I restore your fortunes before your eyes,”
Says the LORD.

Reflection on Zephaniah 3:

  • A Corrupt City Ignoring God:
    The chapter begins with a strong rebuke against Jerusalem’s rebellion (Zephaniah 3:1-5). The leaders were corrupt, and the people refused to listen to correction. Yet despite their sin, God remained righteous and faithful. Are there areas in your life where you have ignored God’s correction?

  • The Lord’s Justice and Judgment:
    God reminds His people that He has repeatedly judged nations to warn them, yet they still refuse to fear Him (Zephaniah 3:6-8). His patience is not endless—those who persist in sin will face consequences. Are you taking God’s warnings seriously?

  • A Promise of Restoration:
    Despite judgment, God promises to purify His people and bring them back into a right relationship with Him (Zephaniah 3:9-13). The faithful remnant will live humbly and securely in His presence. Do you trust God’s process of refining you?

  • Rejoice! The Lord Is With You:
    The chapter closes with an incredible promise—God Himself will rejoice over His people with singing (Zephaniah 3:14-17). He will remove their shame, bring restoration, and dwell among them. No matter our past, God desires to bring us into His joy and presence. Are you finding your joy in Him?

Summary Key Points:

  • Ignoring God’s correction leads to destruction: We must listen when He calls us to repentance.
  • God’s judgment is just but not without mercy: He disciplines to bring us back to Him.
  • A faithful remnant will be restored: Those who seek Him will experience His peace and protection.
  • God rejoices over His people: He delights in those who belong to Him.
  • True joy is found in God’s presence: He is our source of strength and restoration.

Application:
Take a moment to reflect on your walk with God. Have you ignored His correction or warnings? Turn back to Him in humility. Rejoice that He desires not only to forgive but to rejoice over you with love. Rest in the joy of His presence, knowing that He is always faithful.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy even in correction. Help me to listen to Your voice and turn from anything that keeps me from You. I rejoice in Your love and faithfulness. Let my heart find its greatest joy in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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

John Golda

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

Humility, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin

Seek the Lord Before It’s Too Late (Zephaniah 2)

If you knew judgment was coming, how would you prepare?

Zephaniah 2 calls God’s people to repentance before His judgment comes upon them. While destruction is declared against the nations that oppose God, a way of escape is given to those who seek Him in humility and righteousness. This chapter reminds us that while God is just in His judgment, He is also merciful to those who turn to Him.

Key Verse:
“Seek the Lord, all you humble of the earth who have practiced His ordinances; seek righteousness, seek humility. Perhaps you will be hidden on the day of the Lord’s anger.” – Zephaniah 2:3 (NASB)

Background Context:
Following the warnings of judgment in Zephaniah 1, this chapter shifts to a call for repentance and a pronouncement of judgment against the surrounding nations. Judah is urged to turn back to God before it’s too late, while the enemies of Israel—Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Cush, and Assyria—are warned that they will be destroyed for their pride and wickedness. This passage shows both the severity of God’s justice and the hope of redemption for those who seek Him.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Zephaniah 2

Judgments on Judah’s Enemies

1Gather yourselves together, yes, gather,
O nation without shame,

      2Before the decree takes effect—
The day passes like the chaff—
Before the burning anger of the LORD comes upon you,
Before the day of the LORD’S anger comes upon you.

      3Seek the LORD,
All you humble of the earth
Who have carried out His ordinances;
Seek righteousness, seek humility.
Perhaps you will be hidden
In the day of the LORD’S anger.

      4For Gaza will be abandoned
And Ashkelon a desolation;
Ashdod will be driven out at noon
And Ekron will be uprooted.

      5Woe to the inhabitants of the seacoast,
The nation of the Cherethites!
The word of the LORD is against you,
O Canaan, land of the Philistines;
And I will destroy you
So that there will be no inhabitant.

      6So the seacoast will be pastures,
With caves for shepherds and folds for flocks.

      7And the coast will be
For the remnant of the house of Judah,
They will pasture on it.
In the houses of Ashkelon they will lie down at evening;
For the LORD their God will care for them
And restore their fortune.

      8“I have heard the taunting of Moab
And the revilings of the sons of Ammon,
With which they have taunted My people
And become arrogant against their territory.

      9“Therefore, as I live,” declares the LORD of hosts,
The God of Israel,
“Surely Moab will be like Sodom
And the sons of Ammon like Gomorrah—
A place possessed by nettles and salt pits,
And a perpetual desolation.
The remnant of My people will plunder them
And the remainder of My nation will inherit them.”

10This they will have in return for their pride, because they have taunted and become arrogant against the people of the LORD of hosts. 11The LORD will be terrifying to them, for He will starve all the gods of the earth; and all the coastlands of the nations will bow down to Him, everyone from his own place.

      12“You also, O Ethiopians, will be slain by My sword.”

      13And He will stretch out His hand against the north
And destroy Assyria,
And He will make Nineveh a desolation,
Parched like the wilderness.

      14Flocks will lie down in her midst,
All beasts which range in herds;
Both the pelican and the hedgehog
Will lodge in the tops of her pillars;
Birds will sing in the window,
Desolation will be on the threshold;
For He has laid bare the cedar work.

      15This is the exultant city
Which dwells securely,
Who says in her heart,
“I am, and there is no one besides me.”
How she has become a desolation,
A resting place for beasts!
Everyone who passes by her will hiss
And wave his hand in contempt.

Reflection on Zephaniah 2:

  • A Call to Repentance:
    The chapter opens with a plea for Judah to gather together in repentance before the Lord’s judgment arrives (Zephaniah 2:1-2). God always gives an opportunity to turn back to Him, but that opportunity will not last forever. Are you actively seeking repentance in your life?

  • Seeking the Lord in Humility:
    Zephaniah 2:3 urges the humble to seek righteousness and humility, promising that they may be hidden in the day of judgment. While judgment is certain for the wicked, God shows mercy to those who turn to Him. Do you approach God with humility, seeking His righteousness?

  • Judgment Against the Nations:
    God’s judgment extends beyond Judah to the nations surrounding them—Philistia, Moab, Ammon, Cush, and Assyria (Zephaniah 2:4-15). These nations were known for their pride, idolatry, and oppression of God’s people. Their downfall serves as a warning that no one is beyond God’s reach. Are you placing your trust in worldly power, or are you relying on God?

  • God Restores the Faithful:
    Though judgment is declared, a remnant will be saved. Those who remain faithful to God will inherit the land and experience His restoration (Zephaniah 2:7, 9). Even in the midst of judgment, God preserves those who belong to Him. Are you living as part of His faithful remnant?

Summary Key Points:

  • Repent before it’s too late: God calls us to turn back to Him while there is still time.
  • Seek righteousness and humility: Those who trust in God and walk in obedience will find refuge.
  • God’s judgment is universal: No nation or person is beyond His justice.
  • Pride leads to destruction: The downfall of the surrounding nations warns us against arrogance and rebellion.
  • God preserves a faithful remnant: Those who remain true to Him will experience His restoration.

Application:
Take time to examine your heart and seek God in humility. Do not wait for trouble to come before turning to Him—seek righteousness now. Live with the assurance that God sees the faithful and will preserve them even in times of judgment.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You in humility, seeking Your righteousness. Help me to turn from anything that separates me from You. Keep me from pride and rebellion, and teach me to trust in You fully. Thank You for Your mercy and faithfulness to those who seek 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.