Category Archives: Righteousness / Serving God

Children, Church / Body of Christ, Leadership, Marriage, Submitted / Servant

Qualities of Servant-Leaders: A Closer Look at 1 Timothy 3

Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a servant-leader in the community of faith?

In the Apostle Paul’s first letter to Timothy, we discover a valuable guide that outlines the qualities and characteristics of those who aspire to serve as overseers and deacons in the early Christian church. This guidance, found in 1 Timothy 3, offers timeless wisdom for all who seek to lead and serve within the body of believers.

Reconnect: Before we delve into 1 Timothy 3, let’s remember the context. Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, a young leader in the early Christian community, to provide guidance on various matters within the church. In this chapter, Paul focuses on the qualifications and expectations for overseers and deacons.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 3

Overseers and Deacons

     1It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

      8Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, 9but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things. 12Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 13For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

      14I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.

16By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness:
He who was revealed in the flesh,
Was vindicated in the Spirit,
Seen by angels,
Proclaimed among the nations,
Believed on in the world,
Taken up in glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. The Role of Overseers: Paul begins by addressing the qualifications for overseers, also known as bishops or pastors. These individuals are called to provide spiritual leadership, guidance, and oversight to the congregation. The qualities Paul highlights include being above reproach, faithful in marriage, temperate, self-controlled, hospitable, and able to teach.
  2. The Role of Deacons: Paul also outlines the qualifications for deacons, who serve alongside overseers in various practical and administrative roles within the church. Deacons are to be dignified, sincere, not given to excessive drinking, and committed to holding the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
  3. Family Life: In addition to personal character, Paul emphasizes the importance of family life in evaluating potential overseers and deacons. He discusses the qualities of being a good husband and father, highlighting that one’s management of their own household is a reflection of their ability to serve in the household of God.
  4. The Church as God’s Household: Throughout this passage, Paul underscores the significance of the church as God’s household. He reminds Timothy that these guidelines are meant to ensure the church functions with integrity, honor, and orderliness.

As we reflect on the qualities of servant-leaders outlined in 1 Timothy 3, we are called to examine our own lives and leadership roles within the community of faith.

Whether we aspire to formal leadership positions or simply seek to be faithful servants, let us strive to embody the qualities of character, integrity, and humility that Paul highlights.

May we continually seek to grow in our walk with Christ, knowing that our leadership, in whatever capacity, is an opportunity to serve and honor God.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts filled with gratitude for the guidance you provide through your Word. We thank you for the wisdom found in 1 Timothy 3, which sets a standard for servant-leaders in your church.

Lord, help us to cultivate the qualities of character and integrity outlined in this passage. Grant us the humility to serve others with love and selflessness. As we seek to lead by example, may your Spirit empower us to live out these qualities in our daily lives.

We also pray for our church leaders, both present and future. May they be equipped with the qualities that honor you and serve your people effectively.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Discussion and Comment:

What aspects of the qualities outlined in 1 Timothy 3 resonate with you as important for servant-leaders?

How can these qualities be applied in various roles within the church and in daily life? Share your thoughts, engage in a discussion with friends or family, and feel free to leave your comments below.

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

John Golda

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

Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Choose Wisdom Over Temptation (Proverbs 1:8-19)

Have you ever been tempted to make choices that you knew were wrong? In Proverbs 1:8-19, we find wisdom that warns us about the dangers of following the wrong path and the allure of temptation.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Proverbs 1:8-19

The Enticement of Sinners

     8Hear, my son, your father’s instruction
And do not forsake your mother’s teaching;

      9Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head
And ornaments about your neck.

      10My son, if sinners entice you,
Do not consent.

      11If they say, “Come with us,
Let us lie in wait for blood,
Let us ambush the innocent without cause;

      12Let us swallow them alive like Sheol,
Even whole, as those who go down to the pit;

      13We will find all kinds of precious wealth,
We will fill our houses with spoil;

      14Throw in your lot with us,
We shall all have one purse,”

      15My son, do not walk in the way with them.
Keep your feet from their path,

      16For their feet run to evil
And they hasten to shed blood.

      17Indeed, it is useless to spread the baited net
In the sight of any bird;

      18But they lie in wait for their own blood;
They ambush their own lives.

      19So are the ways of everyone who gains by violence;
It takes away the life of its possessors.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Listen to Wisdom: The passage begins with an appeal to listen to the wisdom and instruction of our parents and mentors. They guide us in making choices that align with God’s principles.
  2. Resist Temptation: Solomon, the author of Proverbs, vividly describes the temptation presented by sinners who entice others into wrongdoing. These individuals cast a snare and lie in wait to ambush the innocent.
  3. Wrong Choices Lead to Destruction: Solomon emphasizes the consequences of yielding to temptation. Choosing to follow the path of sinners may lead to death and destruction, both physically and spiritually.
  4. The Pursuit of Ill-Gotten Gain: The allure of material gain often drives people to commit sinful acts. Solomon warns against the pursuit of wealth through unjust means, as it can have dire consequences.
  5. The Importance of Separation: To avoid the enticement of sinful influences, it’s crucial to separate from those who lead us astray. Choosing godly companions and mentors helps us stay on the path of righteousness.

As we reflect on the importance of choosing wisdom over temptation, let’s take these actions:

Pray for Discernment: Spend time in prayer, asking God to grant you discernment in all your relationships and decisions. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to help you distinguish between the path of wisdom and the path of temptation.

Evaluate Your Influences: Reflect on your friendships and associations. Are there individuals or situations that entice you toward unwise choices? Pray for strength and courage to distance yourself from any negative influences.

Share Your Thoughts: Engage in the conversation by commenting below. Share your insights, experiences, or questions related to choosing wisdom over temptation. Your contributions can help others on their journey.

Discuss with Friends and Family: Take the discussion beyond this platform. Talk to trusted friends and family members about the significance of this message in your life. Encourage one another to make wise choices.

Pray for One Another: Extend your prayers beyond yourself. Pray for your friends, family, and even those who may be struggling with temptation. Ask God to guide them toward wisdom and righteousness.

Let’s commit to living wisely and seeking God’s guidance as we navigate life’s challenges and choices.

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.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Finding Refuge in the Lord’s Shelter (Psalm 64)

Have you ever felt surrounded by troubles, like enemies are plotting against you?

In Psalm 64, we find David in a similar situation, seeking refuge and protection from his adversaries.

Psalm 64

Prayer for Deliverance from Secret Enemies.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
Preserve my life from dread of the enemy.

      2Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers,
From the tumult of those who do iniquity,

      3Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.
They aimed bitter speech as their arrow,

      4To shoot from concealment at the blameless;
Suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear.

      5They hold fast to themselves an evil purpose;
They talk of laying snares secretly;
They say, “Who can see them?”

      6They devise injustices, saying,
“We are ready with a well-conceived plot”;
For the inward thought and the heart of a man are deep.

      7But God will shoot at them with an arrow;
Suddenly they will be wounded.

      8So they will make him stumble;
Their own tongue is against them;
All who see them will shake the head.

      9Then all men will fear,
And they will declare the work of God,
And will consider what He has done.

      10The righteous man will be glad in the LORD and will take refuge in Him;
And all the upright in heart will glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Crying Out for Protection: In Psalm 64, David begins by crying out to the Lord, asking Him to protect him from his enemies who are plotting against him. He describes their schemes and wicked intentions.
  2. Confidence in God’s Justice: Despite the enemy’s threats, David expresses his confidence in God’s justice. He believes that the Lord will bring judgment upon the wicked and that they will face the consequences of their evil deeds.
  3. Rejoicing in God’s Deliverance: As the psalm progresses, David’s tone shifts from fear to hope. He rejoices in the Lord’s deliverance, trusting that God will intervene on his behalf and vindicate him.
  4. Reflecting on God’s Power: David reflects on God’s power and sovereignty, recognizing that the righteous can find refuge and strength in the Lord even when faced with adversity.

As we read Psalm 64, we can learn to turn to the Lord in times of trouble, just as David did.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own challenges and adversities.

Are there areas in our lives where we need God’s protection and deliverance?

Pray to the Lord, seeking His guidance, protection, and justice.

Share your thoughts and prayers with a trusted friend or family member, and let this psalm remind you of the refuge we find in our faithful God and share your thoughts in the comments.

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.

Depression / Discouragement, Hope, Tribulation

Job Struggles to Find Hope Amid Desolation (Job 17)

Have you ever felt like you were surrounded by darkness and despair, desperately seeking a glimmer of hope?

In Job 17, we step into the shoes of Job as he navigates through the depths of his suffering, yearning for a ray of light in his seemingly endless night.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Job 17

Job Says He Has Become a Byword

1“My spirit is broken, my days are extinguished,
The grave is ready for me.

      2“Surely mockers are with me,
And my eye gazes on their provocation.

      3“Lay down, now, a pledge for me with Yourself;
Who is there that will be my guarantor?

      4“For You have kept their heart from understanding,
Therefore You will not exalt them.

      5“He who informs against friends for a share of the spoil,
The eyes of his children also will languish.

      6“But He has made me a byword of the people,
And I am one at whom men spit.

      7“My eye has also grown dim because of grief,
And all my members are as a shadow.

      8“The upright will be appalled at this,
And the innocent will stir up himself against the godless.

      9“Nevertheless the righteous will hold to his way,
And he who has clean hands will grow stronger and stronger.

      10“But come again all of you now,
For I do not find a wise man among you.

      11“My days are past, my plans are torn apart,
Even the wishes of my heart.

      12“They make night into day, saying,
‘The light is near,’ in the presence of darkness.

      13“If I look for Sheol as my home,
I make my bed in the darkness;

      14If I call to the pit, ‘You are my father’;
To the worm, ‘my mother and my sister’;

      15Where now is my hope?
And who regards my hope?

      16“Will it go down with me to Sheol?
Shall we together go down into the dust?”

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Deep Despair: In Job 17, we witness Job’s profound despair and desolation. He describes the bleakness of his situation, emphasizing the darkness that has enveloped his life.
  2. Job’s Plea for Understanding: Job continues to seek understanding and justice, urging his friends to reconsider their accusations against him. He longs for empathy and support in his time of suffering.
  3. The Absence of Explicit Hope: While Job does not explicitly express hope for a future beyond suffering in this chapter, his unwavering faith and determination to seek answers from God demonstrate his resilience in the face of adversity.

As we reflect on Job’s deep despair and his continued search for understanding and justice, let us remember the importance of empathy and support in the lives of those who are suffering. Sometimes, simply being there for someone, listening to their struggles, and offering comfort can make a world of difference.

Take a moment today to reach out to someone who may be going through a difficult time. It could be a friend, a family member, or a colleague. Let them know that you are there for them, willing to listen without judgment, and ready to offer your support.

Additionally, spend some time in prayer for those who are facing trials and tribulations. Ask the Lord to provide them with the strength to endure and the comfort they need. Let us be the compassionate and understanding friends that Job longed for in his time of suffering.

Consider discussing this passage and the importance of empathy with a trusted friend or family member, and share your thoughts in the comments below. Together, we can learn from Job’s experience and strive to be sources of comfort and compassion for those in need.

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.

Compassion, Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, Fellowship, Help / Serve Others, Seeking God, Tribulation

Job’s Cry for Empathy and Comfort (Job 16)

Have you ever faced overwhelming suffering and longed for empathy, comfort, and compassion from your friends?

In Job 16, we join Job in his deep distress, seeking understanding and solace in the midst of his trials.

Reconnect: In the preceding chapters (Job 14-15), Job and his friends engage in a series of dialogues. Job passionately expresses his longing for empathy, comfort, and compassion, while his friends continue to offer explanations for his suffering based on their limited understanding.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Job 16

Job Says Friends Are Sorry Comforters

      1Then Job answered,

      2“I have heard many such things;
Sorry comforters are you all.

      3“Is there no limit to windy words?
Or what plagues you that you answer?

      4“I too could speak like you,
If I were in your place.
I could compose words against you
And shake my head at you.

      5“I could strengthen you with my mouth,
And the solace of my lips could lessen your pain.

Job Says God Shattered Him

6“If I speak, my pain is not lessened,
And if I hold back, what has left me?

      7“But now He has exhausted me;
You have laid waste all my company.

      8“You have shriveled me up,
It has become a witness;
And my leanness rises up against me,
It testifies to my face.

      9“His anger has torn me and hunted me down,
He has gnashed at me with His teeth;
My adversary glares at me.

      10“They have gaped at me with their mouth,
They have slapped me on the cheek with contempt;
They have massed themselves against me.

      11“God hands me over to ruffians
And tosses me into the hands of the wicked.

      12“I was at ease, but He shattered me,
And He has grasped me by the neck and shaken me to pieces;
He has also set me up as His target.

      13“His arrows surround me.
Without mercy He splits my kidneys open;
He pours out my gall on the ground.

      14“He breaks through me with breach after breach;
He runs at me like a warrior.

      15“I have sewed sackcloth over my skin
And thrust my horn in the dust.

      16“My face is flushed from weeping,
And deep darkness is on my eyelids,

      17Although there is no violence in my hands,
And my prayer is pure.

      18“O earth, do not cover my blood,
And let there be no resting place for my cry.

      19“Even now, behold, my witness is in heaven,
And my advocate is on high.

      20“My friends are my scoffers;
My eye weeps to God.

      21“O that a man might plead with God
As a man with his neighbor!

      22“For when a few years are past,
I shall go the way of no return.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Job’s Suffering Intensifies: By the time we reach Job 16, we find Job’s suffering has intensified. He’s been grappling with the loss of his wealth, health, and family, and he longs for relief. Job’s friends, rather than offering comfort, have added to his pain by assuming he’s suffering because of hidden sins.
  2. Job’s Frustration with His Friends: Job becomes increasingly frustrated with his friends’ accusations and lack of empathy. He feels their words are like empty proverbs and unhelpful comfort, adding to his misery.
  3. Job’s Reliance on God: Despite his suffering and frustration, Job does not give up on God. He continues to look to the Almighty as his witness and advocate, believing that even in his suffering, there is a deeper purpose.

As we reflect on Job’s desperate cry for empathy and comfort from his friends, may we recognize the importance of being compassionate when comforting those who suffer.

Let us seek to be understanding and solace-givers at times rather than just problem-solvers.

In our discussions and reflections, consider how you can provide comfort and compassion to those facing trials.

Engage in conversations with friends or family members, sharing your thoughts on the significance of empathy in times of suffering.

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.

Church / Body of Christ, Learning To Pray Effectively, Modesty, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Prayer, Seeking God, Teachable

Biblical Roles and Unity in Instruction, Prayer, and Worship (1 Timothy 2:8-15)

Have you ever wondered about the roles of men and women in worship and leadership within the church?

In 1 Timothy 2:8-15, we delve into the rich teachings that offer guidance on this topic and emphasize the importance of unity in our worship practices.

1 Timothy 2:8-15

8Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.

Women Instructed

      9Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, 10but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. 11A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. 13For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. 14And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Unified Prayer and Worship: Paul encourages men to lead in prayer, lifting up holy hands without anger or quarreling. This underlines the significance of unified worship in the church, where men play a prominent role in setting an example of devotion and humility during prayer.
  2. Modesty and Good Works: Women are called to adorn themselves with modesty and good works, highlighting the importance of character and godliness over outward appearances. It’s a reminder that our worship should be marked by a humble and reverent heart.
  3. The Role of Women: Paul offers specific guidance on the role of women in gathering for teaching and instruction in the church… guiding  them to learn in quietness and full submission. While this passage has been a topic of debate, it suggests that women should not be in leadership positions over men in the body of Christ when it comes to teaching and instruction, but is not a universal restriction on women’s participation in church activities.
  4. Adam and Eve: A Reminder: The reference to Adam and Eve reminds us of the creation order and the consequences of disobedience. This reinforces the idea that men and women have different roles within the family and the church, emphasizing God’s divine design.

Let’s approach our roles in worship, prayer, and leadership within the church with humility and unity, recognizing the importance of modesty and good works.

Seek to understand the specific context and intent of Paul’s words regarding women’s roles in worship, and embrace the diversity of gifts and talents within the body of believers.

Engage in discussions with trusted friends or family to reflect on these key messages, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

John Golda

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

Church / Body of Christ, Interceding for Others, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Learning To Pray Effectively

Prayer for All: Seeking Guidance and Unity (1 Timothy 2:1-8)

Have you ever wondered about the power of prayer, especially when it comes to praying for our leaders and those in authority?

In 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Paul reminds us of the importance of intercession and the unique role of Yeshua as our mediator.

Let’s explore how our prayers can shape nations and lead people back to God.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

1 Timothy 2:1-8

A Call to Prayer

     1First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. 7For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth.

      8Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Praying for All: These verses emphasize the significance of offering prayers for everyone, including those in positions of authority. Just as we pray for our loved ones, we’re called to pray for leaders, even when we may disagree with them.
  2. Guidance from Above: Prayer is a way to seek divine guidance for our leaders. Regardless of their beliefs or actions, we can petition God to influence their decisions and lead them in His will. It’s a powerful way to impact the direction of a nation or community.
  3. United in Prayer: Paul encourages unity in prayer, highlighting that believers should come together to lift their voices in supplication. This unity strengthens our collective impact and demonstrates our shared faith in Yeshua.
  4. The Role of Mediator: These verses reaffirm that Yeshua is the only mediator between humanity and God. While teachers and preachers play important roles in our faith, they aren’t required intermediaries between us and our Creator.

Pray for Guidance: Reflect on the power of prayer in influencing the hearts and decisions of leaders. Take time to pray for your local, regional, national, and global leaders, asking that they may be guided by the Spirit and honor God.

Embrace Unity:

Engage in discussions with friends and family about the importance of united prayer for leaders and nations.

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below to inspire others to join in prayerful intercession.

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

John Golda

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

Hope, Kindness / Gentleness, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Traditions / Holidays

Unity in God’s Image: Reflecting on Martin Luther King Jr.

As we pause to reflect on the life and contributions of Martin Luther King Jr. as a nation, let us also turn our attention to the guiding light of God’s word in the Bible. In today’s world, where the color of our skin often takes center stage, it’s crucial to revisit the fundamental truths of unity and equality that God’s word imparts.

1. One Human Race in God’s Image

In the face of a society that sometimes overemphasizes our differences based on skin color, the Bible presents a different perspective. It reminds us that there is only one race of humans—no distinctions based on color. We are all equal and share the divine image of God. Skin color is just one facet of the rich tapestry of God’s creation, like hair color, height, or eye color.

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness… God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:26-27)

2. All One in Christ Jesus

The apostle Paul underscores our unity in Christ Jesus. In God’s eyes, there is no division based on ethnicity, social status, or gender. Instead, our faith in Christ unites us, making us heirs to God’s promises.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.” (Galatians 3:28-29)

3. The Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy is a testament to the pursuit of equality and unity. In his iconic 1963 speech in Washington, D.C., he invoked the principles of America’s founding documents and the teachings of Christ to champion a vision of unity, not division.

4. Progress and Peaceful Resolution

As a nation, we have made significant progress in the decades since Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech. However, today’s challenges require careful consideration. Rather than emphasizing division and conflict, we should focus on peaceful solutions that unite our great nation. Our aim should not be to create enemies but to draw closer to God, which, in turn, will bring us closer to each other, regardless of our skin color.

5. Embracing the American Dream

Martin Luther King Jr. was a firm believer in the American dream. He did not see America as a place to be torn down and rebuilt but as a nation with the potential for greatness. He inspired hope and encouraged us to envision a future where individuals are not judged by the color of their skin but by their character.

6. A Vision of Unity and Brotherhood

In his “I Have a Dream” speech, King envisioned a world where valleys are exalted, mountains made low, rough places made plain, and crooked places straight. He foresaw a day when all of God’s children would unite in brotherhood.

A Prayer for Unity

As we remember Martin Luther King Jr. and his message of unity, let us pray for our nation. May we come together as one nation under God, embracing the beautiful diversity He has created among us. Let us reject divisions based on physical differences, recognizing that we are all one, made in God’s image. In our quest for unity, may we seek God’s perspective and view one another as He does—equal, beloved, and deserving of love and respect, regardless of the color of our skin. 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.

Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Seeking Wisdom: Unlocking Life’s Guidance (Proverbs 1:1-7)

Have you ever yearned for guidance and understanding in life?

Imagine having access to a treasure trove of wisdom, like valuable advice from someone who’s been there and done that. Proverbs 1:1-7 reveals the path to this wisdom, and it’s not too different from seeking knowledge in school.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Proverbs 1:1-7

The Usefulness of Proverbs

     1The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

      2To know wisdom and instruction,
To discern the sayings of understanding,

      3To receive instruction in wise behavior,
Righteousness, justice and equity;

      4To give prudence to the naive,
To the youth knowledge and discretion,

      5A wise man will hear and increase in learning,
And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,

      6To understand a proverb and a figure,
The words of the wise and their riddles.

      7The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
Fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A Wealth of Wisdom: Proverbs is a collection of teachings and sayings that offer priceless insights and guidance. Just as we strive for knowledge to succeed academically, pursuing godly wisdom can help us navigate life more effectively.
  2. The Gift of Understanding: These verses emphasize that the teachings found in Proverbs can provide us with a deep understanding and insight into life’s complexities. It’s akin to gaining wisdom from those who have walked the path before us.
  3. Honoring Our Guides: Proverbs highlights the importance of heeding the counsel of our parents and mentors. Much like respecting the wisdom of a trusted elder, we should be open to learning from those with more experience.
  4. The Fear of the Lord: The passage underscores that the foundation of wisdom is the fear of the Lord. This doesn’t imply being frightened but rather having a profound reverence and respect for God, similar to how we honor those in authority.

Apply Wisdom: Take a moment to reflect on the value of godly wisdom in your life. How can the teachings from Proverbs guide you in making better decisions and living in a way that pleases God? Consider how seeking wisdom can enrich your journey.

Discuss and Share: Engage in meaningful conversations with friends and family about the significance of godly wisdom and understanding in life.

Share your thoughts in the comments below and encourage others to join the discussion.

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.

Depression / Discouragement, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

Seeking Comfort in the Wilderness (Psalm 63)

Have you ever been through tough times and wished you had something to make you feel better?

Imagine feeling really thirsty in the middle of a hot desert and wanting a drink more than anything.

That’s how the writer of Psalm 63 felt, but he wasn’t looking for water; he was searching for something deeper—God’s presence.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture.)

Psalm 63

The Thirsting Soul Satisfied in God.

A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah.

     1O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly;
My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You,
In a dry and weary land where there is no water.

      2Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.

      3Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips will praise You.

      4So I will bless You as long as I live;
I will lift up my hands in Your name.

      5My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness,
And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips.

      6When I remember You on my bed,
I meditate on You in the night watches,

      7For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy.

      8My soul clings to You;
Your right hand upholds me.

      9But those who seek my life to destroy it,
Will go into the depths of the earth.

      10They will be delivered over to the power of the sword;
They will be a prey for foxes.

      11But the king will rejoice in God;
Everyone who swears by Him will glory,
For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. David’s Deep Longing for God: David strongly desired to be near God, similar to how we might deeply long for something important, such as finding true love or achieving our life’s purpose. This illustrates how essential God was in his life.
  2. The Desert as a Symbol: Imagine life being like a dry, empty desert, where you don’t have what you need. David used the desert as a way to explain how life can sometimes be really tough and challenging. He believed that God could help him, even in the hardest times.
  3. Looking for God’s Comfort: David made it a point to find God, even when he was in a tough spot. This teaches us that when things get rough, we should turn to God, just like talking to a good friend when you need help.
  4. Finding What Truly Matters: David realized that wanting God in his life was more important than all the other things people usually want, like fancy stuff or being famous. He learned that God could make him feel full and satisfied inside, even when things weren’t going well.

Think about times when you felt down or troubled. Reflect on how you handled that experience. Next time, try spending some quiet moments with God, either by praying, thinking about good things, or singing songs.

Share your experiences with your friends or family, and encourage them to do the same when they face tough times. Comment to share your experiences with others as well.

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.