Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Hope, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Ruins – A Finale to Reflect On (Jeremiah 52)

As we journey through the book of Jeremiah, the grand narrative culminates in Chapter 52, providing a powerful reflection on the consequences of disobedience to God and the enduring hope for restoration.

Let’s explore this concluding chapter, extracting profound lessons that resonate with us today.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Devastation of Jerusalem: Jeremiah 52 recounts the tragic fall of Jerusalem, highlighting the consequences of rebellion against God. The destruction serves as a stark reminder of the importance of heeding divine warnings and living in alignment with God’s will.
  2. The Captivity and Exile: The chapter chronicles the captivity of King Jehoiachin and the people of Judah, emphasizing the sobering reality of exile as a consequence of disobedience. It prompts us to reflect on the impact of our choices on our spiritual journey.
  3. The Hope of Restoration: Amidst the ruins, there is a glimmer of hope. The release of King Jehoiachin from prison signifies the potential for restoration and redemption. Even in the darkest moments, God’s mercy and the possibility of renewal shine through.
  4. Reflection on the Temple’s Destruction: Jeremiah 52 revisits the detailed account of the destruction of the Temple, a symbol of God’s presence. This reflection prompts us to consider the sacredness of our spiritual spaces and the need for vigilance in preserving our relationship with God.

As we conclude our exploration of Jeremiah in Chapter 52 (full text below), let’s reflect on the profound lessons embedded in the ruins of Jerusalem.

How can we learn from the mistakes of the past and ensure that our choices align with God’s will?

Share your insights and thoughts on the themes of restoration, redemption, and the sacredness of our spiritual journey in the comments.

Together, let’s draw inspiration from Jeremiah 52 to navigate the complexities of our lives and embrace the hope for renewal in the midst of challenges.

Jeremiah 52

The Fall of Jerusalem

      1Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned eleven years in Jerusalem; and his mother’s name was Hamutal the daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah. 2He did evil in the sight of the LORD like all that Jehoiakim had done. 3For through the anger of the LORD this came about in Jerusalem and Judah until He cast them out from His presence. And Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon. 4Now it came about in the ninth year of his reign, on the tenth day of the tenth month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he and all his army, against Jerusalem, camped against it and built a siege wall all around it. 5So the city was under siege until the eleventh year of King Zedekiah. 6On the ninth day of the fourth month the famine was so severe in the city that there was no food for the people of the land. 7Then the city was broken into, and all the men of war fled and went forth from the city at night by way of the gate between the two walls which was by the king’s garden, though the Chaldeans were all around the city. And they went by way of the Arabah. 8But the army of the Chaldeans pursued the king and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho, and all his army was scattered from him. 9Then they captured the king and brought him up to the king of Babylon at Riblah in the land of Hamath, and he passed sentence on him. 10The king of Babylon slaughtered the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and he also slaughtered all the princes of Judah in Riblah. 11Then he blinded the eyes of Zedekiah; and the king of Babylon bound him with bronze fetters and brought him to Babylon and put him in prison until the day of his death.

      12Now on the tenth day of the fifth month, which was the nineteenth year of King Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, Nebuzaradan the captain of the bodyguard, who was in the service of the king of Babylon, came to Jerusalem. 13He burned the house of the LORD, the king’s house and all the houses of Jerusalem; even every large house he burned with fire. 14So all the army of the Chaldeans who were with the captain of the guard broke down all the walls around Jerusalem. 15Then Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried away into exile some of the poorest of the people, the rest of the people who were left in the city, the deserters who had deserted to the king of Babylon and the rest of the artisans. 16But Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard left some of the poorest of the land to be vinedressers and plowmen.

      17Now the bronze pillars which belonged to the house of the LORD and the stands and the bronze sea, which were in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans broke in pieces and carried all their bronze to Babylon. 18They also took away the pots, the shovels, the snuffers, the basins, the pans and all the bronze vessels which were used in temple service. 19The captain of the guard also took away the bowls, the firepans, the basins, the pots, the lampstands, the pans and the drink offering bowls, what was fine gold and what was fine silver. 20The two pillars, the one sea, and the twelve bronze bulls that were under the sea, and the stands, which King Solomon had made for the house of the LORD—the bronze of all these vessels was beyond weight. 21As for the pillars, the height of each pillar was eighteen cubits, and it was twelve cubits in circumference and four fingers in thickness, and hollow. 22Now a capital of bronze was on it; and the height of each capital was five cubits, with network and pomegranates upon the capital all around, all of bronze. And the second pillar was like these, including pomegranates. 23There were ninety-six exposed pomegranates; all the pomegranates numbered a hundred on the network all around.

      24Then the captain of the guard took Seraiah the chief priest and Zephaniah the second priest, with the three officers of the temple. 25He also took from the city one official who was overseer of the men of war, and seven of the king’s advisers who were found in the city, and the scribe of the commander of the army who mustered the people of the land, and sixty men of the people of the land who were found in the midst of the city. 26Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard took them and brought them to the king of Babylon at Riblah. 27Then the king of Babylon struck them down and put them to death at Riblah in the land of Hamath. So Judah was led away into exile from its land.

      28These are the people whom Nebuchadnezzar carried away into exile: in the seventh year 3,023 Jews; 29in the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar 832 persons from Jerusalem; 30in the twenty-third year of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carried into exile 745 Jewish people; there were 4,600 persons in all.

      31Now it came about in the thirty-seventh year of the exile of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the twenty-fifth of the month, that Evil-merodach king of Babylon, in the first year of his reign, showed favor to Jehoiachin king of Judah and brought him out of prison. 32Then he spoke kindly to him and set his throne above the thrones of the kings who were with him in Babylon. 33So Jehoiachin changed his prison clothes, and had his meals in the king’s presence regularly all the days of his life. 34For his allowance, a regular allowance was given him by the king of Babylon, a daily portion all the days of his life until the day of his death.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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

Provider, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Give Thanks to the LORD for He Is Good (Thanksgiving Table Devotional)

We should always seek to be thankful to the Lord for all He provides, but Thanksgiving is a great time to remind ourselves to come together as a family and as a community, and as a nation to give thanks together to our Lord,  YHWH. For those who follow Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus), we always have that most important gift of salvation through grace by faith for which to be thankful… no matter what else may be going on in our lives.

I have found it is very easy to lose focus on the Lord as we get busy with our holiday traditions and celebrations… even Thanksgiving. It seems the Lord dropped a surprise in my shopping bag on trip to the store several years ago.  I want to share it with you. Lifeway Christian store put together a small booklet of scriptures into a “Thanksgiving Table Devotional”. We have it at our table and we read and share as we come together to eat our meals.

Psalm 106:1

1Praise the LORD!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

18in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:17

17Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Philippians 4:6

6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Psalm 9:1-2

1I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart;
I will tell of all Your wonders.

      2I will be glad and exult in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

As we read these scriptures together we take time to go around the table and ask about examples of things that are specific to us for which we are grateful to our Father who provides. This is not particularly unique, but it sure is easy to overlook. I appreciate the Lord putting these scriptures where I would find them as I was looking for ways to make Thanksgiving more meaningful and focused on Him for my family. Praise the Lord He cares for each of us as His children!

What will you make the focus of this Thanksgiving season? Football, shopping, food, fellowship… or our Creator and Father and the right attitude towards Him? My suggestion is to focus on our Father with a healthy side of family fellowship.

Take some time to pray right now and give Him thanks in your own words. Ask Him to help you have wisdom on how to approach your family traditions such as those around Thanksgiving.

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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.

Just, Kindness / Gentleness

Embracing Justice and Equality in Our Relationships (Colossians 4:1)

In a world where power dynamics are prevalent, whether it’s in our workplaces, homes, or communities, the message of Colossians 4:1 rings loud and clear. This powerful verse reminds us that no matter our position or authority, we are all called to treat one another with justice and fairness. Let’s pause and reflect on the wisdom of this scripture and understand how it can transform our relationships and the world around us.

Colossians 4:1

Fellow Workers

1Masters, render unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Call to Just Treatment: Colossians 4:1 urges those in positions of power to render to their subordinates what is just and equal. It serves as a reminder that earthly positions should never be an excuse for treating others unjustly.
  2. The Universal Master: The verse highlights the belief that we all have a Master in heaven, emphasizing our shared humanity and the importance of living in harmony and righteousness.
  3. Rejoicing in Justice: As we reflect on the just treatment we hope for from our Heavenly Master, it becomes evident that we, too, should extend the same hope and fairness to others.

Colossians 4:1 challenges us to be mindful of our actions and interactions with others, especially in situations where we hold positions of power or authority. Let’s commit to treating all individuals justly, regardless of their status or role.

Remember that we all have a Master in heaven who expects us to live by the values of justice and equality. Rejoice in the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of those around you by showing fairness and respect.

Share your thoughts on how you plan to embrace the wisdom of Colossians 4:1 in your daily life and relationships.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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

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

A Grateful Heart, A Journey of Thanksgiving (Colossians 1:1-12)

As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, let’s embark on a journey through the uplifting words of Colossians 1:1-12. In this passage, the apostle Paul expresses gratitude and offers a prayer that resonates with the spirit of thanksgiving. Join us as we explore the profound theme of thankfulness that intertwines seamlessly with the upcoming holiday.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Introduction and Thanksgiving: Paul begins his letter to the Colossians with greetings and expressions of thanksgiving. His gratitude is not just a formality but a heartfelt acknowledgment of the faith and love demonstrated by the Colossian believers.
  2. Prayer for Spiritual Growth: Paul’s prayer in these verses is not only a thanksgiving but also a heartfelt plea for the Colossians’ spiritual growth. He desires that they may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, and bear fruit in every good work.
  3. Qualities of a Thankful Heart: The passage outlines qualities such as endurance, patience, and joy with thanksgiving, emphasizing the connection between gratitude and a resilient, joyful spirit in the face of challenges.
  4. Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season: As we read Paul’s words, we can draw parallels between his expressions of thanksgiving and the spirit of gratitude we cultivate during the Thanksgiving holiday. The emphasis on faith, love, and hope mirrors the values celebrated during this special time.

Colossians 1:1-12

Thankfulness for Spiritual Attainments

     1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

      2To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.

      3We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; 5because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel 6which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth; 7just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, 8and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.

      9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

As Thanksgiving approaches, let’s reflect on the spirit of gratitude that permeates Colossians 1:1-12.

How can we incorporate Paul’s expressions of thankfulness into our own lives and celebrations?

Share your thoughts on the qualities of a thankful heart and how they align with the values of the upcoming holiday.

As we give thanks for the blessings around us, let’s also take a moment to uplift one another in prayer, just as Paul did for the Colossians.

Join the conversation in the comments.

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

John

 

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.

 

Money / Finances / Wealth, Purposeful / Intentional, Wise

Navigating the Futility of Life with Wisdom (Ecclesiastes 6)

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture when reading Ecclesiastes one chapter at a time. The book, often attributed to the wise King Solomon reflecting on the meaning of life, culminates in a profound conclusion in Chapter 12.

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

 13The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. 14For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.

Today, let’s zoom in on Chapter 6, where Solomon dives into the complexities of life’s futility and the importance of finding lasting significance through a relationship with our Creator.

Ecclesiastes 6

The Futility of Life

     1There is an evil which I have seen under the sun and it is prevalent among men— 2a man to whom God has given riches and wealth and honor so that his soul lacks nothing of all that he desires; yet God has not empowered him to eat from them, for a foreigner enjoys them. This is vanity and a severe affliction. 3If a man fathers a hundred children and lives many years, however many they be, but his soul is not satisfied with good things and he does not even have a proper burial, then I say, “Better the miscarriage than he, 4for it comes in futility and goes into obscurity; and its name is covered in obscurity. 5“It never sees the sun and it never knows anything; it is better off than he. 6“Even if the other man lives a thousand years twice and does not enjoy good things—do not all go to one place?”

      7All a man’s labor is for his mouth and yet the appetite is not satisfied. 8For what advantage does the wise man have over the fool? What advantage does the poor man have, knowing how to walk before the living? 9What the eyes see is better than what the soul desires. This too is futility and a striving after wind.

      10Whatever exists has already been named, and it is known what man is; for he cannot dispute with him who is stronger than he is. 11For there are many words which increase futility. What then is the advantage to a man? 12For who knows what is good for a man during his lifetime, during the few years of his futile life? He will spend them like a shadow. For who can tell a man what will be after him under the sun?

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Riches and Wealth as Vanity: Solomon observes the irony of a man blessed with riches, wealth, and honor, yet unable to enjoy them. The futility is highlighted as a foreigner ends up enjoying the fruits of labor, leaving the rich man unfulfilled.
  2. The Limits of Material Success: Solomon challenges the notion that material success guarantees satisfaction. Even if one fathers many children and lives a long life, true contentment is elusive without a proper understanding of life’s purpose.
  3. Labor and Appetite: The chapter reflects on the universal pursuit of sustenance through labor, highlighting the insatiable appetite that often leaves individuals dissatisfied, regardless of their wisdom or social standing.
  4. The Inescapable Futility: Solomon grapples with the inevitability of life’s futility, questioning the advantage of wisdom and pondering the unknowable future. The fleeting nature of life is likened to a shadow, emphasizing the challenges of understanding what is truly good during our limited time on earth.

As we navigate the complexities of Ecclesiastes 6, let’s ponder the deeper message within the verses. How does Solomon’s reflection resonate with your own experiences?

Share your thoughts on the pursuit of meaning and significance in life.

In the context of Chapter 12’s ultimate conclusion—’fear God and keep His commandments’—consider how understanding our Creator’s purpose can bring clarity and fulfillment to our lives.

Join the discussion by commenting below, and let’s explore the timeless wisdom embedded in the book of Ecclesiastes together.

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

Depression / Discouragement, Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms

Finding Refuge in the Midst of Chaos (Psalm 55)

Dive into the soul-stirring verses of Psalm 55, where the psalmist pours out heartfelt prayers in times of distress. Join us as we navigate through the powerful emotions encapsulated in this ancient hymn, discovering timeless truths that offer solace and guidance in the midst of life’s tumultuous moments.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Pouring Out the Heart in Prayer: Psalm 55 exemplifies the raw honesty of pouring out one’s heart to God, even in the midst of chaos and betrayal. The psalmist’s candid expression becomes a model for us to bring our deepest concerns before the Creator.
  2. Seeking Refuge in God: Amidst the turmoil, the psalmist finds solace in God as a refuge and source of strength. This timeless truth encourages us to turn to God as our sanctuary, especially when faced with life’s uncertainties.
  3. The Reality of Betrayal: The psalmist addresses the pain of betrayal, a universal human experience. In exploring these emotions, Psalm 55 provides a source of comfort and understanding for those grappling with the complexities of relationships.
  4. Trusting God’s Guidance: Ultimately, the psalmist places trust in God’s guidance, illustrating a profound reliance on divine wisdom and an acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty in navigating life’s challenges.

Psalm 55

Prayer for the Destruction of the Treacherous.

     1Give ear to my prayer, O God;
And do not hide Yourself from my supplication.

      2Give heed to me and answer me;
I am restless in my complaint and am surely distracted,

      3Because of the voice of the enemy,
Because of the pressure of the wicked;
For they bring down trouble upon me
And in anger they bear a grudge against me.

      4My heart is in anguish within me,
And the terrors of death have fallen upon me.

      5Fear and trembling come upon me,
And horror has overwhelmed me.

      6I said, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove!
I would fly away and be at rest.

      7“Behold, I would wander far away,
I would lodge in the wilderness.

Selah.

      8“I would hasten to my place of refuge
From the stormy wind and tempest.”

      9Confuse, O Lord, divide their tongues,
For I have seen violence and strife in the city.

      10Day and night they go around her upon her walls,
And iniquity and mischief are in her midst.

      11Destruction is in her midst;
Oppression and deceit do not depart from her streets.

      12For it is not an enemy who reproaches me,
Then I could bear it;
Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me,
Then I could hide myself from him.

      13But it is you, a man my equal,
My companion and my familiar friend;

      14We who had sweet fellowship together
Walked in the house of God in the throng.

      15Let death come deceitfully upon them;
Let them go down alive to Sheol,
For evil is in their dwelling, in their midst.

      16As for me, I shall call upon God,
And the LORD will save me.

      17Evening and morning and at noon, I will complain and murmur,
And He will hear my voice.

      18He will redeem my soul in peace from the battle which is against me,
For they are many who strive with me.

      19God will hear and answer them—
Even the one who sits enthroned from of old—

Selah.

With whom there is no change,
And who do not fear God.

      20He has put forth his hands against those who were at peace with him;
He has violated his covenant.

      21His speech was smoother than butter,
But his heart was war;
His words were softer than oil,
Yet they were drawn swords.

      22Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you;
He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

      23But You, O God, will bring them down to the pit of destruction;
Men of bloodshed and deceit will not live out half their days.
But I will trust in You.

As we reflect on the poignant verses of Psalm 55, consider the ways you can bring your own struggles and emotions before the Lord.

How can you find refuge in God amidst life’s chaos?

Share your thoughts and experiences, allowing us to build a community of support and encouragement.

Let Psalm 55 guide us in cultivating a deeper connection with our Creator, finding solace, and trusting in God’s unfailing guidance in the midst of life’s storms.”

Shalom.

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

John Golda

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

Discerning / Judging, Government, Purposeful / Intentional

Faithful Voting: Shaping Our Nation and Protecting God’s Way of Life

As the looming elections draw near, the power to shape the future of our localities, states, and nation lies in our hands. From city council members to senators, each elected official holds sway over the policies that govern our lives.

Yet, amidst this critical moment, many Christians remain disengaged. In this pivotal discourse, we delve into the moral complexities of voting, exploring how our choices impact not only our communities but the very fabric of our Christian values.

Join us on this journey of conscience, discernment, and prayer, as we navigate the intricate intersection of politics and faith.

People will be elected to positions of influence at local, state, and national levels. Whether it is a local city council member, a board of education member, or a senator or congressman headed for Washington D.C., they all have influence over the policies that govern our nation or locality. There will be local or state amendments on many ballots that affect policies that will govern how we live.  In many cases, there is a constant incremental struggle for personal freedom vs. an ever-growing government making decisions for us at local, state, or national levels.

Many Christians seem to be disengaged at times. They see the sin rampant in society and often in candidates as well. They choose not to vote. If we, as followers of Christ, do not vote… then others who reject Him will. No matter how imperfect the candidates are, we should do our homework to understand the candidates… not just what they say (many lie) but also what their previous actions reflect. We should pray.

We must also test the values and principles they support against scripture. We must not choose someone because of the superficial diversity of their skin color or biological sex. Choose based on their values. Personal integrity matters, but so does policy, and policy will have significant implications. If someone has high personal integrity but promises to support abortion and other ungodly agendas, I do not want to vote for that person, regardless of whether or not they profess to be a Christian. I would rather vote for someone else that may be less likable but has a history of supporting policies that line up with supporting God’s word, even if that candidate is not a follower of Christ.

As an example, I have seen Christians turn against a man who had sinned (adultery) and repented (genuinely) years ago but stood for the sanctity of life (against abortion). They instead turned to a man who has not committed adultery but openly pronounced that he avidly supports abortion and promoted the homosexual agenda (encouraging them to embrace this lifestyle even at the expense of the rights of Christians rather than encouraging them to get help and repent). Which is the better candidate? Which is more consistent with God’s word? I will give you a hint… as Christians, we believe in repentance and forgiveness of sin. However what is really tough for some is that even if the first man had not repented, the policies stated by the two candidates should send a clear message anyway. You know you don’t want the policies of the man promoting abortion and other godlessness. Even if he is honest, he stands against God! At least you can hope the other man will vote for policies that support God’s word based on the voter support to which he is appealing, even if you don’t believe him to be submitted to Jesus.

Another man in a different senate race was accused of dating women too much younger than him 40 years ago (with little evidence) but had demonstrated 40 years of honorable living and openly professed his faith in God. His opponent openly supported abortion, the killing of millions of babies. How is this even a tough choice for a Christian? But it went the wrong way and another ungodly person was sent to direct the policy of our national government.

Sometimes the decisions seem tougher. A Mormon ran for president a while back, against a man who claimed to be Christian. However, the policies and beliefs that the false Christian supported were inconsistent with God’s word. The Mormon supported policies more consistent with our Christian values. Many did not vote for him because he was a Mormon. Meanwhile, they voted for someone who was not a Christian either, but he claimed to be. Many bad policies have damaged our country since and continued to normalize ungodly behavior in our nation.

In another prominent example, we have a man who has done much to support individual liberty and try to minimize government overreach to control our lives and stop us from living according to our beliefs. However, this man is perceived as rude at times and some people don’t “like” his personality. Which is better… a rude man who defends our individual liberty and free worship of Christ or someone who is “likable” and pays lip service to Christianity but stands against much of what God’s word commands? We are not electing our pastors in these elections, but rather our leaders who will set policy and influence our freedom as individuals and followers of Yeshua.

Staying home is not the right answer. If we stay home, it just means someone else will vote, someone who may be voting for an agenda to overturn Christian values and embrace godlessness. We must not hold out for a perfect candidate. They do not exist. Look for the one who will protect our freedom to worship and live the way our Creator intends. Look for the one who will say no to a blatantly sinful agenda of normalizing abortion, homosexuality, transgender, etc. In most cases today, they don’t even pretend to hide their ungodly agenda.

Please consider the following:

Do not think of your vote for a candidate as a letter proclaiming your love and complete agreement with a candidate. Rather, your vote is to be considered a chess move based on the relative policies of the competing candidates to help position our nation to be the type of place in which we want to live.

I encourage you to know your candidates, pray for your locality and our nation, and pray for guidance on how to vote and be active. Not only vote, but engage people ahead of the election to influence them also. Let us take back our country for righteousness and cast aside wickedness and depravity which are all to often being normalized.

Shalom.

Devotion by John in service to Christ

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, please open the eyes of Your followers everywhere to see clearly in regards to the way we should vote in elections to influence the culture and direction of our localities, states, and our nation. Help raise up the righteous and knock down the plans of the wicked. Lead Your people in voting based on policy centered around Your instructions and the personal freedom for us to worship You and live our lives for You without government control getting in the way. Amen. 

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

All Powerful / King of All, Arrogance, Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Ruin of Babylon for Modern Times (Jeremiah 51)

In the pages of Jeremiah 51, we uncover a fascinating tale of an ancient empire’s rise and fall. But it’s not just a history lesson; it’s a timeless message that speaks to our world today. Discover the surprising relevance of this ancient prophecy for our lives.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. The Pride and Hubris of Empires: Just as Babylon’s pride led to its downfall, nations and individuals today are reminded of the danger of arrogance and tyranny.
  2. The Role of Divine Justice: Jeremiah 51 illustrates the role of divine justice in the course of history, emphasizing the need for righteousness, obedience, and compassion in our actions.
  3. The Power of Faith: In the midst of upheaval and uncertainty, Jeremiah’s message also highlights the power of faith in God to guide us through turbulent times.
  4. The Call for Transformation: The lessons from Babylon’s fall challenge us to examine our own lives and societies, striving for positive change and a commitment to God’s values.

Jeremiah 51 beckons us to look beyond the historical narrative and reflect on the values and principles that still resonate today. As we explore the rise and fall of Babylon, let’s examine our own lives and the world we live in. How can we seek justice, humility, obedience to God, and righteousness in our actions? How can we avoid the pitfalls of pride and arrogance?

Let’s draw inspiration from this ancient text and make a commitment to live by these timeless values. Share your thoughts and be part of the ongoing conversation about the relevance of Jeremiah 51 in our lives today!

Jeremiah 51

Babylon Judged for Sins against Israel

      1Thus says the LORD:
“Behold, I am going to arouse against Babylon
And against the inhabitants of Leb-kamai
The spirit of a destroyer.

      2“I will dispatch foreigners to Babylon that they may winnow her
And may devastate her land;
For on every side they will be opposed to her
In the day of her calamity.

      3“Let not him who bends his bow bend it,
Nor let him rise up in his scale-armor;
So do not spare her young men;
Devote all her army to destruction.

      4“They will fall down slain in the land of the Chaldeans,
And pierced through in their streets.”

      5For neither Israel nor Judah has been forsaken
By his God, the LORD of hosts,
Although their land is full of guilt
Before the Holy One of Israel.

      6Flee from the midst of Babylon,
And each of you save his life!
Do not be destroyed in her punishment,
For this is the LORD’S time of vengeance;
He is going to render recompense to her.

      7Babylon has been a golden cup in the hand of the LORD,
Intoxicating all the earth.
The nations have drunk of her wine;
Therefore the nations are going mad.

      8Suddenly Babylon has fallen and been broken;
Wail over her!
Bring balm for her pain;
Perhaps she may be healed.

      9We applied healing to Babylon, but she was not healed;
Forsake her and let us each go to his own country,
For her judgment has reached to heaven
And towers up to the very skies.

      10The LORD has brought about our vindication;
Come and let us recount in Zion
The work of the LORD our God!

      11Sharpen the arrows, fill the quivers!
The LORD has aroused the spirit of the kings of the Medes,
Because His purpose is against Babylon to destroy it;
For it is the vengeance of the LORD, vengeance for His temple.

      12Lift up a signal against the walls of Babylon;
Post a strong guard,
Station sentries,
Place men in ambush!
For the LORD has both purposed and performed
What He spoke concerning the inhabitants of Babylon.

      13O you who dwell by many waters,
Abundant in treasures,
Your end has come,
The measure of your end.

      14The LORD of hosts has sworn by Himself:
“Surely I will fill you with a population like locusts,
And they will cry out with shouts of victory over you.”

      15It is He who made the earth by His power,
Who established the world by His wisdom,
And by His understanding He stretched out the heavens.

      16When He utters His voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,
And He causes the clouds to ascend from the end of the earth;
He makes lightning for the rain
And brings forth the wind from His storehouses.

      17All mankind is stupid, devoid of knowledge;
Every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols,
For his molten images are deceitful,
And there is no breath in them.

      18They are worthless, a work of mockery;
In the time of their punishment they will perish.

      19The portion of Jacob is not like these;
For the Maker of all is He,
And of the tribe of His inheritance;
The LORD of hosts is His name.

      20He says, “You are My war-club, My weapon of war;
And with you I shatter nations,
And with you I destroy kingdoms.

      21“With you I shatter the horse and his rider,
And with you I shatter the chariot and its rider,

      22And with you I shatter man and woman,
And with you I shatter old man and youth,
And with you I shatter young man and virgin,

      23And with you I shatter the shepherd and his flock,
And with you I shatter the farmer and his team,
And with you I shatter governors and prefects.

      24“But I will repay Babylon and all the inhabitants of Chaldea for all their evil that they have done in Zion before your eyes,” declares the LORD.

      25“Behold, I am against you, O destroying mountain,
Who destroys the whole earth,” declares the LORD,
“And I will stretch out My hand against you,
And roll you down from the crags,
And I will make you a burnt out mountain.

      26“They will not take from you even a stone for a corner
Nor a stone for foundations,
But you will be desolate forever,” declares the LORD.

      27Lift up a signal in the land,
Blow a trumpet among the nations!
Consecrate the nations against her,
Summon against her the kingdoms of Ararat, Minni and Ashkenaz;
Appoint a marshal against her,
Bring up the horses like bristly locusts.

      28Consecrate the nations against her,
The kings of the Medes,
Their governors and all their prefects,
And every land of their dominion.

      29So the land quakes and writhes,
For the purposes of the LORD against Babylon stand,
To make the land of Babylon
A desolation without inhabitants.

      30The mighty men of Babylon have ceased fighting,
They stay in the strongholds;
Their strength is exhausted,
They are becoming like women;
Their dwelling places are set on fire,
The bars of her gates are broken.

      31One courier runs to meet another,
And one messenger to meet another,
To tell the king of Babylon
That his city has been captured from end to end;

      32The fords also have been seized,
And they have burned the marshes with fire,
And the men of war are terrified.

      33For thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel:
“The daughter of Babylon is like a threshing floor
At the time it is stamped firm;
Yet in a little while the time of harvest will come for her.”

      34“Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon has devoured me and crushed me,
He has set me down like an empty vessel;
He has swallowed me like a monster,
He has filled his stomach with my delicacies;
He has washed me away.

      35“May the violence done to me and to my flesh be upon Babylon,”
The inhabitant of Zion will say;
And, “May my blood be upon the inhabitants of Chaldea,”
Jerusalem will say.

36Therefore thus says the LORD,
“Behold, I am going to plead your case
And exact full vengeance for you;
And I will dry up her sea
And make her fountain dry.

      37“Babylon will become a heap of ruins, a haunt of jackals,
An object of horror and hissing, without inhabitants.

      38“They will roar together like young lions,
They will growl like lions’ cubs.

      39“When they become heated up, I will serve them their banquet
And make them drunk, that they may become jubilant
And may sleep a perpetual sleep
And not wake up,” declares the LORD.

      40“I will bring them down like lambs to the slaughter,
Like rams together with male goats.

      41“How Sheshak has been captured,
And the praise of the whole earth been seized!
How Babylon has become an object of horror among the nations!

      42“The sea has come up over Babylon;
She has been engulfed with its tumultuous waves.

      43“Her cities have become an object of horror,
A parched land and a desert,
A land in which no man lives
And through which no son of man passes.

      44“I will punish Bel in Babylon,
And I will make what he has swallowed come out of his mouth;
And the nations will no longer stream to him.
Even the wall of Babylon has fallen down!

      45“Come forth from her midst, My people,
And each of you save yourselves
From the fierce anger of the LORD.

      46“Now so that your heart does not grow faint,
And you are not afraid at the report that will be heard in the land—
For the report will come one year,
And after that another report in another year,
And violence will be in the land
With ruler against ruler—

      47Therefore behold, days are coming
When I will punish the idols of Babylon;
And her whole land will be put to shame
And all her slain will fall in her midst.

      48“Then heaven and earth and all that is in them
Will shout for joy over Babylon,
For the destroyers will come to her from the north,”
Declares the LORD.

      49Indeed Babylon is to fall for the slain of Israel,
As also for Babylon the slain of all the earth have fallen.

      50You who have escaped the sword,
Depart! Do not stay!
Remember the LORD from afar,
And let Jerusalem come to your mind.

      51We are ashamed because we have heard reproach;
Disgrace has covered our faces,
For aliens have entered
The holy places of the LORD’S house.

      52“Therefore behold, the days are coming,” declares the LORD,
“When I will punish her idols,
And the mortally wounded will groan throughout her land.

      53“Though Babylon should ascend to the heavens,
And though she should fortify her lofty stronghold,
From Me destroyers will come to her,” declares the LORD.

      54The sound of an outcry from Babylon,
And of great destruction from the land of the Chaldeans!

      55For the LORD is going to destroy Babylon,
And He will make her loud noise vanish from her.
And their waves will roar like many waters;
The tumult of their voices sounds forth.

      56For the destroyer is coming against her, against Babylon,
And her mighty men will be captured,
Their bows are shattered;
For the LORD is a God of recompense,
He will fully repay.

      57“I will make her princes and her wise men drunk,
Her governors, her prefects and her mighty men,
That they may sleep a perpetual sleep and not wake up,”
Declares the King, whose name is the LORD of hosts.

58Thus says the LORD of hosts,
“The broad wall of Babylon will be completely razed
And her high gates will be set on fire;
So the peoples will toil for nothing,
And the nations become exhausted only for fire.”

      59The message which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah, the grandson of Mahseiah, when he went with Zedekiah the king of Judah to Babylon in the fourth year of his reign. (Now Seraiah was quartermaster.) 60So Jeremiah wrote in a single scroll all the calamity which would come upon Babylon, that is, all these words which have been written concerning Babylon. 61Then Jeremiah said to Seraiah, “As soon as you come to Babylon, then see that you read all these words aloud, 62and say, ‘You, O LORD, have promised concerning this place to cut it off, so that there will be nothing dwelling in it, whether man or beast, but it will be a perpetual desolation.’ 63“And as soon as you finish reading this scroll, you will tie a stone to it and throw it into the middle of the Euphrates, 64and say, ‘Just so shall Babylon sink down and not rise again because of the calamity that I am going to bring upon her; and they will become exhausted.’” Thus far are the words of Jeremiah.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Justice / Judgment, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Lessons from the Fall of Babylon for Today (Jeremiah 50)

Explore the ancient prophecies of Jeremiah 50 and uncover their startling relevance to our modern world. Discover how the rise and fall of mighty Babylon holds crucial lessons for us, and see how this chapter’s messages are still echoing through the ages.

Jeremiah 50 beckons us to recognize that the values of justice, humility, and righteousness are not subjective, but they are rooted in the very character of God. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, it’s essential to turn to the unchanging source of these values. God’s standards offer a solid foundation for our decisions and actions.

Let us take the wisdom from this ancient prophecy to heart, acknowledging God as the ultimate source of these enduring values. In doing so, we can work towards creating a world where justice prevails, humility is celebrated, and righteousness leads the way.

Will we allow God’s values to shape our lives and the world around us?

Jeremiah 50

Prophecy against Babylon

      1The word which the LORD spoke concerning Babylon, the land of the Chaldeans, through Jeremiah the prophet:

      2“Declare and proclaim among the nations.
Proclaim it and lift up a standard.
Do not conceal it but say,
‘Babylon has been captured,
Bel has been put to shame, Marduk has been shattered;
Her images have been put to shame, her idols have been shattered.’

3“For a nation has come up against her out of the north; it will make her land an object of horror, and there will be no inhabitant in it. Both man and beast have wandered off, they have gone away!

      4“In those days and at that time,” declares the LORD, “the sons of Israel will come, both they and the sons of Judah as well; they will go along weeping as they go, and it will be the LORD their God they will seek. 5“They will ask for the way to Zion, turning their faces in its direction; they will come that they may join themselves to the LORD in an everlasting covenant that will not be forgotten.

      6“My people have become lost sheep;
Their shepherds have led them astray.
They have made them turn aside on the mountains;
They have gone along from mountain to hill
And have forgotten their resting place.

      7“All who came upon them have devoured them;
And their adversaries have said, ‘We are not guilty,
Inasmuch as they have sinned against the LORD who is the habitation of righteousness,
Even the LORD, the hope of their fathers.’

      8“Wander away from the midst of Babylon
And go forth from the land of the Chaldeans;
Be also like male goats at the head of the flock.

      9“For behold, I am going to arouse and bring up against Babylon
A horde of great nations from the land of the north,
And they will draw up their battle lines against her;
From there she will be taken captive.
Their arrows will be like an expert warrior
Who does not return empty-handed.

      10“Chaldea will become plunder;
All who plunder her will have enough,” declares the LORD.

      11“Because you are glad, because you are jubilant,
O you who pillage My heritage,
Because you skip about like a threshing heifer
And neigh like stallions,

      12Your mother will be greatly ashamed,
She who gave you birth will be humiliated.
Behold, she will be the least of the nations,
A wilderness, a parched land and a desert.

      13“Because of the indignation of the LORD she will not be inhabited,
But she will be completely desolate;
Everyone who passes by Babylon will be horrified
And will hiss because of all her wounds.

      14“Draw up your battle lines against Babylon on every side,
All you who bend the bow;
Shoot at her, do not be sparing with your arrows,
For she has sinned against the LORD.

      15“Raise your battle cry against her on every side!
She has given herself up, her pillars have fallen,
Her walls have been torn down.
For this is the vengeance of the LORD:
Take vengeance on her;
As she has done to others, so do to her.

      16“Cut off the sower from Babylon
And the one who wields the sickle at the time of harvest;
From before the sword of the oppressor
They will each turn back to his own people
And they will each flee to his own land.

      17“Israel is a scattered flock, the lions have driven them away. The first one who devoured him was the king of Assyria, and this last one who has broken his bones is Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. 18“Therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Behold, I am going to punish the king of Babylon and his land, just as I punished the king of Assyria. 19‘And I will bring Israel back to his pasture and he will graze on Carmel and Bashan, and his desire will be satisfied in the hill country of Ephraim and Gilead. 20‘In those days and at that time,’ declares the LORD, ‘search will be made for the iniquity of Israel, but there will be none; and for the sins of Judah, but they will not be found; for I will pardon those whom I leave as a remnant.’

      21“Against the land of Merathaim, go up against it,
And against the inhabitants of Pekod.
Slay and utterly destroy them,” declares the LORD,
“And do according to all that I have commanded you.

      22“The noise of battle is in the land,
And great destruction.

      23“How the hammer of the whole earth
Has been cut off and broken!
How Babylon has become
An object of horror among the nations!

      24“I set a snare for you and you were also caught, O Babylon,
While you yourself were not aware;
You have been found and also seized
Because you have engaged in conflict with the LORD.”

      25The LORD has opened His armory
And has brought forth the weapons of His indignation,
For it is a work of the Lord GOD of hosts
In the land of the Chaldeans.

      26Come to her from the farthest border;
Open up her barns,
Pile her up like heaps
And utterly destroy her,
Let nothing be left to her.

      27Put all her young bulls to the sword;
Let them go down to the slaughter!
Woe be upon them, for their day has come,
The time of their punishment.

      28There is a sound of fugitives and refugees from the land of Babylon,
To declare in Zion the vengeance of the LORD our God,
Vengeance for His temple.

      29“Summon many against Babylon,
All those who bend the bow:
Encamp against her on every side,
Let there be no escape.
Repay her according to her work;
According to all that she has done, so do to her;
For she has become arrogant against the LORD,
Against the Holy One of Israel.

      30“Therefore her young men will fall in her streets,
And all her men of war will be silenced in that day,” declares the LORD.

      31“Behold, I am against you, O arrogant one,”
Declares the Lord GOD of hosts,
“For your day has come,
The time when I will punish you.

      32“The arrogant one will stumble and fall
With no one to raise him up;
And I will set fire to his cities
And it will devour all his environs.”

      33Thus says the LORD of hosts,
“The sons of Israel are oppressed,
And the sons of Judah as well;
And all who took them captive have held them fast,
They have refused to let them go.

      34“Their Redeemer is strong, the LORD of hosts is His name;
He will vigorously plead their case
So that He may bring rest to the earth,
But turmoil to the inhabitants of Babylon.

      35“A sword against the Chaldeans,” declares the LORD,
“And against the inhabitants of Babylon
And against her officials and her wise men!

      36“A sword against the oracle priests, and they will become fools!
A sword against her mighty men, and they will be shattered!

      37“A sword against their horses and against their chariots
And against all the foreigners who are in the midst of her,
And they will become women!
A sword against her treasures, and they will be plundered!

      38“A drought on her waters, and they will be dried up!
For it is a land of idols,
And they are mad over fearsome idols.

      39“Therefore the desert creatures will live there along with the jackals;
The ostriches also will live in it,
And it will never again be inhabited
Or dwelt in from generation to generation.

      40“As when God overthrew Sodom
And Gomorrah with its neighbors,” declares the LORD,
“No man will live there,
Nor will any son of man reside in it.

      41“Behold, a people is coming from the north,
And a great nation and many kings
Will be aroused from the remote parts of the earth.

      42“They seize their bow and javelin;
They are cruel and have no mercy.
Their voice roars like the sea;
And they ride on horses,
Marshalled like a man for the battle
Against you, O daughter of Babylon.

      43“The king of Babylon has heard the report about them,
And his hands hang limp;
Distress has gripped him,
Agony like a woman in childbirth.

      44“Behold, one will come up like a lion from the thicket of the Jordan to a perennially watered pasture; for in an instant I will make them run away from it, and whoever is chosen I will appoint over it. For who is like Me, and who will summon Me into court? And who then is the shepherd who can stand before Me?” 45Therefore hear the plan of the LORD which He has planned against Babylon, and His purposes which He has purposed against the land of the Chaldeans: surely they will drag them off, even the little ones of the flock; surely He will make their pasture desolate because of them. 46At the shout, “Babylon has been seized!” the earth is shaken, and an outcry is heard among the nations.

Take some time to humble yourself and pray. Ask God to show you areas in your life where you are not fully submitted to Him and you need to change… then ask for the courage to pursue that change!

If we as individuals and as a nation live in a way that is against God’s call for us, we will be subject to correction from Him.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

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

Grace / Forgiveness, Jesus Christ / Yeshua

The Power of Christ’s Sufficiency (Colossians 2)

Discover how the timeless wisdom of Colossians 2 can transform your life and strengthen your faith. From the secret to overcoming legalism to finding forgiveness and victory, this chapter holds the key to a more meaningful spiritual journey. Dive into the heart of Colossians 2 and experience the incredible power of Christ’s all-sufficiency like never before!

The core message of Colossians 2 in the New Testament is primarily focused on the sufficiency and supremacy of Christ. In this chapter, the apostle Paul addresses the Colossian Christians and encourages them to stand firm in their faith in Christ and to be rooted and built up in Him.

Key themes and messages in Colossians 2 include:

  1. The Supremacy of Christ: Paul emphasizes that in Christ “the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily” (Colossians 2:9, ESV). He is the head of all rule and authority, and believers are complete in Him (Colossians 2:10). This underscores the idea that Christ is preeminent and all-sufficient for the Christian’s salvation and spiritual growth.
  2. Freedom from Legalism: Paul warns against being taken captive by human traditions, empty philosophies, and the “elemental spirits of the world” (Colossians 2:8). He encourages believers not to be bound by man-made rules and regulations but to focus on their relationship with Christ.
  3. Spiritual Circumcision: Paul speaks of a “circumcision made without hands” (Colossians 2:11), highlighting the inward, spiritual transformation that believers experience in Christ. This contrasts with the physical circumcision required under the Mosaic law.
  4. Forgiveness of Sins: Paul emphasizes that through faith in Christ, believers are forgiven of their sins and set free from the debt of transgressions, as they are “canceled the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands” (Colossians 2:14).
  5. Victory Over Powers and Authorities: Christ triumphed over the spiritual powers and authorities through His death and resurrection, and believers share in this victory through their union with Him (Colossians 2:15).

Overall, Colossians 2 teaches that faith in Christ alone is sufficient for salvation and spiritual growth, and believers should not be swayed by legalism, human traditions, or false philosophies. Christ’s supremacy, forgiveness, and victory are central to the message of this chapter.

Colossians 2

You Are Built Up in Christ

     1For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, 2that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, 3in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument. 5For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.

      6Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, 7having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

      8See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. 9For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, 10and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; 11and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; 12having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. 13When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, 14having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.

      16Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day— 17things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ. 18Let no one keep defrauding you of your prize by delighting in self-abasement and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on visions he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind, 19and not holding fast to the head, from whom the entire body, being supplied and held together by the joints and ligaments, grows with a growth which is from God.

      20If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, 21“Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!” 22(which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? 23These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.

As you reflect on the profound message of Colossians 2, remember that this isn’t just ancient wisdom; it’s a blueprint for your faith journey today. Challenge yourself to put these timeless truths into action. Embrace the supremacy of Christ in your life, break free from the chains of legalism, and extend the forgiveness and victory you’ve received to others. Let Colossians 2 be more than words on a page; let it be the guiding light in your walk with Christ. Are you up for the challenge? Share your reflections and inspire others to do the same. Together, we can live out the transformative power of Colossians 2!

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.

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