Hebrews 10:24-25 – Motivating Others

“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25)

How creative are you? Some people are masters at being imaginative and memorable. Being a children’s ministry leader, I’ve gotten pretty good at accomplishing that, but this verse doesn’t have that requirement at all. There are plenty of ways we can motivate others without being cutesy and fun. The main idea is to be in community.

Context: In general, the book of Hebrews reminds us of Jesus’ supremacy and how to remain faithful. Jesus is all we need, but sometimes we get mixed signals from the world. The section in which this verse falls is all about how to persevere in our faith when life throws those curveballs. Continue reading “Hebrews 10:24-25 – Motivating Others”

Romans 10:9-10 – You Are Saved!

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” (Romans 10:9-10)

This is a pivotal verse for believers. Could salvation really be this easy? While it sounds simple on the surface, actually following through with such faith can be a difficult thing when we let messages of the world infiltrate our thinking. That’s why it’s a great addition in our toolbox of memory verses.

Context: What a gem Paul shared with the Roman church! Paul opens the chapter by declaring his heart’s desire for all the people of Israel, God’s people, to be saved. For that to happen, they need to know how easy it is, and that salvation is for everyone. This verse is tucked nicely into all sorts of wisdom on the topic of salvation. Continue reading “Romans 10:9-10 – You Are Saved!”

1 John 3:16 – Real Love

“We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.” (1 John 3:16)

We are weeks away from celebrating Easter as I reflect on this verse. How powerful its significance while walking with Jesus to the cross. I can’t fully wrap my head around God’s love for us, can you? Jesus’ actions define real love in a way nothing else could.

Context: John’s teaching here is all about love, but he is focusing on how we are to love each other. For us to know how to do that, we need only look to Jesus and his example on the cross. That’s why this verse is so important. It helps keep us on track, putting into perspective what love looks like. Continue reading “1 John 3:16 – Real Love”

Acts 4:12 – No Other Way

“There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)

The name of Jesus is powerful. It saves us awful sinners from death and eternal destruction. Nobody but Jesus can save us. This verse is a bold declaration to boost our trust and assurance. Why is it that so many people don’t understand this truth? Do you ever feel like you are the only one?

Context: Peter and John had been busy healing and teaching people that through Jesus there is resurrection of the dead. This upset some priests and Sadducees, who then confronted Peter and John and threw them in jail. When brought before the religious leaders to defend themselves, the Holy Spirit took over, and Peter called out the name of Jesus, giving him all the credit for such healings and salvation. The religious leaders were amazed yet knew they had to take control of the situation. Continue reading “Acts 4:12 – No Other Way”

2 Timothy 3:5 – Watch Out!

“They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!” (2 Timothy 3:5)

There are times when God uses Scripture to educate us. This is one of those times. This world is not without dangers. What a blessing we have these warnings! We may encounter people like this who act religious and all high and mighty. God looks at their hearts, their motivation. So should we.

Context: In this section, Paul warns us about the dangers of end times. Lately, I’ve heard many people discussing their opinion that we are in the “end times.” As I’ve cautioned before, we have been in the end times since Jesus returned to heaven as we await his return. However, these warnings are not to be ignored. Paul is talking about the regular, everyday kind of people we are likely to encounter. Continue reading “2 Timothy 3:5 – Watch Out!”

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