1 John 2:17 – This World

“And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.” (1 John 2:17)

We live in this world and may think we see it fading away, too. It’s good to remember that this world is not our destination. That thought can bring you comfort if your heart is breaking along with God’s over some of the horrific things people are dealing with these days. With hope in Christ, the “fading away” part doesn’t have to be as scary.

Context (1 John 2:15-17) These few verses speak of the world and remind us of an important truth. The world is not what we should be trusting. We should expect the world to disappoint us and not put blind faith in it but in God alone. What are some of your “cravings” in this that entice you away from your relationship with God? The world is good at deceiving us, so beware. Continue reading “1 John 2:17 – This World”

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in This!

“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” (Romans 12:12)

As believers, we don’t just have confidence; we have “confident hope.” Instead of just hoping things work out, our confident hope gives us assurance because of what Jesus did for us. We don’t have to worry; we place our trust in Jesus, who always keeps his promises. Doesn’t having that kind of confident hope bring you peace and comfort, too?

Context (Romans 12): This verse is one of many gems in the 12th chapter of Romans talking about our lives as Christians. This verse comes right after Paul talks about being part of the Body of Christ, each of us having our own gifts to offer to the kingdom. Let this verse remind you of your allegiance as well as your community of faithful believers. Continue reading “Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in This!”

Colossians 3:10 – New Life

“Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.” (Colossians 3:10)

When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we become new, and our life finally has meaning. I like this verse because of the promise of renewal. Facing the realities of life can be exhausting. Fighting our foes can zap us of our energy. The promised renewal here is music to my ears.

Context (Colossians 3): This chapter gives us great insight into what life in Christ looks like and the freedoms we can enjoy. When we know how to act, we can stop worrying whether we are good enough. Our focus is no longer on ourselves but on our identity in Christ. Jesus has done the hard work, now it’s our turn to respond. Continue reading “Colossians 3:10 – New Life”

1 Corinthians 13:13 – All About Love

“Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Love is pretty great, isn’t it? I’m a fortunate one to have experienced a lot of it in my life. Starting with loving parents I now have an adoring husband who continually showers love. The blessing of love comes also from our children and other family, but there’s more. God has provided an army of little ones, some of whom have children of their own now, and whom I’ve been honored to serve and teach about Jesus over the years. I can totally see how love can last forever.

Context 1 Corinthians 13: Known as the “love chapter” in the Bible, today’s memory verse is the sentence that brings that chapter to a close. Paul gives us a good idea of what love is and is not in this chapter. Love is certainly something we want in our lives for always and forever. Thanks to what Jesus did for us on the cross, we can experience love for eternity. Continue reading “1 Corinthians 13:13 – All About Love”

Matthew 5:16 – Shine Your Light & Glorify God

“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” (Matthew 5:16)

Making smart choices and doing good in this world has its place. This verse reminds us of that purpose. It’s not to bring attention to ourselves and take credit but to give glory to God. We’ve all seen athletes after winning a close game say to reporters, ” It’s all God” or “To God be the glory!”

Context Matthew 5:13-16: Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount starts in chapter 5 of Matthew’s gospel and covers a lot of ground. But this verse is from a smaller section in that sermon teaching about salt and light. Jesus wanted the people to know that as followers we are the salt and light of the world. It’s up to us to spice things up and point to the Father with our actions. Continue reading “Matthew 5:16 – Shine Your Light & Glorify God”

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