John 14:21 – Intimate Relationship

“Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” (John 14:21)

Doesn’t God love the whole world? Yes, he does! But Jesus promises us a deeper, more intimate love from the Father when we show Jesus we love him. We’re like one big happy family full of love. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?

Context (John 14:15-26): These are Jesus’ words telling his disciples and us about the promised helper, the Holy Spirit he’s going to send them. Jesus openly acknowledges that his followers are set apart and will receive special treatment from God for their obedience. The relationship between Jesus and his followers is intimate and personal. This promise from Jesus is for all who love him. Continue reading “John 14:21 – Intimate Relationship”

Philippians 1:9 – Growing Faith

“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.” (Philippians 1:9)

This is not only a prayer we can pray for ourselves but for other believers in our community. As Christ-followers, it’s common to pray for each other. I have so many fond memories of praying for others and being prayed over.

Context (Philippians 1:3-11): Paul opens his letter with a beautiful prayer for the believers in Philippi. You can tell that Paul has a special relationship with his audience and cares deeply for their faith journey. Our memory verse is part of that prayer, and we can claim it for ourselves. There are so many profound parts of this prayer. Be sure to read the whole thing and be blessed as if Paul were praying just for you. Continue reading “Philippians 1:9 – Growing Faith”

Matthew 19:26 – What’s Possible?

“Jesus looked at them intently and said, ‘Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.’” (Matthew 19:26)

We humans tend to think too small. Although I am always amazed when I hear of a new gadget on the market solving some problem I never would have thought of myself. You can probably think of examples of this as well. When we look at the Creator and the intricacies of nature, we are again stunned of the limitless possibilities. God has such great plans for us.

Context (Matthew 19:16-30): It’s interesting to understand how Jesus was using our verse as a teachable moment. Jesus had just finished responding to a rich man who was asking about eternal life. Jesus had told him what he needed to do, but the man wasn’t ready to take those steps. After the disciples wondered who could ever be saved, Jesus told his disciples that it would be impossible to get into heaven, but with God’s help, everything would be possible. Continue reading “Matthew 19:26 – What’s Possible?”

2 Corinthians 5:20 – Who Do You Represent?

“So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, ‘Come back to God!’” (2 Corinthians 5:20)

Think about what an ambassador does. They represent or promote something, a cause, a country, or an individual. As ambassadors of Jesus Christ, we act on his behalf and represent his character to the world. There’s no pressure in that at all, is there?

Context (2 Corinthians 5:11-20): There is a whole section in 2 Corinthians about being God’s ambassador. The job description exists to help us know how to take action. We are called to be sincere and bring glory to God. As representatives of the Most High, we are to treat others as Jesus himself would treat them. Sometimes finding the love we need for the unlovable can be challenging. Continue reading “2 Corinthians 5:20 – Who Do You Represent?”

Psalm 56:3 – Are You Afraid?

“But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.” (Psalm 56:3)

We are all afraid of something. Maybe it’s an upcoming test at school, or spiders hiding in the closet, or getting old, or being left behind, or getting married, or becoming a parent. Depending on our season of life, our fears change. But this verse suggests that whenever fear finds us, trusting in God is the answer.

Context (Psalm 56): This psalm is ascribed to David when he was fearful for his life, having been seized by the enemy. Despite his situation, David’s words are very encouraging. David doesn’t forget to praise God amidst his storm in life. In fact, he praises God in word and deed. I like how David speaks of walking in the LORD’s life-giving light. Continue reading “Psalm 56:3 – Are You Afraid?”

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