Weekly Verse and Song for Tonight Weeks 506 - 513
November 8, 2023
Week 506
John 6:29
28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
The Work
For many of us we work, to make a living no matter what our vocation is, retired, or something similar, many of us do something to earn a living. This is the mindset of many people to earn/gain something you have to put the work in. This idea and thought process goes back far enough even to the people in our text tonight, from John 6:28-29:
28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
When I was younger my mom taught me this principle, if you want to earn/gain something you have to work for it. My mom taught me this not with words but actions, as I saw mom do so much as a single parent to support mom's 5 kids. Well in the verse above we see that the people during this time followed this same principle. In the verses above Jesus spoke to them and told them, "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” (v.27). The people understood this as the need to do something as their response was "what must we do to do the works of God" (v.28)
Jesus changes this principle as to what He is referring to here as the works of God, and instead of actually "doing work..." Jesus said that the work of God is "to believe in the one he has sent.”. This is not a call to do something, but the work is to believe. Pondering this it comes to mean that ultimately one must believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This is what sets Christians apart from other religions of the world. To be saved it calls to believe, not to do, but believe in what was already done for us, through Jesus Christ to earn salvation.
As a Christian are you struggling because you are striving to understand the works of God? If so understand that though our faith is based on evidence there will come a time when all of the measures we have done to understand must conclude in believing in Jesus, the One God has sent.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One God sent
Maryanne J. George - Not My Home (From The Original Motion Picture After Death) (Official Video)
Week 506
John 6:29
28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
The Work
For many of us we work, to make a living no matter what our vocation is, retired, or something similar, many of us do something to earn a living. This is the mindset of many people to earn/gain something you have to put the work in. This idea and thought process goes back far enough even to the people in our text tonight, from John 6:28-29:
28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?”
29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.”
When I was younger my mom taught me this principle, if you want to earn/gain something you have to work for it. My mom taught me this not with words but actions, as I saw mom do so much as a single parent to support mom's 5 kids. Well in the verse above we see that the people during this time followed this same principle. In the verses above Jesus spoke to them and told them, "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” (v.27). The people understood this as the need to do something as their response was "what must we do to do the works of God" (v.28)
Jesus changes this principle as to what He is referring to here as the works of God, and instead of actually "doing work..." Jesus said that the work of God is "to believe in the one he has sent.”. This is not a call to do something, but the work is to believe. Pondering this it comes to mean that ultimately one must believe in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This is what sets Christians apart from other religions of the world. To be saved it calls to believe, not to do, but believe in what was already done for us, through Jesus Christ to earn salvation.
As a Christian are you struggling because you are striving to understand the works of God? If so understand that though our faith is based on evidence there will come a time when all of the measures we have done to understand must conclude in believing in Jesus, the One God has sent.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One God sent
Maryanne J. George - Not My Home (From The Original Motion Picture After Death) (Official Video)
November 15, 2023
Week 507
John 6:47-48
47 Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life.
Truly Living
Last week we talked about what the work of God is and that is to believe in Jesus. This week we expand upon this and talk about the results of believing in Jesus. When I was younger a mindset that I had and a prayer I always spoke, to the Lord was to not let my mom pass from this life. Ten years ago when my mom did pass I was upset and will say angry at the Lord. However, there is something I did not truly know, what truly living was. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 6:47-48:
47 Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life.
Many of us have loved ones, that we cannot or maybe we have not even thought about how life would be here on earth without them. We may think I cannot go on living if this person left this life, and that I would be lost. My mom for me was that person, my mom raised me and took care of me, shielding me from many things in life, but also letting me go out into the world and be who I am. Even when I did my adoration and love for mom remained, and I always remembered to call my mom twice a day.
However, as I bring into remembrance my prayer to the Lord, I realize after my mom passed that living, truly living requires passing from this life to eternal life. This eternal life is given to the one who truly believes in Jesus, for He is everything in life, He is the bread of life.
Today if you have lost someone, let these words offer some console that truly living is knowing Jesus, for when this life passes we enter eternal life, and this is true life, where there will be no more death (Revelation 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”)
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is the Bread of Life.
Angels We Have Heard on High (Christmas w/ 32 fingers and 8 thumbs) - The Piano Guys
Week 507
John 6:47-48
47 Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life.
Truly Living
Last week we talked about what the work of God is and that is to believe in Jesus. This week we expand upon this and talk about the results of believing in Jesus. When I was younger a mindset that I had and a prayer I always spoke, to the Lord was to not let my mom pass from this life. Ten years ago when my mom did pass I was upset and will say angry at the Lord. However, there is something I did not truly know, what truly living was. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 6:47-48:
47 Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life.
Many of us have loved ones, that we cannot or maybe we have not even thought about how life would be here on earth without them. We may think I cannot go on living if this person left this life, and that I would be lost. My mom for me was that person, my mom raised me and took care of me, shielding me from many things in life, but also letting me go out into the world and be who I am. Even when I did my adoration and love for mom remained, and I always remembered to call my mom twice a day.
However, as I bring into remembrance my prayer to the Lord, I realize after my mom passed that living, truly living requires passing from this life to eternal life. This eternal life is given to the one who truly believes in Jesus, for He is everything in life, He is the bread of life.
Today if you have lost someone, let these words offer some console that truly living is knowing Jesus, for when this life passes we enter eternal life, and this is true life, where there will be no more death (Revelation 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”)
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is the Bread of Life.
Angels We Have Heard on High (Christmas w/ 32 fingers and 8 thumbs) - The Piano Guys
November 22, 2023
Week 508
Jesus Teaches At The Festival
John 7:14
14 Not until halfway through the festival did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews there were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having been taught?”
Appearances
When I was younger I was that person who would always get picked on a lot. I know one reason for this is that I was short, skinny, and different than everyone else.
In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 7:14:
14 Not until halfway through the festival did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews there were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having been taught?”
Jesus arrived at a festival and started teaching, when He started teaching people seemed both amazed and confused. When I was growing up my mom taught me about Jesus and led me to Him. My mom taught me that if people don't like you they do not like Jesus (John 15:18), as such I always had in mind that I was accepted because Jesus accepted me. In the book of Samuel (1 Samuel 16:7) God told the prophet when he looked at David that He looks at the heart not the outwardly appearance.
Today in life I tend to carry myself in such a way that I like to see a person's inward appearance not the outward, their inward shines them outward. As Christians, keep that on your heart and mind knowing that a person's appearance does not indicate who they are. Trust God in leading into this truth.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who sees us on the inside.
Rend Collective - My Lighthouse (Lyric Video)
Week 508
Jesus Teaches At The Festival
John 7:14
14 Not until halfway through the festival did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews there were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having been taught?”
Appearances
When I was younger I was that person who would always get picked on a lot. I know one reason for this is that I was short, skinny, and different than everyone else.
In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 7:14:
14 Not until halfway through the festival did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews there were amazed and asked, “How did this man get such learning without having been taught?”
Jesus arrived at a festival and started teaching, when He started teaching people seemed both amazed and confused. When I was growing up my mom taught me about Jesus and led me to Him. My mom taught me that if people don't like you they do not like Jesus (John 15:18), as such I always had in mind that I was accepted because Jesus accepted me. In the book of Samuel (1 Samuel 16:7) God told the prophet when he looked at David that He looks at the heart not the outwardly appearance.
Today in life I tend to carry myself in such a way that I like to see a person's inward appearance not the outward, their inward shines them outward. As Christians, keep that on your heart and mind knowing that a person's appearance does not indicate who they are. Trust God in leading into this truth.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who sees us on the inside.
Rend Collective - My Lighthouse (Lyric Video)
November 29, 2023
Week 509
John 8:6-8
6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
Our Hearts
I had a friend over a week ago and we talked about donating some items for kids at a hospital. I mentioned to her that I wanted to be careful and she was wondering why I was being so careful. My friend asked why not to pick out some toys and donate them.
In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 8:6-8:
6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
When we were kids we did not have a lot, however, during Christmas, a local Church would come over and donate gifts to us, as well as food in the form of snacks. The Church knew my mom and knew us as well, my mom was always appreciative of this.
As I grew older in the last few years since my mom passed away, we started doing the same and something that struck me was this "is this what God really wants me to do?". I know giving is a part of the Christian walk but what I was questioning was my motives, was I doing something because I wanted to appear to be good to other people, or maybe it was for me to feel good?
Examining tonight's verse, Jesus showed the Pharisees that though they caught this woman in adultery which is a sin, their hearts were too, sinful and full of deceit. When Jesus called them out on this, they examined their own hearts and they each began to walk away from condemning this woman.
I mentioned to my friend that I wanted to make sure that my giving was for the right reason, and not because I wanted it to draw attention to myself.
As Christians it is important, to examine our motives, not just in giving but in every part of life. Our motives should be what God calls us to do and not because we want anything for ourselves.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who we live for
Christmas Medley (Jon Schmidt Christmas) The Piano Guys
Week 509
John 8:6-8
6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
Our Hearts
I had a friend over a week ago and we talked about donating some items for kids at a hospital. I mentioned to her that I wanted to be careful and she was wondering why I was being so careful. My friend asked why not to pick out some toys and donate them.
In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 8:6-8:
6 They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.
But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.
When we were kids we did not have a lot, however, during Christmas, a local Church would come over and donate gifts to us, as well as food in the form of snacks. The Church knew my mom and knew us as well, my mom was always appreciative of this.
As I grew older in the last few years since my mom passed away, we started doing the same and something that struck me was this "is this what God really wants me to do?". I know giving is a part of the Christian walk but what I was questioning was my motives, was I doing something because I wanted to appear to be good to other people, or maybe it was for me to feel good?
Examining tonight's verse, Jesus showed the Pharisees that though they caught this woman in adultery which is a sin, their hearts were too, sinful and full of deceit. When Jesus called them out on this, they examined their own hearts and they each began to walk away from condemning this woman.
I mentioned to my friend that I wanted to make sure that my giving was for the right reason, and not because I wanted it to draw attention to myself.
As Christians it is important, to examine our motives, not just in giving but in every part of life. Our motives should be what God calls us to do and not because we want anything for ourselves.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who we live for
Christmas Medley (Jon Schmidt Christmas) The Piano Guys
December 6, 2023
Week 510
John 9:18-19
18 They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. 19 “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?”
When Questions Are Acceptable
This morning I went to the Dentist, and there was a new dentist there, she looked at my teeth and after examining them determined I needed to have three fillings done. However before this was accepted by me I recall that I casually asked the doctor while she was looking at the xrays and my teeth, a few questions:
I asked her:
1. When did she start here?
2. When did she graduate?
3. How long has she been practicing
I didn't realize I was doing this, but her answers made me trust a little more in her professional opinion. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 9:18-19:
18 They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. 19 “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?”
The context of the verse John 9 is that Jesus healed a man who had been blind from birth. When people including his neighbors saw this once blind man they were very skeptical, they wondered if this was the same person who had been born blind, and still others just thought no he only looked like that same man (John 9:8-9).
Well later in the passage this man was brought to the Pharisees and they investigated, asking him questions, they still did not believe, so they asked his parents.
When I was younger I would think I could ask my mom questions that required an answer about the Bible. Mom did not always know the answer and advised that I ask the Pastor. When I did ask the pastors they did not always have the answer that was something I could accept. However later in life as I sought more understanding I began to piece the questions I had together to the point where I could accept.
The Bible commands objective testing of our faith (Acts 17:11), however, once our questions are answered acceptable we must get to a point where we can understand and move forward. As Christians we may have questions what we can do is seek the Lord first He will guide our steps and provide answers through many means. One note is that when your questions become acceptable you, must turn and move on in faith as you continue to trust God in all that He does. Know that not all of our questions will ever be 100% answered and that the acceptance of the answer as acceptable is important as you walk in faith.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who provides.
Winter Wind (Steven Sharp Nelson/Christmas Cello) The Piano Guys
Week 510
John 9:18-19
18 They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. 19 “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?”
When Questions Are Acceptable
This morning I went to the Dentist, and there was a new dentist there, she looked at my teeth and after examining them determined I needed to have three fillings done. However before this was accepted by me I recall that I casually asked the doctor while she was looking at the xrays and my teeth, a few questions:
I asked her:
1. When did she start here?
2. When did she graduate?
3. How long has she been practicing
I didn't realize I was doing this, but her answers made me trust a little more in her professional opinion. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 9:18-19:
18 They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. 19 “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?”
The context of the verse John 9 is that Jesus healed a man who had been blind from birth. When people including his neighbors saw this once blind man they were very skeptical, they wondered if this was the same person who had been born blind, and still others just thought no he only looked like that same man (John 9:8-9).
Well later in the passage this man was brought to the Pharisees and they investigated, asking him questions, they still did not believe, so they asked his parents.
When I was younger I would think I could ask my mom questions that required an answer about the Bible. Mom did not always know the answer and advised that I ask the Pastor. When I did ask the pastors they did not always have the answer that was something I could accept. However later in life as I sought more understanding I began to piece the questions I had together to the point where I could accept.
The Bible commands objective testing of our faith (Acts 17:11), however, once our questions are answered acceptable we must get to a point where we can understand and move forward. As Christians we may have questions what we can do is seek the Lord first He will guide our steps and provide answers through many means. One note is that when your questions become acceptable you, must turn and move on in faith as you continue to trust God in all that He does. Know that not all of our questions will ever be 100% answered and that the acceptance of the answer as acceptable is important as you walk in faith.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who provides.
Winter Wind (Steven Sharp Nelson/Christmas Cello) The Piano Guys
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October 11, 2023
Week 502
John 4:13-14
13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Living Water
Water is said to be the elixir of life. Without water, life on Earth could not survive, water is refreshing and rejuvenates us. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 4:13-15:
"13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
It was an Easter Sunday years ago I remember this day very well. My mom as usual would make a special meal for us, this meal was an Indian dish known as Biryani. It uses Basmati rice, fully ground, ginger, garlic, onions, and coriander, made into a paste, and cucumber seeds, and cinnamon sticks, added. These ingredients all added to the flavor but because of this, the Biryani would always be very dry. So to add some moisture to it Mom would make Chutney which is yogurt with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and pepper. All this added to the experience of having Biryani on a special occasion in this case Easter Sunday. Well, I remember after Mom made it we all sat down and watched the Ten Commandments with Charleston Heston.
Later that evening something odd happened to me. I was very thirsty and wanted water, however not only did I want one cup I wanted many cups of water. I remember going to the sink to get water over and over, as the Biryani made me very thirsty and I needed water to quench it.
In the above passage, Jesus is talking to the woman at the well, telling her that He has water that if drank she (us) would never go thirsty. However, this water isn't one to meet our human needs but to meet the needs of our Spiritual heart. You see this water is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit who quenches our thirst in life and meets our needs.
As Christians, we must talk to others about this Living Water, our physical beings will pass from this life, but what remains, is if we have accepted Jesus as the Living Water, our eternal lives. Are you living today fulfilling your physical needs, but have neglected your spiritual needs, remember there is a difference one is temporary and the other is eternal.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with our Living Water.
Lauren Daigle - Valuable (Official Lyric Video)
Week 502
John 4:13-14
13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Living Water
Water is said to be the elixir of life. Without water, life on Earth could not survive, water is refreshing and rejuvenates us. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 4:13-15:
"13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
It was an Easter Sunday years ago I remember this day very well. My mom as usual would make a special meal for us, this meal was an Indian dish known as Biryani. It uses Basmati rice, fully ground, ginger, garlic, onions, and coriander, made into a paste, and cucumber seeds, and cinnamon sticks, added. These ingredients all added to the flavor but because of this, the Biryani would always be very dry. So to add some moisture to it Mom would make Chutney which is yogurt with chopped onions, tomatoes, coriander, and pepper. All this added to the experience of having Biryani on a special occasion in this case Easter Sunday. Well, I remember after Mom made it we all sat down and watched the Ten Commandments with Charleston Heston.
Later that evening something odd happened to me. I was very thirsty and wanted water, however not only did I want one cup I wanted many cups of water. I remember going to the sink to get water over and over, as the Biryani made me very thirsty and I needed water to quench it.
In the above passage, Jesus is talking to the woman at the well, telling her that He has water that if drank she (us) would never go thirsty. However, this water isn't one to meet our human needs but to meet the needs of our Spiritual heart. You see this water is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit who quenches our thirst in life and meets our needs.
As Christians, we must talk to others about this Living Water, our physical beings will pass from this life, but what remains, is if we have accepted Jesus as the Living Water, our eternal lives. Are you living today fulfilling your physical needs, but have neglected your spiritual needs, remember there is a difference one is temporary and the other is eternal.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with our Living Water.
Lauren Daigle - Valuable (Official Lyric Video)
October 18, 2023
Week 503
John 4:35
35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Failure Perks
A few days ago I had to give a presentation virtually and on camera, while it was being recorded to be presented for a certification. I had to invite several people to volunteer their time to be part of this presentation. I thought I had everything ready, well every volunteer showed up and seemed ready to go. However one person showed up a bit late, almost 30 minutes, and on top of that, this person could not get his mic to work. Nevertheless, the show must go on as they say. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 4:35:
35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Here in this verse Jesus is speaking and stating that always, not just at a future point in time, right now the fields are ripe to tell others about Christ. This telling does not always have to be with words but also with our actions
In the situation described above, I was getting very frustrated, as I was taking up people's volunteer time, as well the presentation was being recorded and there were problems with the recording. To make matters worse, what should have been 30 minutes turned into 2 hours. One of my friends became very frustrated with that when we got off the presentation call she expressed her frustration.
As a Christian, I failed here. Now I am not speaking about the presentation itself, but my reaction to it all. Here was an opportunity for me to show others Christ by the way I responded, and I did not I was visibly frustrated and I also expressed it to my friend who called me after the call and expressed herself to me.
Growing up many times my mom taught me to know Jesus. In every situation, my mom taught me to stay calm. However, until now I as an adult do I really understand that the impact we have on others can determine whether they know or do not know Jesus.
With failure comes perks. As Christians when we fail we can pause and seek Christ and ask Him how to rectify a situation after the fact. Apologizing and practicing staying calm as we represent Christ is of the utmost importance. As we put this into continued practice we will be effective in showing others Christ.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One Who Upholds Us
Dear God (Acoustic) - Cory Asbury feat. Anna Asbury
Week 503
John 4:35
35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Failure Perks
A few days ago I had to give a presentation virtually and on camera, while it was being recorded to be presented for a certification. I had to invite several people to volunteer their time to be part of this presentation. I thought I had everything ready, well every volunteer showed up and seemed ready to go. However one person showed up a bit late, almost 30 minutes, and on top of that, this person could not get his mic to work. Nevertheless, the show must go on as they say. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 4:35:
35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.
Here in this verse Jesus is speaking and stating that always, not just at a future point in time, right now the fields are ripe to tell others about Christ. This telling does not always have to be with words but also with our actions
In the situation described above, I was getting very frustrated, as I was taking up people's volunteer time, as well the presentation was being recorded and there were problems with the recording. To make matters worse, what should have been 30 minutes turned into 2 hours. One of my friends became very frustrated with that when we got off the presentation call she expressed her frustration.
As a Christian, I failed here. Now I am not speaking about the presentation itself, but my reaction to it all. Here was an opportunity for me to show others Christ by the way I responded, and I did not I was visibly frustrated and I also expressed it to my friend who called me after the call and expressed herself to me.
Growing up many times my mom taught me to know Jesus. In every situation, my mom taught me to stay calm. However, until now I as an adult do I really understand that the impact we have on others can determine whether they know or do not know Jesus.
With failure comes perks. As Christians when we fail we can pause and seek Christ and ask Him how to rectify a situation after the fact. Apologizing and practicing staying calm as we represent Christ is of the utmost importance. As we put this into continued practice we will be effective in showing others Christ.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One Who Upholds Us
Dear God (Acoustic) - Cory Asbury feat. Anna Asbury
October 25, 2023
Week 504
John 5:33-35
33 “You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. 34 Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. 35 John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.
Why We Need Evidence
One of the biggest things with me as I grow closer to Christ is presenting the Gospel to all people. There was a time when I was speaking with a friend about Jesus and I wanted her to know Him. She seemed to point to science for everything and reasoned that it was correct a source of truth. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 5:33-35:
33 “You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. 34 Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. 35 John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.
When I was younger we could hardly get away with things. For example when I would break something my mom would find it and by seeing the evidence and asking mom's kids mom would instantly know that I was the one who did the breaking. Even as an adult, I recall I started drinking coffee and liked using mom's coffee mate. I remember one night I was studying in my room, and mom brought the coffee mate bottle up to my room and asked "What is this..." because I almost used all of it.
In the verse tonight Jesus is speaking of Himself letting the people know that they believe because they need evidence from human understanding to believe. However, Jesus states in later verses that God, Himself testifies about Him (Matthew 3:17). Yet Jesus knows that as humans we require evidence to believe (to be saved). My friend that I spoke about earlier needed evidence to believe, the evidence for her was in the science. I started studying more about science so that I might show her and that she might be saved.
As a people, we need evidence to convince us that something is true. Jesus obliges and shows that to us through human testimony in this case John the Baptist. As Christians when we encounter people who are requesting some sort of evidence to believe in Jesus, think and pray and ask God to show us how to present the Gospel where they are. By doing so you help answer people's questions and perhaps by the grace of the Lord, lead that person(s) to Jesus. One way I do this is by using God's second book, which is not really a book but the world around us (Psalm 19).
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One we speak about.
Gratitude by Brandon Lake // Cover Lyric Video // Crossbridge Community Church
Week 504
John 5:33-35
33 “You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. 34 Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. 35 John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.
Why We Need Evidence
One of the biggest things with me as I grow closer to Christ is presenting the Gospel to all people. There was a time when I was speaking with a friend about Jesus and I wanted her to know Him. She seemed to point to science for everything and reasoned that it was correct a source of truth. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of John 5:33-35:
33 “You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. 34 Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. 35 John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.
When I was younger we could hardly get away with things. For example when I would break something my mom would find it and by seeing the evidence and asking mom's kids mom would instantly know that I was the one who did the breaking. Even as an adult, I recall I started drinking coffee and liked using mom's coffee mate. I remember one night I was studying in my room, and mom brought the coffee mate bottle up to my room and asked "What is this..." because I almost used all of it.
In the verse tonight Jesus is speaking of Himself letting the people know that they believe because they need evidence from human understanding to believe. However, Jesus states in later verses that God, Himself testifies about Him (Matthew 3:17). Yet Jesus knows that as humans we require evidence to believe (to be saved). My friend that I spoke about earlier needed evidence to believe, the evidence for her was in the science. I started studying more about science so that I might show her and that she might be saved.
As a people, we need evidence to convince us that something is true. Jesus obliges and shows that to us through human testimony in this case John the Baptist. As Christians when we encounter people who are requesting some sort of evidence to believe in Jesus, think and pray and ask God to show us how to present the Gospel where they are. By doing so you help answer people's questions and perhaps by the grace of the Lord, lead that person(s) to Jesus. One way I do this is by using God's second book, which is not really a book but the world around us (Psalm 19).
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One we speak about.
Gratitude by Brandon Lake // Cover Lyric Video // Crossbridge Community Church
August 30, 2023
Week 496
1 Kings 17:8-16
8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 10 So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” 11 As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
12 “As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die.”
13 Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. 14 For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.’”
15 She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. 16 For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.
God is the Provider
This early morning I woke up and felt a bit distraught over something I did a few months ago, It wasn't anything wrong, it was just about a decision I made. This decision, however, made me wonder why did God allow this to happen. My mind went back to thinking that God is showing me that He is my Provider, not me. Then I went over to read my daily devotion and the devotion reminded me that God is my source. In tonight's verse, we come to 1 Kings 17:8-16:
8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 10 So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” 11 As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
I always think of my mom when writing these weekly articles. It reminds me that God through my mom showed me struggles in this life and decisions in this life, in fact, everything in this life points to God.
When reviewing "tonight's verse" I am reminded that God is my provider the woman at Zarephath trusted that God would provide for her and her son just as Elijah trusted that God would provide for Him through this woman.
In everyone's life, there may be times of doubting and uncertainty. When this happens remind yourself that no matter what God is your Provider. Additionally, before this happens remind yourself that God is there for you by daily reading scriptures, praying, and seeking Him in all areas of your life.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is our Provider.
Lauren Daigle - These Are The Days (Official Video)
Week 496
1 Kings 17:8-16
8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 10 So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” 11 As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
12 “As surely as the Lord your God lives,” she replied, “I don’t have any bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it—and die.”
13 Elijah said to her, “Don’t be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small loaf of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. 14 For this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the Lord sends rain on the land.’”
15 She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. 16 For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah.
God is the Provider
This early morning I woke up and felt a bit distraught over something I did a few months ago, It wasn't anything wrong, it was just about a decision I made. This decision, however, made me wonder why did God allow this to happen. My mind went back to thinking that God is showing me that He is my Provider, not me. Then I went over to read my daily devotion and the devotion reminded me that God is my source. In tonight's verse, we come to 1 Kings 17:8-16:
8 Then the word of the Lord came to him: 9 “Go at once to Zarephath in the region of Sidon and stay there. I have directed a widow there to supply you with food.” 10 So he went to Zarephath. When he came to the town gate, a widow was there gathering sticks. He called to her and asked, “Would you bring me a little water in a jar so I may have a drink?” 11 As she was going to get it, he called, “And bring me, please, a piece of bread.”
I always think of my mom when writing these weekly articles. It reminds me that God through my mom showed me struggles in this life and decisions in this life, in fact, everything in this life points to God.
When reviewing "tonight's verse" I am reminded that God is my provider the woman at Zarephath trusted that God would provide for her and her son just as Elijah trusted that God would provide for Him through this woman.
In everyone's life, there may be times of doubting and uncertainty. When this happens remind yourself that no matter what God is your Provider. Additionally, before this happens remind yourself that God is there for you by daily reading scriptures, praying, and seeking Him in all areas of your life.
Love you Mom and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is our Provider.
Lauren Daigle - These Are The Days (Official Video)
