Weekly Verse and Song for Tonight Weeks 621 - 629
December 3, 2025
Week 621
Friendships
Ecclesiastes 4:10
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
This past weekend I hung out with a friend. Toward the end of the night, she said something that bothered me. I wasn’t sure what she meant. I’ve been praying about this and asking the Lord for direction. In tonight’s verse, we come to Ecclesiastes 4:10:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
My mom was always someone I would go to for help, ideas, or suggestions as I got older. After Mom passed I didn’t have that anymore, but God sent me people to talk to in His timing and in His way, for the same kind of help.
After this encounter with my friend this past weekend, I began seeking the Lord for direction and help—asking Him to show me what I should do. This afternoon one of my friends, Betsy, called. As we talked, I opened up about what happened over the weekend. She listened and mentioned a few ideas that eased my mind, because this situation had really been bothering me.
Betsy said: “For every mess there is a message. For every test there is a testimony.”
As I think through tonight’s verse, I realize God led Betsy to speak with me. God is the ultimate source of everything. He brings people in and out of our lives to point us back to Him. Today He did that, and my heart is at ease.
As Christians, we are not meant to walk alone in this life—we are called to be in fellowship with others. Look for friendships that are fruitful to you by
God’s grace.
For the Lord is with us, and He will guide us in His ways.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom. And I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who is our Friend.
Angels We Have Heard on High | The Piano Guys – Create a Christmas Masterpiece
Week 621
Friendships
Ecclesiastes 4:10
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
This past weekend I hung out with a friend. Toward the end of the night, she said something that bothered me. I wasn’t sure what she meant. I’ve been praying about this and asking the Lord for direction. In tonight’s verse, we come to Ecclesiastes 4:10:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
My mom was always someone I would go to for help, ideas, or suggestions as I got older. After Mom passed I didn’t have that anymore, but God sent me people to talk to in His timing and in His way, for the same kind of help.
After this encounter with my friend this past weekend, I began seeking the Lord for direction and help—asking Him to show me what I should do. This afternoon one of my friends, Betsy, called. As we talked, I opened up about what happened over the weekend. She listened and mentioned a few ideas that eased my mind, because this situation had really been bothering me.
Betsy said: “For every mess there is a message. For every test there is a testimony.”
As I think through tonight’s verse, I realize God led Betsy to speak with me. God is the ultimate source of everything. He brings people in and out of our lives to point us back to Him. Today He did that, and my heart is at ease.
As Christians, we are not meant to walk alone in this life—we are called to be in fellowship with others. Look for friendships that are fruitful to you by
God’s grace.
For the Lord is with us, and He will guide us in His ways.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom. And I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who is our Friend.
Angels We Have Heard on High | The Piano Guys – Create a Christmas Masterpiece
October 8, 2025
Week 613
John 15:18 (New International Version)
The World Hates the Disciples
18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.”
When You Are Treated Unfairly
It was just a few days ago that I was talking with someone at the gym. She was loud and very deliberate in what she was saying to me. Her tone was mean and filled with assumptions. Basically, she felt the need to insult me — and she did so without any sign of remorse.
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of John 15:18:
18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.”
My mom was born in India, and when she came to the United States, this land was foreign to her. She was learning the language and getting accustomed to a new culture. I’m sure my mom had her fair share of insults. She always told me that when people insult you, remember that they hated God also.
I was discussing this topic of being insulted at the gym with a friend, but then I took it further in thought. I recalled times when I’ve been cheated, when people haven’t told me the full truth, and more. The reason for this, I’ve come to realize, is that they hated God. The love of Jesus is not in them, and they have not accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior through the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
As Christians, people often say we are prime targets for ridicule. It’s not easy, but here’s the thing — we can stand firm knowing that this happens because they are not followers of Christ. Reminding yourself of John 15:18 will help you stay strong in the face of any kind of dismay.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom — and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is First
Holy Forever – Bethel Music, Jenn Johnson
Week 613
John 15:18 (New International Version)
The World Hates the Disciples
18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.”
When You Are Treated Unfairly
It was just a few days ago that I was talking with someone at the gym. She was loud and very deliberate in what she was saying to me. Her tone was mean and filled with assumptions. Basically, she felt the need to insult me — and she did so without any sign of remorse.
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of John 15:18:
18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.”
My mom was born in India, and when she came to the United States, this land was foreign to her. She was learning the language and getting accustomed to a new culture. I’m sure my mom had her fair share of insults. She always told me that when people insult you, remember that they hated God also.
I was discussing this topic of being insulted at the gym with a friend, but then I took it further in thought. I recalled times when I’ve been cheated, when people haven’t told me the full truth, and more. The reason for this, I’ve come to realize, is that they hated God. The love of Jesus is not in them, and they have not accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior through the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
As Christians, people often say we are prime targets for ridicule. It’s not easy, but here’s the thing — we can stand firm knowing that this happens because they are not followers of Christ. Reminding yourself of John 15:18 will help you stay strong in the face of any kind of dismay.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom — and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who is First
Holy Forever – Bethel Music, Jenn Johnson
October 8, 2025
Week 613
Forgiving and Forgiving
Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
I don’t know if this is true for everyone, but in my case I have a friend who is very hard to deal with at times. My friend will constantly skirt answers, massage what she means, and get quiet or not respond. It is very bothersome to me; it makes me upset, and sometimes when these conversations happen she will hang up the phone and go to sleep. This friend takes a toll on me, and she doesn’t seem to care even when it’s explained.
In tonight’s verse we come to the chapter of Ephesians 4:32:
“32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Many times when I was growing up, I saw that when Mom’s kids did something wrong, she would not let it go by. We would get talked to sternly. Mom would be upset with us, but even with that, she would eventually forgive us. Mom showed a kindness toward us that helped us grow.
In the verse tonight, Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus that they should be kind and forgiving to one another, reminding us that we are forgiven by God through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. As Christians, even when we find it hard to forgive someone, we must remind ourselves that we need to forgive because of Christ’s sacrifice.
Jesus told Peter to forgive seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:21–23), meaning we are to forgive and forgive, without limit.
As Christians we follow our Great Shepherd, Jesus, and forgive not sometimes, but always.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who taught us to forgive.
Holy Forever – Chris Tomlin
Week 613
Forgiving and Forgiving
Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)
32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
I don’t know if this is true for everyone, but in my case I have a friend who is very hard to deal with at times. My friend will constantly skirt answers, massage what she means, and get quiet or not respond. It is very bothersome to me; it makes me upset, and sometimes when these conversations happen she will hang up the phone and go to sleep. This friend takes a toll on me, and she doesn’t seem to care even when it’s explained.
In tonight’s verse we come to the chapter of Ephesians 4:32:
“32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Many times when I was growing up, I saw that when Mom’s kids did something wrong, she would not let it go by. We would get talked to sternly. Mom would be upset with us, but even with that, she would eventually forgive us. Mom showed a kindness toward us that helped us grow.
In the verse tonight, Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus that they should be kind and forgiving to one another, reminding us that we are forgiven by God through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. As Christians, even when we find it hard to forgive someone, we must remind ourselves that we need to forgive because of Christ’s sacrifice.
Jesus told Peter to forgive seventy-seven times (Matthew 18:21–23), meaning we are to forgive and forgive, without limit.
As Christians we follow our Great Shepherd, Jesus, and forgive not sometimes, but always.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who taught us to forgive.
Holy Forever – Chris Tomlin
October 22, 2025
Week 615
Sincerity and Integrity
Titus 2:6-8 (NIV)
6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
I’ve been meeting a few people since the start of the year, and many of them are nice. I met one person for coffee and then lunch on another occasion. Both times, I didn’t feel completely comfortable with her. This past week, I thought more deeply about things and realized it might be better not to continue hanging out if I wasn’t interested in anything more than a friendship. In tonight’s verse, we come to the words of Titus 2:6–8:
"6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."
When I was younger, my mom didn’t want me to meet anyone for a relationship. I think it was because she was a bit overprotective. As I got older, she began to let go a little more. What I slowly started to learn, however, was that Mom wanted me to mature and become a “good guy” for someone.
So, with this person, since I didn’t see anything beyond friendship, I decided to tell her in a way that was sincere and maintained both her integrity and mine. I told her that if she still wanted to talk, text, or hang out, we could. At first, she was receptive, but as the conversation went on, she wasn’t and ultimately closed the door on any kind of friendship.
Following the example laid out in Titus is important to know and understand. It specifically calls on men to operate with sincerity and integrity. Though this can be difficult at times, I know this is how I’m called to be—by God’s grace—in every area of life, not just in this one.
Be Blessed
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who reminds us of His moral compass.
Lord, I'm Afraid of the Future but My Hope is in You | A Song about Trusting God in Uncertain Times
Week 615
Sincerity and Integrity
Titus 2:6-8 (NIV)
6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
I’ve been meeting a few people since the start of the year, and many of them are nice. I met one person for coffee and then lunch on another occasion. Both times, I didn’t feel completely comfortable with her. This past week, I thought more deeply about things and realized it might be better not to continue hanging out if I wasn’t interested in anything more than a friendship. In tonight’s verse, we come to the words of Titus 2:6–8:
"6 Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. 7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."
When I was younger, my mom didn’t want me to meet anyone for a relationship. I think it was because she was a bit overprotective. As I got older, she began to let go a little more. What I slowly started to learn, however, was that Mom wanted me to mature and become a “good guy” for someone.
So, with this person, since I didn’t see anything beyond friendship, I decided to tell her in a way that was sincere and maintained both her integrity and mine. I told her that if she still wanted to talk, text, or hang out, we could. At first, she was receptive, but as the conversation went on, she wasn’t and ultimately closed the door on any kind of friendship.
Following the example laid out in Titus is important to know and understand. It specifically calls on men to operate with sincerity and integrity. Though this can be difficult at times, I know this is how I’m called to be—by God’s grace—in every area of life, not just in this one.
Be Blessed
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who reminds us of His moral compass.
Lord, I'm Afraid of the Future but My Hope is in You | A Song about Trusting God in Uncertain Times
October 29, 2025
Week 616
Kindness To All
Matthew 7:12
12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Every year I like to hire an HVAC person to come and check out the furnace and AC (depending on what months we are in), and this year I did just that for the winter months. Additionally, I needed to hire someone to paint the deck as well, so I hired someone for that. I've learned to always be polite and cordial to people, regardless of who they are—and in these two cases, I was.
However, in both situations, it turned out that parts of the furnace needed to be replaced, and with the deck, the person did not do what they said they would do. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of Matthew 7:12:
"12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
My mom taught me—by actions—to be nice to everyone, to a degree. I know in Mom's later years she would enjoy when people came to the house to repair things; she enjoyed talking with them. I know this because after Mom passed, I recall a service person coming to the house who remembered her and even asked about "the woman of the house." It was a good thing for me to hear, as I realized how Mom's kindness made an impact.
In the situations I described, regardless of the results—parts needing to be replaced and the person painting the deck—I was kind to them. However, it's unfortunate that in some circumstances this kindness can be taken advantage of. Next week we'll discuss this in detail.
For now, we as Christians must show kindness to others in all circumstances—whether they are our friends, strangers, or anyone else. We show Christ's love to others, and ultimately our hope is that through our fruits they will know Jesus (Matthew 7:15–20).
Be Blessed.
Love you Mom, and I love you Lord.
Home with the One who first showed us Kindness
Charity Gayle – I Speak Jesus (feat. Steven Musso) [Live]
Week 616
Kindness To All
Matthew 7:12
12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Every year I like to hire an HVAC person to come and check out the furnace and AC (depending on what months we are in), and this year I did just that for the winter months. Additionally, I needed to hire someone to paint the deck as well, so I hired someone for that. I've learned to always be polite and cordial to people, regardless of who they are—and in these two cases, I was.
However, in both situations, it turned out that parts of the furnace needed to be replaced, and with the deck, the person did not do what they said they would do. In tonight's verse, we come to the pages of Matthew 7:12:
"12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
My mom taught me—by actions—to be nice to everyone, to a degree. I know in Mom's later years she would enjoy when people came to the house to repair things; she enjoyed talking with them. I know this because after Mom passed, I recall a service person coming to the house who remembered her and even asked about "the woman of the house." It was a good thing for me to hear, as I realized how Mom's kindness made an impact.
In the situations I described, regardless of the results—parts needing to be replaced and the person painting the deck—I was kind to them. However, it's unfortunate that in some circumstances this kindness can be taken advantage of. Next week we'll discuss this in detail.
For now, we as Christians must show kindness to others in all circumstances—whether they are our friends, strangers, or anyone else. We show Christ's love to others, and ultimately our hope is that through our fruits they will know Jesus (Matthew 7:15–20).
Be Blessed.
Love you Mom, and I love you Lord.
Home with the One who first showed us Kindness
Charity Gayle – I Speak Jesus (feat. Steven Musso) [Live]
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November 5, 2025
Week 617
Kindness Taken for Granted
Ephesians 4:32
32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Last week we discussed being kind to all. This week, we'll talk about how we should respond when that kindness is taken advantage of practically. As I mentioned last week, I had a contractor come out to do some work I needed done. It involved replacing a deck, and I truly felt he took advantage of the fact that I was kind to him.
I asked him to replace 20 boards, power wash, paint two decks, and patch what he could. Nevertheless, he didn’t do the exact work we agreed on—he replaced only one board and still charged me the agreed-upon price.
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of Ephesians 4:32:
"32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
When I was younger, my mom showed kindness to a neighbor. When they had a baby, Mom went over to their house with clothes. The couple decided that was a good opportunity to tell her that our dog barked too much and asked if she could keep the dog quiet. Mom said “OK,” came home, and told me she felt bad about it. As time went on, I noticed she didn’t hold any grudges against them.
For myself, I’m choosing to let go of what happened with that contractor. I will still confront him about it, but in my heart, I have already forgiven him.
We as Christians should remember that when we are taken advantage of, our first response should be to forgive—even though it isn’t easy. Forgiveness doesn’t mean we ignore the situation or avoid seeking answers. We can and should address it, because even in doing so, we can share lessons with the other party—in this case, the contractor. Seeking restitution or recovery of funds, if you feel led to do so, isn’t wrong.
What I am saying is that the first thought for a believer when their kindness is taken advantage of should be to forgive.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who forgave us first.
🎵 TobyMac - Cornerstone ft. Zach Williams
Week 617
Kindness Taken for Granted
Ephesians 4:32
32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Last week we discussed being kind to all. This week, we'll talk about how we should respond when that kindness is taken advantage of practically. As I mentioned last week, I had a contractor come out to do some work I needed done. It involved replacing a deck, and I truly felt he took advantage of the fact that I was kind to him.
I asked him to replace 20 boards, power wash, paint two decks, and patch what he could. Nevertheless, he didn’t do the exact work we agreed on—he replaced only one board and still charged me the agreed-upon price.
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of Ephesians 4:32:
"32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."
When I was younger, my mom showed kindness to a neighbor. When they had a baby, Mom went over to their house with clothes. The couple decided that was a good opportunity to tell her that our dog barked too much and asked if she could keep the dog quiet. Mom said “OK,” came home, and told me she felt bad about it. As time went on, I noticed she didn’t hold any grudges against them.
For myself, I’m choosing to let go of what happened with that contractor. I will still confront him about it, but in my heart, I have already forgiven him.
We as Christians should remember that when we are taken advantage of, our first response should be to forgive—even though it isn’t easy. Forgiveness doesn’t mean we ignore the situation or avoid seeking answers. We can and should address it, because even in doing so, we can share lessons with the other party—in this case, the contractor. Seeking restitution or recovery of funds, if you feel led to do so, isn’t wrong.
What I am saying is that the first thought for a believer when their kindness is taken advantage of should be to forgive.
Be blessed.
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who forgave us first.
🎵 TobyMac - Cornerstone ft. Zach Williams
November 12, 2025
Week 618
Discernment
Acts 17:11
Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
I started visiting another church over the last few weeks. It’s been a good and interesting experience so far. One of the reasons I began attending a new church is because I’ve been looking for in-person fellowship with other believers.
One of the things I’ve always felt the Lord placed on my heart is a love for truth. As I studied God’s Word, I began to understand more about Apologetics—the discipline of giving a “reason” for belief in Jesus, as found in 1 Peter 3:15.
As I sat in this new church, I found myself not agreeing with the pastor on a number of subjects. One situation that caught my attention was when the pastor said he gave money to someone in need but then added that if the person used it for anything other than what was requested, “may it be a curse upon you.”
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of Acts 17:11:
"Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true."
When I was growing up, Mom took us to revival meetings at partner churches. One thing I noticed was that these revivals often felt like “parties” or big events. I don’t recall every detail, but I do remember people speaking in “tongues.” Years later, after Mom passed, I began revisiting those memories. As I studied more, I realized that many of those gatherings were not Christ-centered or Biblically supported.
The reason I understand that better now is because I learned about discernment. God teaches us to be discerning in the book of Acts. Paul visited a place called Berea, located near Thessalonica, and the Jews there were known as the Berean Jews. The Bible describes them as being noble in character because they searched the Scriptures day and night to test whether what Paul said was true.
This is important because today you and I might think, “Well, that’s Paul—he met Jesus on the road to Damascus and became a follower of Christ.” But back then, not much was known about Paul to these Bereans. So they sought the Spirit of discernment.
When I test what that pastor taught about misusing gifts and placing a curse on someone in light of Scripture, it falls apart. The Bible does not support this (Luke 6:30).
As Christians, we must always be discerning. Many people are not truly called to preach—but we are all called to use discernment and test what someone says or does in light of Scripture.
So always test your pastors (and everyone) and hold them accountable to the Word of God.
Be Blessed
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who teaches us to use Discernment
🎵 Shane & Shane – “’Tis So Sweet”
Week 618
Discernment
Acts 17:11
Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.
I started visiting another church over the last few weeks. It’s been a good and interesting experience so far. One of the reasons I began attending a new church is because I’ve been looking for in-person fellowship with other believers.
One of the things I’ve always felt the Lord placed on my heart is a love for truth. As I studied God’s Word, I began to understand more about Apologetics—the discipline of giving a “reason” for belief in Jesus, as found in 1 Peter 3:15.
As I sat in this new church, I found myself not agreeing with the pastor on a number of subjects. One situation that caught my attention was when the pastor said he gave money to someone in need but then added that if the person used it for anything other than what was requested, “may it be a curse upon you.”
In tonight’s verse, we come to the pages of Acts 17:11:
"Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true."
When I was growing up, Mom took us to revival meetings at partner churches. One thing I noticed was that these revivals often felt like “parties” or big events. I don’t recall every detail, but I do remember people speaking in “tongues.” Years later, after Mom passed, I began revisiting those memories. As I studied more, I realized that many of those gatherings were not Christ-centered or Biblically supported.
The reason I understand that better now is because I learned about discernment. God teaches us to be discerning in the book of Acts. Paul visited a place called Berea, located near Thessalonica, and the Jews there were known as the Berean Jews. The Bible describes them as being noble in character because they searched the Scriptures day and night to test whether what Paul said was true.
This is important because today you and I might think, “Well, that’s Paul—he met Jesus on the road to Damascus and became a follower of Christ.” But back then, not much was known about Paul to these Bereans. So they sought the Spirit of discernment.
When I test what that pastor taught about misusing gifts and placing a curse on someone in light of Scripture, it falls apart. The Bible does not support this (Luke 6:30).
As Christians, we must always be discerning. Many people are not truly called to preach—but we are all called to use discernment and test what someone says or does in light of Scripture.
So always test your pastors (and everyone) and hold them accountable to the Word of God.
Be Blessed
Love you, Mom, and I love You, Lord.
Home with the One who teaches us to use Discernment
🎵 Shane & Shane – “’Tis So Sweet”
November 19, 2025
Week 619
Being Determined
Isaiah 41:10
10 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
The Source of Our Determination
About a month ago, I was at the gym, and I would always see this kid there who is in a wheelchair. I would always see him wearing a Christian t-shirt. I had seen him in the past, and on this occasion I went up to him and asked him if he was a Christian. He said he was. We talked a bit and then we parted. Over the past month, I started to get to know him. Today I found out more details, and the one thing that stood out to me was his determination to get to the gym every day and work out.
In tonight's verse we come to the pages of Isaiah 41:10:
10 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Growing up with my mom, I have seen so much that she was determined to do. For one, she would pull a buggy (a shopping cart) to the store just to buy us groceries, and then come back home. As I am older now, I think about it a lot. My mom did what she needed to do to take care of us.
This determination I recognize in others, but what strikes me the most is when someone is in the middle of a struggle and still praises God. This friend of mine at the gym has shown this in his life so far.
In the middle of the storms that God allows us to go through, our determination is not from ourselves. As Isaiah wrote, we are not to fear because our Heavenly Father takes care of us. He is the one who strengthens us, He is the one who helps us, and He is the one who holds us up.
As Christians, when you find yourself in the middle of the storm, remember who is in there with you!
Be blessed.
Love you mom, and I love You Lord.
Home with the One Who is with us and Who strengthens, helps, and upholds us.
Casting Crowns – “Praise You In This Storm” (live)
Week 619
Being Determined
Isaiah 41:10
10 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
The Source of Our Determination
About a month ago, I was at the gym, and I would always see this kid there who is in a wheelchair. I would always see him wearing a Christian t-shirt. I had seen him in the past, and on this occasion I went up to him and asked him if he was a Christian. He said he was. We talked a bit and then we parted. Over the past month, I started to get to know him. Today I found out more details, and the one thing that stood out to me was his determination to get to the gym every day and work out.
In tonight's verse we come to the pages of Isaiah 41:10:
10 So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Growing up with my mom, I have seen so much that she was determined to do. For one, she would pull a buggy (a shopping cart) to the store just to buy us groceries, and then come back home. As I am older now, I think about it a lot. My mom did what she needed to do to take care of us.
This determination I recognize in others, but what strikes me the most is when someone is in the middle of a struggle and still praises God. This friend of mine at the gym has shown this in his life so far.
In the middle of the storms that God allows us to go through, our determination is not from ourselves. As Isaiah wrote, we are not to fear because our Heavenly Father takes care of us. He is the one who strengthens us, He is the one who helps us, and He is the one who holds us up.
As Christians, when you find yourself in the middle of the storm, remember who is in there with you!
Be blessed.
Love you mom, and I love You Lord.
Home with the One Who is with us and Who strengthens, helps, and upholds us.
Casting Crowns – “Praise You In This Storm” (live)
November 26, 2025
Week 620
Being Determined
1 Corinthians 13:4
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
Being Patient
Recently I had a meeting with someone who I have been texting and talking to a lot on the phone. After the meeting things looked positive, then suddenly it seemed like a “game.” As I started thinking about this, and about this week's writing, something I feel the Lord leading me to think about is being patient.
In tonight's verse we come to the pages of 1 Corinthians 13:4:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
Growing up I recall a time when I wanted a new gaming system, the Nintendo NES. I was excited. We did not have a lot, but my mom was able to give us $50 for the summer and $50 for Christmas. I asked Mom to save it so that I could get the gaming system for Christmas. When we finally had the money saved, I went to Toys “R” Us with my mom, only to find out that the Nintendo system was sold out. With that, I had to wait months and months until one day the manager of the store called my mom and said they had it in stock.
This was one of my first memorable experiences of learning to be patient.
One of the things I believe the Lord is opening my mind and heart to is being patient in all things, and this current situation is an example of both.
As Christians, whenever we are experiencing something, the most important thing to ask ourselves is, “What is the Lord trying to show me through this ____ (fill in the blank)?”
The Lord is sovereign over all things, including our interactions with others. Seek Him for answers.
Be Blessed.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who teaches us Patience.
I Have Decided To Follow Jesus - Ximdrake Asidor | THE ASIDORS
Week 620
Being Determined
1 Corinthians 13:4
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
Being Patient
Recently I had a meeting with someone who I have been texting and talking to a lot on the phone. After the meeting things looked positive, then suddenly it seemed like a “game.” As I started thinking about this, and about this week's writing, something I feel the Lord leading me to think about is being patient.
In tonight's verse we come to the pages of 1 Corinthians 13:4:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
Growing up I recall a time when I wanted a new gaming system, the Nintendo NES. I was excited. We did not have a lot, but my mom was able to give us $50 for the summer and $50 for Christmas. I asked Mom to save it so that I could get the gaming system for Christmas. When we finally had the money saved, I went to Toys “R” Us with my mom, only to find out that the Nintendo system was sold out. With that, I had to wait months and months until one day the manager of the store called my mom and said they had it in stock.
This was one of my first memorable experiences of learning to be patient.
One of the things I believe the Lord is opening my mind and heart to is being patient in all things, and this current situation is an example of both.
As Christians, whenever we are experiencing something, the most important thing to ask ourselves is, “What is the Lord trying to show me through this ____ (fill in the blank)?”
The Lord is sovereign over all things, including our interactions with others. Seek Him for answers.
Be Blessed.
Love you Mom, and I love you, Lord.
Home with the One who teaches us Patience.
I Have Decided To Follow Jesus - Ximdrake Asidor | THE ASIDORS
