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It’s Okay to Be Real: God Meets Us in Our Weakness

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  Listen, so many of us feel like we can’t be real. We feel like we can’t be vulnerable. Especially when you’re in ministry, there’s this unspoken pressure to always be strong, to always “show up” with a smile, and to give the appearance that everything is fine. But the truth is, sometimes everything isn’t fine. If I can be honest with you, the last couple of weeks have been hard for me to “show up” and act like everything is together when, in reality, it isn’t. Before this past Sunday, I was showing up—but I was doing so out of  obligation , not from a heart that was fully engaged with God. I felt bruised, battered, and spiritually worn down. I’ve been pouring and pouring into others without taking the time to be poured into myself. My time with God has been shorter, quieter, and less intentional than usual, and because of that, I felt so far away from Him. Yet, I kept “showing up.” But here’s what God is teaching me:  you don’t always have to show up at your best. ...

Seeking Wisdom: The Promise of Proverbs 2:1-9

  “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones. Then you will understand what is just and right and fair—every good path.” — Proverbs 2:1-9 (NIV) In a world overflowing with information, true wisdom is a rare and precious treasure. Proverbs 2:1-9 offers a timeless guide for those who seek not just knowledge, but the deep, life-giving wisdom that comes from God. This passage invites us to pursue wisdom with intention, promising t...

Embracing God's Promise in Isaiah 43:18-19

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  “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” — Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) Life often feels like a series of chapters, some filled with joy, others marked by pain or regret. We tend to carry the weight of our past—mistakes, losses, or even successes that define us. Yet, in Isaiah 43:18-19, God offers a powerful invitation: to let go of what was and embrace what He is doing now. This passage, spoken to the Israelites in exile, resonates with us today, offering hope and a fresh perspective on God’s transformative work in our lives. Letting Go of the Past God’s command to “forget the former things” isn’t about erasing memories or denying our experiences. Instead, it’s a call to release the grip that the past has on us. For the Israelites, this meant not being defined by their captivity or their failures. For us, it might mean letting go of guil...

Relying on the Holy Spirit: The Mark of a True Disciple

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The final and perhaps most vital characteristic of a true disciple of Christ is a complete reliance on the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised His disciples that the Holy Spirit would be their teacher, helper, and guide, equipping them to live out their faith and fulfill His mission. As followers of Christ, we are not left to walk this journey alone. The Holy Spirit empowers us, transforms us, and gives us the wisdom and strength we need to live as true disciples. The Role of the Holy Spirit in a Disciple’s Life When Jesus prepared to leave His disciples, He reassured them that they would not be abandoned. He said: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives is essential. He works in us and through us, helping us to grow in Christlikeness and fulfill the Great Commission. Attributes of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit ...

Determination to Fulfill the Great Commission: A Disciple’s Mission

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As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to live with unwavering determination to fulfill the Great Commission—to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). This mission is not an optional part of our faith; it is a command from Jesus Himself. To carry it out requires commitment, courage, and a steadfast determination to follow through, even when it’s difficult. Jesus Christ modeled this determination perfectly. He was resolute in His mission to redeem humanity, fully aware of the pain and sacrifice it would cost Him. He set His face toward Jerusalem, knowing the cross awaited Him, yet He never wavered. His love for us fueled His determination, and His example inspires us to stay committed to the calling He has given us. Jesus’ Determination: A Perfect Example Jesus’ journey to the cross was marked by unwavering focus. Despite opposition, betrayal, and unimaginable suffering, He remained steadfast in His mission to save the world: “As the time approached...