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“Who do you say I am?”

Scriptural Readings: Genesis 1:1, Genesis 21:5-6, John 19:30, Matthew 6:10

In today’s world, everything comes with a warranty or guarantee. But what do these contracts mean, and how do they work? Are they necessary in modern lives where security is a top priority? When choosing a reliable and high-quality guarantee, how do we make the right choice? It may seem a simple issue, but have we considered the full significance of these seemingly basic assurances?

But what most of us know is that these written guarantees might expire. Occasionally, some companies offer a lifetime guarantee on their products, only to fold, leaving them useless. But what about emotions and things we cannot see but feel? Can we guarantee them? There will be, for sure, grey areas for most of us, and this tells us to depend on something or someone. It highlights the importance of relying on something or someone that will never let us down, as guarantees in life can be unreliable.

Is there anything else that can shake the foundation, question the core of our faith, or the unshakeable foundation God has laid? It is when the unimaginable confronts us. The moment second thoughts knock on our minds and hearts, causing us to make extreme changes about our faith, confusion settles in a flash. This confusion ridicules our God-loving loyalty.

Reality and truth.

The truth in everything will reveal itself no matter how diligently people mask it with lies. What is certain is that nothing can remain hidden forever. Our relationship with God is evidence. We have a two-way relationship, not a one-way relationship. It informs us of a living, compassionate God who provides us with objectives to accomplish. It contrasts with our feeble strategies and vain, fruitless attempts to impress Him by following a string of rules and laws.

Genesis 1:1

King James Version

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

The New Living Translation

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

” In the beginning…

Re’shiyth is the Hebrew word for beginning. It means and could be defined as being on top, for example, a mountaintop. It could also refer to who is at the front, like in a race. It could also imply the highest rank. For many of us, it means the beginning. What is the point? Are we about to join a bandwagon of people who want to argue about what the first verse in the Bible is? ” In the beginning… What about it?” If something starts or begins, it must have a purpose to accomplish before it ends. These days, we are more concerned about who is right or wrong when interpreting God’s words. Whoever wins gets more church memberships. People do not value what is more consequential, God’s divine purpose.

Revelation 21:5-6

King James Version

v.5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

v.6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

The New Living Translation

v.5 And the one sitting on the throne said, “Look, I am making everything new!” And then he said to me, “Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.”

v.6 And he also said, “It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.

“The beginning and the end.”

As humans, we know everything has a beginning and an end. However, we tend to overlook what happens in between. It’s crucial to question ourselves about God’s purpose for us and whether we are fulfilling or failing it. While we know why Jesus was here and will return, we often struggle with how to lead our lives. Finding our divine purpose remains a challenge for many of us.

John 19:30

King James Version

v.30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.

The New Living Translation

v.30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

It’s finished.

It’s finished. When Jesus uttered these words, God completed His divine plan of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. It made the covenant He promised us unconditionally. His death on the cross satisfied God’s justice and fulfilled His promises to us. It also means that salvation does not exist except through His atoning death on the cross at Calvary. It does not end here. The end is just the start of an exciting beginning. It allows us to have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ and be reconciled to Him unconditionally, giving us access to heavenly blessings.

Matthew 6:10

King James Version

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as [it is] in heaven.

The New Living Translation

May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth,

  as it is in heaven.

“Your will be done…

At the moment, whether our actions are of our own free will or God’s divine will is a longstanding contention. Regardless, God has a plan for us. The military proverb, “Obey first before complaining,” begs the question – do we question our faith, or does this saying hold truth? As humans, we’re constantly asking endless questions. If God asked us, “Who do you say I am?” What would our response be?

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Acknowledgement and notification

Scriptural Readings: I Corinthians 10:13, James 4:7-8 

Notifications. How compelling are they? Have we uncovered its heart? How do we receive notifications? Do we get our messages through traditional methods, like talking face-to-face or sending letters? Or modern means, such as text messages and social media posts? We now live in a world filled with notifications in various forms. We must decide what we want to receive and how.

I Corinthians 10:13 

King James Version

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].

New Living Translation

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

James 4:7

King James Version

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

New Living Translation

So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Flee from the devil.

One thing leads to another. One of the many reactions we experience after realizing sin has engulfed us. And we now face hopeless circumstances. An old problem since the world began. It always starts with temptation. Temptation is often the first step in a chain of events that can spiral out of control fast. The urge to succumb to temptation can be powerful. And if one does, one might spiral into sin and sorrow. This cycle has existed throughout history. And the devil will not stop. He planned to search and destroy. He will continue to do what he loves: steal, kill, and destroy. We draw the line from here. God is omnipresent. Help and blessings are always on their way. One thing the devil cannot stop.

How can we flee the devil? Most Christians need answers to these unanswerable and universal questions. We must not back out but turn to the Bible and prayer for strength and guidance. Relying on our faith and the power coming from God, we can resist schemes and overcome temptation. God has already made his point, escape. And we have to act. We must first determine what brought us to this place, where we never intended to be. Correct? There must be a way to avoid such a place. Conviction, yes, the Holy Spirit never stops convicting us. We can feel the Holy Spirit’s call to holiness, yet many ignore it, leading us astray. To accomplish what God has shown us, we must do our part. If we do not act, destruction will follow. God did the unthinkable by giving us a way to escape, and we must do our part, the easiest part, to get out.

James 4:8

King James Version

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.

New Living Translation

Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.

Draw near to Him.

He is doing a tremendous job.

The Holy Spirit convicts and instructs us. It may sound like a cliché, but most Christians are neglectful. Isn’t it true that we must draw near to Him, and He will draw near to us? The Holy Spirit indwells in us, and yet we ignore Him. Right? What do we do with useless things? We throw them away. Decluttering. Correct? We never regret giving away things we do not use. Moreso, we were glad we did it. From time to time, we consider it rubbish. We do this to the Holy Spirit when conviction and instruction become meaningless and useless. When was the last time we paid attention to the Holy Spirit? This question answers what, where, and how we are today. 

When we disregard the Holy Spirit, we risk losing its power and existence. When we ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit, we cannot receive divine guidance. We can become complacent and apathetic towards spiritual gifts and miss out on growth and transformation. If we do not listen to the Holy Spirit, we will be off track and disconnected from our faith. The way to enjoy the full benefits of a relationship with God is to heed the Holy Spirit.

God has never left us, nor will He leave us in any situation. We keep running away from Him. We are more inclined to believe in evil than to accept His blessings. Evil will fill this world in the future. The Holy Spirit reveals truth with a distinctness no one matches. When it becomes unbearable, we should pray with a deep sense of faith and conviction, without a single iota of doubt. Draw near to Him. He will come near you, and the devil will flee. A divine assurance we should have claimed at the beginning of the temptation. 

It is undeniable that the Holy Spirit is available 24/7. It is up to us to acknowledge His notification. By claiming the promise of the Holy Spirit and listening to Him, we can overcome evil and live in His grace. When we pray in faith and draw near to God, we can resist temptations with assurance. It will keep our hearts and minds safe from evil. God will help us endure and remain faithful even in difficult circumstances by assuring us of His presence. With this assurance, we can trust He will help us overcome temptation and live in His will.

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To sin or not to sin.

Scriptural Readings:

Matthew 13:15, Romans 7:15-20

Sin. What should we ask ourselves with this word? The questions will never end. With so many things to worry about, dealing with wickedness appeared to be another minor thing to consider. We have become so used to sin that we hardly recognize it as a danger to our well-being. And many of us do not even realize how influential it has been in our lives. Some of us have become desensitized to these evil acts and their aftermath. However, the real pitfall of sin lies not only in the actions themselves but in the lasting consequences that result from them.

It is imperative to remember that it is a severe spiritual problem. These activities, such as pornography and addiction, are so familiar that we have become accustomed to them. Slipping into a sense of complacency from these habits can make it difficult to break away and face the harsh reality. And the unfortunate part is that we do not recognize the long-term harm they can cause physically, mentally, and spiritually. This sinful world drags us down to hell.

When we embrace Jesus as our Lord and Savior, He forgives us for our sins and sets us free. Sin and sins are different. Sin is the root, and sins are the products. We should acknowledge that the old man, the sinful system, is removed from us. This system should no longer operate. And it should never be available in the future. God always gives us a chance to escape temptation. It is a truth, but the sad thing is that we still choose and do what is against God. It is a fact today for some Christians.

We have two things to know and consider. First, we are not God the Creator, but creations, and therefore can sin. If we see sin as a minor thing to worry about, we are obviously and grievously mistaken. We will ignore the Holy Spirit’s conviction. Second, the last days of the church age are deceiving. People mistakenly assume that their actions are God’s will when, in fact, it pushes them away from Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to understand our limitations as human beings and to be mindful of the deceptive nature of sin as it pertains to spiritual prosperity.

King James Version

Matthew 13:15

For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and [their] ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and should understand with [their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

New Living Translation

For the hearts of these people are hardened,

and their ears cannot hear,

and they have closed their eyes—

so their eyes cannot see,

and their ears cannot hear,

and their hearts cannot understand,

and they cannot turn to me

and let me heal them.’

Our acts are ‌prone to sin forever, blinding us to the truth. We are inclined ‌to believe all ‌the evils of lying, justifying their works through fleshly desires, leading us to damnation. Constantly pursuing fleshly desires creates a foundation for wicked plans, protecting our evil inclinations. Instead of listening to the Holy Spirit’s convictions, we become numb to its message. Ultimately, turning away from God will keep us from receiving his love and forgiveness, resulting in spiritual death forever.

Faith and grace in God are our sustenance, and disconnection from Him is fatal to our holy life. Everything is tragic because we have lived, continue, and will live this way. Unfortunately, we are often so wrapped up in our day-to-day lives that we do not acknowledge the importance of our connection with God, which can ultimately lead to spiritual death. Faithless in God prevents humans from being graced with His grace and mercy, leading to eternal spiritual death. It is when you hate God and won’t do what He wants.

King James Version

v.15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

v.16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that [it is] good.

v.17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

v.18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.

v.19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.

v.20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

New Living Translation

v.15 I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.

v.16 But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good.

v.17 So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

v.18 And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.

v.19 I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.

v.20 But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

Are we getting convictions?

This word will nail us down. As it strips us, it exposes our wicked intentions and evil nature. Without this word, our ungodly schemes would remain hidden, and our corrupt nature would remain unchecked. We ignore it effortlessly and happily, if not regularly. We are so eager to falsify, which is pure and divine, to fit our schemes and desires, far from pleasing God. And when this word works in us, we can no longer hide, revealing all our actions and intentions. Conviction is inevitable and not just an unwanted feeling to ignore. Trying to evade it by giving it a different meaning will not justify our actions.

Every day is the most meaningful battle we face. A time will come when we will have to decide for a split second only to find out we committed a mistake. Thinking is essential to making the right decision. It doesn’t matter how small or insignificant it is. While humans make mistakes, God has provided provisions. By listening to what God tells us, we can avert ‌evil. The Holy Spirit’s voice is powerful and inescapable.

And finally.

True to His words, Jesus promised He would never leave us by sending the Holy‌ Spirit. He had unlimited sources for solutions. God fulfills His promises as He always does. How about our part? Are we going continuously to sin or not? The only way to travel by water is by sea vessels. The only change that will make sense is a change done by God.

If there is one thing in the present that we think will change us, we have to think again unless it is that God is changing us today. God doesn’t change. He wants us to change to know its spiritual meaning. Remember we have options. It is exactly what He wants us to change. If we are Christians, it has to be from better to best.

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Looking for a place to live?

Scriptural Readings: 

Mt 10:7, Psalm 90:1, Matthew 6:10.

In terms of kingdoms, the conclusion may be physical or spiritual. There are countries considered kingdoms that exist today. With a counterpart, the spiritual is another matter to consider. The two empires ran differently, and not all understood how they worked. Does it make sense to look deeper? Is a more in-depth study necessary?

We know a kingdom is a place. But our knowledge and curiosity should not end at this precept. We can gain more from what we understand. Now, consider settling there permanently, spiritually, or physically. It will guide us.

Matthew 10:7

King James Version

v.7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

New Living Translation

v.7 Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near.

According to Jesus Christ, when Pontius Pilate asked where His domain was, His answer was not from this world. Think about it. Instead, He points to the Heavenly Kingdom, emphasizing that it is there, not here, where He truly reigns. The scriptures say the kingdom is at hand. As an analogy, for those individuals looking for a place to live, put another way, it is ready for occupancy. But why is it necessary to take time to consider this place? All we have to do is grab it. Correct? Precisely!

God desires us to comprehend the spiritual significance of His kingdom. The infinite love of our Father for us is the basis, not the physical components we used to grasp. The English term live can refer to a home in a specific location, as we once thought. By accepting the love and grace of our God, the English word live can now mean living a spiritual life. To fully grasp the meaning and then appreciate the spiritual significance of the kingdom of God, it is necessary to consider it. God wants us to know how we are in His kingdom. To further understand the power and potential of the kingdom of God, we must draw on His love and grace. It will enable us to enjoy this spiritual life to the fullest.

Psalm 90:1

King James Version

v.1 Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations.

New Living Translation

v.7 Lord, through all the generations

you have been our home!

It is mind-blowing to realize that the English word place in this verse could be a verb, not a noun. The English term place can mean a physical location, an emotional state, or a spiritual realm. It is a fascinating concept that speaks to the complexity of the language used in this verse. Now. Let us dig deeper. In Hebrew, the word place is ma`own (maw-ohn’); an abode either of God (the Tabernacle or the Temple), men (their home) or animals (their lair); hence, a retreat (or asylum): habitation (-) place habitation. However, the same, and another Hebrew word, `ownah (o-naw’), this time from an unused root apparently, means to dwell together. It speaks to the connection between God and us, filled with unconditional love.

Matthew 6:10

King James Version

v.10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as [it is] in heaven. 

New Living Translation

v.10 May your Kingdom come soon.

May your will be done on earth,

    as it is in heaven.

Thy kingdom come

Jesus wants it very clear that the kingdom of God, His infinite love and grace, is a grab away from us. Using this term, Jesus provides us with a shared home with God if we allow Him to enter our lives. It is possible through repentance and faith, which is the key to unlocking the door to the kingdom of heaven. Through this, we can receive His everlasting love and grace. The connection from God to Jesus Christ is a pathway, the only way for people to live a spiritual life full of joy.

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Undeniably… It is in us.


Scriptural Readings:    

Romans 3:10,12, II Timothy 1:13-14, Ephesians 6:10-11   

Knowing what is proper and reasonable is imperative. There are too many worthwhile choices to choose one. And so, we have to narrow our options until one remains. The same applies to our spiritual lives. It is an undaunting task.   

 Romans 3:10-12   

King James Version

v.10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

v.11 none understandeth, none seeketh after God.

v.12 They are all gone out of the way they are together become unprofitable; none doeth good, no, not one.

New Living Translation

v.10 As the Scriptures say,

“No one is righteous—

    not even one.

v.11 No one is truly wise;

    No one is seeking God. 

v.12 All have turned away;

    All have become useless.

No one does good,

    not a single one.

Several of us might ask ourselves: Have I done the right thing? Am I doing the right thing? Am I capable of doing what is morally correct in the future? Human nature is always the stumbling block that holds us back from progressing. We can be overly judgmental of ourselves, which results in us constantly questioning our decisions and doubting our abilities. It can lead to a destructive feeling of being stuck and unable to move onwards and the struggles of breaking free of this cycle.    

 We are sinners, that is true, but that does not mean we cannot practice morality. There is still goodness inside of us. He cautions us that no one is doing what is right, so we should consider the repercussions of our actions. The verse says we are more likely to do the wrong things.  

 II Timothy 1:13-14   

King James Version

v.13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

v.14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.

New Living Translation

v.13 Hold on to the pattern of wholesome teaching you have learned from me—a pattern shaped by the faith and love that you have in Christ Jesus.

v.14 Through the power of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard the precious truth that has been entrusted to you.

Can we see the holiness in us? Have we taken for granted our divine side? We are undoubtedly sinners, but God sees Jesus in us through the Holy Spirit. No matter how far we have strayed from God’s path, He still loves us and acknowledges the potential for goodness within us. The Holy Spirit guides us and helps us make the right decisions. Accepting His guidance, we can become who God intended us to be. We can do and still follow God’s will despite being imperfect.   

And so, we enter a spiritual war. And winning these battles is a daily struggle. It is not new for us. Choosing the right path can sometimes be tricky. Christians may not be experiencing Christian power in these difficult times, instead struggling with exhaustion from repeated losses in this spiritual battle, even in these difficult times. 

Ephesians 6:10-11   

King James Version

v.10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

New Living Translation

v.10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

And in the power of His might.    

Winning a war requires extraordinary might. This verse (v.10) reminds us of the power of Christ in us. It is incredibly essential to practice the strength given to us. Initially, let’s examine the Greek words to comprehend them more clearly. Starting with the English word Lord, or in this case, God is called kurios (koo’-ree-os). Two Greek words formed this word. First, kuriotes (koo-ree-ot’-ace) presents the idea of mastery or rulership. Originating from the Greek word kurios, examples being dominion or government. Second is kuroo (koo-ro’-o), from the same kurios, which means to grant authority to ratify or confirm. Now we know the power vested (kuroo) and endorsed in us by God through Jesus that we can master or rule in our lives (kuriotes). God empowers us to confront every battle in the spiritual war. It is undeniably in us. 

The evidence of the present crisis is unmistakable. The signs are all around us, pointing to the imminent coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Meanwhile, the enemy, now having a limited time, will do anything and everything to pull us back to him. 

King James Version

v.11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

New Living Translation

v.11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.

Wiles of the devil. 

In one dictionary, the meaning of wiles is devious or cunning stratagems employed in manipulating or persuading someone to do what one wants. But verse 11 tells us more. The word wiles in Greek is methodeia (meth-od-i’-ah), from a compound word of meta, a primary preposition (often used adverbially), and hodeuo (hod-yoo’-o), which means to travel or a journey. Also, the word hodeuo comes from the root word hodos (hod-os’), which means a way or a road. Metaphorically, a course of conduct, a method (i.e. manner) of thinking, feeling, and deciding. Hence, Christians do not observe manipulation and persuasion only. Instead, they consider this journey a trek through a maze of dishonesty and cunning in their spiritual lives. 

Broad is the way. 

Ways, roadways, and highways are invisible paths of truth that we travel in our spiritual lives. They are real. Life is a journey, many say. The road we travel reveals our destination in life. We are heading forward or backward, and that’s it. As a whole, we move forward, and some opt to retreat. We might get caught in the middle of this road, but we are still on it. And there is no way out. But never err in the choice of reversing. Heading backward offers a lot of fun broad ‌‌avenues (methodeia) leading straight to hell. 

The authentic way

John 14:6 used the Greek word hodos, meaning “way,” to describe Jesus as the only way to gain eternal life. Why? Because this is the root word. Compared to hodeuo (hod-yoo’-o), which only means to travel or a journey. This word resonates with a clear direction to heaven and salvation. The sound of people seeking redemption echoes through the ages, and ultimately, the answer lies in Jesus Christ. By embracing the grace of Jesus Christ, one can be redeemed and receive eternal ‌life. Alleluia!

Undeniably, it is in us. We have seen the only way and the ways to destruction. It is not about ‌what way, but the direction. It is up to us which way to go. Acceptance is the key. We either accept Jesus as our Savior and Lord and be born again or relentlessly follow the evil way and guarantee a spot in hell forever.


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Are you having a relationship?

Scriptural Readings:

Psalms 8:4, 144:3, Ephesians 4:24, Colossians 3:10, Romans 6:6,11,22.

Psalm 8:4

King James Version

v.4 What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visits him?

New Living Translation

v.4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,

human beings that you should care for them?

Psalm 144:3

King James Version

v.3 LORD, what [is] man, that thou takest knowledge of him! [or] the son of man, that thou makest account of him!

New Living Translation

v.3 O Lord, what are human beings that you should notice them, mere mortals that you should think about them?

Relationship. Have we perfected or moved closer to what this word means? Several people may say yes, calling it a glitch, but we still consider divorce a solution. Correct? Is it right to assume that despite our advances, divorce remains the only solution to a relationship that has ended wrong? We, as parents, are sometimes guilty of neglecting our children, causing them to resort to violence to get our attention. It is unmistakable in any way we see it.

It is inevitable to stay away from relationships. Relationships are an integral part of life. We are associated with one, even if we insist on not having one. Our conscience will affirm ‌this for us. Our relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and strangers help shape our identities and define who we are. We rely on these relationships to survive and thrive in life. Relationships are likened to oxygen; they are essential for life, but often we take them for granted. They help us grow and reach our full potential. Without them, life is incomplete. It is an integral part of our nature. The human body, including living things, must undergo a procedure to survive a relationship. If the method deteriorates, it will collapse.

Relationships need significant effort and commitment to be maintained and cultivated. If they are not taken care of, they can decline and fail, only to fall into disconnection, isolation, and loneliness. If the relationship falls apart, it will cease to exist. God knows what an unmistakable relationship is, which includes separations as well. The course of our lives depends on the relationships we have. Yet, we insist we have the answer to all of our problems, including divorce and abortion, and claim to be experts in handling human relationships.

Our God values relationships. Are there more particular reasons for having a plan of salvation if God never designed and scheduled a divine connection with us? So, our timetable of salvation is a divinely appointed and deeply valued lifeline. This plan of salvation allows us to connect with God personally. We understand his love for us in a way we cannot do without it. It helps us to understand that God cares greatly about our individual lives and wants us to have a deep relationship with him. It helps us live our lives aligned with God’s will.

Ephesians 4:24

King James Version

v.24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

New Living Translation

v.24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

Colossians 3:10

King James Version

v.10 And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

New Living Translation

v.10 Put on your new nature and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.

We view life as complicated because of the never-ending uncertainties. Facts abound in reality, and even confusing truths are precise. The volume of information we hold makes it challenging to make sense of it. Realities differ in how they apply to the condition. Even when the facts are plain and obvious, we can have anxiety about understanding the deeper meaning behind them suggested to us. Disagreements about its certainty may arise at other times. Our emotions raise issues that challenge our intellect. On top of what we have learned, we discuss something else. It changes our perceptions. Sometimes it relieves us of our anxieties or otherwise aggravates them. There must be an approach to making conditions less unbearable. We need guarantees to ‌free our minds and make what we believe unquestionable.

One of the main reasons we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, aside from salvation, is that He wants us to own His likeness. Are you willing to agree? If yes, why? Suppose we achieve what we desire by having His likeness? We are complete in our fallen state; if we have His likeness, are we not? What happens next?

A divine relationship ‌with our God is essential for accomplishing His perfect will, completing the course of the relationship, and giving Him back glory, honor, and praise. Thus, He wants us to put on a brand-new man, who is both fresh and most suitable for us since we were spiritually dead but old to God, in one sense.

God’s Spirit and ours.

Remember when God breathed His Spirit into us? After we became alive, our spirits died because of our original sin. By choosing to sin, we never listen to His will. We cannot connect with God because we are spiritually dead. Most of the time, we ignore the convictions of the Holy Spirit. We then continue to engage in pornography, have extramarital relationships, and so on.

What happened to the Spirit of God? The Spirit of God did not leave us. God’s Spirit is still with us and continues to call us to Him. He desires to bring us back to life and restore our relationship with Him. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are born again, and our spirits are restored. We are given the power to listen to God’s will and to make choices that bring us closer to Him.

Two Greek words will help us better understand our relationship with God when translated into English. The Greek word Neos (neh’-os) is a primary word meaning brand-new in English. The second word means freshness (kahee-no). When we look deeper at what it says to us, it gives us spiritual awareness. God renews our life and its freshness every day, but we never practice it. This is to remind us to take advantage of the gifts God has given us and not let them be put to waste. To further emphasize the importance of not letting God’s gifts be put to waste, we should take action and make the most of each day. By doing so, we can build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with Him. We can use this knowledge to live out our faith, drawing on God’s grace to create a life of purpose, renewal, and newness. Making the most of each day, living it to the fullest, and taking joy in the newness and freshness that comes with it.

Romans 6:6

King James Version

v.6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

New Living Translation

v.6 We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin

God said we must be dead to our sinful nature.

How will we consider the old man, who contains our sinful nature and fallen nature? To die in our former ways, we must rely on God’s strength and wisdom to overcome our carnal desires and temptations. The old man will be replaced by the new man, who is born of the Spirit, filled with righteousness, grace, and love. When we accept Jesus as our Savior, we are born again, and our spirits are restored.

This brand-new man reflects God’s character as loving, kind, and just. Reflecting on these characteristics, we affirm our commitment and, of course, our faith in His Word. It is how we can live a life of obedience, honoring Him and glorifying His name. We see this in action when we look at Jesus, the most exemplary example of a man who embodied God’s love, kindness, and justice. Demonstrated to us how to live a life of obedience and faith, and we can use that example to be more like Him.

Romans 6:11

King James Version

v.11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

New Living Translation

v.11 So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.

When we respond to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, we are drawn into a closer relationship with God and experience the abundant life He offers us. As a result, our lives are transformed and holy, and we reflect God’s love and grace. The truth of this issue will never be disputable. Therefore, our Father wants us to become reborn men. We were given the ability to surrender our lives to God and follow His will when we were born again. This will enable us to experience His love, grace, abundant life, and eternal life as well.

God’s relationship with us is the defining moment of happiness that no human emotion can capture, let alone describe. It means living an eternal life of pure, unfailing happiness. His love for us is unfailing and unconditional, and this unfailing love gives us the meaning of true happiness. Despite all the uncertainties, we always have hope. He gives us love and security despite our countless anxieties.

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Do not fool yourself.

Scriptural Readings:

Ephesians 5:15-18, Psalms 14:1, I Timothy 4:1-2
I Peter 1:16.

Believing is essential for everyone. Believe it or not, deciding is the most time-consuming part of our lives. We base our decisions on what is true. It is challenging for us to trust specific things easily. It is okay to disagree with what our eyes have seen, but not everyone. Life is loaded and packed with doubts. Facts and evidence are the only things that bridge doubt and unbelief.


Ephesians 5:15-18

King James Version

V.15 See then, that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,

New Living Translation

V.15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.

We live with truth and lies. We have to know these concepts. But for Christians, we are told to conduct ourselves wisely. How can we live wisely? And how can we keep ourselves sensible if we do not know the distinction between truth and lies? By not being a fool. We need to understand and differentiate between these two. But how do we know we are behaving foolishly?

The answer is straightforward: Total dependence on God should always be our answer. We only know some things. Without God’s will, we are more likely to make foolish decisions since we lack the proper foundation to make wise decisions.

King James Version

V.16 Redeeming the time because the days are evil.

V.17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding the will of the Lord [is]

V.18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

New Living Translation

V.16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.

V.17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

V.18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit,

Foolish conclusions are always available whenever and anywhere. There is a wide variety to choose from if we continue to sin. There are ways to avoid ridiculous conduct, and one is by learning and studying the word of God. When we know what God says with particular things, we can make wise decisions based on His truth. We can live sensibly and avoid unreasonable decisions and actions if we consider these God-given guidelines and follow them. Our understanding of His will differs from ours. We must inspect ourselves and evaluate our actions and decisions. It can help us improve our own lives and the lives of others. We also need to think critically and examine how we live spiritually. The Holy Spirit will confirm specifically what our Father wants, and we work on it without questions.

I Timothy 4:1-2

King James Version

V.1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

V.2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

New Living Translation

V.1
Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.

V.2
These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead.

Most of us who profess to be believers in Jesus Christ don’t admit that we are not entirely putting our trust and faith in Him. We might profess our faith in God but rarely accept that we ultimately rely on Him. On this basis, few of us continue to sin willfully. It is the same as living without the comforting presence of God. Making Jesus’ death and suffering on our behalf meaningless is a sad truth that is becoming more and more visible with each passing day.


Psalms 14:1

King James Version

To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David.
The fool hath said in his heart, [There is] no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good.

New Living Translation

Only fools say in their hearts,
“There is no God.”
They are corrupt, and their actions are evil;
not one of them does good!

Faith. It connects our body, soul, and spirit. Without it, we cannot see God and develop a relationship with Him. By expressing our faithfulness and trust in Him, our spiritual needs are given and taken care of by God as we enter the spiritual realm.
Having no faith in God is evil in its entirety. Evil begins in the heart, and when our minds agree, it leads to corruption. Corruption is nothing but faithlessness in God and only produces wickedness.

When we sin or commit immoral acts, we are saying God does not exist, and there is no condemnation of what will happen. In this condition, it is crystal clear that we are foolish. Can this happen to a Christian? Yes. It is clear from scripture that none doeth right. Nothing can change this. The devil will not stop until we backslide to a point where we even blame God. Or question the existence of Jesus as Lord and Savior, or, more dangerously, turn our backs on Him.

I Peter 1:16

King James Version

Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

New Living Translation

For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”

It is where we, as Christians and unbelievers, differ. We have the Holy Spirit convicting us. God will use anything and everything to get us back on track with Him. God wants us to be holy. Some might think that to be holy is to be like God has a character of being impossible to sin. His holiness is entirely different from ours. For us to remain holy, we must remain unspotted, as we are prone to sin.

God made it easy for us to be in the realm of being holy by requiring forgiveness through Jesus. It will be identical to being sacred. If we sin, we confess, and He is faithful and fair to forgive our sins. In this way, we enter a spiritual realm of holiness wherein we are privileged to be forgiven and enjoy a holy place.

In Conclusion,

It is inevitable for us to seek always in our fallen nature. It is the reason we get frustrated and weary. We will forever be desirous of perfection and contentment because of our sinful disposition. Leaving us only hopeless to be found. The only remedy in our fallen nature is to face the truth that we need God.

We want to explore the vastness of space, but it is endless. So, God installed a small brain to advance us in understanding its immenseness. We want to go deeper into the depths of the oceans, but what is in the shallows is yet to be learned. And finally, the ultimate question. Will there be answers to all our questions? Believe and trust in Jesus Christ (John 4:1, 6-7). We are foolish. We need salvation (John 3:3). As we continue to have this relationship with God through our Lord Jesus, all our needs and questions will be met and answered in due time.















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Cost and cause

Scriptural Readings:  

James 1:16-18

Is there anyone who can battle and overcome failure with ease and comfort? What follows disappointment? Try again until we succeed. Right? There needs to be something done between failure and success.

As we continue to fail, hope and resilience are always at the top of our list. They automatically come out as our response. But for how long? Frustrations are crippling moments. And quitting is the easiest solution.

King James Version

v.16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 

v.17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

New Living Translation  

v.16 Don’t be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. 

v.17 Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God, our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

The result is not the end.

Diligent work and self-effort cannot guarantee success. There is no highway leading there. Instead, avenues are there to explore. No one is to blame except us if it fails. If someone disputes, we always insist on a carefully crafted plan, and everything will flow smoothly. What if it is an epic failure? The result is not the end.

Success comes from God. It is a framework for Christians. Our Father in heaven uses success as a springboard for more shots for His glory. Failures are part of success. Here, human initiative plays a role. It proves the error of our thinking and the incompetence of our efforts, leaving only God Almighty’s most excellent work unquestionable.

The cost

Everything has a price. Bills pile up with every move we make. The notion that everything has a cost is a common rule. It is ingrained in us. Several of these human-produced ideas are consistently at odds with God. We gladly welcome them once in a while.

The costs are too high! It seldom drops in price and will be whatever is required to complete our purchases. Afraid we will not make it in the future. Free stuff is increasingly scarce these days. It is a reality we have every day and is beyond our control. It is the current definition of cost.

How can we achieve savings? Even though prices are increasing, we can still survive. Right? Living in a technologically advanced world has fewer worries. We can find a solution either way. It is how we experience life in the physical realm. But living in the spiritual world is entirely different. Spiritual living requires total dependence on God. Our efforts are based on God’s instructions, not on our own. Our Father in heaven calls the shots, and it’s on His terms that we follow.

As Christians, we must realise and fully grasp and understand salvation. The salvation we receive is free! There are no costs. No burdens are necessary. It is a divine gift meant for everyone to receive. Thus, we give ourselves over to accepting and believing. We only need to do these things. Instead, God paid the price for our redemption. He purchased us back through the blood of His Son. A cost we cannot ever pay. A spiritual definition of cost.

King James Version

v.18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

New Living Translation

v.18  He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession.

The cause

Cause and effect. It is the basis of our past, present, and future. To make an educated decision, we must understand the rationale and the results. We live and die this way. The thing about today is that the effect is unmistakable, but the cause is obscure. Uncertainties become reliable if they make us comfortable. Are we living for the right reasons? Is the reason for our existence as Christians the absolute path?

Accepting our wrongdoings is the hardest thing to admit. At this moment, humility is at its lowest and is often lost. We are entirely blind to the true meaning of the cause of our salvation. We know, and it is true, that we live by grace and mercy. But do we know why God saved us? Love. God loves us. If our purpose is to please God, we must follow His will.

One reason we remain unsure about our spiritual lives is our feeble-mindedness. Unaware of this, we become vulnerable, allowing doubt to creep in and add to petty controversies. Uncertainty about our spiritual lives causes us to swing from one extreme to another.

We are the children of God. We are to live in a relationship with the Father. There is no other reason or cause why you and I and the rest of humanity would come to repent and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. We were made in God’s image and given the ability to live our lives in harmony with Him eternally.

This world we live in will end soon. Nobody can stop it. While people are still struggling with the truth, we must consider the cost and cause of our spiritual lives. We must share this priceless spiritual gift. Let us remember the primary source, the love of God for us, that we spread the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

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The important picture

Scriptural Readings: John 14:17, John 9:39.

John 14:17

King James Version

[Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

New Living Translation

He is the Holy Spirit who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive Him because it is not looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him because he lives with you now and later will be in you.

A picture paints a thousand words, as the proverb says. Many of these old photos bring back nostalgic memories. We relive the past the more we see. As we turn back the hands of time, we see our mistakes, correct them, and learn from our experiences. Although useful they may be, these are human efforts, and they are deceptive.

Is there something hidden behind a photograph? The first few seconds of a video? Our wide variety of emotions will be stirred by what our eyes see, creating illusions and an unending list of thoughts running across our minds.

The fact remains that various things cloud our thoughts. Our minds readily agree with what our eyes tell us most often. It leaves our faith in God second in line, or the most shameful thing, left at the bottom, forgotten. We discover what is most meaningful in our spiritual lives when our faith endures trials. It will help us understand who God is. Time will always play its part in giving us the reality of this truth. God is faithful to His words so that we can know Him. And have a divine relationship with Him.

John 9:39

King James Version

And Jesus said, For judgment, I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.

New Living Translation

Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”

Now enters the actual picture: Jesus Christ, the son of the living God (John 3:16), came to live among us to bring us back to our heavenly Father. What did we do? Rejection! Having seen the image of God and fulfilled His promises, humankind is on solid ground to reject Him.

Experiences, whether positive or negative, are pictures of the road to repentance. One can believe that contrition is a revelation in its entireness, providing eternal and never-ending truth about our God. It is the unseen part of the picture that humanity refuses to acknowledge. We hold on to hope on the principle that seeing is believing. It is easier for us to be convinced if we see more. Our obsession with what we perceive entitles us to side with unbelievers practically without notice.

In contrast, we should expose ourselves radically to the light instead of concealing something in the dark. As we get closer to the light, the picture becomes unmistakable. We cannot hide from God under any circumstances. Contrariwise, God will show us divine things.

We live in a kaleidoscope world. There are a variety of multicoloured plans for destruction and evil schemes hidden in this realm. God is showing us a black-and-white picture. We are prisoners in a fallen world. And that we cannot have salvation apart from Him. As for the other part of the picture, He gave us His Son as our redeemer.

What picture are you seeing?

Our world today is a series of collections of old pictures of the future. Yes, the destiny of our future is nothing but seeing humanity living in misery without Jesus in our lives. Everything starts with repentance. It is imperative to acknowledge Jesus’ finished work on Mount Calvary. An obscene picture shows us the true nature of eternal life. Although God handles and runs each of our lives differently, He gives us a clear vision of hope, blessings, healing, and so forth. The picture of hell is crystal clear for those who do not accept Jesus Christ. It is an image of suffering and a never-ending moment of agony.

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But how?

Is there an ideal place to live? A nation offering a haven of rest? An atmosphere free of anxiety. What if this place does not exist? In short, we need the best justifications to live in a sick and problem-infested world. Right?

Evil exists everywhere, and it was there even before humanity. Its wickedness works in our fallen world no matter what time. It is a reality unattainable to ignore. We cannot run away from this plight. There is no way to escape. A way out is not available. Its existence will plague us as long as we live. In summary, it will co-exist with us, and addressing this matter means a spiritual war. A battle we cannot be a triumph. We need someone to protect us and fight the battle for us. But how?

In defeating the enemy, we should stand firm in a stable and unshakable cornerstone. We must reckon in our minds that the foundation carries and bears the entire framework and organization of every one of us.

Philippians 2:5-9

King James Version

v.5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

v.6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

v.7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

v.8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

New Living Translation

v.5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

v.6 Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

v.7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges. He took the humble position of a slave and was born 

as a human, being When he appeared in human form,

v.8, he humbled himself in obedience to God

     and died a criminal’s death on the cross.

Conveying the likeness of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, is everything we ever longed for when we first accepted Him. Do you agree? Acquiring His image is not having a piece of cake. Right? Sometimes, we do not expect what we hoped, leaving us puzzled. How can we manage this unpredictable life?

And making it complex, how can we Christians be an example of spreading the gospel if we are incapable of doing it? Or even engage in a spiritual war we alone cannot ever win.

What do we see in Jesus Christ, being God did not consider Himself equal to God? We miss this essential part of God’s nature unfolding before our eyes. Humility. Being able to control or even communicate without being restrained by pride or superiority. In simple words, His humble nature or personality. The indispensable part once we accept Jesus, the Son of the living God. Having His likeness is completeness (Yes, in everything!). He will offer us solutions to complications we face. An escape from every harsh reality we are suffering. In addition, He will introduce a distinct truth of what we are heading in our lives, a precise direction to carry out His perfect will for us.

God has given us the perfect example. A standard we should not miss and not follow. And everything good starts first in ourselves after God transforms us. The same humility Jesus had given God honor, glory, and praise He deserves. The consequence is for everyone to bow and confess to Jesus as Lord. 

We must admit having humility is complex because it involves our free will. It takes our time, money, and effort to mention this. We dislike complicated life because it makes everything intricate and compromises many things.

Proverbs 22:4

King James Version

By humility and the fear of the Lord

    are riches, honor, and life.

New Living Translation

True humility and fear of the Lord

    lead to riches, honor, and long life.

Humility is a single word that makes us understand and appreciate spiritual messages from God. He is to show us the bigger picture we want to see until we arrive at our God-given destination. Riches, honor, and life are things our lives will lead to as we are to have humility in this twisted system we are getting along.