As we now step beyond this text in Matthew, let us not merely be hearers but doers of the Word. Let us remember that the Rock we build on is not our own obedience but Christ Himself. And as His Spirit works in us, may our lives reflect the kingdom He has described; marked by mercy, purity, peace, humility, and steadfast trust in our Father.
Read MoreIn the same way, the people of God are called to live lives so shaped by the gospel that corruption is restrained and the goodness of Christ is made known. Light, too, carries profound meaning. In a world darkened by sin, God has shone in our hearts the light of Christ (2 Cor. 4:6). We are not the source of light, but we reflect the One who is the Light of the world (John 8:12).
Read MoreR.C. Sproul once wrote that the confidence of a follower of Christ rests not on “the strength of our grip on Christ, but on His grip on us.”
Read MoreWhen you forgive instead of retaliating, pursue holiness instead of cultural compromise, set your hope on Christ instead of worldly gain, you are bearing witness to the risen Lord who lives in you.
When our church family walks this way, we display something the world cannot explain, a supernatural unity rooted in Christ’s love.
Read MoreIf we are not moving forward towards knowing Christ more and becoming like him, we will drift and float in the current of this world. We will look up one day and realize we are far, far away from where we started.
Read MoreWe have a family unlike any other if we are in Christ. We have an older brother who always goes to bat for us. He went farther on our behalf than any earthly brother could. And he calls us to love like him (John 13:34-35). The problem is we don’t always live out that calling. We’re too busy or being family is too messy or maybe too scary because you might get hurt. But you want family in your time of need.
Read MoreThis standing out, looking different from the world around us, happens when we are breathing in and out the word of God each day. “The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation (D.L. Moody).” God’s word daily transforms us to look more like our Father and less like the world. As Joshua reminds us, the world may look enticing, but it is only a snare and a trap for our souls.
Read MoreIn times of doubt or discouragement, God’s creation can become a catalyst for praise and joy. It mirrors the stability and order of God’s sovereign design, reminding us that, despite life’s chaos, there is a divine purpose behind it all, fulfilled in Christ. From the intricacy of the smallest flower to the vastness of the ocean, let His wonders inspire and elevate your spirit, prompting you to rejoice in the Creator who lovingly fashioned everything for His glory.
Read MorePray with me that the Lord would show us what is taking our eyes off of Him and enticing us to treasure the world. What steps are we willing to take to eliminate distractions so that we may treasure Christ above all else?
Read More“We spend so much effort trying to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law in our lives when we should really trust God for all he has done. When we truly trust him and love him we will naturally begin to do the things he calls us to do.”
Read MoreThe ascension was a significant historical event. It was the coronation of the Lord Jesus as the King of Kings. The ascension also points to our hope in Him. In the ascension, we are reminded of our union, assurance, and authority in Christ.
Read More“And finally, the Incarnation of Christ granted us the gift of salvation, a new identity, and the church. This truth compels us to live as Jesus lived, serve as Jesus served, and love as Jesus loved. In Christ's coming to earth, we are granted a response to make much of Him to the ends of the earth. “
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