KittensCushion - Live Life Inspired!

Windshield Wiper Sermon

2026-06-09T00:00:00.000+02:00

One rainy afternoon I was driving along one of the main streets of town, taking those extra precautions necessary when the roads are wet and slick. Suddenly, my son Matthew spoke up from his relaxed position in the front seat.

"Mom, I'm thinking of something." This announcement usually meant he had been pondering some fact for a while and was now ready to expound all that his seven-year-old mind had discovered. I was eager to hear.

"What are you thinking?" I asked.

"The rain," he began, "is like sin. And the windshield wipers are like God, wiping our sins away."

After the chill bumps raced up my arms, I was able to respond, "That's really good, Matthew." Then my curiosity broke in. How far would this little boy take this revelation? So I asked, "Do you notice how the rain keeps on coming? What does that tell you?"

Matthew didn't hesitate one moment with his answer. "Even when we keep on sinning, God just keeps on forgiving."

Prayer

Lord, just as the rain keeps falling, so often do my sins. Yet Your mercy never runs dry. Thank You for being the faithful “windshield wiper” of my soul, washing me clean again and again. Teach me to trust Your forgiveness, to rest in Your grace and to walk in the freedom You provide. May I never take lightly the gift of Your Son, who makes me new each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Circle of Compassion: Finding Hope and Healing Through Shared Grief

2026-04-21T00:00:00.000+02:00

Grief has a way of reshaping everything. After the loss of our seventeen-year-old daughter in a car accident in June 2002, each of us walked through sorrow differently. There was no single “right way” to grieve—only the slow, personal journey through heartbreak.

For my wife, Sue, one of the most meaningful sources of comfort came from unexpected places: other mothers who had also lost a child.

When Pain Meets Understanding

These women didn’t offer easy answers or quick fixes. Instead, they brought something far more powerful—understanding. They had walked a similar road. They knew the weight of loss, the silence it leaves behind, and the questions that echo in the night.

Sue found strength in their stories. She listened as they shared how God had remained faithful, even in the deepest sorrow. Their testimonies didn’t erase the pain, but they offered something steady to hold onto: hope.

A Circle of Compassion

Over time, Sue became part of a small, sacred community—a circle of compassion. It was a group of grieving mothers who gathered to pray, to cry, and to seek God together.

In that space, there was no need to pretend. No pressure to be strong. Just honest hearts, held together by empathy and faith.

This circle became a lifeline. A reminder that even in sorrow, we are not alone.

Why We Need Each Other

Grief is deeply personal, yet no one is meant to carry it alone. We all need someone to share our burdens, our questions, and our pain.

Scripture reminds us that in Christ, we receive encouragement, love, and mercy (Philippians 2:1). And even more—God comforts us so that we can extend that same comfort to others (2 Corinthians 1:4).

When we step into someone else’s pain with compassion, we reflect the heart of God.

Living It Out

What does this look like in everyday life?

▪️Sitting quietly with someone who is hurting

▪️Listening without trying to fix everything

▪️Praying with and for others

Simply showing up

Sometimes, the most powerful ministry is presence.

A Gentle Reminder

“A heartfelt tear can show our love

As words can never do;

It says, ‘I want to share your pain—

My heart goes out to you.’”

Before we can wipe away someone else’s tears, we must first be willing to weep with them.

Final Thought

When we choose compassion, we create space for healing—not just for others, but for ourselves too. And in doing so, we become part of something beautiful: a circle where love carries the weight of sorrow, and hope quietly begins to rise.

By Dave Branon

We All Need A "Hug"

2026-02-17T01:00:00.000+02:00

Chuck Swindoll shares how, in the fall of the year, Linda, a young woman, was traveling alone in the rutted and rugged highway from Alberta, Canada, to the Yukon. Linda didn't realize that you don't travel to Whitehorse alone in a rundown little Honda Civic. So, she set off where only four-wheel-drives and cars with chains normally venture.

The first evening she found a room in the mountains near the summit and asked for a 5 o'clock wake-up call, so she could get an early start. She couldn't understand why the clerk looked surprised at the request, but when she awoke to an early morning fog shrouding the mountain tops, she understood.

Not wanting to look foolish, she got up and went to breakfast. Two truckers invited Linda to join them, and since the place was so small, she felt obliged. "Where are you headed?" one of the truckers asked. "Whitehorse," she answered.

"In that little Civic?" one of them said. "No way! This pass is way too dangerous in weather like this." "Well, I'm determined to try," was Linda's gutsy, if not very informed, response.

"Then I guess we're just going to have to hug you," the trucker suggested. Linda drew back. "There's no way I'm going to let you touch me!" she said angrily.

"Not like that!" the truckers chuckled. "We'll put one truck in front of you and one in the rear. That way, we'll get you through the mountains safely."

Throughout that entire foggy morning, Linda followed the two red dots - the tail lights of the rig in front of her. She had the reassurance of another big rig - right behind her - as they slowly made their way safely up, and through, the mountains. She realized that she could never have traveled this road on her own. She needed the two truckers to "hug" her.

There are times we are caught in the fog of our own dangerous passage through life. During those times, we, too, need to be "hugged"... Hugged by fellow Christians who know the way and can safely lead ahead of us, and with other Christians behind us to guard the way, gently encouraging us along.

With those fellow Christians "hugging" us - both in the front leading us and alos behind us guarding us - we too, can pass safely through the mountains and passes of life.

"Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

By Chuck Swindoll

"Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life"

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🌿 Perfect Peace in the Storm

2025-12-03T00:30:00.004+02:00

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You.” — Isaiah 26:3

There was once a King who offered a prize to the artist who could paint the best picture of peace. Many great painters sent the King their work.

The King looked at all the pictures, but there were only two he really liked.

The first picture was of a perfect, calm lake. The lake was a mirror that reflected the towering green mountains all around it. Overhead was a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. All who saw this picture thought it was a perfect picture of peace.

The second picture had mountains, too. But these were rugged and bare. Above was an angry sky from which rain fell and lightning played. Down the side of the mountain tumbled a foaming waterfall. It did not look peaceful at all.

But when the King looked closely, he saw behind the waterfall a tiny bush growing in a crack in the rock. In the bush a mother bird had built her nest. There, in the midst of the rush of angry water, sat the mother bird on her nest—in perfect peace.

The King chose the second picture.

The Lesson: Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. Peace means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

🙏 Prayer for Peace

Lord, in the storms of life, teach us to rest in You. When chaos surrounds us, anchor our hearts in Your presence. May Your perfect peace guard our minds and remind us that true calm is found not in the absence of trouble, but in trusting You through it. Amen.

💡 Reflection Prompt

Where in your life do you need God’s peace right now? Invite Him into that place today.

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Blameless Living Made Simple

2025-10-22T00:30:00.001+02:00

4 Simple Ways to Live Blamelessly in Daily Life

Living blamelessly isn’t about perfection. It’s about integrity, humility, and obedience to God. Living blamelessly reflects Christ’s character and becomes a light to others. Here are four simple, practical steps to help you walk blamelessly in daily life:

1. Walk in Integrity

Integrity means being the same person in private as you are in public. It’s choosing honesty over shortcuts, truth over convenience, and faithfulness over compromise. When you live with integrity, your life becomes a reflection of God’s truth. Proverbs 10:9 reminds us, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely.” It’s the small, consistent choices—grounded in integrity—that build a life that honours God.

2. Be Quick to Forgive

Holding onto grudges creates bitterness and damages relationships. Forgiveness is a key part of living blamelessly. Colossians 3:13 says, “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” When you forgive, you reflect the grace you’ve received and keep your heart pure, open to God’s healing. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you approve of the wrong done to you, but it frees you from bitterness.

3. Guard Your Words

Words hold great power. To live blamelessly, be intentional with what you say. Avoid gossip, hurtful speech, or complaints. Instead, speak words that build others up (Ephesians 4:29). James 1:26 reminds us that “those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves.” Let your words reflect Christ’s love and grace.

4. Depend on God’s Strength

Living blamelessly is not about relying on your own strength. It’s about depending on God. Philippians 2:13 says, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act to fulfil His good purpose.” When you lean on prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, God empowers you to walk in His ways. It’s about surrendering to God, not striving for perfection.

Living blamelessly doesn’t mean being flawless. It means choosing integrity over compromise, forgiveness over resentment, and words that uplift rather than tear down. It means leaning on God daily, trusting His strength in our weakness. These small, faithful choices—made consistently—reflect the character of Christ and bring glory to His name.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to live blamelessly before You and others. Teach me to walk in integrity, forgive freely, speak words of life, and depend on Your strength daily. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Burned Out? Find True Rest in Jesus—Here’s How

2025-10-10T02:00:00.000+02:00

🌿 Resting in God: The Invitation to Slow Down

💭 The Rest We’re All Craving

In a world that glorifies hustle and constant motion, Jesus offers something radically different: rest. Not just physical rest, but soul-deep renewal. If your spiritual walk feels more like a sprint than a stroll, this message is for you.

🔥 Devotion Shouldn’t Drain You

Frank Laubach once said, “If you are weary of some sleepy form of devotion, God is probably just as weary of it as you are.” That’s a wake-up call. Devotion isn’t meant to be lifeless—it’s meant to revive us.

Jesus never intended for us to carry burdens He didn’t give us. He said, “Come to Me… and I will give you rest.” That’s not just poetic—it’s a promise.

🕊️ Jesus Was Busy, But Never Rushed

No one had more to do than Jesus. Yet He was never frantic. He maintained a deep, life-giving connection with the Father and always had time to love people well. His rhythm included regular solitude and prayer.

Even when His disciples returned from ministry, buzzing with excitement, Jesus didn’t say, “Let’s keep going.” He said, “Come away… all by yourselves and rest a while.” (Mark 6:31)

🚦 Hurry Is a Warning Sign

Mark describes the disciples as so busy they didn’t even have time to eat. Sound familiar? When life feels like a blur, it’s often because we’ve let second and third things become first things.

We chase microwave maturity, trading wisdom for information and depth for breadth. But spiritual depth doesn’t come quickly—it grows slowly, like roots beneath the surface.

🌸 Slow Down and Be With Him

You can’t follow Jesus at a sprint. You can’t go faster than the One who’s leading. So pause. Breathe. Don’t just work for God—spend time with Him.

Let your soul catch up with your body. Let your devotion be alive again. Rest isn’t weakness—it’s worship.

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Worry: A Gentle Reminder to Trust

2025-09-17T02:00:00.000+02:00

“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:31–34

Worry often creeps in when we feel out of control. But Scripture reminds us: we were never meant to carry the weight of tomorrow. God sees, knows, and provides.

🕊️ Worry is not believing God will get it right.

🕊️ Bitterness is believing God got it wrong.

— Timothy Keller

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6–7

✨ Practical Ways to Let Go of Worry

Start your day with surrender. Before checking your phone or to-do list, whisper a simple prayer: “Lord, I trust You with today.”

Write it down. Keep a “God’s got this” journal. List your worries, then write a truth from Scripture beside each one.

Limit future forecasting. When your mind drifts to “what ifs,” gently bring it back to “what is.” Focus on what you can do today.

Practice gratitude. Each time worry arises, name three things you’re thankful for. Gratitude shifts your gaze from fear to faith.

Lean into community. Share your burdens with a trusted friend or prayer partner. God often speaks peace through others.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need to trust the One who does. Let today be enough. Let grace be sufficient. And let peace guard your heart like a shield.

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Don't Wake Him Up

2025-08-27T00:36:00.001+02:00

A man was giving his testimony at one of those old Salvation Army open air street meetings. As he was testifying, a heckler in the crowd yelled, "Why don't you shut up and sit down? You're just dreaming."

Immediately that heckler felt a tug on his coat. He looked down to see a little girl, who said. "Sir, may I speak to you? That man who is talking up there is my daddy. My daddy used to be a drunkard. He used to spend all of the money he made on whiskey. My mother was very sad and would cry most of the time.

Sometimes when my daddy came home, he would hit my mother. I didn't have shoes or a nice dress to wear to school. But look at my shoes. And see this pretty dress? My daddy bought these for me."

But the little girl wasn't through with the heckler yet. "See my mother over there? She's the one with the bright smile on her face. She's happy now. She sings even when she's doing the dishes."

Then the little girl said, "Mister, if my daddy is dreaming, please don't wake him up."

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” (Revelation 12:11)

Tag someone who needs to hear this today—God is still in the business of transformation.

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I Choose

2025-06-13T00:00:00.000+02:00

Galatians 5:22-23

It's quiet. It's early. My coffee is hot. The sky is still black. The world is still asleep. The day is coming.

In a few moments the day will arrive. It will roar down the track with the rising of the sun. The stillness of the dawn will be exchanged for the noise of the day. The calm of the solitude will be replaced by the pounding pace of the human race. The refuge of the early morning will be invaded by decisions to be made and deadlines to be met.

For the next twelve hours I will be exposed to the day's demands. It is now that I must make a choice. Because of Calvary, I'm free to choose. And so I choose.

I choose love ❤️...

No occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness, I choose love. Today I will love God and what God loves.

I choose joy🥳...

I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical...the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.

I choose peace 🕊️...

I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.

I choose patience ...

I will overlook the inconveniences of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complaining that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.

I choose kindness...

I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God has treated me.

I choose goodness...

I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I will boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.

I choose faithfulness...

Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My wife will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their father will not come home.

I choose gentleness...

Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself. I choose self-control... I am a spiritual being.

After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek His grace. And then when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.

Fruits Of The Spirit

Max Lucado

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Representing Heaven on Earth

2025-06-10T00:30:00.001+02:00

“Christ has taken our nature into Heaven to represent us; and has left us on earth, with His nature, to represent Him.”

— John Newton

Have you ever paused to consider the profound exchange that took place in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? John Newton, the former slave trader turned hymn writer and pastor, captures this mystery beautifully: “Christ has taken our nature into Heaven to represent us; and has left us on earth, with His nature, to represent Him.”

This isn’t just poetic theology—it’s the heartbeat of Christian identity and mission.

Heaven’s Representative

When Jesus ascended into Heaven, He didn’t shed His humanity like an old garment. He took it with Him. The same body that bore our sins on the cross now sits at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us (Romans 8:34). He is our High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16), forever representing us before God—not in theory, but in flesh and blood.

Jesus didn't just understand our struggles—He entered them. And now, fully divine and fully human, He stands as our advocate, reminding the Father that we are His, bought with blood.

Earth’s Witness

But there’s another side to this glorious exchange. Jesus didn’t leave us alone. He left us with something priceless: His Spirit and His nature.

“And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’”

— Galatians 4:6

We are now the visible expression of an invisible God. We carry His compassion, truth, humility, and power into a hurting world. Our purpose isn't just to "get through life" but to represent Jesus to the people around us—to be a walking, talking, loving reflection of Heaven's heart.

Practical Application: Wearing Christ’s Nature Daily

So what does it mean to represent Christ here and now? It means:

Loving sacrificially, even when it costs us.
Forgiving freely, just as we've been forgiven.
Serving humbly, just like Jesus washed feet.
Speaking truth boldly, with grace and gentleness.

The apostle Paul put it this way:

“Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

— Ephesians 4:24

We don’t do this through sheer willpower. We live it out by daily surrender to the Spirit, letting His nature shape ours.

Closing Encouragement

Jesus didn’t just go to Heaven and leave us behind—He left us here on purpose. As He represents us before the throne, we represent Him in the world.

So today, ask yourself: Whose nature am I displaying? Mine—or Christ’s?

Let His love shine through your words, actions, and attitude. Because in you, the world catches a glimpse of Him.

You are not just going through life—you are representing Heaven.

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Living Fully Today and Embracing Possibilities

2025-05-27T17:31:00.001+02:00

Life is a precious gift, meant to be lived with intention and faith, not just for some distant eternity, but for the vibrant reality of today.

"...being no hearer that forgets, but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing." - James 1:25

The urgency of the present moment struck me vividly one late night on the cobblestone streets of Stockholm. An unexpected encounter with a group of young men challenged my perspective on faith and the now. Their belief that religion was solely for the elderly, a concern for their final days, highlighted a crucial misunderstanding. Faith in Jesus Christ isn't a waiting game; it's the very foundation for making the most of the life we have now. We have but one life to live, and with God's help, we are called to live it to the fullest, every single day.

DON'T PROCRASTINATE!

The blessings come through action, through engaging with life and our faith in the present.

"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call insight your intimate friend." - Proverbs 7:4

To truly live fully, we must cultivate a mindset of possibility. I call it possibilitizing —the direct opposite of negativizing. To negate is to smother any glimmer of positive potential with a deluge of negative thoughts. Instead, we must actively seek out the opportunities within every situation.

DON'T NEGATIVATE—POSSIBILITIZE!

Take a moment to consider any challenges you're currently facing. Now, ask yourself:

What opportunities for possibilitizing do you see within this circumstance?

Cultivate the habit of looking for the good, the potential, the open doors. Keep on possibilitizing!

"Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." - Psalm 37:4

Ultimately, living life to the fullest begins with aligning ourselves with God's beautiful plan. You can't do it alone. It starts with seeking His guidance through prayer and quiet reflection. When we are in tune with Him, ideas will flow, emotions will surge with positivity, and we will gain clarity on the path ahead.

Take time in your quiet moments to ask God for His vision for your life.

Listen attentively to the whispers of inspiration and allow Him to reveal the dreams He holds for your tomorrows. Father, show me your dream for my tomorrows!

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Turn the Poison Into Power – Redeeming Life’s Negatives

2025-05-20T00:00:00.000+02:00

"...that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God." – 1 Corinthians 2:5

Life throws poison at us—loss, stress, regret, shame. But with God, even venom becomes victory.

Like the Thai native who "milked the cobra" to create life-saving antivenom, we can extract wisdom from our wounds. Our minds need the same kind of cleansing: a daily ritual of letting God remove toxic thoughts and replace them with His peace.

Negative thoughts regenerate quickly—just like cobra venom. That’s why daily spiritual renewal is essential.

Action Step:

Every morning, ask God to “milk” the poison from your mind. Imagine Him squeezing out fear, shame, bitterness—making room for faith, love, and peace.

Prayer:

Lord, remove the venom of negativity from my heart. Replace it with Your healing wisdom and love. Amen.

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Start Small - Believe Big!

2025-05-13T00:00:00.004+02:00

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." - II Corinthians 5:7

Sometimes, the grandest journeys begin with the simplest of steps. I remember the very first investment I made for my church:

a Print-o-Matic. A modest mimeograph machine, costing just $60.00 at the time, designed for printing penny postcards. It might seem insignificant, but it became the cornerstone of our early outreach.

Every positive response I received while ringing doorbells led to another name on my mailing list. Week after week, those simple postcards carried a powerful message: "We've got an exciting thing happening at the drive-in church this week." Slowly, steadily, my congregation grew, nurtured by consistent reminders and the belief in what could be.

This experience taught me a profound truth:

If you're a possibility thinker, you can start with almost nothing. The key isn't the grandiosity of your beginnings, but the strength of your conviction. You need to wholeheartedly believe that you possess the ability to rise from humble origins to achieve great heights.

Setting goals, even when starting with seemingly nothing, sets you on an upward trajectory. Each step, each small victory, propels you further along the ladder of success and happiness.

Remember, strong faith builds successful somedays! Don't let a lack of resources deter you.

Embrace the power of starting small and the unwavering belief in the possibilities that lie ahead.

Rev. Robert Schuller

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THE DEBT

2025-05-06T00:00:00.007+02:00

Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT

[8] God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. [9] Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.

An employee in the bill-collection department of a large store gave me an insight into human nature. He told me that he repeatedly gets the following response from customers who are delinquent in paying their bills:

“I know you must have others who owe a lot more than I do. So, get off my back will you!”

The employee then told me, “They miss the point entirely. Sure, there are a lot of others who owe more. But somehow I have to tell them in a nice way,

‘Look, what somebody else owes isn’t the issue. Our records say that your account is overdue!’”

The tendency of sinful man has always been to shift attention from himself by pointing the finger at others. Religious people excuse their inconsistencies by referring to the “pagans” around them. And the “pagans” try to sidestep the issue by talking about the hypocrisies of the religious. But God is not fooled by finger-pointers.

When someone else appears to be a greater sinner than we are, it’s just an illusion. The sooner we realise that no one owes more to God than we do, the more likely we are to receive His free forgiveness. He extends His pardon only to those who humbly acknowledge that they are hopelessly in dept.

"For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

"He paid a debt He did not owe

I owed a debt I could not pay

I needed someone to wash my sins away;

And now I sing a brand new song, 'Amazing Grace'

Christ Jesus paid the debt that I could never pay."

(from the song "He paid a Debt")

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How God Speaks to Us

2025-04-29T00:00:00.011+02:00

"I will bless the Lord who guides me; even at night my heart instructs me."

— Psalm 16:7 (NLT)

God is not silent. He speaks to those who belong to Him lovingly, clearly, and constantly. One of the most powerful ways He communicates is through His Word, the Bible. Scripture isn't just a book; it is alive and active (Hebrews 4:12), filled with divine counsel for every part of our lives. Over 3,000 times, the writers of the Bible said, “Thus says the Lord,” revealing just how often and clearly God chose to speak through His people.

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right."
— 2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT)

The Bible is our spiritual compass. No other book, voice, or feeling should take its place in guiding our decisions, dreams, or direction. Through its pages, God trains us in His righteousness so we can live lives that reflect His love and truth.

God also speaks to us through His creation. Every sunrise, mountain, ocean wave, and bird’s song echoes His glory. The natural world is a beautiful testimony of His existence and majesty.

"For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature."
— Romans 1:20 (NLT)

But God has spoken in the clearest, most personal way through His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is the living Word—God in the flesh—and through the Holy Spirit, He still speaks to our hearts today.

Sometimes He speaks gently, like a whisper in our conscience, urging us to do what is right. Other times, His voice is unmistakably loud, convicting us with clarity and power. However He speaks, we must listen. Don’t ignore that inner prompting, especially when it aligns with the truth of Scripture.

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me."
— John 10:27 (NKJV)

Always test what you hear or feel against the Word of God. His truth never changes, and His voice will never contradict what He has already spoken in the Bible.

God longs for a real relationship with you. He’s not distant or indifferent—He is near, and He’s speaking. Will you listen?

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Psalm 121 — Courageous Prayer

2025-04-22T01:00:00.001+02:00

No matter what happens around us, our trust and confidence are in God. Like Daniel and his friends, we can stand firm because we know Yahweh is our refuge—faithful, all-powerful, and always trustworthy. Their prayers came from that place of deep confidence. Ours can, too.

As you reflect on Psalm 121, lift your eyes to the mountains—not in fear, but in expectation. Your help doesn’t come from what you see around you. It comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth, the One who holds everything together.

He is your constant protector. He guards your life, and He never sleeps or looks away. Even in the darkest, most difficult moments—He is right there. Just like He walked through the fire with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:25), He walks with you now. He is the fourth man in your fire, the Shepherd in your valley (Psalm 23:4), the Restorer of your soul.

We are called to live with that kind of boldness—to be strong and courageous, like Joshua. How? By staying close to God, meditating on His word, and knowing His truth so deeply that no lie—whether from the enemy or the culture—can shake us.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
— Joshua 1:9

Joshua’s strength didn’t come from himself. It came from knowing God was with him. And the same is true for us today. He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. He watches over you—faithfully, tenderly, powerfully.

A Prayer for Today

Lord, thank You that courageous prayer flows from intimacy with You. Thank You for watching over us, for protecting us, and for always being near. We are strong and courageous—not because of our own strength—but because You are with us. Amen.

Psalm 121 (NLT)

I look up to the mountains—
does my help come from there?
My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth!
He will not let you stumble;
the one who watches over you will not slumber.
Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
The Lord himself watches over you!
The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.
The sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon at night.
The Lord keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever.

From: Courageous Prayer
Let this be your reminder today—lift your eyes. He’s already watching over you.

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Drawing Near: A Holy Week Reflection

2025-04-15T00:30:00.002+02:00

As Jesus entered the temple, He confronted a troubling reality: outward religion had replaced true worship. The temple, meant to be a place of prayer, had become a marketplace. People were more focused on rituals, appearances, and profit than on God.

It’s a warning we still need today.

Sometimes, our churches—and even our personal lives—can look impressive on the outside but lack real spiritual depth. We may sing, serve, and give, yet miss the heart of it all: sincere prayer, compassion, and connection with God.

This Holy Week, let’s ask:

Am I practicing true faith, or just going through the motions?
Have I made space for Jesus to cleanse and renew my heart?

God isn’t looking for perfect performances—He wants a surrendered heart. One that prays, loves, and reflects His grace.

A Prayer for Holy Week

Lord, strip away my pride and distractions.

Help me seek You with a sincere heart. Renew my faith from the inside out. This week, may I draw near to You.

Amen

Dr. Richard Hon

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Where Choices Lead

2025-04-08T00:00:00.001+02:00

"The Lord watches over the way of the righteous." (Psalm 1:6a)

With no cell service and no trail map, we had only our memory of a fixed map at the trailhead to guide us. More than an hour later, we finally emerged from the woods into the parking lot. Having missed the turn-off that would have made it a half-mile hike, we took a much longer trek.

Life can be like that sometimes. We have to ask not simply if something is right or wrong, but where it will lead. Psalm 1 compares two ways of Iiving - that of the righteous (those who love God) and that of the wicked (the enemies of those who love God). The righteous flourish like a tree, but the wicked blow away like chaff (vv. 3-4).

This Psalm reveals what flourishing really looks like. The person who lives it out is dependent on God for renewal and life.

So how do we become that kind of person?

Among other things, Psalm 1 urges us to disengage from destructive relationships and unhealthy habits and to delight in God's instruction (v. 2).

Ultimately, the reason for our flourishing is God's attentiveness to us: "The Lord watches over the way of the righteous" (v. 6a).

Commit your way to God, let Him redirect you from old patterns that lead to nowhere, and allow the Scriptures to be the river that nourishes the root system of your heart.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for guiding the paths of those who follow you. You bless those who delight in your Word, and you plant them like trees by streams—strong, fruitful, and secure. Help us stay rooted in your truth and not be swayed by the ways of the wicked.

Protect us, Lord, and draw near to those who do not yet know you. May they turn to your grace and find life in you.

We love you and pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Through the Tears

2025-04-01T00:00:00.002+02:00

A young lady gathered the necessary ingredients from the refrigerator and stood over the kitchen counter preparing to cook her favorite dish. The key ingredient for the dish was onion, which she did not like preparing. As she began preparing the onion, tears began to stream down her face as a result.

As the tears continued to flow, she never ceased preparing the onion simply because she knew the onion was necessary in order for the dish to be what she wanted it to be. When the dish was complete, she tasted it and was thoroughly pleased with the final product. In order to get to the final product she desired, she had to continue what she was doing, not stopped by tears.

Life is full of ups and downs, joy and sorrow, trials and tribulations. Some situations we face in life are simply not enjoyable and we experience pain. Classes not going well, a bank account a bit shaky, trouble on the job, trouble at home, and other things go on that are just undesirable. As a result, the tears are (have been) flowing.

God never promised we would never have trouble, He does promise that the end shall be greater than the beginning and He will be with us through the tears. In the midst of flowing tears, we must prepare for the breakthrough by continuing to walk in His Word and in His promises. Some simply need to be reminded that breakthrough is on the way and God is still “there through the tears.”

Timothy Jackson, Jr.

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We Do Not Drift Toward Holiness

2025-03-25T00:00:00.000+02:00

"People do not drift toward holiness."

Apart from a grace-driven effort, people do not gravitate toward godliness, prayer, obedience to Scripture, faith, and delight in the Lord.

We drift toward compromise and call it tolerance

We drift toward disobedience and call it freedom

We drift toward superstition and call it faith.

We cherish the indiscipline of lost self-control and call it relaxation

We slouch toward prayerlessness and delude ourselves into thinking we have escaped legalism

We slide toward godlessness and convince ourselves we have been liberated

We do not drift toward holiness. We must pursue holiness and righteousness. We must pursue God!

"With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments!" Psalm 119:10

"Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart." Psalm 119:2

"The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him." Lamentations 3:25

D.A. Carson

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Who was Saint Patrick

2025-03-18T00:00:00.007+02:00

When you hear the name Saint Patrick, what comes to mind? A stone statue? A shamrock? Maybe a parade filled with leprechauns and rainbows?

But Patrick’s real story is far more powerful than any legend. His life wasn’t about luck or mythical feats—it was about faith, resilience, and a deep love for people.

A Life Transformed

Patrick wasn’t Irish. He was born in Britain around AD 390 into a Christian family. But as a teenager, he wasn’t particularly interested in faith. That all changed when, at sixteen, his life took a devastating turn.

Irish raiders attacked his village, captured him, and took him across the sea to Ireland—where he was forced into slavery. Alone and afraid, tending sheep in a foreign land, Patrick turned to the God he had once ignored. Prayer became his lifeline. Over time, his heart was transformed.

After six years, he managed to escape and return home. But then something extraordinary happened—he had a dream. In it, God called him to go back to the very people who had enslaved him, not for revenge, but to share the message of Christ’s love.

A Mission Bigger Than Himself

Patrick obeyed. He returned to Ireland, not as a prisoner, but as a preacher. He spent his life telling the Irish people about Jesus, planting churches, and serving those in need. He wasn’t just a religious leader—he was a man who took risks to help the most vulnerable. He stood up for women, slaves, and the poor, showing them a love deeper than anything they had known.

His faith wasn’t just words; it was action. He prayed constantly, trusted God completely, and dedicated his life to something bigger than himself.

A Lasting Impact

Because of Patrick, Ireland was transformed. The slave trade that had once torn him from his home declined. Pagan rituals of human sacrifice faded away. In their place, faith, learning, and culture flourished. The churches he started didn’t just survive—they multiplied, spreading hope across Europe in a time of chaos.

Patrick never wanted credit for any of it. In his writings, he prayed that when people heard what happened in Ireland, they wouldn’t praise him but instead glorify God.

And that’s exactly what happened.

A Challenge for Us Today

Patrick’s story isn’t just history—it’s a challenge. He trusted God in the hardest moments, forgave the people who had hurt him, and used his life to make a difference.

What about us? What if, like Patrick, we chose faith over fear? What if we saw setbacks as opportunities? What if we lived in a way that put love, forgiveness, and courage into action?

His life proves that God can use anyone—even a once-rebellious teenager, a kidnapped slave, or a man full of doubts—to change the world.

Will you let Him use you, too?

A Prayer for Today

God, life is full of unexpected moments. Help me, like Patrick, to trust You even when things don’t make sense. Open my eyes to how I can use my current situation to love others and share the beauty of a life with You. Amen.

“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.’” - Mark 16:15 (NIV)

By Tyndale House

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The Secret To Understanding

2025-03-11T00:00:00.008+02:00

It was the late 1940s. Eastern Airline's chairman, Captain Eddie Rickenbacker, had a problem. Customers were complaining because the airline was mishandling luggage far too often. When nothing else seemed to work, he decided to take drastic action.

Rickenbacker called a special meeting of the management personnel in Miami. Eastern's management flew to Miami and was told their baggage would be delivered to their hotel rooms. Instead, Rickenbacker had the luggage stored overnight.

It was summer, the weather was hot and humid and the hotel had no air-conditioning. The various managers showed up to the meeting the next morning unshaven, teeth unbrushed and wearing dirty clothes.

There was no sign of the baggage all that day. But that night Rickenbacker had it delivered, at 3:00 a.m., with a great pounding on all the doors.

He opened the next morning's session by saying, "Now you know how the customer feels when you mishandle his luggage." He knew his team would be ineffective until his people empathized with their customers!

The same is true with us. Until we understand another's problem, we will never be effective in business, in relationships or most importantly, in ministry to others. The deepest understanding occurs when we actually sense what the other person is feeling. When husbands and wives, parents and children, friends, colleagues, and associates will take time to feel what the other is feeling, something wonderful will happen.

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2)

"Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort which we ourselves received from God." (2 Cor. 1:4)

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Do You Really Know How Satan Works?

2025-03-02T22:17:00.077+02:00

I’ll never forget watching The Exorcist. The movie seemed to offer a glimpse into how Satan and demons operate—flickering lights, possessed people foaming at the mouth, and bizarre, unsettling events. While these dramatic portrayals capture some of what Satan and his demons can do, their methods are often more subtle.

Clinton Arnold outlines several ways Satan and his demons can influence us:

They can plant sinful thoughts or images in our minds (Matthew 4:8–10; Luke 4:5–8).
They exploit our sinful tendencies, such as anger, and cause them to spiral out of control (Ephesians 4:27).
They inspire false teachings or ideas that sound reasonable but are dangerous to our spiritual well-being (2 Corinthians 11:3, 15).
They can afflict us with physical illness or conditions (2 Corinthians 12:7).
They may send nightmares or demonic manifestations that instill fear (Job 4:13–16; Psalm 91:5).
They tempt us to lie (Acts 5:3).
They can even instigate "natural" calamities—like the loss of a loved one, home, or property (Job 1–2).

Understanding these tactics helps us recognize when they are at work in our lives, so we can respond appropriately. But it’s important to note that Satan doesn’t always operate in such dramatic or overt ways. In fact, most of the time, his schemes are much more subtle.

In 2 Corinthians 2:10-11, Paul writes:
"When you forgive this man, I forgive him, too. And when I forgive whatever needs to be forgiven, I do so with Christ’s authority for your benefit, so that Satan will not outsmart us. For we are familiar with his evil schemes."

This verse reminds us that Satan’s tactics are often subtle. He doesn’t usually use a direct attack; rather, he relies on trickery and deception, just as he did from the very beginning (Genesis 3:1).

Klyne Snodgrass puts it well:
"Evil rarely looks evil until it accomplishes its goal; it gains entrance by appearing attractive, desirable, and perfectly legitimate. It is a baited and camouflaged trap."
Let that sink in: Evil rarely looks evil until it has achieved its goal.

It appears harmless or even appealing at first, luring us in before revealing its true, destructive nature. Satan’s most powerful weapon is simple—he lies. He convinces us that God isn’t good and can’t be trusted.

He tells us that following our sinful desires will bring happiness, even though they only lead to destruction.

He whispers lies that distort how we see ourselves and others, all while hiding the harm they cause.

While we may never experience a dramatic, overt manifestation of Satan, we will all face his deceptive lies. The way to combat these lies is with God’s truth—truth revealed in His Word.

We become equipped to recognize lies when we encounter them by grounding ourselves in God's truth. We need God’s truth to guide us and give us life.

John 8:44 tells us:
"For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies."

Prayer:
Lord, I need Your help to avoid believing Satan’s lies. May Your truth expose the lies for what they truly are. Help me to understand Satan’s schemes and guard my heart with Your Word. Amen.

Reflection:
What are some of the lies Satan has tempted you to believe? Have you seen his subtle tactics at work in your life?

Klyne Snodgrass, Ephesians, The NIV Application Commentary (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1996), 339.

Clinton E. Arnold, Ephesians: Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2010), 472.

Spiritual Warfare Devotional

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The Great Deceiver

2025-02-25T00:30:00.013+02:00

In a National Geographic article about the Portia spider, author Robert Jackson detailed the various ways it deceives its prey. Sitting still, the spider looks like a piece of dried leaf or foliage until a meal walks by. It also will crawl onto another spider's web and tap the threads, mimicking the actions of a trapped insect. When the host spider appears, the Portia devours it. Deception is the Portia's primary tool.

Satan is like the Portia spider in that deception is his weapon of choice.

He does whatever he can to counterfeit the works of God.

The apostle Paul wrote about Satan masquerading as an 'angel of light' and about his agents acting like 'servants of righteousness.'

The book of Revelation says a day is coming when the satanic Antichrist and False Prophet will deceive most of the world. Only those who know the Word of God will be prepared and protected. Know the truth - don't be deceived by a counterfeiter like Satan. The more you get to know the truth - and the One who is Truth - the easier it will be to spot deception when it appears.

Suggested prayer:

"Dear God, please give me a love for your Word and a desire to know and understand your truth so I will never be led astray by the evil one or deceived by his devices. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

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Trusting Enough to Let Go

2025-02-18T00:30:00.009+02:00

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for Him." - Isaiah 30:18

If you're anything like me, you've come face to face with situations in life in where, out of faith, you let go of trying to control things and turn them over to God. You may even agree with me that while letting go of our concerns is hard enough, it's even harder for some of us to refrain from taking them back!

We get impatient with God. We want results from Him the same way we expect to get our French fries from a drive-through window!

And, all too often, we want things to develop according to OUR plan, not His.

Perhaps that's why the above verse means so much to me in regard to this spiritual dilemma. It's loaded full of comforting answers and reassurances to the reader. With just a few little words, it reminds us that...

God YEARNS to give us the very best.
God is COMPASSIONATE, i.e., He suffers with our pain and understands our hurts.
God is FAIR and His justice for our welfare far exceeds just giving us what we want.
And out of our patience, encompassed in trust, we obtain that PEACE, which can only be achieved when we see that no matter what, God's got our back!

So the question I must ask myself is this: Am I going to go through this day without any anxiety about the future; fully trusting that God is in control of all things and knowing that He loves me more than I can imagine? Well, so far - so good. But then again, it's only 5:00 a.m.

Thank you, Lord, for your Word that reminds me whose I am and gives me strength to combat the anxiety monster and live peaceably in your arms this day!

Glenn W. Miller

"Thoughts Along the Way"

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