http://www.thefreebible.org/thought_of_the_day en-gb copyright 2026 - The Free Bible carlosf@thefreebible.org Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:56:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/there_is_a_difference_between_preparing_and_worrying There is a difference between preparing and worrying.Scripture:“Don’t worry about anything; on the contrary, make your requests known to God by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving.” — Philippians 4:6 (CJB)Reflection:Preparing is an act of wisdom—using what God has given you to be ready for what lies ahead. Worrying, however, is carrying what was never yours to hold. Preparation involves trust in action; worry reveals fear trying to take control. One is rooted in ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:05:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_does_it_mean_to_deny_yourself Scripture:“Then Yeshua told his talmidim, ‘If anyone wants to come after me, let him say no to himself, take up his execution-stake, and keep following me.’”Matthew 16:24 (CJB)Reflection:To deny yourself does not mean to hate yourself, ignore your worth, or pretend you do not matter. It means saying no to the flesh so you can say yes to God. It means laying down your own will, your own pride, your own desires, and your own way of doing things when they stand against the w...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 15 Apr 2026 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/consistency_11448 ConsistencyScripture:Luke 16:10 (CJB)Whoever is faithful in small matters will be faithful in large ones as well.Reflection:I asked a brother to call me at 6:00 a.m. every morning to help me get back into a routine and bring some consistency into my life. I asked him because I knew he would do it. I knew I could count on him.That got me thinking: would someone say the same about me? Would they trust my word? Would they believe I would show up, follow through, and be consistent?Consistency is not...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:47:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_turn_back Don’t Turn BackScripture:“No one who puts his hand to the plow and keeps looking back is fit for the Kingdom of God.”— Luke 9:62 (CJB)Reflection:There comes a point in our walk with God where looking back becomes dangerous. The enemy loves to pull our eyes toward old habits, old pain, old failures, and even old comforts that God already called us out of. But you cannot move forward in obedience while your heart is still tied to what God delivered you from.God did not brin...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:10:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/higher_calling_higher_responsibility Higher Calling, Higher ResponsibilityScripture:“But when God, who picked me out before I was born and called me by his grace, chose to reveal his Son to me…” — Galatians 1:15–16 (CJB)Reflection:A calling isn’t just an invitation—it’s a responsibility. When God calls you higher, He’s not just elevating your position, He’s refining your character. The higher the calling, the greater the expectation to walk in obedience, humility, and tru...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 12 Apr 2026 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/judgment_begins_with_us Judgment Begins With UsScripture:“For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins first with us, what will the outcome be for those who are disobeying God’s Good News?”— 1 Peter 4:17 (CJB)Reflection:A lot of people want judgment to start “out there” with the world, with culture, with the people doing wrong in plain sight. But the Word reminds us that God starts with His own house first. He starts with us.That is not beca...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 11 Apr 2026 23:22:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/discipline_is_love Discipline is LoveScripture:“For ADONAI disciplines those he loves and whips everyone he accepts as a son.”— Hebrews 12:6 (CJB)Reflection:Discipline does not always feel like love in the moment, but that is often exactly what it is. Love does not always comfort us by letting us stay where we are. Sometimes love corrects us, stretches us, stops us, and calls us higher. God is too loving to leave us stuck in pride, sin, weakness, or spiritual laziness.The world often says love me...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 10 Apr 2026 20:01:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_danger_of_willful_sin The Danger of Willful SinScripture:“For if we deliberately continue to sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but only the terrifying prospect of Judgment…” — Hebrews 10:26–27 CJBReflection:Willful sin is dangerous because it is not just stumbling in weakness—it is choosing rebellion while knowing better. We all fall short, and thank God His mercy is greater than our failures. But there is a difference be...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:13:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/given_much_required_much Given Much, Required MuchScripture:“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; from someone who has been entrusted with much, even more will be asked.”— Luke 12:48b, CJBReflection:Being blessed is a beautiful thing, but blessing also carries responsibility. The more God places in our hands—time, wisdom, resources, influence, gifts, relationships—the more He expects us to steward well. This is not meant to crush us with pressure, but to awaken us t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:38:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/how_do_you_walk_when_youre_in_the_valley How do you walk when you’re in the valley?Scripture:“Even if I pass through death-dark ravines, I will fear no disaster; for you are with me…” — Psalm 23:4 (CJB)Reflection:We all go through seasons in life—valleys we didn’t ask for, didn’t plan for, and sometimes don’t understand.But in those moments, we have a choice.We can freeze and sit in it.We can turn and try to run from it.Or… we can walk through it.Not with our heads down, but...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 07:46:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/where_are_you_sittingfriday_saturday_or_sunday Where Are You Sitting—Friday, Saturday, or Sunday?Scripture:“But if you do what is good and suffer for it and endure, this finds favor with God. For to this you were called, because the Messiah also suffered on your behalf, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps.”— 1 Peter 2:20–21 (CJB)Reflection:On Sunday, a question was asked that hits deeper than most—Where are you sitting right now?Are you in Friday—the pain, the suffering, the...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 03 Apr 2026 09:11:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_just_remember_the_crossknow_the_man_who_hung_on_it Don’t Just Remember the Cross—Know the Man Who Hung on ItScripture (CJB):“But God demonstrates his own love for us in that the Messiah died on our behalf while we were still sinners.” — Romans 5:8Reflection:Today, many will pause to reflect on the crucifixion—on the pain, the suffering, and the sacrifice. And rightfully so. What Jesus Christ endured was brutal, intentional, and done out of love.But let me ask you something…If you found out someone willi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 02 Apr 2026 11:21:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/a_contrite_savior_a_calling_for_us Scripture:“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, God, you will not despise.” — Psalm 51:19 (CJB)“He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth… like a lamb led to be slaughtered.” — Isaiah 53:7 (CJB)Reflection:As we step closer to Easter, we’re not just remembering events—we’re being invited into a posture.A contrite heart.When Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem, He knew exactly what was ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:43:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/trust_in_him_keep_your_eyes_on_him_and_you_will_stay_above_water Trust in Him, keep your eyes on Him, and you will stay above water.Scripture:“Kepha got out of the boat, walked on the water and went toward Yeshua. But when he saw how strong the wind was, he became frightened; and as he began to sink, he cried out, ‘Sir, save me!’ At once Yeshua reached out his hand, took hold of him, and said to him, ‘Such little trust! Why did you doubt?’” — Matthew 14:29–31 (CJB)Reflection:Peter didn’t sink because the s...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:47:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_ready_for_the_way Are You Ready for the Way?Scripture:“Yeshua said, ‘I am the Way — and the Truth and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through me.’” — John 14:6 (CJB)Reflection:We often say we’re ready for the way… but are we truly prepared to walk it?The way of Christ isn’t something we arrive at—it’s something we commit to daily. It requires time in the Word, time in prayer, and a heart that is continually being shaped.I think about t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:21:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/when_the_holy_spirit_moves_you_dont_just_say_im_praying_for_youtell_them_what_youre_praying When the Holy Spirit moves you, don’t just say “I’m praying for you”—tell them what you’re praying.Scripture:“Therefore encourage each other, and build each other up—just as you are doing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (CJB)Reflection:There’s comfort in hearing “I’m praying for you,” but there’s power in hearing exactly what someone is lifting up to God on your behalf.When the Holy Spirit places something specifi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 27 Mar 2026 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/who_helped_move_your_seed WHO HELPED MOVE YOUR SEED?Scripture:“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow.”— 1 Corinthians 3:6 (CJB)Reflection:None of us got to where we are on our own.If you really take a moment and look back, you’ll see that God used people along the way—sometimes in big ways, sometimes in small, almost unnoticed moments—to help move you.Someone spoke truth when you needed it.Someone prayed for you when you didn’t even know it.Someone showed y...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:09:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/where_is_my_seed Where Is My Seed?Scripture:“The seed sown among thorns stands for someone who hears the message, but it is choked by the worries of the world and the deceitful glamour of wealth, so that it produces nothing. However, what was sown on rich soil is the one who hears the message and understands it.”— Matthew 13:22–23 (CJB)Reflection:When most people hear the parable of the sower, they naturally think of themselves as the one scattering the seed. They think about where the se...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:58:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/prepared_for_the_day Prepared for the DayScripture (CJB):“Trust in Adonai with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him; then he will level your paths.”— Proverbs 3:5–6Reflection:Too often we start our day praying for everything to go right—asking for a perfect, problem-free day. But that mindset can quietly set us up for frustration, because life will happen. Challenges will come. Situations will arise that are outside of our control.Being...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:39:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/godly_grief_leads_to_life Godly Grief Leads to LifeScripture:“For the grief that God intends produces a repentance that leads to deliverance and leaves no regret, but worldly grief produces death.”2 Corinthians 7:10 (CJB)Reflection:There is a difference between the grief that comes from God and the grief that comes from the world.The grief that God intends is purposeful. It is not meant to condemn you, but to awaken you. It presses on your heart not to push you away, but to draw you closer. It leads to repent...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 22 Mar 2026 07:53:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_forget_your_identity_while_walking_through_the_valley Don’t forget your identity while walking through the valleyScripturePsalm 23:4 (CJB)“Even if I pass through death-dark ravines, I will fear no disaster; for you are with me; your rod and staff reassure me.”ReflectionValleys have a way of clouding perspective. When you’re in the middle of hardship, pressure, or uncertainty, it’s easy to start identifying with what you’re going through instead of who you are.But the valley doesn’t redefine you—God al...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 21 Mar 2026 14:57:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/clean_what_you_can_control Clean What You Can Control“For God is not a God of confusion but of shalom.” — 1 Corinthians 14:33 (CJB)Life has a way of getting messy. Not just physically—but spiritually, emotionally, mentally. The clutter builds up. Sometimes it’s possessions we’ve put too much value on. Sometimes it’s habits, addictions, or strongholds we’ve allowed to take root. And before long, that internal mess starts showing up everywhere around us.Your home feels heavy.Y...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 07:26:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_let_fear_keep_you_from_obediencesomeones_life_may_depend_on_it Don’t let fear keep you from obedience—someone’s life may depend on it.Scripture:“Rescue those being dragged off to death—won’t you save those about to be killed?” — Proverbs 24:11 (CJB)Reflection:Fear doesn’t just hold you back—it can silence you when God is calling you to speak. It keeps you from pulling a brother aside when you see him drifting. It keeps you from reaching out to the stranger God places on your heart. It keeps you stu...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:49:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_use_the_bible_to_fit_your_narrative_let_your_narrative_fit_the_bible Don't use the Bible to fit your narrative.Let your narrative fit the Bible.Scripture:“Try your best to present yourself to God as someone worthy of his approval, as a worker with no need to be ashamed, because he deals straightforwardly with the Word of the Truth.”— 2 Timothy 2:15 (CJB)Reflection:Too many people want to bend Scripture until it agrees with what they already want, already feel, or already decided. But the Word of God was never meant to be edited by our emotio...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 18 Mar 2026 06:22:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/serve_where_needed_not_where_comfortable Serve Where Needed, Not Where ComfortableScripture:“Don’t let anyone look only after his own interests, but also after the interests of others.”— Philippians 2:4 (CJB)Reflection:It’s easy to say we serve others… but real service reveals the heart.True service isn’t about choosing what feels good, what’s convenient, or what gets noticed. It’s about stepping into the places where there is a real need—even when it’s uncomfortable, u...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 15 Mar 2026 15:45:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/its_not_always_about_how_much_is_on_your_plate__its_about_how_you_manage_it It’s not always about how much is on your plate — it’s about how you manage it.Scripture“Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough tsuris already.”— Matthew 6:34 (CJB)ReflectionMany times in life we feel overwhelmed by everything sitting on our plate — responsibilities, work, family, decisions, and the weight of expectations.But often the problem is not the amount on our plate. The real question is how we ar...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:35:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/god_can_do_anythingbut_we_must_be_willing_to_change God Can Do Anything—But We Must Be Willing to ChangeScripture (CJB)Romans 12:2“In other words, do not let yourselves be conformed to the standards of the ‘olam hazeh (this world). Instead, keep letting yourselves be transformed by the renewing of your minds; so that you will know what God wants and will agree that what he wants is good, satisfying and able to succeed.”ReflectionWe often say that God can do anything—and that is absolutely true. His power has no limit...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:32:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/its_okay_to_feel_it_but_not_to_kneel_to_it It’s Okay to Feel It… But Not to Kneel to ItScripture:“But God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (CJB)Reflection:Feelings are a natural part of being human. Fear, anxiety, doubt, frustration—these emotions will come. Even the strongest believers experience moments when their hearts feel heavy or uncertain.But there is a difference between feeling something and surrendering to it.Fear may knock on the door...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:33:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_seat_of_humility The Seat of HumilityScripture:“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but everyone who humbles himself will be exalted.”— Luke 14:11 (CJB)Reflection:So much stress in life comes from position—where we sit, when we speak, or whether we are recognized. You see it at weddings, funerals, parties, and gatherings. Hosts worry about who sits where. People worry about whether they are honored enough. Someone wonders if they should speak before or after someone else so n...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 08 Mar 2026 13:49:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/who_are_you_surrounding_yourself_with Who Are You Surrounding Yourself With?Scripture (CJB):“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.” — Proverbs 13:20Reflection:Yesterday during our Waymaker tribe chiefs meeting with the Men’s Alliance, we sat down as brothers and did something that the world rarely encourages anymore—real, honest conversation.We talked about expectations, struggles, victories, and the things we’re walking through in life. What stood out the m...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:16:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/spiritual_reset_11148 Spiritual ResetScripture:“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” — Psalm 51:10 (CJB)Reflection:Life has a way of slowly piling things onto our hearts—stress, frustration, distractions, disappointments, and sometimes even our own mistakes. If we’re not careful, those things begin to cloud our focus and pull us away from the peace and clarity God desires for us.That’s why a spiritual reset is so important.A spiritual reset is...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:31:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/not_every_good_opportunity_is_gods_assignment Not Every Good Opportunity Is God’s AssignmentScripture:“But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.”— James 3:17 (CJB)Reflection:Sometimes things that look good are not actually good for us.Opportunities come our way all the time—new responsibilities, new commitments, new ideas, new doors that seem exciting and meaningful. But if we accept everything simply because...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 10:09:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/remember_who_you_belong_to Remember Who You Belong ToScripture:“Keep your lives free from the love of money; and be satisfied with what you have; for God himself has said, ‘I will never fail you or abandon you.’”— Hebrews 13:5 (CJB)Reflection:This morning started like many others—deadlines, customers needing answers, quotes that needed to be fixed, problems that demanded attention right now. The kind of pressure that makes you feel like if you step away for even a moment, everything mig...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 03 Mar 2026 09:42:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/tenderhearted_on_purpose Scripture (CJB):“Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted; and forgive each other, just as in the Messiah God has also forgiven you.”— Ephesians 4:32Kindness is not weakness. Tenderheartedness is not compromise. Forgiveness is not approval of wrong.This verse is not passive. It is intentional. It calls us to choose a posture.Be kind.Be tenderhearted.Forgive.Not because people deserve it. Not because it’s easy. But because we have been forgiven first.The standard isn&...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:42:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/yes_and_thank_you__this_is_what_family_in_christ_looks_like YES and THANK YOU — This Is What Family in Christ Looks LikeScripture:“Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” — James 5:16“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.” — James 1:5“Direct my steps according to Your word…” — Psalm 119:133“My ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 27 Feb 2026 14:05:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/you_will_be_tested You Will Be TestedScripture (CJB)“Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds; for you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance.”— James 1:2–3Reflection:When you speak about trust…You will be tested.Not always by fire from heaven.Not always by some dramatic spiritual attack.Sometimes it’s just life.You talk about trusting God — then you lose your wallet.You declare confidence — then an 18-wheeler misses yo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:34:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/built_on_the_rock__not_every_storm_is_satan Built on the Rock — Not Every Storm Is SatanScripture:“Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock.”— Matthew 7:24–25 (NASB1995)Reflection:The rain will fall.The floods will rise.The wind will blow.That’s not prophecy — ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:26:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_for_the_storm_you_dont_feel Grace for the Storm You Don’t FeelScripture:“Bear one another’s burdens — in this way you will be fulfilling the Torah’s true meaning, which the Messiah upholds.”— Galatians 6:2 (CJB)Reflection:Sometimes someone opens up and says they’re struggling… and if we’re honest, part of us thinks, “That’s not that big of a deal.”But here’s the truth:What feels like a light rain to you may be a Category 5 hurricane to the...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 19:05:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/assurance_in_what_we_dont_see Assurance in What We Don’t SeeScripture:“Trusting is being confident of what we hope for, convinced about things we do not see.”— Hebrews 11:1 (CJB)Reflection:Trusting isn’t abstract. It’s not just a church word.Trusting is when you don’t get the job you really wanted… and instead of walking around defeated, you walk with confidence and peace anyway—because you believe God is redirecting you, not rejecting you.Trusting is waking up unsure ho...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:31:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/do_todays_work_today Do Today’s Work TodayScripture:“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”— Genesis 1:1 (CJB)Reflection:When God created the world, He didn’t rush the process. He didn’t create light and then worry about the stars. He didn’t form the land and stress about humanity. Each day had its purpose. Each task had its time.He said, “Let there be light.” And there was light.Then the next day, something new.How often do we carry the weight ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 21 Feb 2026 15:44:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/instead_of_living__for__heaven_live__in__heaven Instead of Living for Heaven, Live in HeavenScripture:“But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we eagerly await the Deliverer, the Lord Yeshua the Messiah.”— Epistle to the Philippians 3:20 (CJB)Reflection:Too often we live like heaven is a destination we’re trying to earn one day.We say, “One day I’ll get there.”“One day I’ll rest.”“One day things will be perfect.”But Scripture tells us something bold &m...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:52:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/no_discipline_feels_good_but_it_grows_good No Discipline Feels Good… But It Grows GoodScripture:“No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”—Epistle to the Hebrews 12:11 (CSB)⸻Reflection:Let’s be honest—discipline rarely feels good in the moment. Waking up early when your body wants sleep. Saying no when your flesh wants yes. Holding your tongue when you want to fire back. Staying comm...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:27:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_let_busyness_become_carelessness Scripture:“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” — Colossians 3:23Life gets full.Calendars stack up.Phones buzz.Deadlines press in.And somewhere in the middle of all that movement… attention slips.We don’t mean to overlook people.We don’t mean to rush conversations.We don’t mean to cut corners.But busyness has a quiet way of turning into carelessness.When we move too fast, we stop listening.Whe...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:24:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_letting_go_is_how_god_gives_them_back Sometimes Letting Go Is How We Get Them BackScripture:“Adonai is close to the brokenhearted and saves those crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:19 (CJB)Reflection:Sometimes loving someone means holding them close.And sometimes loving someone means loosening your grip.There are seasons when the person standing in front of you is not the person you know they were created to be. Pain, addiction, pride, anger, or poor choices can cloud who they truly are.And in those moments, we face a ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 14 Feb 2026 11:43:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/be_careful_what_you_take Be Careful What You TakeScripture:“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vanity, but humbly regard others as better than yourselves. Look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.”— Philippians 2:3–4 (CJB)Reflection:A brother was telling me this morning about a leak in his front faucet. The water bill showed what he didn’t see—something was flowing that he didn’t intend to lose. I jokingly told him to collect rainwater in...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:19:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_worry_about_whats_next Don’t Worry About What’s NextScripture (CJB):“Don’t worry about tomorrow — tomorrow will worry about itself! Today has enough tsuris already!”— Matthew 6:34Reflection:This morning I was talking with a brother about renovating our upstairs. We converted what used to be a media room into a master bedroom — something I know my wife will love.And like every renovation, the questions started flying:What about this wall?Where will that go?What’s th...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:55:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/consistency ConsistencyScripture:“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm and immovable, always doing the Lord’s work, because you know that in union with the Lord your labor is not in vain.”— 1 Corinthians 15:58 (CJB)Reflection:Are you consistent in prayer? In pouring into others? In serving?Or do you only step in when you feel like it?If your spiritual life feels like you’re trying to hold a glass of water on a roller coaster, there’s a reason. Up and down. Round and ro...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:57:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/god_uses_imperfect_people God Uses Imperfect PeopleScripture:“Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials; because you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance.”— James 1:2–3 (CJB)“And we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it will be evident that such overwhelming power comes from God and not from us.”— 2 Corinthians 4:7 (CJB)Reflection:This morning, during prayer, I thanked God for something simple but overwhelming:That He still use...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:08:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/when_doing_right_still_costs_you When Doing Right Still Costs YouScripture:“Be careful not to parade your acts of tzedakah in front of people in order to be seen by them! If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven… so that your tzedakah may be in secret; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”— Mattityahu (Matthew) 6:1–4, CJBReflection:We can do everything right in our own eyes and still fall short. Even on our “best” days, sin is still pr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 09 Feb 2026 16:12:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_only_constant_that_never_changes The Only Constant That Never ChangesScripture:“Yeshua the Messiah is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”— Ivrim (Hebrews) 13:8, CJBReflection:This world is always changing.We get comfortable, we settle in, and then life shifts—sometimes gently, sometimes violently.Marriages change.Friendships change.Jobs change.People grow, drift, fail, mature, or walk away.Some changes come from mistakes we made.Others come completely out of our control.And if we’re honest, th...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 08 Feb 2026 22:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_cost_of_carrying_too_much The Cost of Carrying Too MuchScripture:“Come to me, all of you who are struggling and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”— Mattityahu (Matthew) 11:28–30, CJBReflection:This week I’m seeing a neurologist and neurosurgeon because my spine—from C3 to C7—has lost its natural curve and collapsed...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 06 Feb 2026 13:07:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_love_pushes Scripture:“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 27:17, CJBReflection:The last few days I haven’t felt well and found myself sleeping more than usual. After working a few hours, I was ready to do the same—until a brother of mine, out of love, gave me a hard time. It wasn’t comfortable, but it was honest. There was truth in what he said, and instead of letting me settle where I was, he pushed me to fight through it. And in ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 05 Feb 2026 11:20:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/appreciate_the_rockand_the_rock_bottom Appreciate the Rock—and the Rock BottomScripture:“Adonai is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer.”— Tehillim (Psalms) 18:2, CJBReflection:We all say we’re grateful for the Rock when life feels steady. When prayers are answered. When things are going well.But many of us forget to appreciate rock bottom—the place where pride breaks, excuses die, and surrender finally begins.Rock bottom has a way of stripping away everything that isn’t God, leaving us face...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:41:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/life_grows_in_the_dirt Life Grows in the DirtScripture:“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it produces a big harvest.”— Yochanan (John) 12:24, CJBReflection:We all want growth without the mess. We pray for fruit, strength, and purpose—but we resist the dirt: the trials, the failures, the waiting, the uncomfortable seasons where nothing looks beautiful. Yet Scripture reminds us that life doesn’t grow on the surface. It gr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 03 Feb 2026 13:18:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/you_didnt_go_there_for_that You Didn’t Go There for ThatScripture (CJB):“For we are God’s workmanship, created in the Messiah Yeshua for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”— Ephesians 2:10Reflection:I went to San Antonio for a conference.I went to build relationships, talk technology, spend time with colleagues, and explore new opportunities.But God had other plans.I didn’t go there looking to minister.I didn’t go there expecting divine appointments.Yet the mom...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 02 Feb 2026 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/true_change_comes_with_true_repentance True Change Comes with True RepentanceScripture:“Therefore, turn to God and repent, so that your sins may be erased; so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.”— Ma‘asei (Acts) 3:19, CJBReflection:Real change doesn’t begin with behavior—it begins with the heart. We often want God to change our circumstances, our habits, or the people around us, while avoiding the deeper work He wants to do within us. But Scripture is clear: repentance ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 01 Feb 2026 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/truth_begins_with_humility Scripture:“If we claim not to have sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we acknowledge our sins, then, since he is trustworthy and just, he will forgive them and purify us from all wrongdoing. If we claim we have not been sinning, we are making him out to be a liar, and his Word is not in us.”— 1 Yochanan (1 Jo) 1:8–10, CJBReflection:One of the quiet dangers in the faith walk is pretending we’ve arrived. Scripture is clear: denying our sin...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 31 Jan 2026 04:04:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_ask_for_the_a_before_taking_the_test Scripture (CJB):“Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials; for you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance.”— Ya‘akov (James) 1:2–3Reflection:So often we pray for the outcome before we’re willing to walk through the process. We ask God for the blessing, the breakthrough, the promotion, the healing — but we hesitate when the testing comes.Yet Scripture reminds us that growth doesn’t happen without testing...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:18:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/whats_draining_your_battery “Don’t worry about your life—what you will eat or drink; or about your body—what you will wear… Look at the birds flying about! They neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they are?”— Mattityahu (Matthew) 6:25–26, CJBSo many times we wake up already tired—exhausted, unmotivated, heavy. We don’t even want to get out of bed, and sometimes we don’t know why. ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 29 Jan 2026 06:14:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/through_him_not_through_me Through Him, Not Through MeScripture:“I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.”— Philippians 4:13 (CJB)Reflection:This is one of the most loved verses in Scripture, yet one of the most misunderstood. The power of this promise is not found in “I can,” but in “through Him.”Too often, we still try to carry life on our own shoulders, telling ourselves, “I’m strong enough,” while simply asking God to assist us along the way. Bu...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 05:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/examine_the_pour_before_expecting_the_fill Examine the Pour Before Expecting the FillScripture:“Do nothing out of rivalry or vanity; but, in humility, regard each other as better than yourselves.”— Philippians 2:3 (CJB)Reflection:You often get out of relationships what you put into them—not because love is transactional, but because investment matters. We don’t love or serve others for what we’ll get back; we love because we are called to love. And when that love isn’t immediately returned, we do...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 27 Jan 2026 08:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/when_go_feels_silent_seek_him_anyway When God Feels Silent, Seek Him AnywayScripture (CJB):“Then you will seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart.”— Yirmeyahu (Jeremiah) 29:13Reflection:There are seasons when we cry out to God and it feels like nothing changes. The silence can feel louder than the pain. But God’s quiet is not His absence. Scripture never promises instant relief—but it does promise His nearness to the brokenhearted. Seeking God is not about feeling better right a...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:49:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/if_you_think_you_are_doing_it_are_you_doing_it If You Think You Are Doing It, Are You Doing It?There’s a quiet danger in the Christian walk: mistaking intention for action.We can think we’re following Jesus because we read the Bible occasionally…We can think we’re walking in love because we haven’t hurt anyone…We can think we’re living by faith just because we believe in God.But are we doing it?James puts it bluntly:“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”&mda...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 25 Jan 2026 11:48:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/why_do_you_follow_jesus Why Do You Follow Jesus?For a long time, when asked why I’m a Christian, I would answer with my testimony. But I’ve come to realize something important:my testimony explains how I became a Christian — not why I remain one.How you became a Christian is your past.Why you follow Jesus is your present — today.So why am I a Christian?I’m a Christian because of the love Christ shows me every single day.Because He went to the cross for me.Because He died — and becaus...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 24 Jan 2026 08:45:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_tell_me_prayer_doesnt_work “Don’t Tell Me Prayer Doesn’t Work.”Scripture:“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”—James 5:16 (CJB)Reflection:Over these past weeks during our church’s 21 days of prayer and fasting, I’ve been reminded just how powerful prayer truly is. Each morning, prayer cards line the walls—requests from people crying out to God. I don’t pray over those cards for myself. I pray because people are hurting. People are lo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 23 Jan 2026 05:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/redirection RedirectionScripture:“A person may plan his own way, but Adonai directs his steps.”—Proverbs 16:9 (CJB)Reflection:Sometimes what feels like delay, disruption, or even disappointment is not God saying no—it’s God saying this way instead. Redirection is not rejection. It is often protection, correction, or preparation for something greater than what we originally wanted or understood.We tend to see redirection as loss because it moves us away from what we were comfort...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/5050_is_not_covenant100100_is 50/50 Is Not Covenant—100/100 IsScripture:“So that they are no longer two, but one flesh.”—Matthew 19:6 (CJB)Reflection:If a relationship is 50/50, you’re already losing. A God-centered relationship is not about dividing effort; it’s about both giving 100%. There will be seasons when your spouse only has 10% to give—and in those moments, you carry the other 90%. And when you are weak, they carry you. That is what it means to walk in unity, always moving ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:57:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/prepared_before_the_battle Prepared Before the BattleScripture:“Yeshua, full of the Ruach HaKodesh, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness… When the Adversary had finished tempting him in every way, he left him until the next opportunity.”— Luke 4:1, 13 (CJB)Reflection:Something profound stands out in the temptation of Jesus. He was full of the Holy Spirit—and then He was led into the wilderness. Forty days of fasting. Forty days of isolation. And when He was ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:28:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/trust_is_the_root_of_every_prayer Trust Is the Root of Every PrayerScripture:“Trust in Adonai with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him; then he will level your paths.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 3:5–6, CJBReflection:The prayer card read:Discipline to create and build the life God has planned for me.Patience to remember all will be well in time through God.Strength to move through all trials and tribulations with the grace of God and help of community.Safety to ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 19 Jan 2026 05:15:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/what_truly_matters What Truly MattersScripture (CJB):“So then, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”—Romans 12:18Reflection:What truly matters in this world isn’t possessions. It isn’t what we can buy for people, impress them with, or even do for them in a worldly sense. What truly matters is what we pour into people.I remember when I first found my way back to Christ. I went to church alone for a long time. I didn’t push, didn’t pressure—because...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 18 Jan 2026 07:02:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/healing_begins_with_ownership Healing Begins With OwnershipScripture (CJB):“He who conceals his sins will not succeed, but he who confesses and abandons them will gain mercy.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 28:13Reflection:Healing and repentance begin the moment we take ownership of our mistakes. Too often, when we make the wrong choice, we look for someone else to blame. It was their fault because they did this to me. I was angry because of work. I reacted because of what someone else said or did.But the truth is thi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 17 Jan 2026 14:08:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/gods_calling_for_your_life God’s Calling for Your LifeScripture (CJB):“Listen to counsel, accept discipline, and you will become wise in the end.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 19:20Reflection:Last night at dinner, some dear friends shared that their son feels a clear calling to be a pastor. When he approached his parents, his question wasn’t rooted in doubt or fear. It was simple and sincere: Is this a good idea? Is this okay for me to do?That question reflects something we don’t see enough toda...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:29:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/regardless_of_circumstances Regardless of CircumstancesScripture:“I have learned to be content regardless of circumstances.”— Philippians 4:11 (CJB)Reflection:That is a profound statement coming from Paul. He isn’t saying this from a place of comfort or ease—he’s saying it from a life marked by hardship, uncertainty, and suffering. Contentment isn’t found in our surroundings, our finances, our health, or the opinions of others. True contentment is learned when we place our full tru...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:59:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_only_advantage Scripture (Philippians 3:7–8, CJB):“But the things that were once advantages for me, I have come to consider a disadvantage because of the Messiah. Not only that, but I consider everything a disadvantage in comparison with the supreme value of knowing Messiah Yeshua as my Lord.”Reflection:This verse hits hard if we’re honest with ourselves. Paul is saying the very things he once leaned on—his status, his credentials, his past successes—don’t mean a thing...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:08:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/freedom_without_chains Freedom Without ChainsScripture:“All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.”— 1 Corinthians 6:12 (NASB1995)Reflection:Paul reminds us that freedom in Christ is real—but it is not reckless. Just because something is permitted does not mean it is profitable. The enemy often doesn’t need to trap us with obvious sin; he simply distracts us with things that slowly take control. Co...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:28:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_god_wont_give_you_the_conclusionbut_he_will_give_you_the_courage Sometimes God won’t give you the conclusion—but He will give you the courage.Scripture (CJB):“Trust in Adonai with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding.”—Proverbs 3:5 (CJB)Reflection:We often ask God for answers, clarity, and certainty. We want to know how it’s all going to end before we take the first step. But God, in His wisdom, knows that if we had the full conclusion, we might never learn to trust Him. Instead of revealing the whole plan,...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:47:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/your_future_may_feel_uncertain_but_your_hope_is_firmly_anchored_in_christ Your future may feel uncertain, but your hope is firmly anchored in Christ.Scripture (CJB):“For I know what plans I have in mind for you,” says Adonai, “plans for well-being, not for bad things; so that you can have hope and a future.”— Jeremiah 29:11 (CJB)Reflection:We live in a world that constantly reminds us of how little control we truly have. Plans change. Doors close. Answers don’t always come when we want them. Uncertainty can shake us—if our hop...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 11 Jan 2026 07:36:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/comfort_or_calling Comfort or CallingAre you driven by decisions based on what is easy, or are you pulled into purpose by what is necessary?Scripture (CJB):“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate that leads to destruction is wide and the road broad, and many travel it; but it is a narrow gate and a hard road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”—Matthew 7:13–14 (CJB)Reflection:Easy choices often feel good in the moment, but they rarely shape us into who God is calling us to be. ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 10 Jan 2026 11:14:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/prayer__fasting__drawing_closer Prayer Fasting — Drawing CloserScripture (CJB):“Then Yeshua said to his talmidim, ‘If anyone wants to come after me, let him say no to himself, take up his execution-stake daily, and keep following me.’”— Luke 9:23 (CJB)Reflection:As we near our church’s annual 21 days of prayer and fasting, it’s important to pause and ask why we do this. Fasting is not meant to be casual or convenient—it’s meant to be intentional and prayerful.Fasting...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:53:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/finding_joy_in_a_broken_world Finding Joy in a Broken WorldScripture (CJB):“Always rejoice in the Lord! I will say it again: rejoice!”— Philippians 4:4 (CJB)Reflection:Living in a broken world can weigh heavily on the heart. When we see brokenness in ourselves, in others, and in the circumstances around us, it becomes difficult to find relief—especially when we’re searching for happiness. Happiness is fragile; it rises and falls with circumstances. When things are good, we feel good. When things...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 08 Jan 2026 11:48:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_know_where_your_strength_comes_from Do You Know Where Your Strength Comes From?Scripture (CJB):“Adonai is my strength and my shield; I trust in him, and he helps me.”—Psalm 28:7 (CJB)Reflection:Twice in the last two youth weekends I served, the enemy tried to take me out—once through my knee, and this last time through my neck and shoulder. I could have easily folded. I could have gone home. I could have called it in, and no one would have blamed me.But I stood up and said, no—I’m needed here.Th...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:31:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/no_condemnation_only_transformation No Condemnation, Only TransformationScripture (CJB):“Therefore, there is no longer any condemnation awaiting those who are in union with the Messiah Yeshua.”—Romans 8:1 (CJB)Reflection:Growth and change require us to look honestly at ourselves—to recognize our faults and understand what Messiah is asking us to change. God gives us the heart for change, but many times we become our own worst critics.There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. That does not mean w...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 06 Jan 2026 17:29:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/spiritual_reset Spiritual ResetScripture (CJB):“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”—Romans 12:2 (CJB)Reflection:There are moments when life gets noisy—busy schedules, heavy responsibilities, lingering worries, and quiet compromises that slowly pull our hearts off center. Before we realize it, we’re running on empty, reacting instead of responding, surviving instead of abiding.A spiritual reset isn’t about fixing every...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 05 Jan 2026 11:54:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/new_year_new_life New Year, New LifeScripture (CJB):“Therefore, if anyone is united with the Messiah, he is a new creation—the old has passed; look! What has come is fresh and new!”—2 Corinthians 5:17 (CJB)Reflection:Every year we hear it: New year, new you. We make resolutions, set goals, and promise ourselves change. And every year, most of those promises quietly fade. Not because we don’t want change—but because we try to build it on our own strength, on worldly commitments ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 03 Jan 2026 07:03:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/pulled_from_the_fire Pulled From the FireLast night, as we stood around the fire during the ceremony, it hit me how real that moment is. When you get close to a fire, there’s warmth, light, and purpose—but if it gets too high or too hot, it becomes dangerous. And there’s always that brother who speaks up: “Hey, watch out.” The one who pulls you back before you get burned.That’s what true brotherhood looks like—someone willing to step in, even when you don’t realize the...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 02 Jan 2026 07:10:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/just_because_you_can_doesnt_mean_you_should Just Because You Can, Doesn’t Mean You ShouldScripture (CJB):“Which of you by worrying can add an hour to his life?”—Matthew 6:27 (CJB)Reflection:One of the harder lessons to learn is this: just because we technically have the time doesn’t mean we truly have the time. A gap on the calendar doesn’t automatically mean it’s available.When we say yes too quickly—because we can squeeze it in—we often don’t realize what we’re actually s...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:31:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/hide_or_stand Hide or Stand?“Be strong, and let your courage take hold, all you who put your hope in Adonai.”—Psalm 31:25 (CJB)When things get tough, we all face a choice: hide from the world or stand up and be the man God has called us to be. It’s easy to retreat—to worry, isolate, sleep it off, or pull the covers over our heads and hope tomorrow feels different. I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to let fear and stress keep me stuck.But I’ve learned this: ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 26 Dec 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/embrace_the_imperfections Embrace the Imperfections“For there is not a righteous person on earth who does what is right and never sins.”—Ecclesiastes 7:20 (CJB)Too many times in our marriages, we try to change our spouse. We focus on the imperfections—the little things that annoy us, frustrate us, or don’t fit our expectations. We convince ourselves that if this one thing would change, things would be better.But the truth is, if we could “fix” all their imperfections and make the...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 24 Dec 2025 08:15:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/hope_entered_the_world Hope Entered the World'And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. 'John 1:14 NASB95This Christmas Eve feels different. This year carried more loss than I expected—my father, my brother Joe, my brother Felix, my brother Charles, and several fathers of brothers I love. As Christmas approached, I could feel myself bracing for it, already deciding it would be hard. Different. Heavy. And be...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:17:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/accountability_is_not_betrayal Accountability Is Not Betrayal“Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed. Wounds from a friend are received as well meant, but an enemy’s kisses are deceitful.”—Proverbs 27:5–6 (CJB)Real brotherhood doesn’t look the other way when patterns keep a man stuck. Growth requires ownership. We cannot move forward while blaming others or excusing our own choices. Love that never confronts eventually becomes enablement—and enablement keeps chains in place...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 10:21:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/we_grow_in_grief_not_in_laughter We Grow in Grief, Not in Laughter“Better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, since that is the end of everyone, and the living should take it to heart.”—Ecclesiastes 7:2 (CJB)Laughter has its place—it refreshes the soul—but it rarely shapes our character. Grief, however, has a way of slowing us down, stripping away what’s shallow, and pressing truth deep into our hearts. In sorrow, we listen more closely. We pray more honestly. We l...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 21 Dec 2025 06:24:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/truth_asked_for_carries_responsibility Truth Asked For Carries ResponsibilityScripture (CJB):“Whoever conceals sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and abandons them will gain mercy.”—Proverbs 28:13Reflection:There are moments when silence feels safer than truth—especially when the truth may hurt someone we love. But when truth is directly asked for, silence becomes a burden the soul was never meant to carry. God doesn’t call us to be judges, but He does call us to walk in the light. What remains...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 20 Dec 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_stuck_in_todays_struggle_and_forgetting_yesterdays_victories Are You Stuck in Today’s Struggle and Forgetting Yesterday’s Victories?Scripture (CJB):“I want to remember the deeds of Adonai, yes, I will remember your wonders from long ago.”—Psalm 77:12 (CJB)Reflection:It’s easy to share our testimony when we’re standing on the mountaintop—when prayers have been answered and life feels clear. But when we find ourselves in the valley, weighed down by present struggles, we often grow quiet about what God has alre...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 05:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_the_parent_your_kids_need Are You the Parent Your Kids Need?Scripture (CJB):“Train a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”—Proverbs 22:6 (CJB)Reflection:Our children don’t need us to be their friends first—they need us to be their parents. Authority, structure, and discipline aren’t signs of a lack of love; they are expressions of it. Just as the Holy Spirit guides us, corrects us, and sometimes convicts us, parents are called to lead their chi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:28:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/women_are_you_the_wife_your_man_needs_you_to_be Women, Are You the Wife Your Man Needs You to Be?Scripture (CJB):“Nevertheless, each of you must love his wife as himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”—Ephesians 5:33 (CJB)Reflection:Marriage was never meant to be one-sided strength. While men are often expected to be steady, strong, and unmoved, they too carry burdens that weigh heavy on the heart. Sometimes what a man needs most isn’t advice, correction, or solutions—but comfort. He needs to know he&rsq...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:32:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_the_man_your_wife_needs_you_to_be Are You the Man Your Wife Needs You to Be?Scripture (CJB):“Husbands, love your wives, just as the Messiah loved the Messianic Community and gave himself up on her behalf.”—Ephesians 5:25 (CJB)Reflection:As men, we’re often taught that being a husband means being unshakable—strong, silent, and self-contained. But marriage was never designed to be lived behind walls. God calls husband and wife to be one, not distant partners sharing space. When we bottle up our strugg...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 16 Dec 2025 09:28:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_trying_to_be_right_can_make_you_wrong Sometimes Trying to Be Right Can Make You WrongScripture (CJB):“Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.”—1 Corinthians 8:1Reflection:There are moments when we cling so tightly to being right that we forget to be loving. Scripture reminds us that truth without humility can harden the heart. Jesus never compromised truth, yet He always led with grace. When being right becomes more important than restoring a relationship, listening with compassion, or reflecting Christ, we can mis...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:10:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/alone_time_vs_isolation Alone Time vs. IsolationScripture (CJB):“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Yeshua got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”—Mark 1:35 (CJB)Reflection:There’s a holy difference between choosing alone time and drifting into isolation. Jesus often withdrew—not to escape people, but to commune with the Father. His solitude was purposeful, prayerful, and renewing. Isolation, on the other hand, pulls us away from communi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 14 Dec 2025 08:42:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_starts_at_home Grace Starts at HomeScripture:“Instead, be kind to one another, tenderhearted; and forgive each other, just as in the Messiah God has also forgiven you.”— Ephesians 4:32 (CJB)Reflection:It’s often easier to show grace to strangers because they haven’t hurt us, disappointed us, or rubbed against our pride. But the people closest to us—our spouse, family, brothers, sisters, and friends—see our rough edges, and we see theirs. That’s where grace gets t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 13 Dec 2025 06:38:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_isnt_earned__its_given Grace Isn’t Earned — It’s GivenScripture:“‘Don’t I have the right to do what I want with what belongs to me? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ So the last will be first, and the first last.”— Matthew 20:15–16 (CJB)Reflection:In the parable of the workers in the vineyard, Jesus reminds us that God’s kingdom doesn’t operate on human fairness—it operates on grace. Those who worked all day received the same wage as t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:52:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_miss_the_point_of_ecclesiastes Don’t Miss the Point of EcclesiastesScripture (CJB):“Utterly pointless! says Kohelet. Absolutely pointless! Everything is pointless!”— Ecclesiastes 1:2 (CJB)Reflection:Many people read Ecclesiastes and walk away discouraged. They see Solomon’s words and think the message is: “Nothing matters.” But that’s not what Solomon is showing us. He isn’t telling us that life has no meaning—he’s revealing that everything under the sun, every...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_even_leaders_need_to_be_led Sometimes Even Leaders Need to Be LedScripture:“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Mishlei (Proverbs) 15:22, CJBReflection:Even the strongest among us—the ones others look to for guidance, direction, and encouragement—reach moments where the weight feels heavy. Leadership doesn’t make a person invincible; it simply means God has entrusted them with influence. And even Moses, David, Paul, and the disciples had moments where ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:14:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_forget_the_gift Don’t Forget the GiftScripture (CJB):“Every good act of giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father who made the heavenly lights.” — Ya‘akov (James) 1:17Reflection:There are gifts in life we treasure—things given by someone special that once meant the world to us. Over time, though, even the most meaningful gifts can become familiar. We still use them, but we forget the heart behind them. We forget the giver.And the same can happen...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 08 Dec 2025 07:54:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/whats_it_worth What’s It Worth?Scripture (CJB):“Look around you at the birds flying about! They neither plant nor harvest, nor do they gather food into barns; yet your Father in heaven feeds them. Aren’t you worth more than they are?”— Matthew 6:26 (CJB)Reflection:Every day we pour our time, our energy, and our strength into something. Work, sleep, chasing goals, securing stability. But when we step back and ask the hard question—what’s it worth?—we begin to see ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 06 Dec 2025 13:57:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/cheerful_giving Cheerful GivingScripture:“Each should give according to what he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7 (CJB)Reflection:When we give, God isn’t looking at the size of the gift—He’s looking at the posture of our hearts. We aren’t called to give out of pressure, guilt, or obligation. We give because He first gave to us. Every blessing, every resource, every opportunity we have comes...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 05 Dec 2025 07:48:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/disruptions DisruptionsScripture (CJB):“Adonai directs a person’s steps, and he delights in his way.” — Psalm 37:23Reflection:We often assume every disruption in our lives comes from the enemy—comfort shaken, routines interrupted, relationships shifted. Our first thought is, “Why is Satan attacking me?” But not every disruption is an attack. Sometimes it is the gentle (and sometimes not-so-gentle) hand of God redirecting your steps.There are moments when Adonai must...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 04 Dec 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/god_sees_the_struggles_you_hide_from_the_world God sees the struggles you hide from the worldScripture:“People look at the outward appearance, but Adonai looks at the heart.”— 1 Samuel 16:7 (CJB)Reflection:There are battles we fight that no one else ever sees — the doubts, the weariness, the moments we feel like we’re holding everything together with our last ounce of strength. But the beautiful truth is this: God sees every hidden tear, every quiet prayer, every unspoken fear.Just as He reminded Samuel that hum...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 03 Dec 2025 16:38:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_power_of_prayer__holy_affirmation The Power of Prayer Holy AffirmationScripture:“But you, man of God, flee from these things; and pursue righteousness, godliness, faithfulness, love, steadfastness, gentleness.”— 1 Timothy 6:11 (CJB)Reflection:There are days when our walk feels sharp, focused, and set ablaze by the Spirit — and then there are days when distraction creeps in like a quiet fog. Not sin, not rebellion… just that subtle drift that pulls our eyes off the One who called us.Even the mature...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:57:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_lord_stood_with_me The Lord Stood With MeScripture:“But the Lord stood by me and gave me power, so that through me the message would be fully proclaimed…” — 2 Timothy 4:17 (CJB)Reflection:There are moments when you feel like Paul — surrounded, opposed, misunderstood, or simply worn down by the battles of life. People may walk away, support may fade, and the weight of responsibility can make you feel like you’re standing alone.But the Word reminds us of a deeper truth: you have ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:47:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/when_the_realization_hits When the Realization HitsScripture:“But God demonstrates His own love for us in that the Messiah died on our behalf while we were still sinners.”— Romans 5:8 (CJB)Reflection:In Genesis, we see the moment humanity became separated from God — and the promise that one day the Messiah would come to remove that separation forever. Many ask why God waited so long to send the Savior. We may never understand every detail of His timing, but what we can grasp is the immensity of Hi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 29 Nov 2025 15:14:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/drunkenness DrunkennessScripture:“Let us live properly, as people do in the daytime — not partying and getting drunk, not engaging in sexual immorality and other excesses, not quarreling and being jealous.”— Romans 13:13 (CJB)Reflection:Paul reminds us that followers of Messiah are called to walk in the light, not in the shadows of behaviors that numb our spirits or cloud our judgment. Drunkenness isn’t just about alcohol — it symbolizes any escape we run to that pulls us...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 28 Nov 2025 06:41:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/by_gods_grace_i_am_who_i_am “By God’s grace, I am who I am.”Scripture:“But by God’s grace I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I have worked harder than all of them—although it was not I but the grace of God with me.”— 1 Corinthians 15:10 (CJB)Reflection:This verse reminds us that everything we are—every victory, every transformation, every step forward—is because of the overflowing grace of God. Paul wasn’t boasting in h...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 27 Nov 2025 12:04:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_walk_the_walk_every_day Do You Walk the Walk Every Day?Scripture:“Whatever you do, put yourselves wholeheartedly into it, as working for the Lord and not for human masters.” — Colossians 3:23 (CJB)Reflection:On days like today, everyone expects the usual message: “What are you thankful for?” But the Lord put something different on my heart.Are we only cheerful, grateful, prayerful, and intentional on the days society tells us to be? Or do we walk that walk every day?It’s easy to send...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 25 Nov 2025 11:51:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/trusting_god_when_life_feels_overwhelming Trusting God When Life Feels OverwhelmingScripture:“Trust in Adonai with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 3:5 CJBReflection:There are seasons when life feels like it’s pressing in from every side—bills, responsibilities, uncertainty, the needs of your family, and the weight of the unknown. In those moments, panic tries to rise, anxiety creeps in, and fear whispers that there’s no way out. Yet, these are the very momen...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 24 Nov 2025 11:02:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/how_do_you_fight_your_battles How do you fight your battles? Do you open your mouth in prayer to the Father, or do you stay silent? Do you swing with your fists, or do you lead with your heart? Do you stand on Scripture, or do you rely on the voices of this world?Scripture:“I called on your name, Adonai, from the depths of the pit. You heard my plea… You drew near when I called on you and said, ‘Don’t be afraid.’”— Lamentations 3:55–57 (CJB)Reflection:The battles we face are n...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 22 Nov 2025 13:39:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/your_past_doesnt_define_your_ending Your past doesn’t define your endingScripture:“Therefore, if anyone is united with the Messiah, he is a new creation — the old has passed; look, what has come is fresh and new!”— 2 Corinthians 5:17 (CJB)Reflection:That sign speaks a truth many of us need to be reminded of: you can’t go back and rewrite the beginning of your story… but you can start right where you are and change the ending.Your past—your failures, your wounds, your missteps—...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:13:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_storm_may_roar_but_it_cannot_rule The Storm May Roar, but It Cannot Rule“He said to the sea, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ And the wind subsided, and there was a dead calm.”— Mark 4:39 (CJB)Some storms are loud enough to shake your peace, heavy enough to make you feel helpless, and sudden enough to make you wonder where God is. But the truth is this: the storm is over your head, but it is still under His feet.Your fear does not move Him — your faith does. The same voice that created the heavens still spe...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 19 Nov 2025 09:20:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_listen_to_understand_or_to_merely_defend Do you listen to understand, or to merely defend?Scripture:“Let every person be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”— Ya‘akov (James) 1:19, CJB“The purposes of a person’s heart are deep waters, but one who has discernment draws them out.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 20:5, CJBReflection:When someone comes to you—whether it’s a spouse, a child, a coworker, or a brother in Christ—are you listening to hear their heart&helli...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 08:34:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_really_stuck_or_just_scared_to_take_the_next_step Are You Really Stuck, or Just Scared to Take the Next Step?Scripture:“Trust in Adonai with all your heart; do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will level your paths.”— Mishlei (Proverbs) 3:5–6, CJBReflection:So many times, we tell ourselves we’re stuck. Stuck in a job. Stuck in a relationship. Stuck in a season that feels heavy or overwhelming. But when we look a little deeper, often we discover something else—fear.F...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:15:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_strength_of_a_joyful_spirit The Strength of a Joyful SpiritScripture:“Do not grieve, for the joy of ADONAI is your strength.”— Nehemiah 8:10 (CJB)Reflection:There are days when the body is worn thin, when sleep is short, and when responsibilities stack up faster than our energy does. Yesterday was beautiful, emotional, holy, and long—my daughter entering into covenant, my family gathered, the laughter of my grandson filling my home. And even though today my body feels the weight of it all, my spirit...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 15 Nov 2025 08:11:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/blessed_spouse_blessed_house Blessed Spouse, Blessed HouseScripture:“Though one may be overpowered, two can resist; and a three-stranded cord is not easily broken.”— Ecclesiastes 4:12 (CJB)Reflection:On wedding days, everyone seems to have advice — don’t go to bed angry, happy wife, happy life, and the list goes on. But the truth is this: the strength of a marriage isn’t found in catchy sayings, but in a covenant that has God at the center.Marriage isn’t supposed to become “ea...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:22:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/sometimes_the_hardest_help_is_stepping_back Sometimes the Hardest Help Is Stepping BackScripture:“Adonai sustains all who fall and lifts up all who are bent down.”— Psalm 145:14 (CJB)Reflection:There are seasons when the hardest thing you can do for someone is to stop doing everything for them. You can love them, support them, and pray for them — but if they refuse to take the steps needed to change their own life, your help becomes their crutch.Even God, in His perfect love, sometimes lets us fall. He allows us to...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 13 Nov 2025 06:52:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/love_hurtsbut_its_worth_it Love Hurts—But It’s Worth ItThis season carries a heaviness I can’t ignore. It’s the first Christmas in 18 years in a house where I want my dad to be—yet he isn’t here. Last Christmas, he sat under this same roof, preparing for what life would look like living with us. And my brother, my Christ-filled brother Joe, was here too.Now both are gone—both home with our Lord and Savior.And as I sit here writing this, tears in my eyes, I think about every person...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 12 Nov 2025 07:49:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/lord_what_do_you_want_me_to_learn Lord, What Do You Want Me to Learn?Scripture:“Everything has its season, and there is a time for every purpose under heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1 (CJB)Reflection:There are moments in life when we find ourselves walking through the same valley over and over again — heartbreak, sickness, loss, or struggle. We cry out to God, “Heal me, deliver me, take this away,” but nothing seems to change. When we circle the same mountain repeatedly, it may not be because God i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/its_not_what_you_say_for_him_that_counts__its_what_he_says_through_you It’s not what you say for Him that counts — it’s what He says through you.Scripture:“For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”— Matthew 10:20 (CJB)Reflection:We often try so hard to speak for God — to find the right words, to sound spiritual, or to make a difference through our own effort. But the true power of testimony isn’t found in eloquence; it’s found in surrender. When your heart is aligned with ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:01:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/renewed_in_spirit Renewed in SpiritScripture:“Put off your old self… and be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”— Ephesians 4:22–24 (CJB)Reflection:Renewal is not a single event — it’s a rhythm of grace. Each day, God gives us another chance to shed what no longer serves His purpose in us. The world wants to define you by your past — your failures, your regrets, your habits — but Christ calls you by your future. He says, “Behold, I make all things new....READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 09 Nov 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/training_vs_testing Training vs. TestingScripture:“Adonai tests the righteous…” — Psalm 11:5 (CJB)Reflection:Sometimes it’s not the devil testing you — it’s God training you. We often assume that every hardship is an attack from the enemy, but not every trial is from the pit — some are from the Potter’s hand. God uses moments of struggle to strengthen, refine, and prepare us for the calling ahead.Like David in the wilderness or Moses in the desert, your trainin...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 08 Nov 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/true_worship True WorshipScripture:“Adonai is great and greatly to be praised!”— Psalm 96:4 (CJB)Reflection:You don’t worship because you like to sing — or because you don’t. You worship because of what God has done for you. Worship isn’t about your preference; it’s about His presence. It’s not for your comfort — it’s for His glory.Encouragement:Lay down the selfishness, lift your hands, and remember: He is worthy — not because of how yo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 06:00:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/god_cant_steer_a_parked_car God Can’t Steer a Parked CarScripture:“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 (CJB)Reflection:There’s a time to be still — and a time to move. Too often we confuse silence with stagnation. We wait for a sign, a voice, or a perfect condition before taking that first step, but faith doesn’t always come with a road map. Sometimes God is simply waiting for us to put the car in drive.Discernment is knowing the difference — when to rest in His ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:57:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/come_as_you_are Come as You AreScripture:“Adonai is near to those with broken hearts; He saves those whose spirit is crushed.”— Psalm 34:19 (CJB)Reflection:You cannot come to a holy God with your goodness — because you don’t have any. None of us do. Our righteousness is like filthy rags before Him. We don’t approach God because we’ve got it all together; we approach Him because we’re falling apart.When we come before the Lord, it’s not our perfection that dr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 05 Nov 2025 14:38:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/righteousness_vs_selfrighteousness Righteousness vs. Self-RighteousnessScripture:“For the person who is righteous will attain life by trusting and being faithful.”— Romans 1:17 (CJB)Reflection:Righteousness is not something we earn — it’s something we’re given through faith in Yeshua. Before we ever did a single good thing, before we served, preached, or gave, God loved us. He called us His own when we were still lost in our sin, our addictions, our rebellion. It was His grace, not our goodness...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 04 Nov 2025 03:55:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/check_your_instruments Check Your InstrumentsScripture:“Focus your minds on the things above, not on things here on earth.”— Colossians 3:2 (CJB)Reflection:Last night, sitting by the campfire with my brothers, we started talking about aviation — about how pilots sometimes experience what’s called spatial disorientation. It’s when their senses betray them. They feel like the plane is spinning out of control even though it’s actually flying perfectly level. When they trust what ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:31:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/the_power_of_compassionate_giving The Power of Compassionate GivingScripture:Luke 6:34–36 (CJB) – “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend expecting nothing back. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of Ha‘Elyon; for He is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Show yourselves compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.”Reflection:This passage challenges the heart of every believer. Yeshua calls us to a love that defies logic—a love that gives freely, expecting nothing...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 02 Nov 2025 05:06:01 -0600http://www.thefreebible.org/keep_walking Keep WalkingScripture:“For we walk by trust, not by what we see.”— 2 Corinthians 5:7 (CJB)Reflection:There are moments when the path ahead seems uncertain — when the promises of God feel distant, and your steps feel heavy. But faith isn’t about seeing the finish line; it’s about trusting the One who drew the map.Abraham didn’t see the land when God told him to go. Peter didn’t see the ground when he stepped out of the boat. They simply walked.Somet...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 01 Nov 2025 07:31:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/stay_awake_and_ready Luke 21:34–36 (CJB)“But keep watch on yourselves, or your hearts will become dulled by carousing, drunkenness and the worries of everyday living, and that day will be sprung upon you suddenly like a trap! … Stay alert, always praying that you will have the strength to escape all the things that will happen and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man.”There’s a quiet danger in comfort — not in the kind of rest that comes from God, but in the kind of comfort...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:21:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/cracked_but_still_chosen Cracked, But Still ChosenOne morning at a Kiwanis breakfast, I went through the line and grabbed a plastic spork wrapped neatly in plastic. It looked perfect — sealed, clean, ready to use. But when I opened the wrapper, I saw that it was cracked. Broken.And in that moment, God whispered, “That’s how many of My children look.”On the outside, we appear fine — smiling faces, polite conversation, nice clothes. But underneath, behind the plastic of presentation, many hea...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:55:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/godly_pain_vs_worldly_pain Godly Pain vs. Worldly PainScripture:“For pain handled in God’s way produces a turning from sin to God, which leads to salvation, and there is nothing to regret in that; but pain handled in the world’s way produces only death.”— 2 Corinthians 7:10 (CJB)Reflection:Pain is a universal language — everyone speaks it, but not everyone understands it. The difference lies not in the pain itself, but in how it’s handled.When pain is handled in God’s way, i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:19:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_god_who_restores There’s a powerful truth hidden in this verse — one that every follower of Christ needs to hold close when the road gets hard: suffering is temporary, but glory is eternal.When Peter wrote these words, he was speaking to believers who were facing persecution, loss, and deep hardship. But his message wasn’t “escape the pain.” It was “endure it with purpose.” Because the same God who allows us to walk through the fire is also the God who walks with us in i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:59:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/shaped_by_the_hard_days Shaped by the Hard Days📖 Hebrews 12:11 (CJB) – “Now, all discipline while it is happening does indeed seem painful, not pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”There’s a beauty hidden in the battles we’d rather not face. Discipline doesn’t feel good in the moment — it stretches us, humbles us, and exposes the parts of us that still need God’s touch. But just as a potter shapes clay ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 27 Oct 2025 07:08:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/built_by_the_battle “Built by the Battle”“Regard it all as joy, my brothers, when you face various kinds of temptations; for you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance.” — James 1:2–4 (CJB)When life hits hard, it’s easy to question God’s purpose in the pain. But the truth is—trials don’t come to destroy you. They come to develop you. Every difficult season is a divine classroom where God teaches endurance, molds character, and deepens fa...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:49:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/who_surrounds_you Who Surrounds You?Even the strongest among us fall.Even the men of God — those seen as warriors of faith — stumble. The world wears us down, attacks us, and sometimes, it feels like we can’t take another hit. But what makes the difference isn’t our strength — it’s who stands beside us when we fall.If I had no one to pray for me, no one to lift me when I was broken, I don’t know if I’d get back up.Yes, I’m a strong man, but every man has a bre...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 25 Oct 2025 10:22:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/isolation_is_terminal Isolation Is TerminalWhen your flesh starts to take over, you have two choices — fight with the Word, or fall into the trap of isolation.Your flesh will always try to pull you away from truth. It whispers things like, “You can handle this alone,” or “You don’t need anyone else.” But that’s a lie straight from the pit. Because isolation is where the enemy works best — when you’re tired, distracted, and disconnected from your brothers and siste...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:52:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_when_its_hard_to_give Grace When It’s Hard to GiveWe all love to receive grace—but giving it, especially when we feel it’s undeserved, that’s where our faith is tested. The truth is, none of us deserve grace. Not one. Yet, our Savior still offered it freely on the cross.I was speaking to a sister in Christ recently who had been serving faithfully in her church. She gave her time, her heart, and her effort. But when leaders discovered that her first child was born out of wedlock, they shamed he...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:57:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/getting_our_priorities_straight Getting Our Priorities StraightA “god” can be anything we put ahead of God on our priority list. This Scripture is both clear and deep—it reminds us to examine what truly sits on the throne of our hearts.Even as believers, we can easily let things like money, success, relationships, or comfort take God’s place without realizing it. It’s not always that we want those things more than Him—it’s often that we don’t fully trust Him to provide or have a ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 06:54:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/born_into_sin_is_no_reason_to_live_in_sin Born Into Sin Is No Reason to Live In SinYesterday during a devotional I led with my men’s alliance, we were talking about the weight we carry — the burdens of life, leadership, and the constant battle with sin. I made a statement that needed correction: I said we aren’t born into sin. What I meant was that we aren’t born understanding sin.The truth is, Scripture is clear — we are all born into sin. Psalm 51:5 says, “I was born guilty, a sinner from the moment...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:31:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/finding_yourself_again Finding Yourself AgainSometimes life wears us down so much that we forget who we are. The world piles on — sleepless nights, heavy burdens, and the quiet ache of wondering if we still have a purpose. We go through the motions, helping others, but deep inside, we feel lost.But friend, God never loses sight of who you are. Even when you feel like “a big bag of messed up,” He still calls you by name. He formed you with purpose, and that purpose doesn’t disappear just because...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 19 Oct 2025 18:48:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/growth_in_faith_and_discernment Growth in Faith and DiscernmentA brother in Christ reminded me today how vital it is to continually grow in both faith and discernment. We were talking about how easily the enemy can disguise something that looks good but isn’t God. It struck a chord deep in me, because that’s exactly where many of us stumble—not in the obvious wrongs, but in the subtle deceptions that appear righteous, harmless, or beneficial.The Bible tells us plainly that Satan masquerades as an angel of lig...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 17 Oct 2025 22:55:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/conforming_to_this_world_10178 Conforming to This WorldLast night at the Zach Top concert, I noticed something that made me pause. Dozens of men were wearing the exact same style of dress shirt. I turned to my son and asked, “Is this a Zach Top thing?” He said, “Yeah, that’s what Zach wears.”It made me think… doesn’t anyone have their own style anymore? Or are we so eager to fit in that we start copying others without realizing it?That’s when Romans 12:2 came to mind:“Do ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:11:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/if_shes_not_following_are_you_leading “If She’s Not Following, Are You Leading?”Many men pray for their wives to follow them, yet few stop to ask if they are leading in a way that reflects Jesus. We’re quick to look outward when something feels off in our homes — but true leadership begins inward.When God calls a man to lead, He doesn’t call him to rule. He calls him to serve. Ephesians 5:23 (CJB) says, “For the husband is head of the wife, as also the Messiah is head of the Messianic Commun...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 16 Oct 2025 01:33:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/perspective_through_love Perspective Through LoveAs I sit here this morning, wrestling a bit with my stomach but pressing through my work, I find myself thinking about perspective. How two people can look at the same situation and see two completely different things — and neither one is necessarily wrong. It’s all about perspective.Jesus calls us to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind,” and He follows it with, “love your neighbor as yourse...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:50:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_old_man_is_dead The Old Man Is DeadWhen you are in Christ, do not fear the old man inside you — for he is dead.Too many times we stare into the mirror and still see the reflection of who we once were. The broken version of ourselves. The sinner. The one who stumbled, fell, and failed. But the truth is, when we gave our hearts to Jesus, that man was nailed to the cross with Him.The old man — with all his shame, guilt, pride, and fleshly desires — died that day. You don’t have to keep figh...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 14 Oct 2025 07:29:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/finding_god_in_the_lows Finding God in the LowsToo often, we wait until we’re on the mountaintop to start praising God — when things are finally looking up, when the storm has passed, when the weight feels lighter. But the truth is, we need to seek and praise God in our lows, not just our highs.Scripture reminds us:“If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.” — Psalm 139:8 (CJB)Even in the darkest valleys, God is present. He’s not just the God of victory; He’s the God of...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 13 Oct 2025 15:51:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/trust_that_brings_peace Trust That Brings PeaceTo trust means to place full confidence, reliance, and hope in God — not in people, not in circumstances, and not even in our own plans, but in the Lord Himself.In Hebrew, the word for “trust,” batach, means to feel secure, confident, and unafraid. It’s more than believing God can do something — it’s resting in the truth that He will take care of you, even when you can’t see how. It’s the kind of trust that silences the storm...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 12 Oct 2025 06:24:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/humility_and_true_repentance Humility and True Repentance“Do nothing out of rivalry or vanity, but in humility regard each other as better than yourselves.”— Philippians 2:3 (CJB)This scripture hit me in a way I didn’t expect. It’s one of those verses that feels simple until the Holy Spirit holds up a mirror and you see yourself in it.Recently, we had a new brother join our life group. He fit in quickly — he was open, engaged, and had that hunger for growth that we all love to see. A litt...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 11 Oct 2025 05:30:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/do_it_with_all_your_heart “Do It With All Your Heart”Today, as I prepare to serve another year as a boat captain and fish alongside these two young men, I can’t help but reflect on how much they’ve grown—not just in their fishing, but in their faith.Every time we step on that boat, it’s more than just casting lines. It’s about planting seeds. We listen to worship music, talk about life, faith, and what God’s doing in their hearts. And in those moments, I’m reminded th...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:56:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/standing_in_the_rain An umbrella doesn’t stop the rain—it simply helps us stand in it.This thought came to me after seeing a post from my brother in Christ, Robbie. It reminded me of something powerful: faith in God doesn’t always remove the storms of life, but it gives us the strength to endure them.But God didn’t design us to walk through those storms alone. In Genesis, He said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18) He created woman—not just for companionshi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 09 Oct 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_need_to_defend_yourself “Do You Need to Defend Yourself?”So many times, I’ve found myself in situations where I feel the urge to defend my name, my actions, or even my faith. But lately, God has been reminding me—I don’t always need to defend myself.People will talk. They’ll misunderstand your motives or even attack your character. But if you’re walking in God’s will and living according to His Word, then He will be your defender.When Jesus was accused, mocked, and beaten...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:24:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/expectations ExpectationsExpectations can be dangerous things when left unspoken or misplaced. They shape how we see others — and how we respond when they don’t meet the picture we had in our heads.We have expectations of parents, friends, coworkers, even brothers in Christ. When they don’t meet those expectations, disappointment sets in. But the truth is, most of the time, those expectations were never discussed.You lend a car to a friend — one man expects it returned full of gas, an...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:24:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_are_you_running_from What Are You Running From?What is it that God is calling you to do that you’re running from?For so long, I was that person. I made excuses — I said things like, “This is just who I am,” or “This makes me feel free.” I thought the things of this world — the lifestyle, the fun, the freedom — were what life was all about. But the truth was, I was scared. Scared to step into what God was calling me to do. Scared to let go of my flesh and what people mi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:07:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/god_answers_but_are_you_prepared God Answers, But Are You Prepared?“Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.” — Joshua 21:45 (CJB)God keeps His promises. Every single one. But too often, we pray expecting instant results, as if God were a genie rather than our Father. We sit idle, waiting for something to fall from the sky, when in truth, He may be waiting for us to move.Sometimes God’s answer is “wait.” Sometimes it&rsq...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 05 Oct 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/act_or_react Act or React?Do you act, or do you react?Every day, God places people in our path — a coworker, a friend, a stranger — and sometimes they’re smiling on the outside while breaking inside. The Spirit nudges us: say something, reach out, pray for them. But too often, we brush it off. Maybe we’re busy. Maybe we’re unsure what to say. And then, later, when the truth comes out, we whisper, “I should’ve said something.”There are two kinds of people in the...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 04 Oct 2025 02:42:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_use_what_youre_selling Do You Use What You’re Selling?We’ve all seen it—someone selling a product like Tupperware or Mary Kay. They gather people, explain why it’s amazing, and invite you to buy in. But the real question is—do they use it themselves? If I opened their kitchen drawers, would I find Tupperware? If I looked in their bathroom cabinet, would I see Mary Kay?The same principle applies to us as followers of Christ. We tell people about Jesus, His mercy, His sacrifice, His love. B...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 03 Oct 2025 07:32:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/seeing_beyond_what_we_see Seeing Beyond What We SeeFaith is believing in what we cannot see—not just trusting what we can. Scripture reminds us, “For we live by trust, not by what we see” (2 Corinthians 5:7 CJB).This morning, as I stood under the vast night sky at the ranch in Breckenridge, I saw something most city dwellers never see: millions of stars. In the city, light pollution hides them, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. They’re still shining, even when we can’t see...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/see_the_good_before_its_gone See the Good Before It’s GoneI hear it so many times from brothers and sisters alike: “I can do all these nice things—show kindness, serve, love, give—and those things often go unnoticed. But the one mistake I make? That’s what gets magnified.”And it struck me… how often do we do that with the people around us? Our spouses, our friends, even our brothers and sisters in Christ? We can overlook a thousand little acts of love and kindness, yet we’re ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:05:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/be_prepared Be PreparedWe prepare for so many things in life. We save money in case of emergencies. We stock up for storms and natural disasters. We buy insurance, keep gas in the tank, and plan ahead so that we are not caught off guard. Preparation is wisdom—it’s a way of saying, I know something could happen, and I will be ready.But when it comes to our prayers, how often do we fail to prepare? We ask God for blessings, yet live as if they’ll never come. We pray for a child, but never se...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:20:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/trusting_god_like_a_tesla Trusting God Like a TeslaYesterday my brother in Christ, Ben, gave me a ride to pick up my camper. It was my first time riding in his Tesla. To my surprise, I noticed his hands weren’t on the wheel and his feet weren’t on the pedals. “Is this car driving itself?” I asked. He smiled and said, “Sure is.”At first, I was amazed—but also uneasy. Every stoplight, every turn, every brake, I was on edge. Yet Ben sat calm, fully trusting the design and engineerin...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:43:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/bearing_or_enabling Bearing or Enabling?Galatians 6 tells us, “Brothers, suppose someone is caught doing something wrong. You who have the Spirit should set him right—but in a spirit of humility, keeping an eye on yourselves so that you won’t be tempted too. Bear one another’s burdens— in this way you will be fulfilling the law of the Messiah… for each person will carry his own load” (Gal. 6:1–5, CJB).That passage holds two truths together. On the one hand, we are ca...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 28 Sep 2025 14:43:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/gods_plan_vs_our_plan God’s Plan vs. Our PlanWe all have visions for our lives, careers, families, and ministries. Yet, as you pointed out, when obstacle after obstacle keeps standing in the way, it may not be a sign to push harder—it may be God gently redirecting us. His plan isn’t always the easiest path, but it’s the one that bears fruit and peace when we walk it out faithfully.Satan thrives in confusion and inner conflict. He wants us at war with ourselves—doubting, second-guessing, ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/rooted_in_freedom Rooted in FreedomTo be rooted in freedom means to plant our lives firmly in God’s promise, His grace, and His mercy. True freedom isn’t found in chasing the desires of the flesh or the temporary reliefs of this world. We often excuse our habits by saying, “It lets me be me. It sets me free. It takes away my worries.” But in reality, those things only keep us running from the person God has called us to be.When we’re afraid to grow, we act like children—resisti...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:55:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_law_and_the_promise The Law and the Promise“Accordingly, the Torah functioned as a custodian until the Messiah came, so that we might be declared righteous on the ground of trusting and being faithful. But now that the trusting faithfulness has come, we are no longer under a custodian.”— Galatians 3:24–25 CJBThe Law’s Purpose:Paul reminds us in Galatians that the law was never designed to replace God’s promise. Instead, it was meant to reveal our sin and our need for salvation. T...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:50:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/generosity_that_opens_heavens_windows Generosity That Opens Heaven’s WindowsIn Malachi 3:10 (CJB) the Lord says:“Bring the whole tenth into the storehouse, so that there will be food in my house, and put me to the test, says Adonai-Tzva’ot. See if I won’t open for you the floodgates of heaven and pour out for you a blessing far beyond your needs.”This is the only place in all of Scripture where God says, “Test Me.” He invites us to try Him in generosity, to see how He pours back when we pour...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:58:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/god_uses_situations_to_reveal_whats_inside_of_us God Uses Situations to Reveal What’s Inside of UsSo often, when life gets hard, our first prayer is: “Lord, take this away.” Whether it’s financial struggle, emotional hurt, or relational pain, we want God to remove the situation. But what if the situation is not the problem, but the tool?God allows certain trials to remain because He is using them to address the deeper issues within us. If He simply removed the circumstance, the root problem would remain, and we’d ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 23 Sep 2025 06:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/stay_in_the_praise Stay in the PraiseMost of us were taught from a young age that prayer is the way we communicate with God. And that’s true — prayer is our direct line to our Father. But here’s the thing: many of us spend more time in prayer asking than we do praising.Think about it. How often do our prayers sound like this:“Lord, I need… Father, help me with… God, I’m struggling with…”? It’s not wrong to bring our needs before God. Scripture tells us...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:12:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/i_am_barabbas I Am BarabbasAs I reflect on the men’s retreat I just returned from, one truth has gripped me: I am Barabbas.When Jesus stood before the crowd, Pilate presented two choices: Barabbas—a murderer, a rebel, a guilty man who deserved death—and Jesus—the spotless Son of God who had done no wrong. The crowd cried out, “Crucify Him!” And Barabbas walked free.That wasn’t just Barabbas’ story. That’s my story. That’s your story. We are the guilt...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:42:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/being_renewed_daily Being Renewed DailyEven though our outer bodies may be growing older, in Christ our inner being is being renewed day by day. Life has its struggles—mistakes, regrets, and shortcomings—but we don’t have to carry yesterday’s weight into today. God, in His mercy, gives us a new beginning every morning.“Therefore we do not lose courage. Though our outer self is heading for decay, our inner self is being renewed day by day.”—2 Corinthians 4:16 (CJB)Don’...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 20 Sep 2025 05:35:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_choice_will_you_make What Choice Will You MakeThis weekend at the Bible Baptist camp has been more than a retreat — it’s been a focused season of renewal. For 72 hours we’re pressing in to break the grip of the world’s flesh and to practice a renewed mind in Christ. As I listened and prayed, I kept seeing the metaphor from The Matrix: two choices. The blue pill lets you remain comfortable in a false reality. The red pill removes the veil so you can see clearly — and once you see, there&...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 19 Sep 2025 06:19:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/humble_yourself Humble YourselfSometimes the Lord will let us drop what is precious to us, not to take it away, but to teach us how to humble ourselves to truly receive it. Like when you I had to get on me knees and even on my face to reach a prayer coin I had dropped, it had rolled under a chair all the way up against the wall and getting on one knee just wouldn’t do —God was showing me that the things that matter most often require us to bow low before Him.The Word says,“Humble yourselves be...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:16:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/memorizing_or_retaining_scripture Memorizing or Retaining Scripture?There are many believers—young and old—who are skilled at memorizing Scripture. They can recite verses with ease, and on the outside it looks impressive, almost as if they have the whole Bible hidden in their hearts. But here’s the truth: memorizing words isn’t the same as living them.Think back to school. If you knew the questions for a test, you could cram the night before, memorize the answers, and pass the exam. But a few weeks later,...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_for_the_fallen Grace for the Fallen“since all have sinned and come short of earning God’s praise” – Romans 3:23 (CJB)We are reminded today that even our pastors, leaders, and closest friends are human. None of us are beyond temptation or failure. When a leader stumbles, it can feel heavy, but it is also a call for us to respond the way Christ has taught us—with grace, forgiveness, and prayer.The reason Jesus went to the cross was because we all fall short. Every single one of us. ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:25:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/do_you_have_it Do You Have It?Sometimes we confuse having something physically with actually having it to give. If you’ve got $1,000 in your bank account but it’s already set aside for your mortgage, you don’t really have it to give. The same is true with your time, energy, and attention.God’s Word reminds us:“If your brother who is in need comes to you, and you have something to give, don’t turn him away.” (Deuteronomy 15:7–8, CJB)The key phrase is “if you...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 15 Sep 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/good_enough_is_not_good_enough Good Enough is Not Good EnoughToo often we settle for “good enough.” But good enough is not what God has called us to. Scripture reminds us:“Be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” – Matthew 5:48 (CJB)Now, don’t get me wrong—we all fall short of God’s glory. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us. But that doesn’t mean we stop striving. Grace isn’t an excuse for mediocrity; it’s the stre...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 14 Sep 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/youre_not_as_far_away_as_you_think You’re Not as Far Away as You ThinkSometimes we feel like we’ve wandered too far from God. Shame makes the distance feel even greater. But the truth is—there’s nowhere He can’t reach, nowhere He won’t go, and nowhere His love can’t find you.The moment you stop running and simply turn toward Him, you’ll discover He’s already there—arms wide open, ready to embrace you and whisper, “Welcome home.”James 4:8 (CJB) says, “Co...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 13 Sep 2025 06:29:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/forgiven ForgivenYesterday, I walked into Mardell’s wearing a shirt that simply said, Forgiven. I didn’t think much about it until a young woman sat down beside me and asked to talk about that word. She reminded me of something we all need to hear: forgiveness is not about excusing what was done. It’s about releasing the burden we were never meant to carry.She explained that forgiven comes from the foresight of God Himself. He gave His only Son to die a brutal death on the cross so that...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 12 Sep 2025 06:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/think_with_your_head_but_work_with_your_heart Think with Your Head, but Work with Your HeartI’ve got brothers who are some of the most generous men you’ll ever meet. And I was the same way—always saying yes, always giving, always serving, sometimes to a fault. The danger in that is when we start thinking with our hearts instead of just working with them.When we think with our hearts, emotions lead the way, and that can get us in trouble. We can get taken advantage of, overcommit ourselves, or neglect the priorities God has...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 11 Sep 2025 06:37:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/prayer_more_than_words__its_listening Prayer: More Than Words — It’s ListeningWhen most of us think about prayer, our minds go straight to words. We thank God, we confess our sins, we lift up others, and we bring our requests before Him. All of this is good and biblical. But how often do we pause, not to speak, but to listen?The Bible reminds us:“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: let every person be quick to listen, but slow to speak, slow to get angry.” (James 1:19, CJB)Prayer isn’t meant ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 10 Sep 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/letting_go_of_the_crutches Letting Go of the CrutchesSometimes we feel broken and think, “Nobody can fix me.” And honestly, in our own strength, that may be true. But with God, nothing is impossible. He can heal and restore anything—if we’re willing to let go of what’s broken.It’s like having a broken leg. The doctor sets it, heals it, and tells you, “You’re ready to walk again.” But instead of walking, you keep using the crutches. Not because you need them anymore, bu...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 09 Sep 2025 08:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/voluntary_obligations Voluntary ObligationsAt Men’s Alliance, I’ve heard brothers say time and time again how much they look forward to showing up each week. It’s not a duty, it’s not forced—it’s what I call a voluntary obligation. When you love what you do, you don’t just have to do it—you want to do it.The same applies to our daily callings—whether you’re a teacher shaping young minds, an administrator leading a campus, a vendor supporting schools, or a ma...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 08 Sep 2025 08:38:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/looking_at_the_heart Looking at the HeartIt’s easy to get caught up in how people come across to us—maybe they annoy us, rub us the wrong way, or something about them just doesn’t sit right. Sometimes this is discernment, but sometimes it’s just our flesh reacting. True discernment requires prayer, patience, and testing against God’s Word, not just our feelings.Scripture reminds us that the heart is where both God speaks and where the enemy tries to attack (Proverbs 4:23). We must be ca...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 07 Sep 2025 09:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/rest_with_purpose Rest with PurposeWe live in a world that glorifies constant motion—pushing, striving, doing. And while Scripture calls us to put others’ needs before our own, it also reminds us that rest is not selfish, it’s sacred.Even Jesus, in the midst of His ministry, withdrew to rest and pray (Luke 5:16). And in the very beginning, after six days of creation, God Himself rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2–3). If the Son of God and the Creator of the universe modeled rest, shoul...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 06 Sep 2025 21:52:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/stand_in_the_gap Stand in the GapIn Men’s Alliance, we call ourselves a tribe of men—growing together physically, spiritually, and emotionally. It’s a place where every man is encouraged to step up and get involved.Recently, one of the young men in our group—a freshman in high school—had his first football game. His father isn’t in the picture, so several of us brothers showed up in the stands. We yelled, we cheered, and we let him know he had men in his corner. That’s w...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 05 Sep 2025 09:39:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/trusting_god_in_the_valley Trusting God in the ValleyEven when it feels like everything is falling apart, from every direction trouble seems to come, can you pause and truly say, “I trust You, Lord”?Do you trust Him to carry you through this season? Do you trust Him to guide you through the valley? Or do you find yourself slipping into worry and stress?The psalmist declared with confidence:“Even if I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Yo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 03 Sep 2025 11:07:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_is_your_jonah What Is Your Jonah?In Jonah’s story, we often focus on the fish—but let’s pause at the storm.Jonah ran from God’s call, boarded a ship, and the seas raged until the sailors discovered he was the reason. When they threw Jonah overboard, the storm calmed.Now ask yourself: What is your Jonah?What storm in your life is being fueled by something you’re carrying that God never asked you to keep?It could be an unhealthy relationship, an idol, an addiction, pride, greed, or...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/guarding_gods_space Guarding God’s SpaceEvery day we are faced with a choice—what will we fill our hearts, minds, and time with? Too often, distractions like social media, entertainment, or even work creep in and slowly take the space meant for God. It may not seem dangerous at first, but little by little, that space becomes ground given to the enemy.When we trade time with God for scrolling, noise, or chasing things that don’t last, we are surrendering what belongs to Him. Scripture reminds us to...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:49:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_comeback_is_stronger_than_the_setback The Comeback is Stronger than the SetbackLife is full of setbacks—broken plans, disappointments, failures, and losses. But in Christ, a setback is never the end of the story. What looks like defeat in the natural is often preparation in the spiritual.Yeshua Himself is the greatest example of this truth. The cross looked like the ultimate setback—the death of the Messiah, the scattering of His disciples, and the silence of hope. But three days later came the greatest comeback the worl...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 31 Aug 2025 16:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_serving_for_christ_or_for_yourself Are You Serving for Christ or for Yourself?Recently, I was part of a serve project with my brothers. At the end, we gathered for a picture, but one of our brothers and his son had already left. Someone commented, “They always leave before the pictures.” At first, I thought it was just bad timing—but as I reflected on their hearts, I realized it was spiritual timing.They didn’t stay for recognition because the work was already done, and the glory had already been given to ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 30 Aug 2025 14:14:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/thankfulness_in_every_season Thankfulness in Every SeasonToday marks my 28th wedding anniversary, and as I reflect on thankfulness, I’m reminded of something my father used to say. He was a widower for 27 years, and when I would come to him about an argument with my wife, he would tell me: “Son, be thankful you have a wife to argue with.” Those words always put things in perspective.There are so many things in life we take for granted, yet they can be gone in a flash. Even in our darkest moments, there is ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 29 Aug 2025 14:29:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/owning_your_choices Owning Your ChoicesToo many times we want to shift the blame. If something goes wrong, we say “Satan is attacking me.” If life doesn’t unfold the way we thought, we say “It’s just God’s plan.” But the truth is—sometimes we are simply reaping what we sow.Galatians 6:7 reminds us:“Don’t be deceived, no one can make a fool of God. A person reaps what he sows.” (CJB)Satan may try to use our bad choices against us, but he doesn’t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/priorities_and_purpose Priorities and PurposeLife groups and small groups are designed to strengthen us, sharpen us, and prepare us to walk out our calling. They’re not meant for us to stay idle, but to grow so that we can pour into others.Jesus Himself modeled this—He didn’t remain in one place forever. He fulfilled the work the Father gave Him in that season, then moved forward in obedience, even when there was more He could have done. His purpose was not about comfort, but about fulfilling His Fat...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:30:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/from_i_will_to_your_will Too often our lives are filled with “I will, I want, I think.” But true transformation begins when we shift our questions to the Father: “Lord, what do You want? What is Your will? What do You think of my life?”When we surrender the “I” and invite the Holy Spirit to lead, we stop living for the world and start living in the Spirit. Remember, once we accept Yeshua as our Lord and Savior, our place in heaven is secured. The old is dead, the new is born. From tha...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 26 Aug 2025 07:54:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/does_the_world_hate_you When People First Meet YouI can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this from my brothers: “When I first met you, I didn’t like you. But now, I’d put my life down for you.”At first, people often struggle with me. Why? Because I carry myself a certain way. I expect accountability. I don’t sugarcoat things. I don’t always agree with how the world does things. And I know I’m not everyone’s cup of tea.But over time, people begin to see som...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 25 Aug 2025 07:50:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/when_i_fails_god_prevails When I Fails, God PrevailsIf your thought begins with “I”, it ends in destruction. But if it begins with God, it ends in glory. Too often we wonder why we struggle, why we keep failing, why life feels heavy. The truth is simple: when we rely on I—I can do this, I can fix that, I will overcome—we’re leaning on the weakest foundation: ourselves. But when we put God first, everything changes: God helped me, God carried me, God made a way.This truth doesn’t stop a...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 24 Aug 2025 12:59:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_message_is_for_you The Message Is for YouSo many times, when I share a “thought of the day,” I remind myself—they’re not my thoughts. They’re God’s thoughts for His children. I’m simply the messenger, the vessel the Holy Spirit chooses to speak through.But this isn’t just about devotionals or daily reflections—it applies to every message from God. Whether it’s a sermon at church, a word from a brother or sister in Christ, or even a song lyric that stirs y...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 23 Aug 2025 07:55:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/is_your_old_self_dead_or_are_you_still_holding_on Is Your Old Self Dead, or Are You Still Holding On?When we invite Yeshua into our lives, the old self is crucified with Him, and a new creation is born. Paul reminds us:“So all of us, with faces unveiled, see as in a mirror the glory of the Lord; and we are being changed into his very image, from one degree of glory to the next, by Adonai the Spirit.”2 Corinthians 3:18 (CJB)When you look in the mirror, you should no longer see the old man of your past but the reflection of Christ in ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 22 Aug 2025 19:04:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/take_control_by_letting_go_of_control Take Control by Letting Go of ControlAs men, we are called to take our rightful place in the household as godly leaders. Tony Evans once compared a man to a football coach—you may not have thrown the interception or caused the fumble, but you are still responsible for preparing the team for game day. In the same way, we may not cause every problem in our homes, but God holds us accountable for how we lead and prepare our families spiritually.That responsibility started all the way back in ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:57:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_power_of_agreement_in_prayer The Power of Agreement in PrayerSo often we hear or say the words, “I’m praying for you.” But what if, instead of simply saying those words, we truly came into agreement in prayer with one another? Scripture tells us that there is power when we do this. Yeshua Himself said:“Again, I tell you that if two of you agree here on earth concerning anything they ask, my Father in heaven will do it for them.” — Matthew 18:19 (CJB)Coming into agreement in prayer means m...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/conforming_to_this_world Conforming to This WorldRomans 12:2 (CJB) tells us, “Do not let yourselves be conformed to the standards of the ‘olam hazeh [this world]. Instead, keep letting yourselves be transformed by the renewing of your minds; so that you will know what God wants and will agree that what he wants is good, satisfying and able to succeed.”When many of us first begin our walk with Christ, we hesitate to change. We think, “I still want to be me. I still want to have fun.” And yes...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 13:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/stand_up_and_remember_who_you_are Stand Up and Remember Who You AreSometimes we hit that valley—what I call the beat down mode—where you feel tired, exhausted, and drained. But the truth is, as children of God, we don’t have to stay there.This morning I stood up and said:“No more. Satan, you have no authority over my mind. You cannot control my thoughts. I rebuke you in the name of Jesus Christ.”The only authority in my life is Father God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. And because of that, I kn...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 08:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/pray_without_ceasing Pray Without CeasingPaul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (CJB), “pray regularly” (or in many translations, “pray without ceasing”). This isn’t about just our scheduled prayer time in the morning or evening—it’s about living in constant communication with our Father.Every breath we take is a gift, and with that breath, we can thank Him. From the moment we wake up, we should be asking:“Lord, open my eyes to see what You want me to see today.&rdquo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 18 Aug 2025 20:04:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/your_valley_is_someone_elses_mountaintop Your Valley Is Someone Else’s MountaintopSometimes we find ourselves walking through a valley—seasons of difficulty, heaviness, or even silence. It’s easy in those moments to wonder, “Does anyone notice? Does it matter if I keep going?”But here’s the truth: your valley may very well be someone else’s mountaintop. What feels heavy to you right now might be a place another brother or sister would rejoice to stand in. And in the same way, your mountaintop&m...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:31:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/pass_the_joy_on Pass the Joy OnThis morning, a brother told me something powerful. Yesterday’s Thought of the Day hit him right where he needed it. It lifted him up out of a struggle, gave him the encouragement and the “dopamine boost” he needed, and it carried him through the day.That’s wonderful—praise God for that! But then he got home. His wife was having a rough day, and suddenly, he felt himself starting to sink.Here’s the problem:In that moment, he could either let her...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/god_is God IsThis morning I woke up tired. I wanted to go back to sleep. I was only awake for a minute when the first thought popped into my mind. I battled it. Then another came. I battled that one. Then another… and another… and another. One after another, thoughts came rushing in—reminders of all the things in life that come at us daily.Some of these weren’t even my problems. But they belonged to my brothers, and in my heart that makes them my problems too.It’s good t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 14:33:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/gods_gym God’s GymYesterday, I shared about my torn bicep and the need to serve others even when life slows us down. Today, I’m reminded that sometimes God forces us to pivot—to change the way we serve—based on our circumstances.Right now, my physical strength is limited. I can’t pick up or move things I normally could, and it’s frustrating. That’s exactly where the enemy wants me—irritated, discouraged, and saying, “I can’t.” But God&rsqu...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 11 Aug 2025 18:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/partial_tears__complete_ruptures Partial Tears Complete RupturesLast week, I let pride get the best of me. During our Men’s Alliance workout, I decided to muscle through a heavy tire flip alone instead of letting my brothers help. My grip slipped, and I partially tore my bicep tendon.The doctor said I could take the aggressive route — rupture it fully and have surgery — or go slow and let it heal naturally. I chose the slower way, because I believe God was showing me something: pride and rushing can cause dam...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 10 Aug 2025 12:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_covenant_we_said_i_do_to The Covenant We Said “I Do” ToMarriage is one of the most beautiful—and most challenging—covenants we will ever enter into. Over time, both people change. We grow, we evolve, and if we aren’t truly paying attention to our spouse, one day we can look across the table and wonder, Who is this person?But here’s the truth: if we stay close, engaged, and intentional, we’ll notice those changes as they happen. We might even head off some struggles before they b...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 08 Aug 2025 14:01:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_truly_letting_go_or_are_you_still_holding_on “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13 (NASB1995)In 2 Kings 13:14–19, we find a powerful moment between the prophet Elisha and King Joash of Israel. As Elisha lay dying, Joash comes to him in desperation. Elisha gives him a prophetic act to perform—shoot arrows and then strike the ground. Joash only strikes the ground three times, and Elisha becomes angry, saying:“You should have struck five or six times, th...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:54:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/living_without_regret__loving_without_delay Over the past several months, I’ve experienced a string of heartbreaking losses — my father in January, my brothers in Christ Joe, Felix, Charles, and 2 years ago Rory, and even friends and neighbors who have lost their loved ones. Each story carried with it a familiar ache: the what ifs.What if I had called sooner?What if I had gone to the appointment?What if I had just done more?Those thoughts can tear at our hearts. We feel we should’ve done something different — been ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/shipwrecked_but_not_forsaken Shipwrecked but Not ForsakenInspired by words shared from my brother in Christ, Jonathan Dodge.Have you ever felt like life just wrecked you? Like you’ve been tossed by storms, abandoned in chaos, and all you can do is hold on? Maybe even the very thing you trusted to carry you has crumbled beneath your feet?That’s not unfamiliar territory to Paul.In Acts 27, Paul — a man walking in obedience, filled with the Holy Spirit — is caught in a violent storm, shipwrecked with ov...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 05 Aug 2025 07:46:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_be_someone_elses_excuse Monday's message was about taking ownership—about recognizing the habits we’ve picked up from others and refusing to keep using them as excuses.But today, I want to flip the mirror.Yes, we’ve all said, “Well, that’s how I was raised,” or “That’s just what I saw growing up.” And sure, that might explain where a behavior started, but it doesn’t justify why it continues.The real question is this:Are you becoming someone else’s ex...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 04 Aug 2025 11:58:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_followthrough The story I shared the other day about my brother—who, in the middle of his own struggle, stopped to help a woman in distress—stirred a lot of hearts. She had dislocated her shoulder, and while others passed her by, he stepped in. That moment was a testimony of obedience.But what came next was even more powerful:That same brother called me and asked, “Will you come with me to the hospital? Let’s check on her. Let’s pray over her. Let’s show her love.”Tha...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 03 Aug 2025 12:34:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/influence_and_responsibility Too often we’re quick to say, “The devil made me do it,” but if we’re honest… a lot of times, it wasn’t Satan. It was just us—making foolish choices, not seeking God, acting in emotion instead of wisdom. Yes, we have an enemy who prowls like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8), but we also have a responsibility for the decisions we make. Some of the storms we face weren’t sent by the devil—they were planted by our own disobedience.It’s time t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 02 Aug 2025 05:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/divine_detours_and_unseen_appointments Yesterday, a brother of mine reached out in a moment of weakness. He was wrestling with a decision—one that would have led him down a path not aligned with God’s will. As we spoke, I heard something in the background: the sound of a woman crying, clearly in distress.Without hesitation, my brother turned his attention to her. He asked if she needed help. He asked if he should call 911. She said yes. And just like that, he said, “I’ll call you back,” and he did what m...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/pruning_the_branches Jesus said in John 15:2, “He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.”For the longest time, I used to think, “Lord, don’t let me be the branch You cut off!”—as if my entire identity would be discarded. But over time, I’ve come to understand something deeper: Jesus isn’t just talking about removing people, He’s talking about removing pieces—p...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:04:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/learning_to_be_comfortable_with_being_uncomfortable As I sit here this morning, I’ve made some hard decisions—decisions I know I can’t walk out alone.I’ve decided to quit smoking. It may have only been a few hours, but it’s a start. A real start. One I’m choosing to stand firm in—with God’s strength, not just my own. Because His Word reminds me, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” —Philippians 4:13I’ve also chosen to make serious changes in other areas of...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/sit_in_the_stillness Sometimes, we just need to stop.No distractions. No agenda. No noise—except maybe the cicadas humming in the summer heat.As I sat in my backyard tonight, I noticed something: no wind, no movement, just stillness. Just warm, thick silence wrapped in God’s creation. And in that moment, I realized…these moments are numbered.One day, you and I won’t be here to sit in this stillness. We won’t get to hear the cicadas, feel the warmth on our skin, or watch the shadows str...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/misplaced_pieces_and_missteps The other day, I was talking with my brother Randy as he worked on one of his intricate Lego builds—not the little sets for kids, but the really technical, complex stuff that takes hours, sometimes days, to complete.While he was building, he ran into a piece that didn’t seem to fit. I joked, “Well, just modify it.” He laughed and said, “You can’t do that with these kinds of sets. Every piece is designed to fit exactly where it belongs. If you place one piece i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/too_much_information We live in a world that gives us too much access to information. The 24-hour news cycle, endless scrolling on social media, constant opinions, arguments, and updates… It’s overwhelming. And worse—it’s confusing.The problem is, we’ve forgotten how to discern what’s true and what’s not. The world throws so many “truths” at us, but only one truth matters—and that’s God’s truth.People post highlight reels on social media, paint...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 27 Jul 2025 18:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/special_thought_of_the_day_a_public_declaration_of_a_private_surrender Today marks something special. It’s been three years since I was baptized—three years of walking in surrender, and today, my son followed that same path.I had just returned from serving 4 days at a youth retreat and I had not been in the door maybe 5 minutes when he texted me,“Not sure if you were praying for me at all this weekend but thought l'd let you know I just had this moment, I broke down and gave it all to him, it took a lot but I let it all out and felt the Holy S...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 27 Jul 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/leave_nothing_on_the_table Yesterday we reflected on the beauty of embracing life’s full circle—the sacredness of being present as a loved one passes from this life into glory. But today, I want to shift the lens and ask a harder question:Are we loving fully before that moment comes?This morning, my brother in Christ, Peter, shared something that stirred my spirit. He reminded me that none of us is promised tomorrow. Any one of us could be called home today. With the loss I have had this year from my Father, t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 26 Jul 2025 07:55:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/embracing_lifes_full_circle How can we find joy in the face of death?It’s a question many struggle with—and rightly so. The pain of loss is real, and mourning is a heavy burden. But what if we viewed death not as an ending, but as a completion? Not with despair, but with hope?I was blessed to spend time with my dear brother in Christ, Randy. As we talked, he shared something that struck me deeply. He spoke about being there when his mother passed—how he held her in those final moments. And what he said wa...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 25 Jul 2025 06:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/missing_a_part_of_me “So I’m sick, and Meggan’s been taking care of me so much…”That’s how my brother’s message started—and in just that one line, I could feel the weight of gratitude in his heart. He wanted to share something about the blessing of a loving wife, and it stirred something in me too.You see, my wife is out of town right now with our daughter, and while you’d think I’d enjoy a little time to myself… I can’t sleep. I lie down, and...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_rob_those_who_didnt_rob_you I was blessed with the time I had in Cabo, even though I arrived a day late due to circumstances beyond my control. And while I was offered an extra day to make up for the one I missed, I realized something deeply convicting: Just because I lost a day doesn’t mean I’m owed another—especially at the expense of someone else.I had already made a commitment to lead my brothers in the Waymaker Tribe on Monday. If I had chosen to stay the extra day in Cabo, I would’ve been taki...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:10:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/you_cant_pour_darknessyou_can_shine_light My brother Adam sent me something this morning that hit deep. He reminded me that in physics, darkness isn’t actually a real thing. You can’t make darkness—you can only remove light. Darkness is simply the absence of light.And man, that made me think. Not just about faith—but about us. Adam is my blood brother, and like many brothers, we’ve had our share of struggles. Moments where it felt like the light between us flickered. But truth is, neither one of us ever tru...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 22 Jul 2025 12:20:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_setup__the_way_out I sat all morning asking, “Lord, what’s today’s thought?” And nothing came. I didn’t want to force it—I’ve learned to let it come from Him. And just like that, my brother from the Men’s Alliance Waymaker Tribe—Joshua Pitbull Carbone—asks me to call him and then ays, “Hey, got a second?” What came next was exactly what I needed.See, I had challenged him recently to send me a Thought of the Day—not because they have to c...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 21 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/anointing_the_sick__a_forgotten_practice_of_faith “Is someone among you ill? He should call for the elders of the congregation. They will pray for him and rub olive oil on him in the name of the Lord. The prayer offered with trust will heal the one who is ill — the Lord will restore his health; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.”– James (Ya’akov) 5:14-15 CJBLately, I’ve found myself praying over many who are hurting—physically, emotionally, spiritually—and anointing them with oil a...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 20 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/when_the_answer_is_no “So many ask, ‘How could God allow such bad things to happen to good people?’ But the truth is—we’re not the first to wonder that.Even the disciples must’ve asked that very question as they watched Jesus—perfect, loving, sinless—suffer a brutal death on the cross. Even Jesus, in His humanity, prayed, ‘Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me.’ But He didn’t stop there… He added, ‘Yet not My will, but Yours...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 19 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/faith_that_brings_heaven_down Thursday July 17th was one of those moments that could’ve easily turned sour. A mistake with the flight schedule meant most of us missed the plane, and someone I care about was beating himself up over it. But here’s the thing—I didn’t feel anger, frustration, or anxiety. Not for one second.Why?Because my peace doesn’t come from circumstances—it comes from Christ.In that moment, I realized something deep: when you truly give it all to God—your plans, your...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 18 Jul 2025 08:46:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/worship_musicmore_than_a_melody When I first started listening to worship music, I thought it was simply a better, more wholesome alternative to secular music—something good for the soul and cleaner for the mind. But over time, I realized… it’s so much more than that.Worship music isn’t just about the melody—it’s about the message. It’s praise, it’s prayer, it’s instruction. In the Bible, God’s people often sang truth to remember it. Songs were how they memorized Scr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 17 Jul 2025 08:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/your_body_is_a_temple__strength_in_all_three “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”—1 Corinthians 6:19–20We often talk about spiritual health. But honoring God with your body and your emotions matters just as much. Why? Because you were created to be whole—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. When one part is out of sync, it affects the others....READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:29:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/fellowship_or_just_bs “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)I’ve been reflecting today on the power of Bible studies, life groups—whatever you want to call them—and the fellowship that flows from them. I am blessed to be a part of a life group that’s not just close, but committed. A group that has taught me not just what it means to have a bro...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 15 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/discipleship_is_not_just_information__its_relationship “Perhaps we have a misguided view of discipleship. We think about discipleship as information-centric. That’s a big mistake! Discipleship is relationship-centric. Discipleship is walking side-by-side with someone in the realities of life. This includes the mountaintop blessings, the curses of the deep, dark valleys, and everything in between.” – Sam Ingrassia (shared by my brother in Christ, Lance)We often treat discipleship like a class — full of facts, bullet poin...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 14 Jul 2025 11:10:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/be_comfortable_being_uncomfortable This morning I was struck by a profound statement from my brother Lance in our Men’s Alliance Waynaker Tribe group. He said:“I am very comfortable with being uncomfortable with where God has me on my journey.”That hit hard.Too many of us chase comfort, but the truth is — growth rarely happens in comfort zones. Just like going to the gym, if you’re never sore, never sweating, never being stretched… then you’re not growing. You’re maintaining. But G...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 13 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/pour_your_oil_out__by_brother_jonathan_dodge In Mark 14: 3-9, we see Jesus spending time with his disciples in the house of Simon the leper. A woman approaches Jesus and breaks a jar of perfume worth almost a year's wages to anoint Him with it. Some of the people there were upset and asked why the ointment was WASTED in such a way.Jesus reprimanded them and told them to leave the woman alone; He told them she has done a beautiful thing and wherever the gospel is preached what she has done will be told.Why is what she did important enou...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 12 Jul 2025 08:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_are_you_putting_in “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)I spent time yesterday out at my new deer lease, working hard alongside a man I already consider a friend—Kerry, the landowner. We sweated together, shared stories, talked about our faith journeys, and swapped memories of how our fathers raised us to be self-sufficient and hardworking. It was good, honest fellowship—the kind that sticks with you.During our conversation, Kerry s...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 11 Jul 2025 07:58:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/_it_all_starts_with_listening “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”— James 1:19 (NIV)Most people hear this verse and immediately focus on the “slow to anger” part. But I want to challenge you today to pause and look at the first command in that verse:👉 Be quick to listen.That’s not just a suggestion. It’s the first step in preventing the problems that come from being quick to speak or quick to get angry.If you’re struggling with outbur...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:16:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_consistent Let’s pause and ask ourselves a serious question: Am I consistent?Not just in what I do for others—but in what I’ve promised God.I’ve seen it, and maybe you have too—people who start strong. They show up once, maybe twice, eager to help, ready to serve, promising with bold words. But slowly, excuses start creeping in. “I’m busy.” “I forgot.” “Something came up.” And before long, they disappear completely. The same people who...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:11:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/becoming_less_so_he_can_become_more Last night at Men’s Alliance, we studied John 3 — where Jesus speaks with Nicodemus, and then John the Baptist boldly declares:“He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:30)That simple but powerful statement stirred something deep in me. We were asked to mediate on how do we actually become less, and let God become more?As I meditated on it, several Scriptures came to mind:“The last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16)“D...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 07 Jul 2025 21:01:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/iron_sharpens_iron_in_more_ways_than_one Tonight I joined a group of men I’d never met before. For 30 minutes, we pushed each other through a physical workout — sweat, breath, grit. Then for 30 minutes, we gathered in devotion and fellowship. And as I stood among these men, strangers just an hour earlier, I saw something powerful: strength being built not just in the body, but in the spirit.“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17This verse isn’t just about Bible study o...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 06 Jul 2025 17:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/_gods_will_isnt_a_careerits_a_postured_heart I can’t count how many times I’ve heard someone say,“I can’t wait until I make money like you, so I can serve others.”But friend, serving others doesn’t start when your bank account grows. God’s will for your life was never rooted in your income, your job title, or how “successful” the world says you are.Yes, God has blessed me with resources. And I use them to help others and support ministry—but those are blessings, not the will. That...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 05 Jul 2025 14:02:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/fellowship_in_the_chores Today, as I was preparing for my grandson’s first birthday, one of my brothers from our life group came over to help me knock out a few last-minute chores. At the end, I thanked him for coming, and he said, “I told you I’d come hang out with you anytime.”I laughed and said, “Well, we weren’t just hanging out—we were doing chores!” But that’s when it hit me: fellowship doesn’t always look like sitting on a porch talking for hours. Someti...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 04 Jul 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_let_the_tool_become_the_truth Lately, I’ve been reflecting on something unusual—how we use tools in our walk with God. I know this may sound strange but today I want to talk about using ChatGPT.God has given us many tools in life. Hammers build homes. Fire gives warmth. Technology connects us. Even ChatGPT can be used to share scripture, refine sermons, or support a message. But here’s the danger—when we start turning to the tool for what we should be turning to God for.I have know of at least two fri...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:45:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/a_faith_worth_passing_on “You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise.”—Deuteronomy 6:7 (ESV)“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”—Ephesians 5:14 (ESV)Some of us were blessed to have parents or grandparents who lived their faith in a way that stuck with us. Whether it was praying out loud, opening the Word, or simply how they carr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:15:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/belief_shapes_the_battle “We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” – Numbers 13:33What you believe matters — not just about God, but about what He saysabout you.In Numbers 13, the Israelites stood on the edge of promise. God had already told them the land was theirs. But when they saw the giants, fear shaped their belief — not faith. And thatfalse beliefchanged the entire outcome of their lives.Barbara reminded me this morning,“A belief, whether tr...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:33:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/_the_power_of_testimony_ “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” – Revelation 12:11 (NIV)There is power in your testimony. Not because it’s polished or perfect, but because it’s real.Sometimes all someone needs is to hear that you got through it — that you survived the storm, that God pulled you from the pit, that you found light in the darkest place. That gives others hope. It gives them the courage to believe, “If God did i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 29 Jun 2025 21:42:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/strength_in_surrender_legacy_in_love “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”—3 John 1:4This weekend, I served until my body was sore and my energy was gone—but in my weakness, Christ was my strength. I saw men and women give of themselves as spiritual mothers and fathers, pouring out love not just to the youth, but to one another, selflessly. That is the heart of Christ—laying down one’s life for others (John 15:13).And then I walked through my door, and my...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 28 Jun 2025 10:49:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/correction_vs_condemnation There’s a big difference between correcting a brother in love and judging someone in condemnation. Too often, Christians get accused of being judgmental when in reality, many are just trying to walk out the call to accountability within the Body of Christ. But let’s be real—there is a stigma around this, and it’s time we clarify what the Bible actually says.First off, we all fall short. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). No...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 27 Jun 2025 09:21:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_power_of_brotherhood__protected_thoughts Last night, I was reminded just how real the spiritual realm is and how vital it is to cover ourselves—and each other—in prayer. As I serve at this youth retreat, I found myself sharing with a brother about a season when I struggled with night terrors. I hadn’t experienced one in a long time… but sure enough, I had one that same night. It was bad—I was thrashing, kicking the bunk above me, and woke the whole dorm.But here’s the powerful part…In the mid...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:10:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_power_of_the_ten_commandments The Ten Commandments aren’t just ancient rules carved into stone—they are a living foundation for how we are called to walk with God and with one another. They represent His heart for order, love, respect, and relationship.One commandment that is often overlooked in its depth is “Honor your father and your mother.” (Exodus 20:12)Even Jesus, the Son of God—perfect, blameless, and sovereign—honored this command. In John 2, when the wine ran out at the wedding in...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:24:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/letting_go_for_real “God won’t give you more than you can handle.”We’ve all heard that. And I used to believe it the way most people do—like we’re supposed to carry the weight on our own. But what I’ve learned is that God never meant for us to handle it alone. What Scripture actually shows us is that with Him—with His strength, His Spirit—we can endure, overcome, and be refined, not ruined.“God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ab...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 24 Jun 2025 13:01:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_last_will_be_first “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” – Matthew 20:16For a long time, I misunderstood this Scripture. I used to think it simply meant that those who struggled in life—those who were poor or went without—would be first in heaven, and those who lived well-off or comfortable lives would somehow be last. But the more I’ve reflected on this, especially after the loss of some dear brothers in Christ, I’ve come to see it differently.I’v...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/_do_less_to_do_more “Well done, good and faithful servant…” – Matthew 25:21This morning, as I sat with my brothers Nitin and Ben before officiating the funeral of our dear brother Felix, we opened the Word of God and found ourselves in the parable of the three servants (Matthew 25:14–30). It was no coincidence. The Lord was speaking.We reflected on the idea of being faithful with what we’ve been given. And in that moment, Nitin shared something powerful—he said, “I f...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 22 Jun 2025 10:45:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/memories_made_in_the_quiet “Better is a dry morsel with quiet than a house full of feasting with strife.” – Proverbs 17:1I asked this question on the way home from San Antonio: “How did God move in you during our trip?”And the answers were beautiful—not because they were about grand events, but because they were about stillness, laughter, and togetherness.Not one of our favorite memories was centered on what we bought, where we ate, or even the concert—though that was incredible. ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 21 Jun 2025 12:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_light_in_the_middle_of_the_storm Recently, I’ve been surrounded by loss. Friends battling cancer. Loved ones facing sickness that threatens to take them from us far too soon. It’s easy in times like this to feel hopeless—to wonder where the healing is, where the restoration went. And the truth is, in our human nature, we tend to latch onto the pain. The darkness feels heavier. The sorrow lingers longer.But that’s not the full picture.See, our flesh notices suffering quickly, but it often overlooks quiet ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:56:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_too_resourceful_for_your_own_good Sometimes, the very things that make us strong—being resourceful, intelligent, experienced—can also become the things that trip us up. We get used to fixing things, solving problems, and pushing through on our own. But what happens when we hit something that can’t be solved by hustle or skill?I was just talking with a brother yesterday about how God will lovingly place us in situations where our resourcefulness isn’t enough—not to punish us, but to remind us: we sti...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 18 Jun 2025 09:07:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/till_death_do_us_part Marriage is more than a contract—it’s a covenant. A sacred promise made before God, not just between a man and a woman, but with Christ at the center. Yet the part of our vows that often gets glossed over is “till death do us part.”That line isn’t just poetic—it’s powerful. It means through every storm, through every valley, through every late-night tear or early morning disagreement, you stay. You choose each other again and again.Divorce happens, and i...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 17 Jun 2025 06:50:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/what_is_god_preparing_you_for “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Yeshua the Messiah, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”—2 Corinthians 1:3–4We all go through seasons that feel overwhelming—moments of loss, pain, and struggle. And often, our first question is “Why, God?” But as I’ve shared before, maybe that’s not the r...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/when_the_silence_feels_loud There are days when the Word jumps off the page… when prayer flows like a river… when we feel the presence of the Holy Spirit so strongly that it’s overwhelming. And then, there are days when it’s just… quiet.Not empty.Not abandoned.Just quiet.And in that silence, we can start to doubt. “Did I do something wrong?” “Where is God today?” But the truth is—God has not gone anywhere. His presence is not dependent on our feelings.We have t...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 15 Jun 2025 07:44:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/i_thought_we_had_more_time “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”— Psalm 90:12 (NIV)Yesterday, I lost another friend unexpectedly. And once again, I heard that all-too-familiar phrase spoken through tears:“I thought we had more time.”It’s a sentence that haunts the grieving and convicts the living. Whether it’s our fathers, our friends, or even our children—we all carry moments we wish we could relive. One more hug. One more laugh. One more moment...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 14 Jun 2025 13:34:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/are_you_asking_the_wrong_questions When Paul was sitting in a jail cell, beaten and bound, he didn’t cry out to God saying, “Why me?” or “What did I do to deserve this?” Instead, his heart posture was different. He asked, “Lord, how can I serve You right here?” He chose purpose over pity.Far too often, when life gets hard, we ask God why. Why am I going through this? Why is this happening to me? But maybe the breakthrough isn’t in the why, but in the what.What do You want to show me...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 13 Jun 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/guard_your_heart_from_the_world In a world filled with pain, division, and relentless noise, it’s easy for our hearts to become calloused. But Jesus warned us this would happen. In John 15:20, He said, “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.” The storms of this world are real—but they are not meant to harden us. They are meant to drive us deeper into Christ.We must resist the temptation to let the negativity, anger, or injustice around us harden our hearts. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us, &ldquo...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 12 Jun 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/dont_miss_the_good_between_the_bad So many times, I sit with people who say, “It’s always been like this. My whole life has been a mess. Nothing ever goes right.” And when I really listen—when I sit and dig deeper—I find something heartbreaking yet common: It’s not that good things never happen… it’s that they never stop long enough to notice them.See, we can get so focused on the pain, the betrayal, the storm we’re walking through, that we carry it with us long after it&rsqu...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/help_my_unbelief There’s a moment in Scripture that hits deep every time I read it. A desperate father brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus, heartbroken and helpless. The disciples had tried to help, but they couldn’t. And when they asked Jesus why, He answered plainly:“Because of your unbelief… However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”— Matthew 17:20–21 (NKJV)So many times, we read that and think the key to driving out darkness is just to do ...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:41:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/when_you_feel_nothing_at_all A brother in Christ recently shared a powerful statement: “The worst feeling is when you feel nothing at all. You’re not happy, you’re not sad, you’re not angry… you’re just there. Your mind races a million miles an hour, but your heart feels empty.”That struck me deep, because I’ve seen it—many of us have lived it. We chase happiness, a spark, a feeling—something to fill the silence. But the truth is, this world will never give us las...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Mon, 09 Jun 2025 08:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/obedience_is_better_than_sacrifice We often believe that learning through experience makes us wiser—but God’s Word reminds us that we were never meant to learn by experience alone, but by faith.“But Samuel replied: ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.’”—1 Samuel 15:22 (NIV)Think about it like this: when you were a child, your parents told you, “Don’...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sun, 08 Jun 2025 00:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/grace_for_the_hardhearted There will be days when we must deal with difficult people—those who seem hardened, unkind, or even hostile. Maybe it’s someone in authority, someone you’re required to check in with, or simply someone you encounter regularly. It can feel exhausting, discouraging, or even unjust.But here’s a shift in perspective: What has that person been through? What burdens are they carrying? Somewhere along the way, their heart might’ve been softer. Maybe they entered their role...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 07 Jun 2025 07:57:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_role_of_the_villain My cousin had asked if we had read a book called “Your Story has a Villain” and although I had not read it , the title reminded me of a sermon I recently heard that really made me think. It spoke about Judah—not just as one of the twelve tribes, but Judah the man, one of Joseph’s brothers who sold him into slavery—and also about Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus. In particular, it painted Judas as the “villain” of the Gospel story.And here&...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 06 Jun 2025 20:30:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_closer_you_get_the_harder_the_hits Today, as I spoke with brothers and friends, a common theme echoed in every conversation — weariness. Some said, “It feels like life’s just dumping on me today.” Others wondered why every step forward in their walk with Christ seems followed by two steps back.And it made me reflect on a powerful truth we often forget: the attacks don’t come because we’re doing something wrong… they come because we’re doing something right.Jesus said, “In thi...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:01:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_way_out We all face battles. Some are obvious—addictions, unhealthy habits, toxic relationships. Others hide in the shadows—shame, secrecy, silent compromises. The truth is, we don’t just “fall” into sin. Often, we walk right into it, knowing deep down we’re stepping into danger.The Bible is clear:“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempt...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Sat, 31 May 2025 23:22:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/family_isnt_perfect_but_love_shows_up Tonight on vacation, I noticed something powerful. Even though we may have our differences from time to time—different opinions, personalities, or approaches—when it came time to step up, everyone did.Whether it was looking after someone who wasn’t feeling well or taking turns entertaining our grandson, we rallied around each other. No one had to be asked. We just saw a need and filled it. That’s what love does. That’s what family does.It reminded me of Galatians 6:...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Fri, 30 May 2025 09:27:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/knowing_not_just_believing My brother sent me a poem that started with people always ask me,“Do you believe in God?”And the powerful response was “I always say no” below is my take on belief in God“I do not believe in God.Because belief can be uncertain—like believing in something you can’t feel or hoping something might be true. Praying that someone will be healed and then walking around sad because they are sick.I know God.I trust Him.I love Him.Faith is not just believing&mdash...READ MORE by clicking on the title above. Thu, 29 May 2025 19:00:01 -0500http://www.thefreebible.org/the_true_meaning_of_vacation As we drove to Missouri—back to the place we’ve returned to for 20 years—I find myself thinking of my father. This is the first time we’ve come here since he passed, and his memory is everywhere. He loved this place. It was more than a destination to him; it was sacred ground for family, for laughter, for stillness, and for legacy.So often we say things like, “I can’t wait to get away,” or “I need a break from life.” But as I reflect, I reali...READ MORE by clicking on the title above.