Christianity and the Death Penalty?

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

The death penalty is a popular topic today as well as a politically heated debate. There are two arguments for the death penalty, those who are for the death penalty and those who are opposed to the death penalty.

Believers are divided on this ethical topic as some believe the death penalty is permitted; whereas others believe it is never permitted. There are weighty arguments on each side of the coin as each individual Christian has to make their own decision about the death penalty.

The Argument for the Death Penalty
There are multiple arguments in support of the death penalty; however, the most popular argument is “The death penalty is an effective deterrent.” In other words, the death penalty prevents the criminal from committing any future harm.

Right now, in 2021, the death penalty is legal in 27 states of America, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

All of the current criminals in limbo on death row have all been found guilty of murder. More specifically, according to the Death Penalty Information Center, “Death sentences may only be imposed for crimes in which a victim is killed, but state legislatures can determine what specific circumstances make a murder eligible for a death sentence.”

Thus, the death penalty is only enacted if murder was involved. In the past, the crime of rape would be found worthy of the death penalty; however, in the 21st century, rape is no longer seen as a crime deserving death. As of 2021, the only crime guilty of receiving the death penalty is murder.

Was the Death Penalty Used in the Bible?
The Old Testament does show evidence for capital punishment. The punishment of death was not only for murder (Exodus 21:12), but also for rape (Deuteronomy 22:24), adultery (Leviticus 20:10), kidnapping (Exodus 21:16), homosexuality (Leviticus 20:13), and bestiality (Exodus 22:19). False prophets were also condemned to death.

That prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. That prophet or dreamer tried to turn you from the way the Lord your God commanded you to follow. You must purge the evil from among you (Deuteronomy 13:5).

Does this mean that when a believer sees any of these things occur, the criminal should be killed? Even though each of these crimes was punishable by death, God extended mercy to each individual as shown in the case of David.

David had committed adultery with Bathsheba, but God did not order that David be killed. Instead, God showered David with mercy. David confessed his sin to God and expressed his need for God’s forgiveness (2 Samuel 12:13).

Believers today should extend mercy and kindness just as God did to David; however, believers must also be aware that there are consequences for sin even though God forgives the sin. God is merciful, loving, and forgiving, but He is also righteous, holy, and perfect (1 Samuel 2:2; 1 Peter 1:16; Psalm 99:9). Sin cannot coexist with God as sin separates us from God.

The Argument Against the Death Penalty
As stated by the FIACAT Representation to the United Nations, “The death penalty does not respect the right to life.” In addition to this main reason, other arguments include that the death penalty is not an effective deterrent, it is built upon a faulty governmental system, it does not truly protect society, and it does not give the opportunity for the criminal to repent.

Concerning the last reason, if a person is sentenced to death, they would never have time to accept Jesus into their lives. There are numerous ministries today focused on helping prisoners come to know Jesus across the world. Prison ministries emphasize forgiveness and redemption to the prisoners as all people can be saved.

A person is only given forgiveness because of placing faith in Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). Even if a person’s past is filled with sin, God can still forgive them and redeem them. Nothing is too unforgivable for God if the person comes before God in genuine remorse. Paul was a persecutor of the faith, he strongly opposed the apostles’ message, and he was even a murderer.

And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison (Acts 8:1-3).

In 1 Corinthians 15:9, Paul states, “For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them — yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.”

In the same way, God can redeem the lives of criminals, prisoners, and murderers today.

A Hard and Complicated Situation
Each Christian has to choose whether or not they believe in the death penalty. There are strong reasons for each side of the argument. In the Old Testament, there were times when the death penalty needed to be enacted and it was carried out.

Even though capital punishment is a reality in the present world today, believers need to approach the subject with wisdom. Galatians 6:6-7 tells us, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”

God does not desire anyone to die; however, there are consequences for our sins. God can forgive any sin, but the government and authority figures have created their own human system for justice. It is fully possible for criminals, prisoners, and murderers to place faith in Jesus and receive forgiveness.

As Christians, we need to study the Bible and come to our own findings on the death penalty. Praying for God’s guidance, direction, and wisdom will help believers make good decisions for all areas of life, including taking a stance on the arguments of capital punishment. God promises to give us wisdom if we ask for it.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you (James 1:5).

Who Is to Blame for Jesus’ Death?

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

Jesus of Nazareth, also known as the Christ, was crucified. According to research, His death took place on Friday, April 3, AD 33 when Israel was occupied and oppressed by Rome. Before His death, Jesus had 12 men who were His disciples, and they traveled around the country preaching and teaching about the Kingdom of God.

And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him (Acts 10:38).

Jesus was doing good, so why was He crucified and who is responsible for His death?

Some Blame Judas
Judas Iscariot has long been blamed for the death of Jesus. We know from the scriptures that he sought out to betray Jesus. It was Judas who led the soldiers to arrest Jesus, betraying Him with a kiss.

Then one of the Twelve — the one called Judas Iscariot — went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over (Matthew 26:14-16).

Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him.” Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” and kissed him. Jesus replied, “Do what you came for, friend.” Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him (Matthew 26:47-50).

Judas may have been responsible for Jesus’ arrest, but not for His death.

Some Blame the Jews
Many Jewish people have been persecuted and even killed for being, as some called them, the “Christ-killer.” What led people to believe that an entire people group was responsible for the death of Jesus?

Perhaps it was taken from Matthew 27:1-2, 20, and 22-25,

“What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?” Pilate asked. They all answered, “Crucify him!” “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!”

When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. “I am innocent of this man’s blood,” he said. “It is your responsibility!” All the people answered, “His blood is on us and on our children!”

Or it might be taken from the nonchalant way Paul put it in 1 Thessalonians 2:14-15,

For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God’s churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your own people the same things those churches suffered from the Jews who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to everyone.

Many Jewish people played a role in what led to the death of Jesus. But many is not every.

The disciples were Jewish and 11 of them played no role.
Mary and the other women who followed Jesus were Jewish and they too played no role.

And then there is Joseph of Arimathea, who was one of the Jewish religious leaders who did not consent to Jesus’ death.

The Jews are not responsible or to blame for the death of Jesus.

Some Blame the Religious Leaders
It’s true that the religious leaders felt threatened by Jesus. This is because they had power over their people and the privileges they’d acquired from the Roman government.

If the people followed Jesus, they’d lose their power over them.

If they lost their power over the people, they’d lose their privileges from the government.

They had clear motives even though murder was against the law of Moses.

The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for false evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death (Matthew 26:59).

The chief priests and the teachers of the law were scheming to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him (Mark 14:1).

Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Look, now you have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?” “He is worthy of death,” they answered (Matthew 26:65-66).

Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed. So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor (Matthew 27:1-2).

But the chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas and to have Jesus executed (Matthew 27:20).

There were religious leaders pushing for Jesus to be killed, but not all of them. Remember Joseph of Arimathea.

Many religious leaders played a role, but they’re not responsible for the death of Jesus.

Some Blame Caiaphas
Because we can’t blame the whole group of religious leaders some look at their leader —Caiaphas — the high priest.

Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled (Matthew 26:57).

Caiaphas was not only a religious leader, but also had power regarding civil laws. However, his power was allowed only at the discretion of the Romans who ruled over him. Due to that oversight, Caiaphas had no power to put Jesus to death and had to take him to the Roman ruler.

Due to Roman oversight, Caiaphas was not responsible for the death of Jesus.

Some Blame the Romans
Some find it logical to blame the Romans for Jesus’ death because of how He was killed. Crucifixion was imposed by the Roman government.

Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” “But we have no right to execute anyone,” they objected. This took place to fulfill what Jesus had said about the kind of death he was going to die (John 18:31-32).

Again, here we have the whole people group thing.

The Roman government was responsible for the way Jesus died, but not His death.

Some Blame Pilate
Pilate must be responsible due to the power he held, right?

“Where do you come from?” he asked Jesus, but Jesus gave him no answer. “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” (John 19:9-10).

Pilate made the decree for Jesus to be crucified, but he is not responsible for His death.

Who Is Really to Blame?
The death of Jesus was strategically planned by one. When they came to arrest Jesus, He said:

Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (Matthew 26:53-55).

When Pilate threatened Jesus, He answered, You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above (John 19:11).

Before it happened, Jesus said how He was going to die.

“No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father” (John 10:18).

When Jesus died, He did what He said — gave up His life, yielded His spirit, sent His spirit forth (Matthew 27:50).

The death of Jesus was an elaborate plan made by God Himself.

None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory (1 Corinthians 2:8).

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8).

The love of God is solely responsible for the death of Jesus — and His resurrection, so that we may be saved!

As a Good Christian How Can I Effectively Wait on the Lord?

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

Have you ever noticed some of the things people do while they wait? For instance, when waiting on an elevator, we keep pressing the button. It doesn’t help. Or if we are stuck in a traffic jam, we honk the horn. It won’t help. When waiting on line, we try going from line to line. Stay put. And when we’re put on hold for a long period of time, we hang up and try again. Another bad move.

There are yet other more mindless things we do while we are waiting: we suck our teeth, we sigh, we tap our feet, we pace back and forth, and we even hum and whistle. All of these things are done in an effort to be patient. But what they truly reveal is just how inpatient we really are! Almost to a person, we want what we want when we want it; and that’s usually right now or yesterday.

Waiting happens to be an unavoidable part of life. It’s one of those things that we all have to do whether we want to or not. Some would go so far as to call it a necessary evil. Necessary? Actually, yes. Evil? No, even though it seems that way at times.

How Can We Guard Against Our Own Spiritual Blindness

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Jesus talks a lot about eyesight. He heals people born blind and critiques religious leaders for their lack of vision. In fact, in the Gospel of John, Jesus states that he had come into the world “so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind” (John 9:39). Throughout Jesus’ ministry, spiritual blindness is highlighted as a perpetual problem for the people around him.

We rarely talk about this today. We may even assume that it is not a problem for a society as advanced as ours. After all, in a pluralistic world, with a myriad of viewpoints and opinions, what right do we have to charge someone with spiritual blindness? This may sound reasonable, but Jesus was clear about the reality of this condition. What is more, the first-century world was as pluralistic as our own. Spiritual blindness isn’t about opinion, it is about being unable to recognize the power of God revealed in Jesus. Given this, how might we guard against our own blindness?

What Does “Spiritual Blindness” Mean?
Blindness is an inability to see; Spiritual blindness, therefore, is an inability to see the things of the Spirit. Jesus frequently heals the blind as a testimony to his messianic status, and his divinity. Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 35 that “the eyes of the blind will be opened” (John 35:5). Such activity, however, is often met with disbelief, or even ridicule. As the blind are made to see, those who “see” refuse to accept Jesus’ words or actions. This is spiritual blindness. Whenever someone is unable to recognize the activity of God, through the work or words of Jesus, they are considered spiritually blind.

Importantly, spiritual blindness is a condition that afflicts the religious. Jesus’ harshest criticisms regarding it are reserved for the Pharisees and the Scribes, those who make up the religious elite of the day. Jesus never charges a Gentile person with spiritual blindness; the broken and hurting do not suffer from this condition. Instead, those who believe that they have mastered the ways of God often find themselves dumbfounded by Jesus’ ministry.

John’s account of the healing of the man born blind (John 9:1-41) is a wonderful depiction of spiritual blindness. After Jesus restores the man’s sight, the Pharisees are unwilling to accept this healing. Despite evidence, logic, and good theology, the Pharisees simply refuse to accept the truth standing before them. First, they point to the fact that healing on the Sabbath was against Jewish law. Then, they question the man’s parents to see if the man was truly born blind. The insinuation here is that this healing is but a trick from a charlatan prophet. Finally, the man himself is ridiculed and insulted. They label him a sinner undeserving of God’s love and healing.

This blindness of the Pharisees is contrasted beautifully with the vision of the blind man. Throughout the entire exchange, it is the blind man who speaks truthfully the things of God. He testifies to his experience of miraculous healing in the words “One thing I do know, I was blind, but now I see” (vs 25). He even schools the Pharisees on a point of theology! “We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person how does his will. Nobody has ever heard of the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” (31-32). The man born blind sees Jesus, and the power of God, rightly. He has true sight, whereas the Pharisees are nothing more than blind guides.

How Do We Become Spiritually Blind?
If spiritual blindness is a condition that affects the religious, how do we, as Christians, ensure that we do not fall into this trap? How do we become spiritually blind? The gospels make clear that it is a misdirection of our vision. Jesus says “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of life. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness” (Matthew 6:22-23). Spiritual blindness is an internal condition. It occurs when we focus our attention upon our own pride, desire, or limited understanding.

This is exactly what the Pharisees exhibit. Their prideful assumption that they were “experts” in the things of God made them inhospitable to Jesus. Because Jesus often called people way from the blind execution of religious rules, the Pharisees could not accept the incarnation. God, they believed, only worked in the context of their limited understanding.

Because of this pride, Jesus calls them “blind guides” (Matthew 23:16). Their hearts were set more on following the rules of the Temple than on observing a heartfelt devotion to God. Jesus criticizes them for “giving a tenth of your spices – mint, dill, and cumin, but neglecting the more important matters of the law – justice, mercy, and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23). The Pharisees frequently had their eyes set upon the praises of others, rather than on truly walking the way of holiness and righteousness. Their life, and faith, served their own glorification.

Before we become overly critical of the Pharisees, we must recognize that this also happens with Peter and the other disciples. When Peter rebukes Jesus for speaking about his upcoming death, Jesus turns around and declares he did not have in mind the things of God” (Mark 8:33). In that moment, despite his desire to be faithful to his Lord, Peter’s vision was set upon his own understanding of God’s ways, rather than the humble acceptance of Jesus. Similarly, the disciples argue about who is the greatest, and who will sit on Jesus’ right and left hand in the kingdom. Each of these instances is an example of spiritual blindness because the disciples turn their spiritual vision to their own glorification and exaltation. While they claim to understand the nuances of Christ’s Lordship they fail to recognize the way of redemption and grace.

Whenever we believe that we have plumbed the depths of God, we act in spiritual blindness. Such an attitude does not embody the grace of Jesus. It does not take into consideration that Jesus may do something unexpected in our lives. God’s ways and thoughts are always beyond our own. We always have something to learn, and we can always use more healing in our life.

How Do We Break Free from Spiritual Blindness?
Given that spiritual blindness afflicts the faithful, from the Pharisees to the disciples, how might we ensure that we keep ourselves from this condition? How can we break free from spiritual blindness if it occurs in our lives? The answer is relatively simple: we look to Jesus. Looking to Jesus is the only antidote to spiritual blindness.

Prior to healing the man born blind, Jesus famously declares “I am the light of the world” (9:5). Jesus is the light that illuminates the fullness of God’s identity, love, power, and grace. Spiritual sightedness is not about the wealth of religious knowledge, scripture memorization, or an understanding of intricate liturgical rules. Having true, authentic, spiritual sight is about seeing, and receiving, Jesus. Anything within ourselves, or within our own religious or spiritual identity, that gets in the way of receiving Jesus eventually moves us to spiritual blindness.

We are called to be like Paul, who declared “I resolve to know nothing except Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). Our vision is cast solely upon Jesus. The author of Hebrews reminds us to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). Jesus is to be the one to whom all the faithful look upon in humble obedience.

This is easy to say, and easier to write, but harder to do. Too often, the root of spiritual blindness is pride. This pride keeps us from the necessary disciplines of humility and trust. Yet the call of faith is to believe in the guiding, healing, power of Jesus. We stubbornly look to him, even in those moments where we can’t understand what Jesus is doing, or where he is taking us. As we intentionally place Jesus at the center of our lives, the Spirit will lead us to deeper experiences of healing and grace.

The Necessity of Prayer
Ultimately, the only true way for us to ensure our spiritual sightedness is to continually pray for a clearer vision of Jesus Christ in our lives. We never arrive at a place where we progress beyond the danger of spiritual blindness. In fact, if we think that spiritual blindness is not a problem for us, that may be a good indication that it is closer than we think.

We are to cast our eyes upon the Lord, faithfully and diligently. In raw and unhindered honesty, we are to pray that his will be done in our lives, and not our own. We radically accept his vision of who we are, and who we are called to be. Undoubtedly, this is an act of faith and one that requires a constant lifting of ourselves before the Lord. Warding off spiritual blindness involves the willful laying down of our own pride.

What would it look like for you to pray for a deeper vision of Jesus in your life? Just as Moses asked to see a vision of God’s glory, and just as the Psalmist exclaims “Your face, Lord, I will seek” (Psalms 27:8), and just as Paul prays that the eyes of our hearts may be enlightened (Ephesians 1;18), so too can we ask for a deeper vision of Christ’s presence. It is when we seek the face of Jesus that we can be assured of true spiritual sightedness. As we look to him, Jesus fills our vision and lightens our way.

I hope and pray that everyone reading this has an AMAZING weekend!

Seven Ways to Biblically Empower Other Women

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

We live in a culture where it’s finally politically correct to empower women. But how we do it makes all the difference in the world. Neither men nor women get their power or strength from within themselves, nor from others who give them opportunities, promotions, or positions of authority.

Psalm 75:6-7 says, “For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another” (KJV). Scripture makes it clear the Holy Spirit is the One who empowers (1 Corinthians 10:11). When we understand and acknowledge the true source of empowerment, we can strengthen and empower others far more effectively than training courses and positive affirmation. We can also lead them to a well of power that is constantly available to draw from themselves.

With the recognition of where true empowerment comes from, here are seven ways to empower other women, biblically.

  1. Encourage them to rely on God’s strength.
  2. Encourage their faith that with God, all things are possible.
  3. Teach them to be humble.
  4. Share your own weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
  5. Help them understand their new identity in Christ.
  6. Pray for and with them.

Ask how you can pray for a woman you’re hoping to empower – and then do it. If you’re talking on the phone or via zoom, pray for her right there. If you’re having coffee or lunch together, pray for her at that moment. Saying “I’ll pray for you” and then doing that outside her presence might rob her of the blessing of being empowered by your actual prayer. It also teaches her how to pray. Prayer is empowering in itself. Let women see it through your willingness to pray for them at the moment.

  1. Encourage them to suit up with the armor of God.

Take the concept of “power dressing” to a whole new level when you teach another woman to suit up with the armor of God. After we are instructed in Ephesians 6:10 to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might,” we are then told in verse 11 to “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”

To put on the whole armor of God (as covered in Ephesians 6:12-18) simply means to abide in Christ in every area of our lives – covering every part of our bodies with Christlikeness, so we can withstand the spiritual battle that rages around us. Scripture says, “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (verse 12). There is no better way to be prepared for and empowered against the satanic realm than to literally “wear” Christ by abiding intimately with Him.

Specifically, we are told in that passage to fasten on the belt of truth and – because Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) – that means we are to be centered in the truth of Christ. Tell a woman to put on the breastplate of righteousness by explaining that the LORD is our righteousness (Jeremiah 33:6), and we are to cover our hearts with Him or make Him our first love. Encourage her to wear the helmet of salvation, covering her mind with the truth that salvation exists in no other name but Jesus (Acts 4:12), and she is to love Him with all her mind (Matthew 22:37). By encouraging her to suit up daily in the armor of God, you are giving her a whole new perspective on how to “dress for success.”

Be faithful in these seven ways to biblically empower women in your circle of influence, and you will be unleashing within them the power to change the world around them, as they glean the truth from 1 John 4:4 that greater is He who is in them than he who is in the world.

Tests Christians Must Pass to Prepare for Your Calling

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God has a call upon your life.” I hear that statement spoken so regularly, yet meet so few Christians who seem to know what their “calling” entails. In a culture that applauds vision, grit, and hustle to make it happen, how do we know when we are pursuing our calling or merely pursuing selfish ambition? Scripture offers some stunning patterns in how God issues a call upon people’s lives.

Maybe you’ve wrestled with your own calling. Life did not unfold the way you imagined and you feel forgotten or wonder if you missed it. You speculate if the stirring in your heart reflects the call of God. Or maybe you sensed a call but it feels stagnant and you deliberate how and when you might move forward. If the call feels too monumental, you doubt your ability to carry it forward. God, in His great grace, helps us to cease speculation by offering some samples of how He calls His people. An examination of these ancient Biblical patterns helps us discover God’s ways and His will for us today.

The Contrast of the Call
Most Biblical figures rarely responded with a resounding, “Now that’s what I’m talking about! I was made for this!” when God arrived announcing a call. Most experienced fear, expressed self-doubt or bewilderment, or the Bible does not offer an inkling of how they felt about it at all. I cannot think of a single scriptural instance in which the person prayed for a specific call of God upon their lives and God granted them an affirmative, “Yes.” More often than not, the assignment is one they never would have chosen for themselves. Something beyond their wildest imagination, like a virgin birth, or utterly inconceivable based upon their passion and giftedness.

Paul’s call fits into this pattern perfectly. Talk about vision and hustle, Saul the Pharisee sought the fast track to religious success. He cites an impressive resume for us: “a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless” (Philippians 3:5-6). Then Jesus showed up and rocked his world. In a heavenly vision, Jesus issued a new call upon Saul’s life: missionary to the Gentiles (See Acts 9:1-17).

His plan to rise above the ranks in the Sanhedrin became abruptly interrupted by a blinding light with a new call. Whoa! Paul left Jerusalem and headed toward Damascus in order to persecute and arrest those who followed Jesus. Until he became a follower himself. What displeased Paul even more than Jews who followed Jesus? Gentiles. Paul disdained Gentiles, yet now he would spend the remainder of his life serving them. An inconceivable calling.

5 Tests to Carry Out the Call
While the call itself seems unexpected and unanticipated in most scriptural accounts, walking out the call presents patterns to prepare us. Unlike the world, which tells us that when we are pursuing our call and giftedness we should experience exhilaration and success when we strive consistently, Paul’s example proves otherwise. We see Paul face five specific tests as he fulfills his call as a missionary to the Gentiles.

  1. The Test of Waiting. Paul waited a minimum of ten years since Jesus first appeared to him on the road to Damascus and he began actively ministering at the church in Antioch. Other than a three–year stint where he went down to Arabia to fully grasp the gospel of grace, we are not told how he spent his time. We know at some point he returned to his hometown of Tarsus, but that is all we are told. Until Barnabas arrived from Antioch to bring Paul to the predominantly Gentile church, Paul continued to wait for his calling to be fulfilled. We see a season of waiting often in Scripture beginning with Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Elijah, Ezekiel, Nehemiah, and even Christ Himself, living thirty long years before the onset of His ministry. God knows where He is leading in the round–a­–bout wait.
  2. The Test of Spiritual Opposition. After Paul spent a year of preparation teaching at the church in Antioch alongside Barnabas, both embarked upon their first missionary journey together. God allowed these men to bond in service together in a thriving church before sending them out to face opposition on missionary soil. Once on the island of Cyprus, they faced the forces of darkness. We see this same pattern with Jesus in Luke 4. God brings us into battle with evil so we learn to trust in His victory. When walking out our calling we should expect opposition.
  3. The Test of Emotional Opposition. After leaving Cyprus, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Iconium where their motives were questioned and their character slandered. When we step into the fullness of our calling others will downplay, distract and discredit us. Some might even desecrate us emotionally. God calls His servants to lean on Him emotionally in the oftentimes lonely place of living out one’s calling. Strife erupting does not signify that we have stepped outside of His call for us. Moses and David ran for their lives. Elijah and Ezekiel hid in foreign countries. The dynamic duo Paul and Barnabas disputed over John Mark.
  4. The Test of Praise. After leaving Iconium, Paul and Barnabas traveled to Lystra where they were worshiped as gods in response to a miracle. When God begins to do the unexplainable among and through us, people will start to praise the messenger rather than the Miracle Working God. Will we pass the test and humbly point them to Jesus or begin to think we are something special? Man’s heart is tested most severely in the crucible of praise. We must be prepared to handle God working wonders through us, in spite of us.
  5. The Test of Release.When Paul and Barnabas finished their missionary journey, they returned home to Antioch. Undoubtedly, they wonder how their fledgling churches would fare in their absence. It would be tempting to stay and continue to disciple each church for longer periods, yet they both knew they were called to spread the gospel to new lands. This meant letting God go and trusting God to finish what He had started through their faithful service. Sometimes in our calling, we can fall into the trap of being needed– as if God’s kingdom plans rest solely on our ability or involvement. We cannot release the good for God to call us to what is best. We have to let go of something in order for God to place His call within our grasp.

Preparing for the Tests
These tests often make us question our call as they are occurring. When the call feels so utterly foreign to our expectations we begin to believe our doubts and doubt our beliefs. Waiting exacerbates our confusion forcing us into greater faith. Opposition entices us to believe we are outside of God’s will for our lives. Praise invites us to move forward in our own strength and letting go of questions about our purpose or significance. Do you notice the one common denominator in the call? Death to self–reliance.

Whether you feel as though you are walking in your calling or waiting for it to be fulfilled, God calls us to intentionally prepare for what’s ahead. Passing these tests will never be easy. We prepare by intently examining these patterns of Scripture rather than self-analyzing or striving in our own strength. Are you walking through one of these tests? Chances are you are closer to carrying out your calling than you might think.

Powerful Prayers of Thanks and Gratitude to God For His Many Blessings

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Having a thankful heart can change your entire perspective and outlook on life. One of the best ways to experience the power of thanksgiving is to through prayer. Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic – with job loss, sickness and loss, we can experience blessings. When we offer a prayer of thanks to God, our focus shifts from our problems to our blessings. And that’s the beauty of faith – we can experience gratitude and give thanks despite the circumstances and storms that surround us.

We have a choice every day to give God thanks. Start expressing your gratitude today for His faithfulness and love in your life. Thank God for his sovereign control over your life. Thank God for the hope and joy that we regardless of how we may be feeling in the moment. Let him change your heart to strengthen you with HIS peace. The best way to defeat satan’s attacks of disappointment, fear, worry is through a grateful heart! We surely have so much to be thankful for because of the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ and the peace He offers. Let’s learn to thank God for all seasons of life. Below are some of my favorite prayers of “THANKS”. May they inspire and grow a heart of gratitude in you today.

Prayer of Thanks to God
Heavenly Father, thank You for caring about my life. Thank You that I can talk to You about everything. I have lots of concerns so I’m bringing each one to You. Thank You for promising to give me Your peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A Heart of Gratitude
Dear Lord, I praise You and I love being in Your presence. Thank You for the sacrifice you made for me on the cross. Thank You for helping my heart to rest in Your presence. In a busy world, it is here that I find truth, grace, and mercy. My heart is overwhelmingly grateful. As it overflows with gratitude, may You present opportunities for me to serve. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

Thanks for Blessings
Father, thank you for intervening in my life and allowing me to have a personal relationship with you. Thank you for your love for me today and forever.

Thank you for the blessings you’ve given me and my family. Help us use those blessings to bless others. May I live a life of true joy as I see you at work around me today! In Jesus’ name. Amen.

A Prayer for Thanks-Living
Dear God, I hate to say it, but I have been guilty of grumbling and griping about all my problems and trials. I have failed to be thankful and to remember that You are at work in my life, even through all the troubles.

Please forgive me, God. I want to be a person who keeps my eyes on You and praises You, no matter what may come my way. So, thank you God for these blessings (name them) and these challenges (name them). I know You are in control of all things.

I know You love me and work all things together for my good. I choose to trust You, Lord. Teach me to be a “praiser” who always finds the good… and not a complainer who always finds the bad. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

For Grace and Gratitude
Dear heavenly Father, please help me to accept both life’s little challenges and Your restoring help with grace and gratitude. Help me remember that no problem is too large or too small for me to call out to You. Please help me remember that a heart can be filled in with joy every day, not just the easy days. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Praise in the Storm
O Lord, thank You that You love me and that You give me comfort like no other. Thank You that You are a God who is well acquainted with all our grief and that You ache when I ache. Help me to remember that in the midst of struggles, trials, and utter heartbreak that You offer hope. You are the Author of Hope and Salvation. I praise You that through the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus, all things are put under Your feet. Allow me to trust Your heart and believe that there is more to life than the heartache of this world. Allow me to lean ever closer to You in the midst of this fallen world. Thank You God for hope, peace, Your love, Your comfort, and Your salvation. Amen.

A Prayer for Blessing
Thank you for your great love and blessing over our lives. Thank you that your favor has no end, but it lasts for our entire lifetime. Forgive us for sometimes forgetting that you are intimately acquainted with all of our ways, that you know what concerns us, and you cover us as with a shield.

Establish the work of our hands and bring to fulfillment all that you have given us to do in these days. We pray that you would make our way purposeful and our footsteps firm out of your goodness and love. Give us a heart of wisdom to hear your voice, and make us strong by your huge favor and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

For Hope and Joy
Heavenly Father, thank You for ordering my life. I choose to trust in You and find my delight in Your laws. I commit my ways to You and ask for divine guidance over my life. I rest in You, believing You’re working all things for good in my life. Come and have Your way in me. Keep my heart steadfast in hope, and fill me with joy today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A Prayer to Give Thanks to the Lord
Lord, teach me to offer you a heart of thanksgiving and praise in all my daily experiences of life. Teach me to be joyful always, to pray continually and to give thanks in all my circumstances. I accept them as Your will for my life (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). I long to bring pleasure to Your heart daily. Break the power of the enemy in my life. Defeat Him through my sacrifice of praise. Change my outlook and attitude into one of joyful contentment with my present circumstances. I thank You for… [Name a difficult circumstance in your life presently and thank God for it.]

Jesus, I want to be like You who obeyed the Father without complaint. You embraced the chains of humanity when You walked this earth. Convict me whenever I complain or compare myself with others. Give me Your attitude of humility and thankful acceptance. I want to be like the Apostle Paul who learned contentment in every circumstance. I choose to continually offer You a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that give praise to Your name (Hebrews 13:15). I long to bring a smile to Your face. Teach me the power of a thankful heart. I know that Your truth dwells in a thankful heart.

“I will give thanks to the LORD because of His righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens” (Psalm 7:17-18:1). In Jesus’ name, amen.

For Faithfulness
Father, thank You for the testimony of Your faithfulness and goodness that I have in the cross of Christ. Thank You for Your loyal love and compassion that stocks my pantry with everything I need to live a life that pleases and serves You. Forgive me for the ways I have knowingly or unknowingly rebelled against Your truth. Resurrect the grand vision for my life that You have crafted just for me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Thankful for God’s Strength
Heavenly Father, thank You for life and hope and bravery. Thank You that even at my weakest, I can rely on You for strength. Remind me of the bravery You’ve called me to step into today, and help me to encourage others with the mighty hope of the Lord too. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

For Creating Me With Purpose
Dear God, thank You that in Jesus, I am equipped, enough and loved. Period. Thank You for creating me with purpose and potential. Please use me to change the world. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Grateful for Salvation
Thank You Lord that Your finished work on the cross has made a personal relationship with You possible. You are our Maker and only You can truly satisfy. Thank You that we can seek You and that You can be found. Thank You that You minister to our spirits with Your Truth. Thank You that You are indeed our “Daddy” in heaven. In Christ’s name, Amen.

I hope these words inspire your own prayer of thanks to God and fill your heart with gratitude today!

How Do I Worship in Spirit and Truth?

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Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. – John 4:21-24

The Samaritans believed that God’s temple was to be built on the mountain of Gerizim, and not in Jerusalem. What Jesus is saying in the scripture above is that in the New Covenant in Christ, true worshippers will no longer have to travel to man-made temples to worship God, but that the Holy Spirit will indwell within His people and they will be His temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).

Notice what Jesus says about the method in which His people (the church) must worship. The true worshippers of God must worship in spirit and truth.

To worship in spirit means that one must be indwelled with the Holy Spirit, a promise given to those that place their faith in the redemptive work of Christ (Ezekiel 11:19) To worship in spirit has less to do with “worshipping spirited,” and more to do with wholeheartedly laying down our old self, or flesh, and submitting to the Spirit in obedience (Ezekiel 36:27).

In reading the entire narrative in John 4, notice that the Samaritan woman assumed worshipping God was relevant to how God was viewed (John 4:20). A low view or lack of reverence for God will produce cheap, emotion-driven worship.

Without a proper view of Christ, our worship turns to idolatry.

Therefore, the second requirement Jesus gives to true worshippers of God is truth. The mark of a true Christian is believing in the sufficiency of Scripture. The Bible is our ultimate and objective standard of Truth. Because we hold to that confession, our right view of the supremacy of Christ comes from His very Word.

To put it concisely, the church is to worship God according to the truth of His Word, empowered to do so by the Holy Spirit indwelling within us.

Please share your favorite stories of worship and faith if you have time to do so! I just love when people share their stories of faith with me! And thank you so much for taking time out of your day to read my posts!

What Does Baptism Symbolize?

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The New Testament offers great wisdom and guidance to help us understand the purpose of baptism.

Baptism is for the forgiveness of sins (See: Acts 2:38). When we are baptized, we repent by turning from our sinfulness and receive the forgiveness that Jesus provided through his death and resurrection.

Baptism is a symbol of our faith (See: Acts 8:12-13). The model we see in the New Testament is that when someone became a new believer (demonstrating faith in Jesus), they repented and were baptized. Baptism serves as a vital step for those declaring their faith in Jesus.

Baptism is a symbol of being buried and raised to life with Jesus (See: Romans 6:3-4). When we are baptized, it is the means by which we enter into the death of Jesus, and it is also how we are raised up into new life in Jesus.

When we take into consideration the scope of New Testament insight on baptism, we can conclude that Jesus did not need to be baptized for the same reasons that believers do. But, Jesus did need to be baptized, which is why he asked John to baptize him. By being baptized, Jesus began his work to take our place and to redeem humanity. He modeled baptism as something all believers need to do as a step in their faith walk. This remains true for believers today.

4 Significant Lessons We Can Learn from Jesus Washing Feet

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  1. Jesus Came to Serve, Not to Be Served

It’s hard to imagine coming into this world, knowing that you are not here just for your personal benefit, but that you came to be a servant of others. This is exactly what Jesus came to do. Often we think of people who are leaders as people who are here to be served due to their position and status. Jesus was God in the flesh, and he didn’t expect special treatment. Instead, he came to show us a different way. He set an example that we should follow.

I wish I could say that it is easy to follow the example of Jesus, but it can be hard to do in the world that we live in. Our society is one where it is common to look out for our own good, not so much looking out for the good of others. We seek to be in a position of leadership, have celebrity status, or get an important position somewhere.

People in these positions are usually treated better than most and are given favor over others. What Jesus shows us is completely backwards to what society does. If we know Jesus, and have a relationship with him, we are to take the place of a servant. This does not mean that others are more significant than we are, but we are to be like our Savior who did the exact same thing for us.

  1. We Are to Show Others the Same Kind of Love That Jesus Shows Us

When Jesus washes the feet of the disciples, not only is he serving, but he is showing what sacrificial love looks like. He was about to be crucified on a cross and make the ultimate sacrifice with his life. The disciples did not understand what was about to happen, but Jesus was trying to set an example for them.

After he washed the disciples’ feet, he said to them in John 13:15, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” Jesus expressed his love for the disciples when he humbly washed their feet, and we are to follow in his footsteps and do likewise to others.

  1. Jesus Had a Healthy Understanding of Who He Was, and Where He Came From

There was no doubt that Jesus was secure in his identity. In John 13:3 it says, “Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God.” Jesus put his trust in the Father that he was completely loved, had a future, and knew his sacrifice had a purpose.

Being secure in who he was, he was able to love others perfectly, and not feel inferior because he was serving them. When we know we are fully loved, and know where our identity comes from, we don’t have to try to get it from our status or position in life.

  1. It Is Not True Humility to Deny Someone Who Wants to Serve Us

Sometimes it can be hard to let others serve us. When Peter found out what Jesus was going to do for them, immediately he responded, “You shall never wash my feet.” (John 13:8) In that same verse, Jesus responded by saying, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” Peter was not responding out of humility, but out of pride instead. He didn’t think that he could possibly receive what Jesus was about to do.

If he had not allowed Jesus to serve him like this, he might have missed out on one of the most important things that Jesus was trying to teach him. We must not assume that we are not good enough to be served by others. If we are too prideful to accept what others want to do for us, we might completely miss what Jesus has done for us as well. We must be humble enough to allow others to minister to us as well.

How Can We Apply These Lessons to Our Lives?
We can learn so much from the example that Jesus sets for us, but it is also important for us to learn how to incorporate this into our own lives. If we follow Jesus, we are called to become more and more like him. It is not always easy to be like Jesus because we are imperfect human beings, but the good thing is we don’t have to do it on our own. We can rely on the power of the Holy Spirit in us to serve and love others well. All we need to do is ask for help to carry it out, and for the wisdom to see who we can minister to.

Another important thing we need to realize from Jesus washing feet is how much He loves us. If we are trying to love others on an empty tank, we run the risk of serving and loving others for the wrong reasons. It is hard to genuinely love others well, if we don’t understand how loved we are. We may end up thinking that we are above serving others, or doing it and expecting something in return. This is why we need to spend time with Jesus and grow in our relationship with him. When we get to know him more, eventually loving others will be something that flows out of our relationship with him.

It doesn’t have to be complicated to love others, we can actually look for practical ways to do it. The first step is asking Jesus to show us who we can love on, and then looking for a need that needs to be met. This can be writing a note to encourage someone, paying for a meal for another person, opening a door for someone, or watching someone’s kids for them. There are many other ways to serve others, we just need to pay attention, step out, and meet a need.

When we start serving and loving others well, this is when we start to make an impact. Jesus can take the simple acts of kindness that we do for others, and change lives. We can play an important part in helping others come to know Jesus. This can be the result of following the example Jesus has given us when he washed the disciples’ feet.