Tag: god

Should Christian Only Read Christian Novels?

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

Christians have debated the idea of whether or not they can read books outside of Christian novels for some time. Some legalistic Christians believe Christians should only read the Bible; whereas other Christians may believe it is within their Christian freedom to read whatever they want to read. The Bible gives guidance into all of these matters and the Holy Spirit will help direct you as an individual.

A Novel Idea
Christian novels have grown in popularity over the years with series such as The Chronicles of Narnia, The Lord of The Rings, and The Wingfeather Saga. All of these Christian novels are good to read, and most believers would agree that these novels are great for any person to read.

In fact, many Christians may encourage other believers and nonbelievers to read Christian novels in order to introduce the idea of Christ to them. Christian novels are great to read, but what about other novels? Many best-selling novels cause a raise of concern for believers.

When a Christian chooses to read a piece of literature outside of the Bible or Christian novels, they need to exercise caution, wisdom, and discernment. It is within each believer’s freedom in Christ to read the novels and books they desire; however, simply because a person can do something does not mean it is beneficial.

I have the right to do anything,” you say — but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything” — but I will not be mastered by anything (1 Corinthians 6:12).

Before reading a novel, Christians should run the content of the novel through Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.”

We should only read things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. There are many secular books that do not contain anything sinful in them. Believers should never read novels that contain graphic materials, sexual concepts, or novels that promote an anti-biblical agenda.

A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself, “Would Jesus read this book? Will God be glorified through me reading this book?” Reading is a great gift that believers have received from our Heavenly Father.

Not everyone in the world has the privilege of being able to read, which is why we use our privilege with wisdom. God does not want His children reading novels about sins or novels promoting unethical behaviors.

Reading can help people relax, learn, as well as grow into better readers and writers. There are advantages of being familiar with secular novels as Paul gives us this example by being knowledgeable about the popular secular writers during his ministry.

Paul was able to quote the philosophers, which actually helped the lost become interested in his message (Acts 17:22-28).

Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: to an unknown god. So, you are ignorant of the very thing you worship — and this is what I am going to proclaim to you. “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands (Acts 17:22-24).

It is good to be familiar with secular novels, but believers should never read a novel that they believe will cause them to sin. We all have our own temptations, and it is wise for you to be aware of your own triggers.

If a book causes you to feel bad feelings or encourages you to sin, it is best to close the book, put it down, and return the book to the bookstore. Christians can read novels outside of strictly Christian novels; however, they need to be cautious and really know their own limitations.

  1. Reading for Education
    There are going to be times when a believer will have to read secular books, such as in the event of high school, college, or work training. There is nothing wrong with reading a math textbook, an English workbook, or an employee handbook for training.

Within secular high schools and colleges, it is highly plausible Christians will encounter many evolutionary ideas and professors will teach evolution as the truth. Secular universities downplay creationism as an old wives’ tale.

In the event of a Christian having to read these textbooks, it can cause the believer to doubt their belief in creationism and even cause them to express doubt in God. Rather than allowing these books to cause the believer to doubt, the believer should view it as an opportunity to grow, strengthen, and increase their faith.

There are many creationists scientists who have written science textbooks to prove creationism, such as Ken Ham. If you are not enrolled in a Christian school or university, you most likely will not see Ken Ham’s books; however, his books would be worthwhile to read in the argument for creationism. Thus, there are books outside of Christian novels that are beneficial to believers.

  1. Reading for Fun
    Despite popular belief, God does want His children to have fun. God does not want His children to have fun in the way the world views fun, such as drunkenness, sexual immorality, and drugs. These things are not true fun. In the same way, God wants His children to have fun with reading, but it has to be good, wholesome fun.

It is not fun to read about temptations that will cause you to sin against God nor is it fun to read novels in which the main character participates in unethical behaviors. As believers, we can read for fun, but we have to run the book through Philippians 4:8 as mentioned above.

God has given us each a brain and He wants us to use it. If we know the novel is not good for our spiritual growth, do not read it. If we know the novel will lead us into sin, we should not read it. We can read any book, whether Christian-focused or not, as long as the content glorifies the Lord.

Why Does Reading Matter?
As believers, we should want to do the right thing and only engage in activities that will honor God. If the novel does not glorify God and has questionable content, it is best to abstain from reading that specific book.

There are many great secular books out there that do have good morals to them — the Christian just has to discover them. We are all given freedom in Christ, but we must not misuse our freedom as Peter tells us “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves” (1 Peter 2:16).

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!

Tests Christians Must Pass to Prepare for Your Calling

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

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

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

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!

4 Significant Lessons We Can Learn from Jesus Washing Feet

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd
  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.

What Does ‘The Earth Is the Lord’s’ Mean in Psalm 24?

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Hi! The Christian Tech Nerd here….My mom asked me to use this picture instead of the one I usually use…so this one is for you mom 🙂

Okay, I PROMISE that this is my last article/post of the day…..I don’t want to annoy anyone with by posting too many articles, so I PROMISE this is the last article I publish today….

What Does ‘The Earth Is the Lord’s’ Mean in Psalm 24?

The earth belongs to the Lord and the Lord alone and He created it. This statement is in every Christian’s mind and as Christians, we are expected to praise God for creating the world and also creating us. Such praising is constantly being done by King David.

In Psalm 24:1-3, David praises God the Father and acknowledges that God owns the world, and the world belongs to God. It is a beautifully crafted Psalm.

David puts emphasis on God’s ownership and spanned ownership in these verses. The verses are divided into three — with three different emphases, themes, and meanings. Let’s analyze each verse of this passage further.

  1. The Earth Is the Lord’s
    And everything in it, the world, and all who live in it (Psalm 24:10).

The first verse pronounces God’s ownership to the world followed by the second line that supports the first statement of God’s ownership and expounds the span of God’s dominion.

The first verse is the boldest among the three verses. It is a strong statement that puts emphasis on the fact that God owns everything – the earth and every single tangible and intangible thing.

The verse has two themes: ownership and belonging. In terms of ownership, it talks about how God owns the earth, and yet in terms of belonging it talks about how we belong to God because God first loved us.

  1. For He Founded it on the Seas
    And established it on the waters (Psalm 24:2).

The second verse is more specific. David’s praise recalls God creating the heavens the earth, which we all know was the beginning of all things on Earth:

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.”

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground — everything that has the breath of life in it — I give every green plant for food.” And it was so.

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning — the sixth day (Genesis 1:1-2, 26-31).

David also specifies both seas and waters and emphasizes the expanse of creation. Additionally, he mentions the words “establish” and “founded,” which are the two themes of this verse.

Establishing and founding are two words that are beyond creation. Establishing means setting up a system or organization while founding means planning the beginning of something.

These two actions mean that God did not just decide in one day to create the earth, but He planned for it and also made a system of organization. That is why the Earth works as it does — it was well-designed.

God founding and establishing the Earth through such a careful degree of meticulousness is so inspiring and comforting. It reveals more about God’s passion and love for the Earth. The Earth is His masterpiece and like an artist, He crafts it and maintains His masterpiece.

  1. Who May Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?
    Who may stand in his holy place? (Psalm 24:3).

The third verse talks about the fact that no one can reach the level of the Lord. He owns the world, and no one can be like Him. Everything belongs to Him and only Him.

This last verse puts emphasis on who is worthy to be like God and concludes that no one is. It is a pressing and lucid statement that only God owns the world.

The theme of the last verse is the worth of God’s ownership of this world. It tells us that we are not worthy of Him, yet He made us and even took care of us and made us the tenants to the things that belong to Him.

It also tells us that God is so powerful and more powerful than any other being in this world. No one can surpass His power. Because He made the earth, it belongs to its power.

It also talks about assurance. We are assured that there is a God, God the Father, who is guiding us in this world that He owns.

David is bold in praising God. This reminds us that we should be bold ourselves by acknowledging that God owns the world and because He owns it, we should take care of it with all our means possible.

A Prayer for the Earth
Dear Creator God, on this Earth Day and all days, let me always be in awe of Your wonderful works of creation. I don’t want to take the details of the world You created for me for granted. Everything around me is wonderfully complex and splendid. You, Lord, are both an Engineer and an Artist that built a world to perfectly sustain life. But you didn’t stop there. You also made immense details that please all of our senses as well. There are beautiful things to see, sounds to hear, textures to feel, yummy food to taste, and even delightful aromas to bring us enjoyment. Thank you for the details of life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Tough Question: Can We Worship Any Way We Want?

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God created humans to worship. In the Garden, Adam and Eve were able to worship their Creator face to face. In their rebellion, humans were cut off from the face of God. The Cherubim were set in place throughout history to guard the worship of God. First in the entrance to Eden (Genesis 3:24), then set on both ends of the mercy seat of the ark of the covenant (Exodus 25). Eventually, they were set to guard the Holy of Holies (2 Chronicles 3).

Though all of mankind was cursed through the sin of Adam (Romans 5:12), the Lord was gracious in letting His people worship Him from afar. God was specific in His commandments to His people regarding how sinners were to worship him (Deuteronomy 12:32), and the punishment for veering from that command proved to be severe. Consider Nadab and Abihu:

Now Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it and laid incense on it and offered unauthorized fire before the Lord, which he had not commanded them. And fire came out from before the Lord and consumed them, and they died before the Lord. Then Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the Lord has said: ‘Among those who are near me I will be sanctified, and before all the people I will be glorified.’ And Aaron held his peace. – Leviticus 10:1-3

In short, the two priests were flippant and disobedient (Exodus 30:9) with the worship they offered to God, and they died because of it. Granted, this is not the normative penalty for this sin, but because God’s character never changes (Numbers 23), the truth remains—God cares how He is worshipped.

You might say that this is simply an Old Testament narrative that doesn’t apply to the church today, but that notion would simply deny the immutability of God. We may not worship with burnt offerings under the New Covenant, but does that mean God is now indifferent about the way in which we worship Him?

What Does the Bible Say about Climate Change?

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Global warming is a huge phenomenon going on in the modern-day. Many people debate whether global warming is happening or not. The Bible does not specifically talk about global warming; however, the Bible does tell us the world will eventually be burned in fire (2 Peter 3:7).

2 Peter 3:10 informs us, “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”

What Is the Difference Between Climate Change and Global Warming?
It is worthwhile to mention that global warming is distinct from climate change. Climate change and global warming are not the same issues. According to NASA, climate change, “encompasses global warming, but refers to the broader range of changes that are happening to our planet, including rising sea levels; shrinking mountain glaciers; accelerating ice melt in Greenland, Antarctica and the Arctic; and shifts in flower/plant blooming times.”

Likewise, NASA describes global warming as “the long-term heating of the Earth’s climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in the Earth’s atmosphere.”

From this definition, it is mankind’s fault that we are experiencing global warming today. People are divided on whether or not it is mankind’s fault that we are experiencing global warming and as noted earlier, many people deny we are experiencing global warming at all.

Nonetheless, it is important for all people to take care of the environment as God has given us dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). Since God has given us this great responsibility and privilege, we do need to care about the way we treat the environment.

Activities, such as recycling, cutting down on fossil fuels, and simply buying energy-saving light bulbs are small ways to help take care of the environment.

Should it Matter to Believers?
Whether we are experiencing global warming or not is up for debate; however, it is crucial that believers do not divide themselves over this topic. God wants the body of believers to be unified.

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought (1 Corinthians 1:10).

Each person can have their own opinion, but we must not condemn a believer if they believe in global warming, nor should we condemn someone if they do not believe in global warming. Factions, discord, and disorder are not in God’s will for His children. Whether you believe in global warming or not, do not look down upon those who have the opposite opinion from yourself.

Scientists have studied the planet and the surrounding atmosphere, which is why we should respect their work and hear what they have to say. Science attests to God, as God is the One who invented science.

Many believers believe you have to choose God or science; however, God is compatible with science because God invented every atom, molecule, and chromosome. You can respect science and still be a believer. In any case, we must obey God and He tells us to be a good steward of all He has given us.

“The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’” (Matthew 25:20-21).

The Destruction of the Earth
Whether a person believes in global warming or not, the Bible does tell us the world will be destroyed by fire (2 Peter 3:7-10). Logically, this would mean the earth will continue to get hotter and hotter until the destruction of the planet. The Bible tells us that the destruction of the world is going to be within God’s plan.

God will destroy the present earth because He is going to make a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1-5). The present earth we are standing on today will not exist forever. It is our responsibility as creations of God to care for this planet in the best way we can.

The complete destruction of planet earth will happen after the Rapture of the Church, the Great Tribulation, the Second Coming of Christ, and the Millennium. However, during the seven-year Tribulation, the world will slowly be destroyed through the various bowl judgments (Revelation 16:3-5, 16:12).

After the 1,000-year reign of Christ, God will destroy the earth in fire, and He will create the New Heaven and New Earth. The New Heaven and New Earth will be a place of perfection, happiness, and joy in the Lord. There will be no more fear, crying, or pain.

“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:4).

Why Does This Matter?
Global warming is not discussed in the Bible, but believers are given facts in the world, such as rising temperatures, melting ice caps, increased drought, increased wildfires, and increased health problems from the rise of temperatures in urban cities.

Whether a believer chooses to believe in global warming is up to them personally. What we are told in the Bible is that all mankind is to be good stewards of God’s creation as the entire world is His, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;” (Psalm 24:1).

Since God has entrusted the earth to us, it is right for us to take care of the planet and do what we can to help the earth. We are not in control of the planet; however, we can make changes in our everyday life to show God we are being good stewards of what He has given us.

The Bible tells us the earth will be destroyed by fire in the future, which would align with global warming. It could be the present crises we are experiencing with the rising heat could be the beginning of the birth pangs Jesus talked about during His earthly ministry (Matthew 24:8).

As for the immediate time, believers should strive after unity, practice good stewardship, and look forward to the day when God will make everything new.

What Does the Bible Say about the End of the World?

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

The End of the World has been a hot topic for a long time. Many people are obsessed with the idea of the apocalypse. Some people are even preparing for the End of the World with safe houses and food storage shelters.

Popular culture depicts the End of the World differently than what the Bible tells us. There have been many films created about the End of the World with different reasons as to why the world is ending and how. The truth is that the Bible does tell us how the world will end and describes the End of the World within its pages.

  1. Doom Days
    The End of the World will not come right away. The Bible tells us the End of the World will not come until the end of the 1,000-year reign of Christ known as the Millennial Reign of Christ.

The literal 1,000-year reign of Christ will come after the Rapture of the church and the Tribulation. After the end of the 1,000-year reign of Christ, God will destroy the earth with fire and create a New Heaven and a New Earth (2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 21:1).

  1. The Rapture
    The Rapture is prior to the End of the World. The rapture is when Jesus takes His children up to be with Him in Heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Only believers will be taken up in the rapture as unbelievers will be left on the earth to undergo the seven-year Tribulation. The rapture will happen unexpectedly and will not have anything to precipitate it.

It will happen quickly, suddenly, and swiftly. Paul tells us the rapture will happen quicker than a twinkling of the eye (1 Corinthians 15:50-54). When believers are taken up in the rapture, they will be alive and will be transformed into their heavenly bodies.

Believers who are taken up in the rapture will not die. The rapture can happen at any time, meaning it could happen today, tomorrow, or a thousand years from now. Only God knows when the rapture will occur, and He has not given us that information in the Bible. Believers should continue to do good, live for Christ, and share the gospel with others until this time.

  1. The Tribulation
    The seven-year Tribulation occurs after the rapture of the church. The church will not have to undergo this wrath (1 Thessalonians 5:9). The seven-year Tribulation is the major event of God completing His work of judging the nations.

The Tribulation is the last opportunity for unbelievers to accept Jesus. Israel is the focus of the Tribulation; however, God is calling all unbelievers to accept Him during this period. Sadly, there will be people who reject Jesus during the Tribulation and refuse to submit to His Lordship.

The Tribulation will be a time of pain, terror, and wrath. Noteworthy to mention is that the Tribulation is the work of God — not of Satan. The wrath being poured out on the world will be God’s wrath. The Tribulation is known also by the title of “The Day of the Lord” (Joel 1:15).

Daniel 9:24-27 gives a detailed description of the events of the Tribulation including God’s wrath, the antichrist, and the length of the Tribulation. The first half of the Tribulation will be intense; however, the second half of the Tribulation will be even more severe (Matthew 24:21; Zephaniah 1:15).

The Tribulation will end after the seven years that is declared in Daniel. After these seven years, Jesus will return with believers to destroy all unbelievers in the Battle of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16).

  1. The Millennial Reign of Christ
    After the Tribulation, the Millennial reign will be ushered in by Jesus. The Millennial reign of Christ will last for a literal 1,000 years and Jesus will be the literal, physical King (Revelation 20:2-7). During this time, Satan is locked away and will not be released until the end of the 1,000 years to test the nations.

The Millennial reign of Christ will be amazing as Jesus will literally walk with mankind again. Despite Jesus being physically ruling as King, people will still reject Him and choose to follow Satan. There will still be death in the Millennial Kingdom as well as life with new babies born.

However, after the Millennial, no more babies will be born, and nobody will die. After the Millennial Kingdom ends, there will be the Great White Throne Judgment, in which all unbelievers will be thrown into the lake of fire for eternity (Revelation 20:11-15).

All believers will enter the Eternal State, in which the Bible tells us this will be the home of righteousness (2 Peter 3:13).

  1. The End of the World
    2 Peter 3:10-12 gives us the best description of the End of the World. In 2 Peter 3:10-12, the Bible tells us the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. This means the End of the World will happen suddenly and quickly. 2 Peter 3:10 says, “The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare.”

When Peter says, “The heavens,” he is not referring to the physical heaven above where God is located. Rather, “the heavens” refer to everyone in the solar system, including the stars, the moon, and all the planets. Everything in the solar system will be destroyed by fire.

As you can imagine, there will be a lot of noise associated with this event. The destruction of the solar system will not be a silent event as this destruction will be louder than a crack of thunder. After the destruction of the heavens and everything in the world, the entire earth will be bare (2 Peter 3:10). Nothing living will be on the face of the earth. This will officially be the End of the World.

  1. After the End
    The Bible tells us after everything is destroyed, God is going to create a new Heaven and a New Earth (Revelation 21:1). This New Heaven and New Earth will last forever. The Eternal State is what theologians call the New Heaven and the New Earth.

God will never destroy the New Heaven and New Earth because it’s going to be completely perfect, without sin, and holy (2 Peter 3:18). Only those who are in the Lamb’s Book of Life will be able to live in the New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation 13:8).

In order to be in the Lamb’s Book of Life, you have to have accepted Christ during your life by placing faith in His death, burial, and resurrection. For individuals who did not place faith in Jesus, they will be cast into the Lake of Fire along with Satan, the antichrist, and the beast after the Millennial reign of Christ (Revelation 20:10).

The End of the World is a future event, but it is best for all people to be prepared. The best way to prepare for the End of the World is not to store up food, water, or resources. Rather, the best way to prepare for the End of the World is by placing faith in Jesus and accepting Him as your Lord and Savior.

Bible Quotes For Hope

Posted on by thechristiantechnerd

1 Peter 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,”

Ephesians 1:18
“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people”

Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”

Psalm 130:5
“I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.”