A group of hikers once hired an experienced mountain guide to lead them up a challenging peak. The guide explained, "The mountain is safest in the early morning. The weather is calmer, visibility is better, and we can avoid many dangers if we begin early."  The guide also instructed everyone to meet before sunrise to review important details and provide further guidance on the climbing tethers, including harnesses and ropes. Ironically, some of the hikers complained; they wanted more sleep, felt they already possessed enough knowledge about the climbing equipment, and believed they could start later.
Those hikers who followed the guide's advice operated their climbing equipment flawlessly and reached the summit safely. In contrast, those who delayed and didn't heed the guide's counsel encountered storms, poor visibility, and a much more difficult climb. It was so bad that some of the climbers had to be rescued!
Unfortunately, the hikers learned a tough lesson that day: the importance of relying on a guide.
The Scripture advises us to depend on God, who serves as our steady guide. Therefore, it is essential to seek Him early and often for a meaningful connection. A character in the Bible who exemplified this is David. He sought God early and consistently, regardless of the difficulties he faced. Before facing each day's challenges, he took time to connect with the One who would guide him through them.

Psalm 63:1-2 says, “God, you are my God; I eagerly seek you. I thirst for you; my body faints for you in a land that is dry, desolate, and without water. 2 So I gaze on you in the sanctuary to see your strength and your glory.”

Note, David wrote this while being pinned down in the wilderness of Judah, as he was on the run from his son Absalom. Second Samuel, Chapters 15 to 17, recount the family conflict that ultimately forced David from the palace into the painful desert.
Although the wilderness was dry and lacked the resources to which David was typically accustomed, he still sought God. See, when challenges come, don't run from God; run to God even more.

Charles Spurgeon once said concerning Psalm 63 and David's experience, “Learn from this, and do not say, ‘I will get into communion with God when I feel better,’ but long for communion now. It is one of the temptations of the devil to tell you not to pray when you do not feel like praying. Pray twice as much then.”

Double down in seeking God early and often, especially when you're in the wilderness.

A sweet and sincere grandmother offered this prayer. "This morning, the bananas in my fruit bowl are just ripe-right for making bread. So I will take the time to sift and stir, and soon, a special fragrance will fill the air. Shortly I'll take from the oven loaves that are high and light and crusty brown. I will add salt, butter, and a cold glass of milk so my grandchildren can enjoy it! The bananas would have been thrown in the garbage if I had waited until tomorrow. My opportunity would have been gone to turn something fleeting into more lasting good. Oh Lord, I know a few wasted bananas wouldn't matter much. But wasted opportunities to serve You matter a lot. And I waste so many. Forgive me. Let me recognize and fulfill every opportunity this day, before it's too late, for the love of Him who died for us all. Amen."

Scripture clearly states that you want to avoid waste, especially with the blessings or bananas God gives you. In John Chapter 5, Jesus encounters a man who was crippled for 38 years. He was lying near the Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem, which is considered a local healing location because of superstition and religious folklore. Jesus meets the man and heals him instantly! Sometime later, the Lord sees him again, but He offers a strong rebuke this time because he apparently found him using his newfound health for selfish and sinful purposes. John 5:14 says, "Later, Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, 'See, you are well again. Stop sinning, or something worse may happen to you.'"
Other than eternal separation from God, what could be worse than being an invalid for nearly 40 years? Perhaps leprosy. Either way, this man was guilty of wasting his bananas.

Furthermore, being in the temple suggests he was engaging in the high priest's underhanded practices, which typically sought to defraud temple-goers. Regardless of whether it was that or some other sinful lifestyle choice, Jesus sternly warned him not to be incompetent and ignorant with his new blessing of health.

Similarly, let us reflect on all God has done for us and commit to using our blessings wisely for His plans and purposes. Remember, we are blessed to be a blessing.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word "distressed" means a feeling of extreme worry, sadness, or pain. Before 2020, CBS News reported that an estimated 8.3 million (3.4%) American adults suffered from a distress disorder. The Pew Research Center said that during the COVID-19 pandemic, at least four-in-ten adults faced high levels of psychological distress. The same organization released an updated report on March 2nd of this year, stating that the increased numbers have remained unchanged. Thus, it should come as no surprise that people struggle with issues between the ears! Thankfully, we have trained professionals, holistic practices, medicines, and groups that help people address these concerns; however, the reach of these merit-worthy responses can only go so far.

See, to properly deal with high levels of panic and pain, we need to develop a prayer focus like David had in Psalm 4:1-8, which says, "Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer. 2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? 3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him. 4 Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. 5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord. 6 Many, Lord, are asking, 'Who will bring us prosperity?' Let the light of your face shine on us. 7 Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. 8 In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety."

David was praying to God for relief amid his distress. We can and should also pray like that when anxiety and stress hit. Let's be creative and, like David, write our pleas for peace and trust God to provide the consolation we need to go forward.
Remember, you're not a weak believer if you wrestle with distress or mental health disorders. Instead of sinking into unwarranted shame, appeal in prayer for increased grace. Prayer is not magical or mythical but practical and powerful, especially when dealing with panic and pain.

In the Bible, God has used dreams to communicate with people and reveal important messages, some of which had prophetic implications. One such account involved Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar. In this dream, Nebuchadnezzar was given a forewarning to renounce his sin and do what was right (Daniel 4:27). The king, however, refused to repent, so the warning in the dream was fulfilled.
Daniel 4:28-33 says, "All this happened to King Nebuchadnezzar. 29 Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, 30 he said, 'Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?' 31 Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven: 'This is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. 32 You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes.' 33 Immediately, what had been said about Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled. He was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird."
The king allowed his pride and polytheistic beliefs to control him. Thus, the Lord intervened, and Nebuchadnezzar experienced firsthand the greatness of God's power. After being humbled, the king acknowledged his place before the God of Heaven, who has authority over all and is active in individuals' lives. Daniel 4:34 tells us, "At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever."
God is still intervening today because He loves us and knows the destructive effects of pride. Like Nebuchadnezzar, you can try to run wild in your pride, but eventually, it will catch up with you. Knowing this, get alone with God by spending time in His Word, praying, fasting, and laying down any prideful pursuit. Come to know God's greatness without the painful lessons of pridefulness.

I love the story about four priests who met for lunch one Friday afternoon. While they were enjoying their meals, one of the priests said, “Our parishioners come to us with their problems, seeking guidance and admitting their past mistakes. Let's do the same with each other because confession is good for the soul.” The four men agreed, and thus began their transparency!
The first priest admitted that he found pleasure in going to the movies instead of being at his rectory during his scheduled hours. The second priest revealed that he enjoyed smoking cigars on Sundays, while the third confessed that he liked to play high-stakes poker. When it was the fourth priest's turn to share, he remained silent. The others urged him, saying,"Come on, it's your turn to tell us what you struggle with, especially since we've all shared! What is your secret or vice?"After a few minutes of pressure, he finally responded, "I struggle with gossiping, and I can hardly wait to get out of here so I can share what you've all told me!"
This charming story offers a unique perspective on gossip. For some individuals, they are not immoral; rather, they have an unhealthy urge to engage in gossip. In my humble opinion, stopping this urge or addressing those who spitefully besmirch someone’s character requires real wisdom from God. Thankfully, the Scriptures have a lot to say about this topic.  
First, recognizing that gossip is a sin. While writting to the church in Rome, Paul puts gossip in the category othersins.  Romans 1:28-29 says, "Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. 29 Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarrelling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip." Whether you are using your ears, mouth, or mind to allow gossip, you are in sin. Furthermore, making unfounded insinuations is lying and violties God'scommands on baring false witness.
Secondly, people who gossip eventually burn bridges with others and become friendless. Proverbs 20:19,"A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don’t hang around with chatterers."
Finally, help stop the spread of gossip by following God's commands. Levicicus 19:6, “Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people. “Do not stand idly by when your neighbor’s life is threatened. I am the Lord."
Regardless if you have an urge like that fourth priest or you think it's acceptable to talk about others, take these verses and principles to heart because it matters to God, and it should matter to us!

For years, runners believed it was physically impossible for a human being to run a mile in under four minutes. Experts claimed that the body couldn't handle it—that the heart would fail and the lungs would collapse. This belief became more than just a challenge; it became a mental barrier.

Then, in 1954, Roger Bannister stepped onto the track. He wasn't considered the fastest runner, but he refused to accept what everyone else thought was impossible. On that day, he ran the mile in 3 minutes and 59 seconds, breaking the barrier.
What's fascinating is that once this “impossible” barrier was broken, others quickly followed suit. What had once seemed unattainable suddenly became achievable.
Sometimes the greatest barriers in our lives aren't just physical—they are spiritual, emotional, and mental, deeply rooted in what we believe is impossible. However, what we think is impossible is never a limitation for God. And when God steps in, what once looked like a barrier becomes a breakthrough.

There are several instances in Scripture where God specifically speaks to the impossible thinking that we sometimes have. While these accounts are in different contexts, the message is the same: we can break through those thoughts of impossibility.

Take the birth announcement of Jesus as an example. The angel Gabriel came to Mary and announced that she would be with child. Mary questioned the angel not out of a lack of faith, but to understand how this could happen, since she was a virgin. The angel explained that God would miraculously allow the baby to be conceived and then pointed to her older cousin Elizabeth, who had previously been barren into her old age but was now expecting a child herself. The angel concluded this astonishing message with the words, "For with God nothing shall be impossible" (Luke 1:37).

Later in Jesus' ministry, we come across a conversation He had with a rich young ruler. After addressing the ruler's misguided belief in a "works-based" view of salvation, Jesus explained that the miracle of salvation cannot occur without the Hand of God, who makes the impossible possible!

Matthew 19:25-26 says, "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.' “

The next time a thought of impossibility invades your mind about your needs or problems, remember that God has the final say and specializes in making the impossible possible. The key, of course, is to be aligned with the Lord so that you can receive the blessings of this truth, just as Mary did, and just as Jesus intended when speaking with the rich young ruler.
Therefore, set aside those thoughts of impossibility and remember that with God, all things are possible. But don't forget that you need to be "with God" to experience His power to make the impossible possible.

The ocean is renowned for its beauty and vastness, and it also presents an intriguing subject of study as you understand the different zones.

Sunlight Zone: This uppermost layer extends from the surface to a depth of 656 feet. Sunlight is abundant enough here to support photosynthesis.
Twilight Zone: This zone is between 656 feet and 3,280 feet deep. Light is significantly reduced, so photosynthesis is not possible. Bioluminescence becomes more common here.

Midnight Zone: Extending to approximately 13,100 feet, this zone is characterized by complete darkness. The temperature is near freezing, and the pressure is immense.

Abyssal Zone: This layer, from 4,000 to 6,000 meters (or about 19,700 feet), is part of the perpetually dark aphotic zone. The pressure is even greater than in the midnight zone.

Hadal Zone: The deepest ocean zone, consisting of trenches, starts at around 19,000 feet and can extend to about 36,070 feet. The pressure is extreme, and the temperatures are freezing.

Guess which zone God uses to illustrate His forgiveness for us? The Hadal Zone! To give us a clear understanding, He masterfully created the Mariana Trench. It is a crescent-shaped trench in the Western Pacific, located east of the Mariana Islands near Guam. It is home to what ocean explorers regard as the deepest point in the ocean, reaching an impressive 36,070 feet below sea level. By comparison, the indomitable Mount Everest stands at a staggering 29,026 feet above sea level. The deepest part of the Mariana Trench is 7,044 feet deeper than Everest's height!

Micah 7:19 says, "Once again, you will have compassion on us. You will trample our sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean!"

Fear might cause you to believe God throws you into the depths of the sea when you sin. However, when you accept the sacrifice of His Son, God lovingly casts your sins into the Sea of Forgetfulness. As a result, God considers your sin "out of sight and out of mind.” The entire purpose of God's provision of His Son is to exemplify His unmerited favor and mercy. John 3:17 says, "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

The key is to find relief in God's gift of forgiveness. Instead of dwelling on guilt or self-pity, we should trust in God's Promise. Romans 8:1 assures us, "So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus."

Missionary Corrie ten Boom once shared, "God buries our sins in the depths of the sea and then posts up a sign that reads, 'No fishing.'"

Today's Reading: Acts 1:4-5, "On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: 'Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.'"

Earlier in the Gospel of John, Jesus told his disciples that he would send a helper, the Holy Spirit, to be with them forever after his ascension into heaven. To illustrate this unprecedented event, Jesus used the understanding of water baptism to explain His point. Water Baptism is a direct reference to our union with Christ. Likewise, when the Holy Spirit first came upon the disciples, it represented their union in Him. Notice that there were no theatrics or anything wacky.

Thus, the baptism of the Holy Spirit can be understood as the work whereby the Spirit of God places the believer in union with Christ and with other believers in the body of Christ at the moment of salvation. Also note, the baptism of the Holy Spirit was foretold by John the Baptist in Mark 1:8. This promise would ultimately be fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost, recorded in Acts 2:1–4, when, for the first time, people were permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of the church.

Contrary to common misconceptions, the baptism of the Holy Spirit is meant for every believer. There is no special selection or group of believers who are excluded from this gift. When a person places their faith in Christ, God instills the Holy Spirit within them, meaning all believers receive the Holy Spirit.

A key passage in the Bible regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit is found in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13: "For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, enslaved or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink." It's important to highlight the word "all" in this reference, which indicates that all believers receive the Holy Spirit.
Knowing this, you can live with humble confidence, knowing that God has given you the Holy Spirit, who will provide power, comfort, wisdom, guidance, strength, healing, and conviction.

Today's reading: Acts 1:1-3 / CSB “I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day he was taken up, after he had given instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After he had suffered, he also presented himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them over a period of forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.”

The author of the book of Acts is Luke, a physician whom scholars regard as a "careful historian." He addressed this book to Theophilus, whose name means "God-lover." Theophilus was most likely a Roman governmental official who came to faith in Christ, and Luke was encouraging him in the truth of our Lord. In his Gospel, Luke chronicled the beginnings of Jesus' life and teachings, culminating with the events of Holy Week. In this second installment, Luke explains one of the most important functions of the Holy Spirit: to impart truth to the believer. He does this by recounting Christ's post-resurrection appearances to Theophilus.
What stands out about the Holy Spirit's work through Luke in writing both his Gospel and the Book of Acts is the remarkable accuracy. For instance, geographically speaking, Luke references 26 towns, 32 cities, 54 cities, and 9 islands, and not a single mistake can be found in his reporting. Additionally, Luke's timelines for events and political leaders withstand the test of time and scrutiny. A.N. Sherwin-White, a noted expert in Graeco-Roman history from Oxford, commented on the Book of Acts, concluding that "the historical framework is exact."
All of this serves as a reminder that the Holy Spirit is not a mystical force for an imaginary being. Instead, the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity and the very Spirit of Truth from God.

John 14:16-17 says, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. 17 He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive him because it doesn’t see him or know him. But you do know him, because he remains with you and will be in you.”

With this in mind, trust and obey what God has already revealed in the Scriptures through the Spirit of Truth.

Whether you have seen them or not, you have undoubtedly heard of the Star Wars movies. The franchise has become a pop-culture phenomenon, with new merchandise and memorabilia being released regularly. Despite initial critical skepticism, the "space saga" of Star Wars has captured the attention of children and adults since the first movie premiered in 1977.

Over 40 years have passed since moviegoers first entered the "space opera" of Star Wars; its characters remain popular through special events, theme parks, and catchphrases. One such expression is "May the Force Be With You," a common saying shared with those about to go into battle. The force was considered an energy field that surrounded everyone, penetrated through anything, and bound the galaxy. If harnessed properly, the force's power could be used to help in impending battles and challenges.

While you don't have a galactic force to tap into, as God's child, you have access to a powerful faith! For example, on two occasions, Jesus said faith could move mountains.

Matthew 17:20 tells us, "He said to them, 'Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you.' "

And Matthew 21:21-22 says, "Jesus replied, 'Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.' "

To interpret the Bible correctly, we must remember that God used several writing styles and genres to communicate His Word. He used writing formats such as character description, historical narrative, poetry, prophecy, apocalyptic writing, and epistolary literature. In each of these approaches, He employed metaphors. Are we to take faith as something so powerful that we can pick up Mount Rushmore and throw it around like a football? No! Instead, the proper understanding is that faith in Christ has the potential to help us move mountain-sized problems.

Therefore, may we seek the power of our faith each day to be victorious.

A few years ago, a man embarked on a long hike through a dense forest. About halfway in, the trail became harder to follow, and he soon realized he was lost. He pulled out his phone, but there was no signal. As panic began to set in with the fading daylight, he remembered that a park ranger had given him a map and a compass before he left. The issue wasn’t that he lacked direction; it was that he hadn’t been using the tools he had been given.
So, he paused, took a deep breath, pulled out the compass, aligned it with the map, and started to follow it step by step. Hours later, he safely found his way out—not because the forest had changed, but because he finally chose to trust the resources already in his hands.

This scenario reflects how many of us live spiritually. We often feel overwhelmed, uncertain, and even panicked, but God has already provided what we need. His Word, His Spirit, and His promises are not distant resources; they are readily available to help us. The real question is not whether God has given us a way forward, but whether we are relying on the means He has already provided.

After the resurrection, Jesus was preparing His disciples to depend on the divine resources He promised, primarily His Word and His Presence. This is highlighted in the earlier teachings on the Great Commission found in Matthew 28:16-20. Now, He reminds them of another important resource and promise: the Holy Spirit.

In the final installment of the Great Commission, on the day of His ascension, Jesus says in
Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
The promise of the Holy Spirit brings miraculous empowerment intended for sharing and showing the Gospel, rather than for personal gain or prideful purposes. Consequently, Jesus indicated that the Gospel message would spread remarkably, extending from local to regional, national, and ultimately global impact.

When living out your faith, even amidst adversity, you can rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. You never regret relying on the means God promises and provides!

Life is unpredictable. Your health can change overnight, your financial stability can waver, and even your relationships can shift; however, one constant remains: God and His practical guidance, which is precisely what we need.

See, when life pushes you around, it’s essential to keep moving forward—not with sheer determination, which can quickly fade, or by relying on strategies that may not suit your unique situation. Instead, draw on the wisdom of the Scriptures, which advise us to take one day at a time. Such as Matthew 6:34, which says just that when Jesus declared, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

In this passage, Jesus addressed the common challenges of anxiety, stress, and worry that we all face. He emphasized the importance of trusting in God's provision. Using examples like birds and flowers, He illustrated how God cares for them and reassured His listeners—us included—that He will do even more for His children. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in providing for our needs.

To put this conviction into action, you need to follow what Jesus said in verse 34, mentioned above: take one day at a time. Stop looking at your problems from an aerial view, because doing that will only increase your worries and make you feel overwhelmed. Instead, tackle your burdens in smaller, manageable pieces. Your problems may seem big, but remember that your God is even bigger.

There’s a story about a bicyclist who was riding across the country and encountered a long stretch of road leading into the mountains. The incline was steady and exhausting, and it seemed to go on forever. At one point, he became so discouraged that he got off his bike and sat on the side of the road, staring at how far he still had to go. An older man pulled over, rolled down his window, and asked, “What’s wrong?” The cyclist replied, “I can’t do it. The hill is too long.” The man smiled and said, “You’re not supposed to ride the whole hill right now—just get back on and pedal to the next bend.”

So, the cyclist got back on his bike and rode to the next curve, then the next, then the next. Hours later, he reached the top—not because the hill had gotten easier, but because he kept moving forward one small stretch at a time.

That’s often how the Christian life feels. God doesn’t always show us the entire path—He simply calls us to take the next step in faith. When the road feels long and the climb feels overwhelming, don’t give up—keep moving forward with the wisdom and counsel of Jesus.

Have you ever found yourself staring at a need you couldn’t meet—a bill you couldn’t pay, a situation you couldn’t fix, a burden you couldn’t carry—and quietly wondering, “God, will You really provide?” We don’t have to look far in our own lives to feel the tension between what we lack and what we need. Yet throughout Scripture, God consistently meets His people right at that point of insufficiency—not always in the way they expect, but always in a way that reveals His power, His compassion, and His faithfulness. When we come to the story of Jesus feeding the multitude, we remember that what seems impossible in our hands becomes more than enough in His.

This story is so special that it's the only other miracle, besides the resurrection, included in all four Gospels. Let's take a look at John's account. Remember, He was an eyewitness to the incredible miracle!

John 6:1-11 says, "Sometime after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), 2 and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the signs he had performed by healing the sick. 3 Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. 4 The Jewish Passover Festival was near. 5 When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, 'Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?' 6 He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do. 7 Philip answered him, 'It would take more than half a year's wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!' 8 Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, 9 'Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?' 10 Jesus said, 'Have the people sit down.' There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish."

The context of this unforgettable miracle comes on the heels of an already intense and emotional day. The disciples had just returned from ministering as Jesus had sent them, and news had arrived that John the Baptist had been brutally executed. Seeking rest and space to process both their service and their grief, they withdrew with Jesus—yet the crowds followed. What began as a retreat quickly became another ministry opportunity. While the disciples urged Jesus to send the people away, all four Gospels make it clear that Jesus saw the crowd and had compassion on them, meeting both their physical and spiritual needs.

This miracle left a lasting mark on the disciples. It reshaped the way they saw every future challenge—not focusing on what they lacked, but on what they had in the hands of Christ.
And the same is true for us. We can trust that God will provide because He is faithful. So, like the boy who placed his small lunch into Andrew’s hands, let us offer what we have and leave the results to the Lord.

When it comes to sharing the hope we have found in Christ, the obstacle we face is not often unwillingness but rather feelings of inadequacy or uncertainty about exactly what to communicate. As a result, we might stumble over our words or hold back out of fear.
To tackle this common struggle, we need to identify the core message: the Good News that God saves sinners like you and me through the person and work of Jesus Christ. This salvation is given by grace alone, through faith alone, and it leads to a transformed life and the promise of heaven.

After the resurrection and right up until His ascension, Jesus spent time specifically preparing the disciples to share this essential message with clarity and certainty: Luke 24:44-49 records Jesus saying, “ ‘These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.’ 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46 and said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47 and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.’ ”

Notice that Jesus was reminding His disciples of the incredible consistency of God's redemptive plan, which is evident throughout the Bible. Both the Old and New Testaments speak in complete agreement that Jesus is the prophetic Messiah, the Lamb of God, the atoning sacrifice, and the Son of God. Jesus then reiterated the core message surrounding the cross, the resurrection, and the necessity of repentance, which can be found in no other name but His. He concluded this part of the Great Commission by speaking about the promise of the Holy Spirit.

Putting it all together, we can share our faith in Christ with confidence because Jesus is fully who He claims to be. Additionally, we have a clear message to communicate, and we can go forward in the power of the Holy Spirit.

One of the most overlooked abilities you possess in life is simply showing up, whether you feel like it or not, or whether it’s expected or not. See, “showing up" is often half the battle because when you combine that commitment with preparation and perseverance, the potential for success increases exponentially.

Think of it this way: your best ability is your availability, and that mindset is blessed by God. To help put this into perspective, consider the disciples after Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, which they did not fully understand at first. Although they were confused and somewhat fearful, the disciples went where Jesus had told them to be. Matthew 28:16-17 says, "The eleven disciples traveled to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped, but some doubted.”
Notice that the disciples showed up even before they fully understood the whole picture. Often, obedience comes before clarity, and faith is needed to gain a greater focus beyond adverse circumstances.

Also note that the disciples went where Jesus told them—and when they saw Him, they worshiped, even with some doubt. This statement speaks of the integrity within the Scripture's presentation of itself. The doubt mentioned represents two important reminders: First, the Bible does not embellish the record of this amazing and unprecedented event of the resurrection, just as it didn't at the birth of Christ. There will always be some who doubt for various reasons, such as personal spiritual battles or just the overwhelming feelings within.

However, some most likely had doubts similar to that of Thomas, who was so brokenhearted after the death of Jesus that he didn't want to be disappointed if the disciples' news that our Lord had risen wasn't true. But Jesus met Thomas in his doubt, restored his faith just like He does here with the rest of the disciples, and will do with each of us if needed. The key then is to remember, God isn’t looking for perfect people—He’s looking for available ones. You don’t have to have it all together—you just have to show up and take steps of faith, which include trust and obedience.
If the disciples had given in to their fears or insecurities, they would have never received the Great Commission assignment, and we might be having a very different conversation today. Nevertheless, in His endless mercy, God arranged for this meeting, giving the disciples an opportunity to exercise their faith and to respond to Jesus’ call.

I believe the Lord is still directing His people today. However, remember that in order to go where Jesus calls you, you may need to leave behind a certain mindset, a place, or even counterproductive relationships. Old habits, especially negative ones, do not die easily, and our fears and insecurities often try to hold us back. Do everyone a favor and don’t let those things define you. Instead, understand that your greatest ability is your availability.

In a recent devotional, we discussed the blessings of following God's method, which primarily helps us grow in our faith and effectively represent our hope in Christ. However, false narratives can potentially hinder us from embracing that holy method.
A false narrative is a misleading, distorted, or completely fabricated story presented as truth. It seeks to reshape facts or remove context to influence opinions, justify actions, or control how people understand a person, event, or history.
False narratives are prevalent in media, politics, worldviews, and even spiritual matters. A prime example is Matthew 28:11-15, where the Jewish leaders sought to fabricate a story that the body of Jesus was stolen from the tomb.
Matthew 28:11-15 says, “As they were on their way, some of the guards came into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 After the priests had assembled with the elders and agreed on a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money 13 and told them, “Say this, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him while we were sleeping.’ 14 If this reaches the governor’s ears, we will deal with him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 They took the money and did as they were instructed, and this story has been spread among Jewish people to this day.”
The guards arrived to report the remarkable and unprecedented events surrounding the resurrection. Upon hearing this news, the Jewish leaders quickly entered "cover-up mode" by bribing the guards to support a false narrative, claiming that the body of Jesus had been stolen. They even planned to reassure the governor about the lie if necessary. Matthew notes that when he wrote his Gospel in AD 60, the story of the stolen body was still circulating.
The theory that Jesus' body was stolen is one of the most absurd explanations for the empty tomb. Initially, the Jewish leaders requested that Pilate assign Roman security, specifically an elite guard unit, to watch over the tomb. Therefore, the idea that a few women and the disciples could have overpowered these soldiers is inconceivable. We should wholeheartedly challenge this false narrative by examining the historical evidence, including the well-documented strength of the Roman Empire, the over 500 witnesses, and the fact that the alleged stolen body has still not been found.
The story of the stolen body serves as a reminder that false narratives do not need to be true to become believable. This same dangerous phenomenon can occur in our everyday lives because there are lies all around us.
Therefore, stay grounded in the truth of Scripture so you can easily identify a false narrative and confront it with the truth of God's Word. In doing so, you will follow God's method for growing in your faith and sharing the message of Jesus.

By definition, a method is a consistent and intentional approach used to achieve a desired outcome. Methods can be useful for solving problems, finding answers, and being effective. In academics, there are methods used in subjects such as mathematics, science, and language arts. Similarly, in athletics, various methods are employed for training and practice purposes. Likewise, there are methods in the corporate world for onboarding, project management, and closing deals. Additionally, there are methods applied in everyday life that help save time, money, and energy, often referred to as life hacks.
Did you know that God also gives us spiritual methods in the Scriptures to help us know Him and thrive? As stated in 1 Corinthians 14:33, "God is not a God of disorder but of peace…" This peace is found in the methods revealed exclusively in the Scriptures. However, like any successful method or life hack, you must follow these spiritual guidelines to reap the blessings they offer.
After His resurrection, Jesus taught His disciples a method to help them continue their spiritual growth and to guide them in building healthier followers. This specific method is known as the Great Commission, which Jesus gave portions of in all four Gospels and in Acts 1. Perhaps the most direct teaching of the Great Commission is found in Matthew 28:16-20, which says, "Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’ ”
Notice first that the disciples gathered where Jesus had previously directed them to be. Don't overlook this important detail: following God's method means that your best ability is your availability. Had they not listened to Jesus, they would have missed out on this essential guidance.
Next, Jesus made it clear that He spoke with the authority of heaven. His approach was not mystical or man-made; it was God-inspired and God-ordained. After reiterating His ability to communicate this message, Jesus plainly outlined the method: sharing the Gospel, helping people grow in their faith through practices such as baptism, and providing sound teaching from the Scriptures. These specific actions will undoubtedly lead to faith and spiritual growth because they are God's order and method.
Our responsibility with this Great Commission method involves two key aspects. First, we must follow God's ways and methods to help others effectively. You can't guide someone on a journey you haven't experienced yourself spiritually. Second, we need to prayerfully trust God's guidance as we direct others in discovering their own spiritual path based on the Scriptures and the steps they need to take to thrive.
God's method of faith and growth is precisely what we need. When we reject God's method, we experience a lack of peace and perspective. However, when we embrace God's method, we find peace in fulfilling His will.

In our social media-driven society, the message of the Gospel can be communicated effectively at times, but at other times, it may not be conveyed correctly or sincerely. Similarly, how we represent our faith within our families, at work, in school, or in other settings can either resonate with others or be rejected, depending on the accuracy and authenticity of our words.

Thus, it is imperative that we do not deviate from the message that God has entrusted to us, which centers around his promise of forgiveness.
John 20:23, "If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."
At first glance, some might misunderstand this verse to imply that the clergy or the church has the power to intercede for God by hearing confessions and forgiving sins. However, that interpretation is incorrect.
What Jesus is saying is that we should tell people and remind them that if they believe in Him as God's Son—who died for their sins and rose from the dead—they will be saved and forgiven. Conversely, if they reject this truth, they remain in their sins and are not forgiven.
Therefore, this is the message we need to stick to. We should not go around judging others or questioning people's salvation. Instead, we should leave the bookkeeping to God and focus on declaring this beautiful promise of forgiveness. To practically do this, think of it in two ways:
First, live out your faith by treating people in ways that reflect Christ. Often, our preconceived judgments of others sidetrack us from effectively sharing the promise of forgiveness.
Secondly, share your hope. When you share your faith, it tends to be more educational or theological, whereas sharing your hope is more spiritual and personal. Tell others about the blessing of God's forgiveness and the freedom you have in Christ.
Remember, when you are a good example of your Christian faith, people of all kinds will easily recognize the difference. When they do, questions will arise, and you'll be ready to share your hope about the Lord and His forgiveness.
Use this when sharing your hope: First John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Did you know that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most examined claims in all of history?  As a result, we have considerable evidence, including historical documentation, eyewitness testimony, circumstantial evidence, supportive archaeological discoveries, and countless changed lives.  If this were a courtroom, the evidence would not be dismissed; it would demand a verdict, and the people standing at the empty tomb on that first Easter Sunday would agree!

First, consider Mary Magdalene and Jesus' Aunt Mary, who were first on the scene at the empty tomb. Matthew 28:1 says, "After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb."
Mark and Luke's accounts reveal that the women came to anoint the Lord's body with spices and oils, a practice of the Jewish burial process. However, their devotion quickly turned to fear when they discovered the empty tomb and initially thought that the body had been stolen. Seeing their distress—with the pain of Jesus' death compounded by the thought of someone taking His body—the angel reassured them, saying, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." (Matthew 28:5-6)
We are told in John's account that after telling the disciples about what the angel said, Mary Magdalene went back and saw Jesus herself!

John 20:11-18 says, “Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb 12 and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. 13 They asked her, ‘Woman, why are you crying?’ ‘They have taken my Lord away,’ she said, ‘and I don’t know where they have put him.’ 14 At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. 15 He asked her, ‘Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?’ Thinking he was the gardener, she said, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.’ 16 Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni!’ (which means teacher). 17 Jesus said, ‘Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ 18 Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’ And she told them that he had said these things to her."

Mary Magdalene's despair turned into hope on that first Easter Sunday because of the Resurrection. We can discover that same hope if we are willing to stand before the empty tomb as well. Let us examine the record, consider its implications, and reaffirm our trust in the resurrected Lord.

Sometimes, our hesitation to serve God stems more from fear than an unwillingness to be of service. We may be inclined to trust God, but our concerns about what others might think and the risks involved keep us from stepping forward to serve. If you can relate to this, don't feel bad. A notable figure in the Bible faced the same struggle—his name was Joseph of Arimathea.

John 19:38-41 says, "Afterward, Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus' body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39 With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. 40 Following Jewish burial customs, they wrapped Jesus' body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. 41 The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before."

What changed in Joseph's life to help him go from a secret disciple, as John called him, to someone who took the body of Jesus off the cross with His bare hands? Joseph, no doubt, was a distant eyewitness to Christ's suffering and crucifixion. But after hearing and seeing the Lord's anguish, Joseph no longer cared about his financial prosperity or position. The cross changed his cowardice concerns to courageous contributions.

Joseph is an integral part of the burial of Jesus, for he took Jesus off the cross with his bare hands! His name appears in all four gospels and is part of a significant prophecy in the book of Isaiah.

Seven hundred years before Jesus' birth and death, God mentions Joseph of Arimathea and his tomb in connection with his burial. Isaiah 53:9 says, "And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth."

This prophecy is amazingly accurate. Church history and Matthew 27:57 reveal that Joseph was one of the wealthiest men in Israel. He was also a member of the Council (Luke 23:50) that beckoned for Jesus' crucifixion. However, Luke 23:51 tells us that Joseph opposed the Council's decision.

The cross changed Joseph's focus and helped him overcome his fear of serving. Joseph did all this for a dead Jesus; how much more are you willing to serve the risen Jesus?

After enduring six unjust trials that violated nearly two dozen Jewish laws, Jesus was sentenced to scourging and ultimately crucifixion. This infamous execution method, known as crucifixion, was invented by the Persians but perfected by the Romans, who crucified over 30,000 people before Good Friday.

On that first Good Friday, a handful of supporters, including Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the apostle John, stood at the foot of His cross. Additionally, religious leaders and Roman officials were in close proximity to the cross. Each of their responses reveals a part of the story of that fateful day for those who stood at the foot of Jesus’ cross.
First, we see faithfulness. John 19:25 says, “Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.

Secondly, we see mocking and rejection. Luke 23:35-39, “The people stood watching, and even the leaders were scoffing: ‘He saved others; let him save himself if this is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One!’ 36 The soldiers also mocked him. They came offering him sour wine 37 and said, ‘If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself!’ 38 An inscription was above him: This Is the King of the Jews. 39 Then one of the criminals hanging there began to yell insults at him: ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!’ ”

Thirdly, we see belief. Matthew 27:54, “When the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and the things that had happened, they were terrified and said, ‘Truly this man was the Son of God!’ ”

Finally, we see conviction and contribution. Mark 15:42-43, “When it was already evening, because it was the day of preparation (that is, the day before the Sabbath), 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Sanhedrin who was himself looking forward to the kingdom of God, came and boldly went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’s body.”

With these responses in mind, this Good Friday, ask yourself the following questions:
Will you draw near in faithfulness?
Will you walk away in rejection?
Will you declare Him in your belief?
Will you step forward in commitment?

Remember, everyone at the cross responded differently—and so will we. You can witness the cross or read about it and still walk away unchanged. Don’t just feel something today; surrender something and leave the results to God.

*If you want to learn more about the different responses to the cross from that first Good Friday, join me this evening at Crossroads Church or watch the Live Broadcast at 7:30 PM EST.

Starting yesterday and continuing through today, the Jewish community is observing the holiday of Passover, also known as Pesach. This significant festival commemorates the miraculous liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Passover is marked by various traditions, including the Seder meal, which features symbolic foods that represent different aspects of the Exodus story. During this time, families gather to retell the story of their ancestors' escape from bondage, reflect on themes of freedom, and celebrate their enduring cultural and religious heritage.

The origins of this special remembrance are found in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Exodus, Chapters 12 and 13. In these passages, God's judgment "passed over" the houses of those who had placed the blood of a lamb on their doorposts. Exodus 12:13 specifically says, "The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No destructive plague will touch you when I strike Egypt."

The blood acted as a public sign of obedience and faith, differentiating Israelite homes from Egyptian homes to protect them from the "judgment." Furthermore, the blood of the lamb represented the Biblical teaching of substitutionary atonement, where in this context the innocent life of the lamb protected the firstborn of Israel.

Most importantly, the Passover in the Old Testament foreshadowed Jesus' death on the cross because He is our "Passover Lamb.” In First Corinthians 5:7, Paul declares, "…For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed."

Earlier in John’s Gospel, the great John the Baptist called Jesus the Lamb of God. John 1:29-30 says, "The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ "

For believers, we give thanks for God’s incredible deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. However, that Passover is now defined by Jesus, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. The institution of the "Last Supper," which replaced the Passover (Matthew 26:17–30, Mark 14:12–26, Luke 22:7–23), is a reminder that Jesus is our Passover Lamb.

A friend of mine shared that he had been ill since birth. As he grew older, his condition worsened, prompting him to pray to God for healing, as many of us might do. Along with his request, he promised to dedicate the rest of his life to serving God's kingdom if his disease were to be removed. Thankfully, God answered his prayers, and my friend kept his promise to serve the Lord until his passing.

Whether we have dire circumstances or not, we want to be the type of people who follow through on our spiritual commitments. When our heavenly Father speaks, we want to listen and obey without delay.

During Holy Week, Jesus shared this poignant story to emphasize an essential aspect of the Christian life:

Matthew 21:28-32 says, "What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, 'Son, go and work today in the vineyard.' 29 'I will not,' he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the Father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, 'I will, sir,' but he did not go. 31 Which of the two did what his Father wanted? 'The first,' they answered. Jesus said to them, 'Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32 For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.'"

Jesus told this story about two sons who were asked to work in a vineyard. The first son initially refused to go to work but later changed his mind and went. The second son said he would work, but failed to follow through. Jesus compared the second son to the religious leaders of his time, who spoke the right words but took no action. Interestingly, the first son was likened to tax collectors and prostitutes, who were viewed as the lowest members of society. Jesus emphasized that genuine commitment involves more than just religious words; it requires real actions.

With this in mind, we must be careful not to prioritize outward religious appearance over inward devotion to God.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 tells us, “When you make a promise to God, don't delay in following through, for God takes no pleasure in fools. Keep all your promises to him. 5 It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.”

Palm Sunday marks a moment of prophetic fulfillment and historic importance as Jesus entered Jerusalem and received a royal welcome. A large crowd gathered, waving palm branches and shouting praises, creating an atmosphere of excitement, anticipation, and celebration.

Yet beneath the crowd's celebration lay a misunderstanding. The people were looking for a political savior—someone to rescue them from the oppressive rule of the infamous Roman Empire. However, Jesus came as a different kind of king: humble, riding on a donkey, bringing peace rather than pride and offering salvation and redemption rather than political revolution.

Interestingly, the same people who shouted "Hosanna!" later cried, "Crucify Him!" While some individuals were sincere, many lacked genuine faith in Christ, which is why their praise was short-lived.
It's easy to honor God when He meets our expectations. When we think we are getting our way.  But what happens when He doesn't? When His ways differ from what we hoped for? When following Him leads to sacrifice and self-denial instead of instant gratification and personal comfort?

To truly follow Christ, we must move beyond praise to a life of dedication. Therefore, treat Palm Sunday as an opportunity to examine your own heart. You can start now by reading
John's account of Palm Sunday: John 12:12-19, The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. 13 So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!” 14 And Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written, 15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey's colt!” 16 His disciples did not understand these things at first, but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things had been written about him and had been done to him. 17 The crowd that had been with him when he called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to bear witness. 18 The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. 19 So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.”

You will experience opposition even when you do what is right. However, these obstacles allow you to exercise greater obedience and faith in God. Perhaps you have endured bad breaks or unfair treatment; Daniel from the Old Testament can relate. After he was promoted to a high-ranking position in the king's leadership structure, some other government members became envious. They first tried to find dirt on Daniel’s character, but couldn't even find dust! So they decided to entrap Daniel the only way they could, which was by using his faithfulness to God against him.

Daniel 6:5-11 says, "Finally, these men said, 'We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God.' 6 So these administrators and satraps went as a group to the king and said: 'May King Darius live forever! 7 The royal administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers, and governors have all agreed that the king should issue an edict and enforce the decree that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days, except to you, Your Majesty, shall be thrown into the lions' den. 8 Now, Your Majesty, issue the decree and put it in writing so that it cannot be altered—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.' 9 So King Darius put the decree in writing. 10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. 11 Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help."

These so-called leaders manipulated the king into enacting a "worship law" regarding himself, essentially preventing Daniel from practicing his steadfast faith in God. However, Daniel didn't waver; he prayed and sought God as always!

You must stand firm when faced with adversity, attacks, and accusations. Trust in God's faithfulness and remain steadfast in your faith. Remember, God will humble the prideful but bless those who humbly seek Him. Therefore, stay the course and stand firm. I urge you to STAND FIRM IN YOUR FAITH, for it is your anchor in the storm.