Imagine a reality where people sign up for the military. They raise their right hand, take the oath, and from that moment forward, they begin to receive benefits. Paychecks arrive weekly. Full medical and dental coverage kick in. Once a week, they gather together to talk about what it means to be in the military. They even invite others to these meetings, encouraging them to join. But here’s the catch: most of them never actually serve . They don’t go to boot camp. They don’t get trained in a military occupation. A small handful go straight to work, but the vast majority never start doing the job they were enlisted to do. They’re content to collect a paycheck, confident that one day they’ll retire with great benefits. They admire those who are actively serving, but don’t think of following their example. Instead, they assume that those who serve must have some special calling, something beyond what’s expected of everyone else. Doesn’t that sound absurd? Would we ever believe it’s reasonable to be hired for a job, refuse to do it, and still expect pay and retirement benefits? Yet, in many ways, isn’t this what the church in America looks like today? So many come to Christ — they profess faith, they raise a hand, they pray a prayer, and they rejoice in the promise of eternal life. And then what? They settle into a routine of once-a-week gatherings. They remind themselves that they are Christians, but don’t step into the service for which they were saved. They admire the pastors, the missionaries, the faithful servants, but assume that those roles aren’t for them. They believe that because they made a promise or prayed a prayer, they’re entitled to all the rewards of God’s kingdom. But is that how it works? Paul warns in Galatians 6:7  (NLT): “Don’t be misled — you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant.” If we plant nothing for the kingdom, why should we expect to reap its blessings? Let’s be clear: salvation is a gift of grace, not something we earn (Ephesians 2:8-9). But that gift transforms us. True faith produces action. Paul continues in Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” We weren’t saved to sit — we were saved to serve. So, let’s ask ourselves: Are we enlisted but not serving? Are we content to enjoy the benefits of salvation while ignoring the mission? Or will we step forward, train up, and get to work for the One who called us? The harvest is plentiful, the workers are few (Matthew 9:37). Let’s not just admire the few — let’s join them.

Many people claim to follow Jesus, but Jesus Himself set clear expectations for what that truly means. To live as a Christian is not about checking a box, attending church once a week, or identifying with a label. It's a radical transformation—a daily walk marked by surrender, love, obedience, and fruitfulness. Jesus didn't call for casual followers; He called for disciples. Let’s explore what Jesus said about how we must live if we truly belong to Him: 1. Deny Yourself and Take Up Your Cross Daily “If anyone wants to be My disciple, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”  – Luke 9:23 To deny yourself is to let go of your personal ambitions, preferences, and the natural desire to be in control. It means putting God’s will above your own. The cross is a symbol of death—specifically, death to self. Jesus calls us not to a comfortable life, but to one of daily surrender. Every day we make the decision to lay down pride, selfishness, and sin so that Christ may live through us. This isn’t a one-time act. It’s a daily rhythm: not my will, but Yours be done. Just as Jesus carried His cross to Calvary, we are called to carry ours—laying down our lives out of love and obedience to God. 2. Follow Him Wholeheartedly “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”  – Matthew 4:19 Following Jesus is more than believing in Him—it’s walking where He walked, speaking as He spoke, and loving as He loved. The disciples didn’t merely listen to Jesus from a distance. They left their nets, their jobs, their homes, and followed Him with everything they had. To follow Jesus today means to center your life around Him. You seek His will in your decisions, imitate His character, and allow Him to direct your path. It’s about proximity and obedience. We don’t follow Christ from afar—we walk closely behind Him, trusting Him to lead us where we could never go on our own. 3. Love Jesus More Than Anyone or Anything Else “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be My disciple.”  – Luke 14:26 Jesus uses strong language here to make a strong point: your love for Him must surpass all others. The word "hate" isn’t meant literally—it’s a Semitic expression meaning “to love less.” Jesus must be your first love, even above your closest relationships and deepest affections. This doesn’t mean neglecting your family—it means putting Jesus at the center of every relationship and priority. When your love for Him is supreme, all other relationships are rightly ordered. When Jesus is first, your love for others becomes deeper, purer, and more sacrificial. 4. Surrender All You Have “In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be My disciples.”  – Luke 14:33 Christianity is not about partial commitment. Jesus doesn’t want part of your life—He wants it all. Everything you have—your possessions, your plans, your resources, your identity—must be laid at His feet. This doesn’t mean every Christian will be called to literal poverty, but it does mean that nothing we have is off-limits to God. Our homes, our time, our money, our careers—everything is surrendered for His use. A Christian holds nothing back and says with sincerity, “All I have is Yours, Lord.” 5. Remain in His Word “If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples.”  – John 8:31 Remaining in Jesus’ Word means abiding in it—living in it, studying it, obeying it, and allowing it to shape your thoughts, your heart, and your actions. A Christian life disconnected from Scripture is like a tree with no roots—it cannot survive. Jesus’ teachings are not optional advice; they are the very foundation of the Christian life. To follow Christ is to know His words and live by them, even when it’s hard, even when it’s unpopular. His truth sanctifies us and sets us free (John 17:17; John 8:32). 6. Love One Another “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”  – John 13:35 Christian love isn’t a feeling—it’s an action. It’s forgiveness, grace, humility, and self-sacrifice. It's going the extra mile, bearing each other’s burdens, and putting others before yourself. Jesus modeled this kind of love by washing His disciples’ feet—and by dying for them. The world recognizes true disciples not by our buildings, sermons, or social media posts—but by how we treat each other. If our churches and communities are filled with backbiting and division, we betray the name of Christ. Love is our most powerful witness. 7. Bear Much Fruit “This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be My disciples.”  – John 15:8 Jesus expects growth. A fruitless Christian life is not a faithful one. When we abide in Christ—spending time in prayer, the Word, and obedience—His Spirit produces fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). But fruit isn’t just character—it’s also impact. Do others see Christ in you? Are people drawn to Him because of your life? Fruitfulness glorifies God and proves that our faith is alive. A Christian who is deeply rooted in Christ will not remain the same—they will flourish and multiply. Final Thoughts: A Life That Reflects Christ Jesus never promised that following Him would be easy. In fact, He said the road is narrow and few will find it (Matthew 7:14). But He also said it’s worth it. Eternal life, peace with God, purpose in this world, and treasures in the next are promised to those who walk His way. To live as a Christian is to live with Jesus as Lord, not just Savior. It’s a daily walk of surrender, love, obedience, and fruitfulness. Not in our own strength—but in the strength He supplies through the Holy Spirit. “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Me will find it.”  – Matthew 16:25 Lose your life for Christ—and you’ll discover the life you were always meant to live.

The Bible calls Christians to let their light shine before others.  As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” This is a clear call for us to live our faith openly and visibly, not hidden away. However, there’s a challenge many of us face: sometimes the church building itself becomes the basket under which we hide our light. It's the one place where we feel comfortable displaying our faith, but outside those walls, it can be easy to keep our light dimmed. The church is an essential part of our spiritual journey, providing community, teaching, and worship. But if our light only shines within the church, we are missing the larger mission Jesus has set before us. We are called to take our light into the world, into the places of darkness, where it can truly make a difference. In Matthew 5:15, Jesus tells us, “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Our light is not meant to be hidden; it is meant to be visible, illuminating the path for others. This means living out our faith boldly in our daily lives—at work, in our neighborhoods, and in all our interactions. The world is in desperate need of the Light of Christ. We live in a time where darkness seems to be pervasive, where many are lost in sin and searching for hope. By letting our light shine brightly, we can guide others toward the salvation and truth found in Jesus Christ. Our good deeds, driven by our faith, have the power to transform lives and bring glory to God. Let’s challenge ourselves to step out from under the basket. Let’s be intentional about letting our light shine in every aspect of our lives. Whether it's through acts of kindness, standing up for what is right, or simply sharing the hope we have in Christ, we can be the light in this world. Remember, we are called to be the light of the world, not just the light of the church. Let your light shine brightly, so that others may see and be led from darkness into the saving grace of Christ.

There are plates for food with separate compartments. They ensure that every type of food you have is insulated from the others, and nothing is touching. This is how some people live their lives. Work, home, school, church, leisure, etc.; all of it is kept separate, and nothing is carried through from one to the next. However, everything that we do should be an expression of the faith that we have in God and the things that He is doing in our lives. Imagine a platter with various types of food on it. They aren’t mixed together but are touching one another. When you add the gravy, you just cover the mashed potatoes. Because everything is touching, the gravy flows from item to item. It covers and flavors everything on the platter. That gravy is the Holy Spirit. When we are saved, He comes to live in our hearts. He flows into every area of our life that we allow, cleansing us and causing us to be more like Him. If you praise God at church, praise Him at work. If you talk to people about Jesus at church, talk to people about Jesus at the store. Let the Holy Spirit guide everything that you do in your life. Not only will your life on earth be better, but you will also hear one day, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” By integrating our faith into every aspect of our lives, we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us continuously. This not only enriches our personal walk with God but also impacts those around us, spreading His love and grace in every environment we find ourselves in. Let’s strive to live lives that are not compartmentalized but are wholly dedicated to reflecting the love and truth of Jesus Christ.

In the grand tapestry of creation, one truth stands out: God owns everything . This foundational belief shapes our understanding of ownership and stewardship. When the Bible speaks of us owning something, it is not in the sense of absolute possession but rather stewardship. God entrusts various aspects of His creation to our care, expecting us to maintain and nurture them. Stewardship: A Divine Trust Stewardship is a divine trust. It means recognizing that everything we have—our time, talents, resources, and relationships—belongs to God. We are merely caretakers, called to manage these gifts responsibly. This perspective transforms our approach to life, urging us to honor God in all we do. Authority in Marriage: A Call to Serve One of the most profound areas where stewardship is evident is in marriage. The Bible teaches that we are not given authority over our spouse’s body to use it as we wish. Instead, we are entrusted with this authority to meet our spouse’s needs. This is a call to servanthood, where we put aside our desires to prioritize the well-being of our partner. In Ephesians 5:25, husbands are instructed to love their wives just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her. This sacrificial love is the essence of stewardship in marriage. It means turning away from selfish wants and focusing on the needs of our spouse. When both husband and wife embrace this calling, they reflect the beautiful relationship between Christ and the Church. Reflecting Christ and the Church When we live out this stewardship in marriage, we become a living testimony of Christ’s love for the Church. Our relationships become a beacon of light, showcasing the selfless, sacrificial love that Jesus demonstrated. This not only strengthens our marriages but also serves as a powerful witness to the world. Conclusion Understanding that God owns everything and embracing our role as stewards transforms our lives and relationships. In marriage, it calls us to serve one another selflessly, reflecting the divine relationship between Christ and the Church. As we strive to meet the needs of our spouse, we honor God and fulfill His purpose for our lives.

1 Corinthians 1:18 tells us, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” This profound truth highlights the transformative power of the Gospel for believers. But how can we truly experience this power in our lives? The answer lies in sharing the message of the Cross. The Power of the Cross The message of the Cross is not just a historical event or a theological concept; it is the very power of God at work in the world today. For those of us who are being saved, it is a source of strength, hope, and transformation. The Cross represents the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again, conquering death and offering eternal life to all who believe. Sharing the Message Knowing the message of the Cross is essential, but it is not enough to keep it to ourselves. We are called to share this good news with others. Jesus’ final command to His disciples was to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This Great Commission is a call to action for every believer. When we share the message of the Cross, we are participating in God’s redemptive work. We become vessels through which His power flows, bringing light to those in darkness and freedom to those in bondage. The Gospel has the power to set captives free, to heal the brokenhearted, and to bring hope to the hopeless. Living Out the Message To see the power of God in our lives, we must actively live out and share the message of the Cross. This means being bold in our faith, loving others as Christ loves us, and being ready to give an answer for the hope that we have (1 Peter 3:15). It means stepping out of our comfort zones and trusting God to work through us. Sharing the Gospel is not always easy. It can be met with resistance, indifference, or even hostility. But we are not alone in this mission. The Holy Spirit empowers us, gives us the words to speak, and prepares the hearts of those who hear. Conclusion The message of the Cross is the power of God for those who are being saved. As believers, we are called to share this life-changing message with the world. By doing so, we not only fulfill our calling but also experience the power of God in our own lives. Let us be faithful in proclaiming the good news that sets the captives free and brings glory to our Savior, Jesus Christ.

As Christians, we are blessed with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This divine presence within us is like a light, a beacon of God’s love and grace. When we allow this light to shine, it becomes visible to others, serving as a testament to our faith and the transformative power of God’s love. When we gather as believers, our individual lights merge into one, illuminating our collective faith. Imagine a room filled with dozens of people, each holding a flashlight. Yes, each person has a light, but in a well-lit room, these individual lights do not make the room any brighter. However, consider what happens when we take our individual lights into the world, a world often shrouded in the darkness of sin, suffering, and despair. In this context, a single light can illuminate a vast area. It becomes a beacon in the darkness, drawing people towards it, much like a light attracts moths. God has instilled in every person a desire for His light, a yearning for His love and grace. If we choose to keep our light confined within the walls of our churches or homes, those in the darkness may never be drawn towards the light of God. Matthew 5:16 says, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This verse is not just a suggestion; it is a divine mandate, a call to action for all believers. We are not meant to hide our light. Instead, we are called to let it shine brightly in the darkness, guiding others towards the light of Christ. As Christians, we have a responsibility to carry our light into the world, to let it shine brightly so that others may see our good deeds and come to know and glorify our Father in heaven. So, let us not hide our light. Instead, let us shine brightly, illuminating the path for others to find their way to the light of Christ.

As a Christian, I find myself contemplating the core tenets of my faith and the responsibilities that come with it. One question that often arises is, “If I say that I am a Christian, but I don’t tell others about Jesus, do I truly believe what Christians believe?” Christianity, at its heart, is a faith that calls for its followers to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ. It’s not merely about personal salvation, but also about sharing the good news - the Gospel - with all creation. This is a fundamental aspect of Christian belief, deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus himself. If I claim to be a Christian, yet refrain from sharing the Gospel, it raises questions about the depth of my conviction. Christianity is not a passive faith; it’s an active commitment to live according to the teachings of Jesus and to share those teachings with others. The stakes, according to Christian belief, are high. If I truly believe that not accepting Christ as savior will condemn a person to eternal torment, then it becomes a moral imperative for me to share the Gospel. The belief in the saving power of Jesus Christ is so profound that it compels Christians to reach out to others, to offer them the same hope and salvation. Therefore, if I am silent about my faith, if I do not share the good news of Jesus Christ with others, then I must question whether I truly understand and believe what Christianity teaches. The Gospel is not just good news to be kept to oneself; it’s a message of hope and salvation to be shared with all creation. In conclusion, being a Christian is not just about personal faith. It’s about sharing that faith, about spreading the Gospel to all corners of the earth. It’s about living out the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives and helping others to do the same. If we truly believe, we will preach the Gospel to all creation. For in doing so, we affirm our faith and fulfill our Christian duty.

In the realm of spiritual leadership, the role of a pastor is often likened to that of a shepherd, one who tends to their flock with care and diligence. The biblical imagery of the shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep is a powerful metaphor for divine compassion and commitment. However, when this principle is taken to an extreme, where the one is sought after to the neglect of the ninety-nine, the shepherd morphs into a different character altogether—a holy bounty hunter. A holy bounty hunter is a figure who is singularly focused on the pursuit of the one, often at the expense of the many. This pursuit, while noble in its intent to reclaim the lost, can lead to a skewed sense of priorities where the needs of the majority are overlooked. In the spiritual context, this can manifest as a leader who is more concerned with numbers and conversions than with the deep and ongoing care of their community. The essence of pastoral care is balance. It is about nurturing the whole flock, ensuring that each member is tended to and valued. It is about recognizing that while the one lost sheep is important, the ninety-nine who remain also need attention and care. A pastor must be vigilant not to become so consumed with the pursuit of the one that they forget the needs of the many. In this light, the holy bounty hunter serves as a cautionary tale for spiritual leaders. It reminds us that our calling is not just to seek and save the lost but to shepherd all those entrusted to our care. It is a call to holistic ministry, one that values every individual and fosters a community where all can thrive. As we reflect on our roles as leaders, let us strive to be shepherds who care for the entire flock, not bounty hunters fixated on the thrill of the chase. Let us remember that in the grand tapestry of community, every thread is vital, and every soul is worth tending to. In conclusion, the pursuit of the one should never overshadow the care of the ninety-nine. A true pastor’s heart is revealed not just in their ability to rescue the wandering but in their daily devotion to the well-being of all their sheep. May we all embrace this balanced approach to leadership and in doing so, truly reflect the heart of the Good Shepherd.

My daughter asked me to share this on the blog. Introduction As I sat pondering life’s mysteries, my mind wandered to a seemingly unrelated topic: hamburgers. Yes, those juicy, savory creations that have graced our plates in countless variations. But bear with me, for this isn’t just about food—it’s about choices, commitment, and the pursuit of purity. The Burger Dilemma Picture this: You’re hungry, craving a burger. You’ve sampled Whoppers, Big Macs, and Sourdough Jacks from various restaurants. Sometimes you settle for one when you really wanted another. But could you commit to a single burger for life? It’s a tough call. No matter how much you adore Whoppers, there’ll come a day when you yearn for a different flavor. Now, imagine a different scenario. You’ve never tasted a burger before, and you’re asked to choose the one you’ll eat forever. That sole experience becomes your benchmark. Whenever hunger strikes, that burger is all you think about. It doesn’t matter if other burgers look or taste better; your knowledge is limited to the one you’ve chosen. Translating to Relationships Curiously, this burger dilemma mirrors our approach to sexual partners. Most people “try out” different partners, eventually settling down with one. But they carry memories—the ghosts of past lovers—comparing and contrasting them in their minds. When difficulties arise, some may even revisit their old ways. But what if we waited? What if we committed to one person before intimacy? In that case, our sexual experience would be solely with that person. When we think of intimacy, their face would be the only one that comes to mind. No other options. This, I believe, aligns with God’s intention for us. God’s Design God, in His wisdom, designed us for purity. Waiting until commitment ensures that our sexual experiences are exclusively shared with our chosen partner. It’s like savoring that one perfect burger—no distractions, no comparisons. Just the richness of a single connection. And yes, God can redeem us even if we’ve strayed. He wipes our slate clean, granting purity in godly relationships. But maintaining that purity requires effort. It’s like restoring a tarnished silver spoon—it gleams anew, but we must guard it diligently. Conclusion So, whether it’s burgers or relationships, let’s choose wisely. Commitment brings depth, and purity is worth the effort. As we savor life’s moments, may we remember that sometimes, less really is more.

For the longest time, I thought that going to church was fellowship. I was gathering with fellow believers to praise God, pray, and hear the Word of God preached. Then last Sunday I had a thought. I was sitting in church with everyone else, and we were all facing forward and listening to a single person speak. That person was the only person speaking, and there were no questions directed at the large group of people looking back at him. There was no "iron sharpening iron" going on, just a shepherd feeding his flock. It reminded me of public school being touted for socializing kids. If you dared to socialize in school, you usually got in trouble! I'm not saying that fellowship is not a part of a church service. It is - a very small part. It is in the quick greetings as you come in and sit down. It is in the small talk before the service starts. It is in the few minutes of chatter as you shuffle out to your cars. That isn't the fellowship that I see in the early Church. The early Church met often, sometimes daily. They shared meals and their lives with each other. They knew the struggles and victories that their brothers and sisters were experiencing because they talked openly to each other. They lived communal lives that were pointed towards the God that drew them together. They moved in their community to demonstrate the Kingdom of God to those who didn't believe. They worked together to bring in a harvest for Christ. I believe that attending church is necessary. I need to be equipped to do the things that God is calling me to do. But I also need to gather with the brethren to share my life with them and to discuss the things of God. I need to do this often, sometimes daily. When I do, everything in my life is easier to deal with. When I don't, it can be a struggle to do simple things. We were made for fellowship. If you don't have that, then get it. Find people that can meet up and hang out once a week to share a meal and get into the Word. You can study scripture or watch a short sermon online and talk about it. Check out local churches and see if they have bible studies. If you manage your calendar well, you might be able to hang out with Christians more days in a month than not. And don't forget to invite the people at church to those gatherings. They are probably as hungry as you used to be for real fellowship.

In the quiet corner of a study, a sextant rests on a desk. Its brass frame, once a tool for celestial navigation, now serves as a mere paperweight. The sextant’s purpose has shifted from guiding ships across vast oceans to holding down loose documents. It lies there, forgotten, its potential untapped. Similarly, there are Christians who find themselves in comfortable spaces—safe harbors where routines and familiarity prevail. Yet, like the dormant sextant, they harbor untapped potential. They were not created for mere comfort; they were designed for something more significant. Let us explore why stepping beyond comfort zones is essential for fulfilling their purpose. 1. The Comfort Zone Conundrum Comfort zones are cozy, like well-worn slippers. They offer predictability, security, and minimal risk. Within these zones, Christians may attend church services, engage in familiar rituals, and surround themselves with like-minded individuals. But herein lies the paradox: comfort can lead to complacency. When we settle into routines, we risk missing out on the grand adventure God has prepared for us. 2. Created for More The Bible reminds us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). Our purpose extends beyond mere existence. Just as the sextant was crafted for celestial navigation, we were intentionally designed for a divine purpose. Our lives are not meant to be passive; they are meant to be purposeful. 3. Navigating Beyond Comfort To fulfill our purpose, we must venture beyond the familiar. Here’s how: Embrace Discomfort: Growth occurs outside comfort zones. Whether it’s volunteering in a new ministry, sharing our faith with strangers, or stepping into leadership roles, discomfort is the soil where purpose blooms. Risk and Trust: Like sailors setting sail, we must risk leaving safe harbors. Trust that God’s guidance will lead us through uncharted waters. The sextant, once used to measure angles between stars, reminds us to fix our eyes on the eternal compass—God’s Word. Community and Accountability: Seek fellow travelers. Surround yourself with believers who encourage, challenge, and spur you onward. Together, we navigate purposefully. 4. The Call to Adventure Imagine the sextant, dusted off and recalibrated. Its brass gleams, and its mirrors align with celestial bodies. It is ready for its purpose—to guide, to measure, to lead. Likewise, Christians are called to adventure—to impact lives, share hope, and reflect God’s love. Dear Christian, you are not a paperweight. You are a celestial instrument, designed for purposeful navigation. Step beyond comfort, hoist your sails, and let the winds of purpose carry you. The stars await your course.