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.

In the landscape of American Christianity, certain biblical verses often find themselves at the forefront of discussions regarding the nation's spiritual condition and prospects for revival. One such verse that frequently garners attention is 2 Chronicles 7:14: "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." However, it's essential to recognize the context and intended audience of this verse before applying it directly to contemporary situations, especially in the context of the United States. Contrary to popular interpretation, 2 Chronicles 7:14 was not spoken directly to the church or America. Instead, it was part of a specific covenant context addressed to King Solomon and the nation of Israel. This verse finds its roots in the dedication of Solomon's temple, a momentous event in Israel's history. God appears to Solomon after the completion of the temple and reaffirms the covenant made with King David, promising blessings for obedience and warning of consequences for disobedience (2 Chronicles 7:11-22). The verse in question, therefore, serves as a reminder to Solomon of the conditions necessary for the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, echoing principles outlined in Deuteronomy regarding blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28). The covenant relationship between God and Israel is distinct from any relationship the United States or the modern church may claim to have with God. Israel's covenant was established uniquely through Moses and reiterated through subsequent leaders like Solomon. While Christians in America can certainly be viewed as a righteous remnant, it's crucial to recognize that the covenant framework between God and Israel does not directly apply to the United States or any other nation. Moreover, while the presence of a righteous remnant within a nation can have a positive influence, biblical precedent suggests that national repentance is required for widespread healing and restoration. Throughout the Old Testament, instances of national repentance, such as those seen in the stories of Nineveh and the people of Israel under various kings, are accompanied by God's mercy and restoration. However, individual or even collective repentance within a righteous remnant does not guarantee the salvation of an entire nation. Therefore, while Christians in America can and should pray for the nation's well-being and seek to live righteous lives, the fulfillment of 2 Chronicles 7:14's promise of healing for a land ultimately hinges on the repentance of the nation as a whole. This understanding challenges the simplistic notion that a righteous minority can single-handedly secure the blessing and favor of God for an entire nation. In conclusion, a nuanced interpretation of 2 Chronicles 7:14 reminds us of the importance of understanding biblical context, covenant relationships, and the role of national repentance in discussions about the spiritual condition of a nation. While the verse carries timeless principles of humility, prayer, and repentance, its direct application to modern contexts requires careful consideration of the covenant framework and biblical precedent. As Christians, may we continue to seek God's guidance and mercy for our nations while recognizing the complexities of divine providence and human responsibility in the pursuit of righteousness and restoration.

In the realm of music, the concept of tuning is fundamental. When musicians play their instruments, they ensure each note resonates at the right frequency, creating harmony rather than discord. However, when musicians come together to play as a group, they must not only be individually tuned but also synchronized with each other. If they use different standards for tuning, the result is dissonance rather than the desired harmony. This principle extends beyond the world of music and finds resonance in the journey of faith. Just as musicians need to be in tune with each other to produce beautiful melodies, Christians need to be in harmony with one another as they walk the path of the Christian life. But how do we achieve this harmony? The answer lies in being tuned to the same frequency – the frequency of God. In the bustling orchestra of life, where different ideologies and perspectives collide, it's easy to find ourselves out of sync with fellow believers. Our unique experiences, interpretations, and understandings of faith can sometimes lead to discord rather than unity. However, just like musicians fine-tune their instruments, we too can attune our hearts to God's frequency through spending time alone with Him. In the solitude of prayer, meditation, and reflection, we recalibrate our spiritual senses to align with God's will. We listen intently to His voice, allowing His truth to resonate within us. This intimate communion with God not only deepens our personal relationship with Him but also tunes us to the divine harmony that binds us all together as believers. When we gather with fellow Christians, whether in worship, fellowship, or service, our individual spiritual tuning becomes evident. Like a well-tuned orchestra, we blend seamlessly with one another because we are all attuned to the same divine standard. Our interactions are marked by love, humility, and mutual respect, creating a symphony of faith that glorifies God and edifies His people. However, staying tuned to God's frequency is an ongoing process. Just as a musical instrument requires regular tuning to maintain its pitch, so too do our hearts require constant alignment with God's will. Daily prayer, scripture reading, and fellowship with other believers serve as vital practices that keep us in tune with God and with each other. In a world filled with discord and division, the call to harmony among believers is more relevant than ever. By prioritizing our relationship with God and intentionally seeking unity with fellow believers, we contribute to the beautiful symphony of faith that resounds throughout the world. Let us, therefore, tune our hearts to God's frequency and walk together in harmony, bearing witness to the transformative power of divine love in our lives and in the world around us.

In the tapestry of religious history, the Old Testament stands as a testament to the intricate relationship between humanity and the divine. It's a narrative filled with rituals, sacrifices, and a deep longing for connection with the Almighty. Among the central figures of this era were the priests, anointed individuals who acted as intermediaries between the people and God. Their role was pivotal, marked by ceremonies, and sanctified by sacrificial offerings meant to atone for sins. Reflecting on this ancient tradition, I'm reminded of the profound contrast between the practices of the Old Testament and the transformative grace brought forth by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. As a Christian, I find myself not bound by the rituals of the past but liberated by the blood of Christ shed on the cross. In the Old Testament, priests underwent elaborate rituals of anointing and sacrifice to qualify themselves to enter the presence of God on behalf of the people. These acts were necessary for maintaining purity and seeking forgiveness for sins. It was a system marked by reverence, but also by a certain distance between humanity and the divine. Access to God's presence was restricted, mediated by the adherence to strict protocols and the offering of sacrifices. However, the narrative takes a radical turn with the advent of Christ. His sacrificial death on the cross represents the ultimate atonement for humanity's sins. In His blood, we find redemption, forgiveness, and, most importantly, reconciliation with God. The veil in the temple, symbolizing the separation between God and humanity, was torn asunder, signifying unrestricted access to the divine presence for all who believe in Christ. As a Christian, I am no longer bound by the rituals of the Old Testament priesthood. Instead, I am covered in the blood of Christ, made holy by His sacrifice. This profound truth fills me with awe and gratitude. It means that I can approach the throne of grace boldly, with confidence and assurance, knowing that I am welcomed into God's presence as His beloved child. The significance of this transformation cannot be overstated. It represents a paradigm shift in how we relate to God—a shift from fear and separation to love and intimacy. Through Christ, we are not only forgiven but also made righteous. We are adopted into God's family, co-heirs with Christ, and recipients of His unmerited favor. In embracing the freedom bestowed upon us by Christ's sacrifice, we are called to live lives marked by gratitude, humility, and love. We are called to be ambassadors of reconciliation, extending the same grace and mercy we have received to others. And above all, we are called to continually draw near to God, cherishing the privilege of unhindered communion with our Creator. The journey from the rituals of the Old Testament priesthood to the grace of Christ is a profound testament to the unchanging nature of God's love and the inexhaustible depths of His mercy. As we embrace this reality, may we never take for granted the privilege and responsibility of being called children of God, redeemed and sanctified by the precious blood of Jesus Christ.

In the tapestry of our lives, dreams often weave a mysterious narrative that feels profoundly real in the moment but fades away as the morning sun pierces the darkness. Likewise, the fleeting nature of certain earthly concerns can draw parallels to the ephemeral quality of dreams. As followers of Christ, it is essential for us to contemplate the deeper spiritual truths embedded in this metaphor. Dreams as Temporal Visions: Consider the dreams that visit us in the silent hours of the night—vivid, tangible, and yet slipping through our fingers like grains of sand when we wake. They serve as a reminder of the transient nature of our earthly journey. In the same way, the pursuits and anxieties that consume us in our waking hours may, with the passage of time, lose their grip on our hearts and minds. Earthly Concerns in the Light of Eternity: The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, encourages us to fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). There are things in this world that loom large in the present, demanding our attention and energy. Yet, in the grand tapestry of eternity, they may find their proper place—a place of perspective. Heavenly Perspective: As Christians, we are called to hold onto an eternal perspective. Just as dreams dissipate upon waking, our earthly concerns will one day fade away when we find ourselves in the presence of the Lord in heaven. The Apostle Paul beautifully captures this in Philippians 3:20-21, "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body." The Eternal Shift: Imagine the glorious moment when we step from this temporal realm into the eternal embrace of our Lord. The worries that seemed insurmountable, the joys that overwhelmed us, and the daily struggles that defined us—all will find a new perspective in the light of God's eternal glory. In heaven, our focus will shift from the temporal to the eternal, from the seen to the unseen, as we bask in the everlasting presence of our Savior. A Call to Prioritize the Kingdom: This understanding is not a call to neglect our earthly responsibilities but a summons to prioritize the eternal. Jesus instructs us in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." As we journey through this world, may we strive to align our priorities with the eternal Kingdom, seeking God's righteousness above all else. Let us fix our eyes on the eternal realities promised to us in Christ. In the grand scheme of God's plan, the dreams and concerns that seem so weighty now will fade away, replaced by the glory and joy of heaven. May this truth guide our steps, giving us strength and hope as we journey towards that eternal home.

As we navigate through the journey of life, many of us find ourselves on a career path, seeking employment, and working towards professional growth. The parallels between our professional lives and our spiritual journey as Christians are striking, reflecting a dynamic relationship with God that goes beyond mere belief. Just as an employer posts a job opening, God extends His call to each of us. The question is, how do we respond to this divine employment opportunity? Grace in the Learning Curve When we first accept God's offer and become Christians, there is a grace period—a time for us to learn, grow, and become acquainted with the duties that come with our newfound faith. Just as in a job, we don't instantly know every detail of our role, and God understands that. However, this grace doesn't excuse us from actively engaging in our faith. It is an invitation to start demonstrating our commitment to God's calling on our lives. Saved by Grace, Empowered for Works The Bible emphasizes that we are not saved by our works, but we are undeniably saved for them. God, in His infinite wisdom, has prepared specific tasks for each of us long before we were born. Accepting Christ opens the door to a purposeful life, where our faith is evidenced by the works we undertake. This isn't about earning our place in heaven; it's about living out our heavenly citizenship through meaningful, purpose-driven actions. Climbing the Spiritual Corporate Ladder In the professional realm, as we work diligently and gain experience, we often climb the corporate ladder, taking on more responsibilities. Similarly, in our spiritual journey, as we grow in our walk with the Lord, our responsibilities in the Kingdom expand. We find ourselves leading and guiding others, stepping out in new ways as God leads us to fulfill the tasks He has assigned to us. Blessings and Correction: Part of the Divine Employment Package Just as an employer blesses and provides for dedicated employees, God ensures that those who serve Him are not overlooked. However, this doesn't mean we are exempt from correction. God, as our loving and wise supervisor, gently corrects us when we veer off course, guiding us back to the path He has set for us. Disobedience may lead to a loss of His protection, and a prolonged departure from His will could result in being removed from the divine assignment. Evidence of Faith: Doing the Work The evidence of being a Christian is found in the work we do. We don't engage in good deeds to earn our salvation; rather, our works are a natural outflow of our commitment to the One who saved us. Our actions become a testament to our faith, as we actively contribute to the advancement of God's Kingdom and strive to lead others to the same destination. In conclusion, living as a Christian mirrors the professional journey in many ways. God extends His call, provides grace for our learning curve, and empowers us for meaningful works in His Kingdom. As we grow in our faith, our responsibilities increase, and our actions become a tangible expression of our commitment to the divine employment we've accepted. May we all embrace the call to work in God's Kingdom with diligence, knowing that our ultimate reward is not just a paycheck but an eternity in His presence.

Have you ever felt the pressure to attend church every time the doors are open, fearing that missing a service might jeopardize your spiritual standing? It's a common belief in some Christian circles that if the church doors are open, you should be there. But is this approach really in line with the teachings of Christ, or could it be inadvertently hindering the spread of the gospel? Let's be clear from the outset: gathering with fellow believers is essential. The Bible encourages us not to forsake the assembly, emphasizing the importance of coming together for worship, prayer, and mutual edification. However, the question arises when the expectation of constant church attendance becomes a barrier to fulfilling the Great Commission—to go and make disciples of all nations. The apostle Paul, in his letters to various churches, highlights the significance of believers assembling to strengthen their faith and build a community centered on Christ. Yet, he also emphasizes the need to take the message beyond the walls of the church. The danger lies in becoming so entrenched in church activities that we inadvertently isolate ourselves from the world we are called to reach. Consider this: if you spend all your time within the safe confines of the church, when do you have the opportunity to share the gospel with those who desperately need to hear it? The Great Commission involves going out into the world, not just inviting the world into our church buildings. The call to spread the message of salvation requires engagement with those who have not yet encountered the life-transforming power of Christ. It's crucial to recognize that as a Christian, you carry the Holy Spirit within you. The devil may not be able to take Him away from you, but he can attempt to quarantine you within the church community. This spiritual isolation prevents you from infecting the unsaved with the Spirit of God. Satan's strategy may involve subtly diverting your focus towards activities that, while beneficial within the church, limit your impact on the world outside. In a way, the devil desires to slow the spread of the Holy Spirit and hinder the expansion of God's Kingdom. By encouraging believers to spend all their time in isolation, he effectively impedes the command of Christ to reach the lost. It's a spiritual quarantine that inhibits the very mission Christ entrusted to His followers. As believers, we must strike a balance. Attend church faithfully, engage in worship, prayer, and fellowship, but don't let these activities become a cocoon that isolates you from the world. The gospel is meant to be shared, not confined. Be intentional about creating opportunities to interact with unbelievers, build relationships, and share the love of Christ. Breaking free from the spiritual quarantine means recognizing the importance of both church community and active outreach. It's about fulfilling the dual mandate of gathering with fellow believers and, equally importantly, carrying the message of salvation to a world in desperate need of hope. So, what are you going to do? Will you allow yourself to be confined within the comfort of church walls, or will you step out into the world, sharing the infectious love and grace of the Holy Spirit with those who need it most? The choice is yours, and the impact on the spread of God's Kingdom is significant.

In life, we sometimes encounter moments that demand immediate action, where the well-being of another hangs in the balance. Just as we'd approach an unresponsive person on the ground with caution and care, we can draw parallels in the realm of faith when we encounter those who seem spiritually unresponsive. In both cases, the key is to assess the situation, ensuring safety before extending a helping hand. 1. Ensure Your Safety First: Just as you can't help someone if you become a victim yourself, in the spiritual realm, it's essential to ensure your own spiritual well-being before reaching out to others. Ensure your foundation is strong, grounded in faith, and that you are equipped to navigate the challenges that might arise. 2. Check for Signs of Life: Approaching an unresponsive person on the ground involves checking for vital signs. Similarly, when encountering someone seemingly disconnected from their spiritual life, assess whether there are any signs of previous faith. Have they known Christ before, but now seem to have fallen away? Give them a gentle shake, metaphorically speaking, to see if there's a spark of recognition. 3. Wake Them Up: Sometimes, individuals may seem spiritually asleep rather than unresponsive. In these cases, a gentle awakening might be all that's needed. Share your experiences, your testimony, and the transformative power of faith. Speak to them in a way that prompts introspection, encouraging them to rekindle the flame of their relationship with Christ. 4. Start the Spiritual CPR: If initial attempts prove unsuccessful, it's time for spiritual CPR. Just as you'd administer CPR to someone with no signs of life, breathe new life into the spiritually unresponsive by sharing the Gospel. Speak with passion and conviction, showing them the way to Jesus, the ultimate source of spiritual revival. 5. Discernment Matters: It's crucial to exercise discernment, distinguishing between those who are spiritually "asleep" and those who may seem irreversibly distant from faith. Spiritual CPR can be detrimental to those who are spiritually alive but dormant. Be attentive to the signs, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your actions. 6. Revival for the Dead: In some instances, spiritual death may be apparent. No amount of shaking or shouting will raise the spiritually dead to life. In these cases, what's required is true revival. Intensive prayer, guidance, and support are essential to bring life where it seems lost. In conclusion, encountering someone unresponsive—whether physically or spiritually—requires a thoughtful and intentional approach. As believers, we are called to be instruments of revival, bringing the message of hope and life to those who need it most. By using discernment, empathy, and the transformative power of the Gospel, we can play a crucial role in reviving souls and leading them back into the light of Christ. After all, the purpose of our faith is not only personal salvation but also the extension of that salvation to others.

Have you ever considered the remarkable transformation a caterpillar undergoes to become a butterfly? It's not just a caterpillar sprouting wings; it's a complete metamorphosis. In the same way, when a person experiences salvation, they are not merely a sinner with a halo; they are reborn as a new creation. This profound change is accompanied by new abilities and a radically different way of life. Metamorphosis: Breaking Down to Build Up When a caterpillar goes through metamorphosis, it is broken down entirely and rebuilt as a butterfly. It doesn't just sprout wings; its very essence is transformed. Similarly, when someone is born again through faith, they experience a spiritual metamorphosis. Their old self is crucified, and they are made anew in Christ (Galatians 2:20). New Abilities: The Butterfly's Flight One of the most obvious changes in a butterfly is its newfound ability to fly. You could try gluing wings to a caterpillar, but it would stubbornly continue to crawl on the ground. On the contrary, a butterfly will naturally take to the air. This illustrates the point that when we undergo salvation, we gain new abilities and a changed nature. We are no longer bound to the limitations of our old life but empowered to live differently. The Evidence of True Salvation How do we recognize that someone is genuinely saved? It's not about having a checklist of religious activities or external appearances. True salvation is evident through the transformation of one's character and actions. When a person is truly saved, they become a new creation. Things they would never have done before now come naturally. They begin to obey the commands of Jesus, and those around them notice this change. They immerse themselves in the Word of God and spend time in prayer, seeking a deeper relationship with their Creator. They radiate a sense of peace and exhibit qualities like patience and love that were once challenging to attain. This transformation is the result of the Spirit of God at work within them, producing fruit in their lives that cannot be denied. Examining Ourselves Recognizing true salvation is crucial, not just for others but for ourselves. It's a call to self-reflection. If you look at your life and don't see any of the changes associated with becoming a child of God, you should ask yourself, "Why not?" We are called to pursue our salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12). It's better to examine yourself and see the evidence of your salvation than to ignore it or never find it. In conclusion, just as a butterfly isn't a caterpillar with wings, a saved person isn't merely a sinner with a halo. They are a new creation, and their transformation should be evident in their life. The journey of salvation is a profound one, and it begins with faith, extends through transformation, and results in a life that reflects the love and grace of God. So, let us all examine ourselves, seeking the evidence of our salvation, and be inspired to embrace the transformation that comes with being a new creation in Christ.

Coupons don't make a lot of sense. Companies print and distribute them far and wide in the hopes that you will redeem them. I get them in my mail every week. If you look closely, you can see that they have no real value. Some are printed "no cash value". Others are valued at 1/20th of a penny, or 1/100th of a penny. But when you hand a coupon to the cashier ringing you up, then it becomes valuable. Some coupons can be worth as much as $20 off, or half of the entire purchase. That is a huge step up from "no cash value"! Notice that they acquire value only when they are redeemed. The one that does the redeeming is the one that gains that value. Jesus Christ has redeemed my life, as He has the lives of countless Christians before me. I used to be of no value to His kingdom, but by His actions on the cross I now have real worth- and that worth is being used by Him to further the kingdom. If you are in Christ, you now have value. You can ignore those who try to convince you that you are nothing or nobody, because Jesus has proven them wrong. But never forget that your value isn't because of you. It is thanks to Jesus Christ that you are the new creation that He says you are.