Paul

January 22nd – 1 Corinthians 6:14

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1 Corinthians 6:14

To justify continuing to live a sinful lifestyle after receiving Jesus as their Savior, Corinthian Christians would say,”Foods for the stomach and the stomach for food.” Meaning it wasn’t a big deal to give their body anything it wanted. After all, they were free from the law. But the Apostle Paul was quick to correct their wrongful thinking. Because as Christians, our bodies are meant for a higher purpose. To honor the Lord. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, sacred vessels deserving of respect, love, and honor. And as such, the choices we make should reflect love, purity, and gratitude for the divine dwelling within us. We dishonor God with our bodies when we engage in actions that violate His moral principles. From indulging in harmful, immoral behaviors, to neglecting our well-being. Honoring God with our bodies is an expression of gratitude for the precious gift of life and a recognition of His presence within us. And one day, our bodies will be raised in glory. They will be incorruptible, marvelous, and the perfect likeness of Jesus!

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November 23rd – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

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1 Thessalonians 5:18

I love the quote, “In the tapestry of gratitude, a thankful heart stitches the threads of hope, weaving a resilient fabric that withstands life’s challenges.” That’s why this verse in 1 Thessalonians resonates especially during the Thanksgiving holiday. Because it emphasizes the profound connection between hope, endurance, and gratitude. As we gather with thankfulness in our hearts, Paul reminds us to give thanks not only for the blessings but also during challenges. This makes giving thanks a transformative act, cultivating a spirit of hope that perseveres through difficulties. This act of expressing gratitude serves as a powerful reminder that even in the middle of trials, God’s sovereignty is at work. And through a lens of thankfulness, we can find the strength to endure, trusting that our hope is anchored in God. The Thanksgiving holiday, then, becomes a wonderful opportunity to align our hearts with the will of God, fostering enduring hope through a posture of gratitude in all circumstances.

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November 21st – Acts 16:31

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Acts 16:31

Paul and Silas show just how great of an impact a heart of hope and endurance can have. And not just in our own personal resilience, but in reaching and transforming the lives of others. How worship in challenging times isn’t just something we do, but a powerful declaration of faith. One that knocks the Devil off his feet, and can inspire and touch the lives of those around us. Having a heart of hope and endurance serves as a beacon through the darkness, guiding us into the light of God’s goodness. In the midst of trials, it illuminates a path of hope and resilience, leading us to a deeper understanding of God’s unwavering presence and love. As we lift our hearts in worship, even in the darkest of times, it not only lifts our own spirits but also becomes a light for others. Through our hope and endurance, we share the radiance of God’s goodness. Inviting others to witness the transformative power of faith in the midst of challenges, ultimately becoming a source of endurance and hope for those around us.

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November 16th – Galatians 6:9

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Galatians 6:9

In his letter to the early church in Galatia, Paul uses a parallel between the diligence of farmers and the endurance required in our spiritual journey. Much like farmers who toil in the fields, working and patiently waiting for the harvest season, we are urged not to grow weary in doing good while we wait for God’s great harvest. The apostle uses the comparison to underscore the importance of perseverance and patience for both. Just as farmers trust that their labor will eventually yield a bountiful harvest, we too are called to maintain hope and endurance in our faith journey. Being fully assured that our efforts in living according to God’s principles will bear fruit at the appointed time. Paul also encourages us to emulate the steadfastness of farmers, who continue working the fields despite challenges. To apply that same resilience in our spiritual lives, trusting that in due season, our faithful endurance will lead to a harvest of blessings and fulfillment.

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November 9th – 2 Timothy 4:7

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2 Timothy 4:7

One of the greatest heroes in the Bible is Paul. He was tortured, shipwrecked, chased out of town, deserted by his friends, and jailed. And he endured it all with a heart of worship and praise for the Lord. I love how he describes his work for God as a great drink offering. Ready to empty himself fully for the advancement of God’s Kingdom. All in the hope of receiving a beautiful crown to lay at the feet of his Savior, Jesus Christ. I want to be a Paul. As the days grow darker, I want my hope and faith to grow stronger. Jesus promised in the last days, the persecution of Christians would increase, and many will turn away from their faith. They’ll trade the truth of the gospel for an ear tickling false message that feeds their egos, but not their souls. That’s why we must guard our hearts by knowing God’s Word and staying firmly planted in His truth. Jesus is returning soon. And when He calls me home I want to hear Him say, “Well done my good and faithful servant. You fought a good fight, finished the race, and most important of all, kept the faith.”

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September 19th – Romans 1:18

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Romans 1:18

“The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness.”

In today’s world, there often seems to be an “anything goes” attitude. Moral and ethical boundaries are increasingly blurred or ignored. However, no matter how wicked this world gets, God’s perspective remains unchanged. And with Him there are no grey areas. Because God doesn’t compromise between right and wrong. And the Lord sees and knows our actions, and whether they align with His will or not. That’s why Paul warns of the consequences of disobeying and rejecting God’s truth. And reminds us of the importance of acknowledging the moral and spiritual consequences of our actions. Because nothing gets by God. And living a life opposite of His truth and embracing ungodliness always leads to destruction. Worse yet, it leads to moral decay and separation from His grace. So lovingly, Paul encourages us to seek truth, righteousness, and a relationship with God. To recognize the significance of aligning our lives with His divine principles.

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September 10th – Philippians 2:5

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Philippians 2:5

“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus”

In a world ruled by Satan, everyday we are inundated with temptations and sin. That’s why the apostle Paul encourages us to maintain a mindset that aligns with Jesus. The One who humbly served others and remained obedient to God’s will. Keeping our mind on God is crucial. Because it serves as a spiritual anchor in the midst of life’s turbulence. And it provides us with guidance, purpose, and a source of unwavering hope and peace. A mind set on God reinforces our moral compass, encourages positive behavior, and keeps us moving in the right direction on our spiritual journey. It reminds us to continually seek God’s guidance in our thoughts and actions. And to put His will before our own desires. By centering our lives on God and emulating the humility of Christ, we can navigate the challenges of this world. And do so  with grace, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. Which not only is a powerful testimony to the world, but also ultimately strengthens our relationship with the Lord and others.

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September 8th – Romans 12:2

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Romans 12:2

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is; His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

We are at war with a powerful Enemy. And even the mightiest Christian can fall prey to his lies and sin against God. So we need to use every weapon in our arsenal to stop him at every turn. That’s why the apostle Paul councils us to fight against the pull of sin by transforming our minds and renewing our thought patterns. Because Paul knew the power of a Christlike mind and heart. We live in a world that both glorifies and encourages sinful desires and behaviors. Yet as followers of Jesus, we are called to resist conformity to these worldly standards. Instead, we are urged to seek a deeper understanding of God’s will and purpose. And we do this through His Word and prayer. By immersing ourselves in God’s truth and aligning our thoughts with His, we gain the strength to discern right from wrong. And the ability to make choices that honor Him. This transformation enables us to resist the pull of sin and to live in a way that reflects the righteousness and holiness of God.

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August 30th – Colossians 3:8

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Colossians 3:8

“But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”

Growing up my Grandma was very firm in what words we were allowed to use. And a curse word was strictly forbidden. For as she would always say, “Swearing is a sign of a very poor vocabulary!” Paul shares this sentiment, warning us against foul talk. And there’s nothing more disheartening than hearing the precious name of Jesus, a symbol of hope, love, and salvation for millions, used as a curse word. Even by those who claim to love and follow Him. Doing so not only diminishes the reverence that His name deserves, but also reflects a lack of understanding of its significance. The name of Jesus holds immeasurable power, representing the embodiment of God’s grace and sacrifice. Instead of being a source of negativity, it should inspire us to reflect on His teachings and exemplify His love. As believers, we should cherish the name of our Savior. And use it to bring light, healing, and transformation to our lives and the lives of those around us.

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August 28th – Colossians 1:9

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Colossians 1:9

“since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.”

Right now the world is in crisis. And that’s why more than ever, we are called to be mighty prayer warriors! Soldiers on our knees filling the heavens with our petitions. Prayers for ourselves and each other. The apostle Paul teaches there are four types of prayers we’re to use when praying both privately and publicly.  Deēseis, proseuchas, enteuxeis, and eucharistias. Translated into English, these are supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings. Supplications are those fervent pleas we make to God for immediate response. Prayers refer to all of our general petitions made to the Lord. Intercessions are those prayers from the heart where we lift up before God the needs of others. And thanksgivings are those prayers of praise for all God is, does, and blesses us with each and every day. Each type of prayer is a mighty weapon against the Enemy we should be using frequently. For nothing stops Satan faster in his tracks than when the voice of God’s people are lifted in unity to the heavens above!

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