Posts with the category “christian-living”

The Power of the Holy Spirit
by Pastor Jeff on December 19th, 2024
12/19/2024“The angel answered, ‘The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.’”– Luke 1:35 (NIV)In Luke 1:35, we find Mary, a young virgin, grappling with the angel Gabriel’s announcement that she will conceive and give birth to the Son of God. Her question, “How will this be?” is met with an answer t...  Read More
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Faithful Promises
by Pastor Jeff on December 13th, 2024
12/13/2024“The days are coming,’ declares the Lord, ‘when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah.”— Jeremiah 33:14 (NIV)Jeremiah 33:14 is a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His promises. These words were spoken during a time of great uncertainty for Israel and Judah. The people were facing exile and despair, yet God offered them hope. He declared that He ...  Read More
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Living Out God’s Love
by Pastor Jeff on December 11th, 2024
12/11/2024“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”— 1 John 3:16 (NIV)The love described in today’s verse is not abstract or sentimental. It’s active, intentional, and deeply sacrificial. Jesus’ death on the cross wasn’t an act of obligation, it was a deliberate choice, motivated by His love for us. ...  Read More
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Love One Another
by Pastor Jeff on December 10th, 2024
12/10/2024“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”– John 13:34 (NIV)In John 13:34, Jesus speaks these words to His disciples during His final moments before the cross. This is not just a suggestion or a friendly piece of advice, it is a command. What makes it “new” is the standard Jesus sets: “As I have loved you.” His love was not abstract o...  Read More
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The Overflowing Gift of the Spirit
by Pastor Jeff on December 8th, 2024
12/08/2024“For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands.”- John 3:34-35 NIVIn these verses, John the Baptist is describing the unmatched greatness of Jesus, the One sent by God. Unlike anyone else, Jesus speaks the very words of God because He comes directly from Him. The most remarkab...  Read More
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A Love Beyond Compare
by Pastor Jeff on December 7th, 2024
12/07/2024“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (NIV)The world often measures love by what we earn or deserve. Relationships are built on exchanges: “If you do this for me, I’ll love you in return.” But God’s love is radically different. It’s unconditional, unearned, and unwavering. Romans 5:8 reminds us of the depth of th...  Read More
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Dwelling in God’s Love
by Pastor Jeff on December 6th, 2024
12/06/2024“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.”- 1 John 4:16 (NIV)This verse is a great declaration of who God is: He is love. It’s not merely a characteristic of God or one of His attributes—it is His very essence. To know God is to know love, and to abide in God is to live a life characterized by His love.John remi...  Read More
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Jesus; Resurrection and Life
by Pastor Jeff on December 5th, 2024
12/05/2024Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” - John 11:25-26 NIVIn today’s passage, we find Jesus speaking to Martha after the death of her brother, Lazarus. She is grieving, struggling to reconcile her faith in Jesus with the pain of her loss....  Read More
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Treasures of the Heart
by Pastor Jeff on December 3rd, 2024
12/03/2024“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”– Matthew 6:21 (NIV)Our lives are shaped by what we value most. Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:21 challenge us to examine what truly holds our attention, affection, and devotion. The “treasure” He speaks of isn’t limited to material wealth; it encompasses everything we prioritize, whether possessions, relationships, goals, or achieve...  Read More
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The Humility of Christ
by Pastor Jeff on November 30th, 2024
11/30/2024“Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”– Philippians 2:7-8 (NIV)In this passage, Paul paints a vivid picture of Jesus’ selfless humility. Though He was fully God, Jesus “made himself nothing,” voluntarily stepping ...  Read More
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Living the Greatest Commandments
by Pastor Jeff on November 29th, 2024
11/29/2024Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”- Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)In this passage, Jesus simplifies what it means to live a life pleasing to God. When challenged by religious leaders to identify the greatest commandment...  Read More
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His Love Endures Forever
by Pastor Jeff on November 28th, 2024
11/28/2024“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”- 1 Chronicles 16:34, NIVThe words of 1 Chronicles 16:34 are part of a song of praise that David appointed Asaph and his fellow Levites to sing as they celebrated the Ark of the Covenant’s return. This moment wasn’t just about restoring a sacred object to its rightful place; it symbolized God’s presence among His people....  Read More
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Love Covers Over All
by Pastor Jeff on November 27th, 2024
11/27/2024“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”— 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)This verse comes from Peter’s instructions to believers living in challenging times. It serves as a reminder that love is not just a command but a priority, “above all.” In a world filled with strife, misunderstandings, and offenses, Peter calls us to a deep, intentional love that reflect...  Read More
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Ministers of Reconciliation
by Pastor Jeff on November 26th, 2024
11/26/2024“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”– 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NIV)Reconciliation is at the heart of the gospel. Through Jesus Christ, God bridged the gap caused by sin, restoring the relationship between humanity and Himself. This was not something we could achieve on our own; it was a gift of grace, initiated entirel...  Read More
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Unity - The Way of Christ
by Pastor Jeff on November 25th, 2024
11/25/2024“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” — Romans 15:5 (NIV)In this verse, we are reminded of the importance of having the same attitude of mind towards each other that Christ Jesus had. Jesus was known for his humility, love, and compassion towards others. He always put the needs of others before his ...  Read More
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God Among Us
by Pastor Jeff on November 24th, 2024
11/24/2024“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”— John 1:14 (NIV)Imagine, the Creator of the universe, God Himself, stepping into your life, not as a distant observer but as someone who fully immerses Himself in your joys, struggles, and humanity. This is the powerful trut...  Read More
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Loving God with All You Are
by Pastor Jeff on November 22nd, 2024
11/22/2024“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.”– Deuteronomy 6:5 (NIV)Today’s verse is part of a prayer called the Shema, a central declaration of faith for the Israelites, underscoring total devotion to God. The verse challenges us to give God our whole being: heart, soul, and strength. This is not a casual or partial love but an all-encom...  Read More
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The Promise of Honor
by Pastor Jeff on November 21st, 2024
11/21/2024“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—“so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”—Ephesians 6:2-3 (NIV)Honor is a concept deeply rooted in God’s design for family and society. In Ephesians 6:2-3, Paul reiterates one of the Ten Commandments, emphasizing its significance by noting the promise attached to it. To hon...  Read More
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Walking in the Light
by Pastor Jeff on November 20th, 2024
11/20/2024“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”– Isaiah 9:2 (NIV)The words in Isaiah 9:2 are a vivid and powerful message, describing an instant when hope pierces despair. In this verse, the prophet Isaiah foretells the coming of Jesus, the Messiah, as the light that dispels the darkness of sin, fear, and hopeless...  Read More
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Love as Jesus Loved
by Pastor Jeff on November 19th, 2024
11/19/2024“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”— John 15:12 (NIV)Jesus’ words in John 15:12 are not merely a suggestion or a recommendation. They are a command, a call to action that embodies the heart of the gospel. To love as Jesus loved is both simple and profound. It challenges us to go beyond convenience and comfort, mirroring the sacrificial, unconditional love Jesus sho...  Read More
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Peacemakers in a Fractured World
by Pastor Jeff on November 18th, 2024
11/18/2024“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Matthew 5:9 (NIV)In a world often marked by conflict and division, Jesus calls His followers to be peacemakers. This is not a passive calling; it’s an active pursuit of reconciliation, harmony, and restoration. To be a peacemaker is to reflect the heart of God, who reconciled humanity to Himself through Christ.Bein...  Read More
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God Will Supply All Your Needs
by Pastor Jeff on November 15th, 2024
11/15/2024“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”– Philippians 4:19 (NIV)Life often presents us with needs that seem insurmountable, whether financial, emotional, or spiritual. Philippians 4:19 offers a promise that can bring peace to the believer: God will meet all your needs, not just out of limited resources but according to His infinite riche...  Read More
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Refreshing Others to Be Refreshed
by Pastor Jeff on November 14th, 2024
11/14/2024“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”— Proverbs 11:25 (NIV)In a world where we’re often encouraged to look out for ourselves, Proverbs 11:25 reminds us of a beautiful truth: true prosperity and satisfaction come when we pour into others. Generosity is not just about material giving; it’s about sharing our time, our compassion, and our encouragement...  Read More
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The Power of His Peace
by Pastor Jeff on November 13th, 2024
11/13/2024“He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.”- Mark 4:39 (NIV)Have you ever faced moments in life that felt as chaotic and overwhelming as a storm? Maybe it’s a financial hardship, a health issue, or a strained relationship. During these times, it’s easy to feel tossed around by the waves of worry and uncertain...  Read More
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Blessed by Our Burden-Bearer
by Pastor Jeff on November 12th, 2024
11/12/2024“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.”- Psalm 68:19 (NIV)In Psalm 68:19, we’re reminded of an incredible truth about God’s love and faithfulness: He bears our burdens every single day. This verse highlights not only God’s strength but also His willingness to shoulder our struggles, both big and small. As we journey through life, we often encounter challe...  Read More
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Strength in Weakness
by Pastor Jeff on November 11th, 2024
11/11/2024“That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”- 2 Corinthians 12:10 (NIV)The Apostle Paul’s words in this verse reveal a paradox in the Christian life—strength through weakness. Paul was no stranger to hardships. He endured imprisonments, shipwrecks, beatings, and countless chall...  Read More
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Humility and Trust in God
by Pastor Jeff on November 10th, 2024
11/10/2024“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”– Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)In today’s fast-paced world, we often find ourselves chasing success, status, and wealth. But Proverbs 22:4 reminds us that true “riches and honor and life” come not from the pursuit of earthly gains, but from the humble reverence and awe we have for God. The “fear of the Lord” here isn’t abo...  Read More
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Putting on God’s Love
by Pastor Jeff on November 9th, 2024
11/9/2024“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”— Colossians 3:12 (NIV)As God’s chosen and beloved, we’re called to live in a way that reflects His character to the world around us. Colossians 3:12 reminds us that we are set apart and deeply loved, which gives us a foundation to show compassion, ki...  Read More
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Living a Life of Humility and Service
by Pastor Jeff on November 8th, 2024
11/8/2024“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”– Philippians 2:3 (NIV)In our world, self-promotion, personal success, and the quest for validation are everywhere. From social media highlights to career ambitions, it’s easy to fall into a mindset focused on advancing ourselves. But Philippians 2:3 calls us to a different path, one of...  Read More
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Freedom from Condemnation
by Pastor Jeff on November 7th, 2024
11/07/2024“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”- Romans 8:1 (NIV)What does it mean to live without condemnation? This powerful verse declares that anyone who is “in Christ Jesus” is free from judgment. Imagine being in a courtroom, guilty of every charge, yet the judge declares, “Not guilty.” This is the grace we receive through Jesus. Because He bore our sin...  Read More
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Unity in Action
by Pastor Jeff on November 5th, 2024
11/05/2024“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”— Psalms 133:1 (NIV)Unity. It’s a small word with immense power. In Psalms 133, David beautifully captures the joy and blessing of harmonious relationships, especially among God’s people. Unity is described as “good and pleasant,” emphasizing not only its righteousness but also the warmth it brings to those who experi...  Read More
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Whatever Is…
by Pastor Jeff on November 4th, 2024
11/4/2024“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” — Philippians 4:8 (NIV)In the world today, our minds are constantly bombarded with information, some good, much of it troubling. Philippians 4:8 invites us to pause, reset, and...  Read More
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Being Kind in a World of Retaliation
by Pastor Jeff on November 3rd, 2024
11/03/2024“Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (NIV)In today’s world, the concept of “getting even” or seeking revenge is widely accepted. We see it in movies, in our workplaces, and sometimes even within our own relationships. The mentality that “they hurt me, so I’ll hurt them back” can...  Read More
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United in Mind and Purpose
by Pastor Jeff on November 2nd, 2024
11/2/2024“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.”– 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV)Paul’s words to the Corinthian church speak to a universal need: unity within the body of Christ. In Corinth, there was tension and divi...  Read More
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Walking in the Light
by Pastor Jeff on November 1st, 2024
11/1/2024“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”— 1 John 1:7 (NIV)Walking in the light goes beyond simply living honestly; it’s a call to continual growth and alignment with God’s character. Jesus Himself is the light, and by following His example of love, truth, and compassion, we reflect...  Read More
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He Cares For Us
by Pastor Jeff on October 31st, 2024
10/31/2024“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?”– Psalm 8:3-4 (NIV)In this passage, David, the shepherd-king, marvels at the beauty and vastness of the heavens, the work of God’s hands. As he gazes at the stars, each set in its perfect place, he...  Read More
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A Living Sacrifice is True Worship
by Pastor Jeff on October 30th, 2024
10/30/2024“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”– Romans 12:1 (NIV)Today’s verse begins with an appeal by the Apostle Paul, urging us to offer our bodies as “living sacrifices” to God. But what does that mean, practically speaking? The idea of a “living sacrifi...  Read More
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Whose Approval Do You Seek?
by Pastor Jeff on October 29th, 2024
10/29/2024“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”- Galatians 1:10 (NIV)In today’s verse, Paul brings us face-to-face with a question that’s both timeless and deeply personal: Are we living for the applause of others, or the approval of God? Paul’s message is clear...  Read More
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Trusting God with Tomorrow
by Pastor Jeff on October 28th, 2024
10/28/2024“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” - Matthew 6:34 (NIV)In this verse, Jesus encourages us to focus on the present rather than getting caught up in the anxieties of tomorrow. He acknowledges that each day has its own challenges and encourages us to trust that He’ll provide for us, moment by moment. Worryin...  Read More
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Strengthened in the Inner Being
by Pastor Jeff on October 26th, 2024
10/26/2024“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.”— Ephesians 3:16 (NIV)Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:16 highlights the divine source of our inner strength. Often, we focus on external sources for strength, like support from friends, financial security, or career achievements. But Paul prays that God will strengthen believers ...  Read More
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