Archive | June, 2024
Status

We – The Light

10 Jun

We – The Light…

Today, let’s embrace our calling to be the light of the world, shining brightly in all we do.

You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:14

Jesus didn’t say, “You could be a light” or “You should be a light” โ€” He declared, “You are the light of the world.” It’s not about what we do, but who we are as children of God.

Imagine a single candle in a pitch-black room. It doesn’t take much to push back the darkness, does it? That’s the power of your light, friend. Even when life feels dim, your faith has the power to illuminate the lives of those around you.

Maybe you’re struggling, doubting, or feeling like your light is barely a flicker. But remember, the source of your light isn’t you; it’s Christ within you. He is the one who shines through your kindness, your compassion, your willingness to love and serve others.

So let your light shine, not because you have to, but because you can’t help it. Be a beacon of hope in a weary world, and don’t be afraid to let your light shine, however dim it may feel. You might just be the light someone needs to find their way home.

In what ways can you shine your light for Jesus today?

What can prevent you from shining for Him?

Dear Heavenly Father, In a world that so often feels lost and broken, I’m grateful for the light of your love that shines within me. Help me to never hide that light, Lord, but to let it radiate through my words and actions, no matter how small. I want to be a beacon of your hope, pointing others to the One who can mend every broken heart and heal every wound. Thank you for the privilege of carrying your light. May it shine brightly today and always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Don’t shine so that others can see you. Shine so that through you, others can see Him.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

Aliens On Earth

10 Jun

Aliens On Earth…

Ger’ is Hebrew for ‘stranger.’ Like most of you, I grew up being told “Beware of strangers,” which is good for children to hear. But in the Bible, some of the best people were strangers.

Abraham said, “I’m a stranger and I sojourn among you.” Moses named his son ‘Gershom’ meaning ‘stranger in a strange land’. In 1 Peter 2:11, we’re called aliens and strangers. Strangerhood is a holy call, and has much power.

As believers we’re to go through life as strangers to the ways of this world and to our old identity. When people talk to you about impure subjects, you need to respond, “I don’t speak your language.”

It’s a great thing to be a stranger to who you once were and to be able to say, “I just don’t understand you.” When you’re going through tough times, remember that you’re a stranger to them.

You’re not of the problem anymore. You’re of the kingdom of heaven. Practice the ministry of strangerhood. Learn to be in the world, not of it, because to be a stranger in this world is the most holy of callings.

If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.ย  John 15:19

Practice the ministry of strangerhood today and view yourself as a sojourner on earth.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

Making The Perfect

9 Jun

Making.The Perfect…

Most people spend time seeking the right marriage partner, expecting their mate to be perfect. And the more they do, the more miserable they become.

In Biblical times, it was common for marriages to be arranged by parents. They generally worked out much better than our perfectly picked marriages work out today, lasting a lifetime.

The truth is, the perfect marriage isn’t about marrying the perfect one, but rather loving the imperfect one with a perfect love, accepting the imperfect one with a perfect acceptance, and being faithful to the imperfect one with a perfect faithfulness that comes from God. It’s the secret of a joyful marriage and a joyful life.

A good life isn’t about having perfect situations and circumstances. It’s not about obtaining the perfect circumstance but rather accepting an imperfect situation with a perfect acceptance, loving imperfect people with a perfect love, rejoicing in a perfect joy, and giving thanks with a perfect thankfulness in the midst of an imperfect world. That’s the secret of joy in marriage and joy in life. Use it.

All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me, I will never drive away.ย  John 6:37

Today, seek to live in perfect acceptance, love, and joy towards all the circumstances and people in your life.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed

Status

The ABCs of Life

9 Jun

The ABCs of Life…

When I was eight years old, Grandfather asked me to name the ABCs of life. So, being sort of a smart kid, I put it all in alphabetical order.

Always Believe Christ Delivers Everything through Faith. Glorifying Hope Intensifies Joy, Kindness, and Love.

His New Covenant Magnifies Openess to all. Peace Quietly Resolves Sanctification Through Understanding Victory With Xavier Youth and Zeal.

To me, life begins with faith that He is there for all in all things. That is implied in Hebrews 11:1. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

In this passage, the writer demonstrates that godly faith is really – trust. What we have seen of God’s nature and character should lead us to trust Him, and trust naturally leads to obedience.

These are the ABCs of life to me.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

Action Sparked By Faith

9 Jun

Action Sparked By Faith…

Good morning,

Today, let’s fuel the fire of our faith with acts of love and kindness, letting our actions speak of God’s love in our lives.

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
James 2:17

Faith is like a tiny ember, glowing with potential. But without fuel, it flickers and fades. James 2:17 reminds us that true faith isn’t just a spark; it’s a roaring fire, fueled by action. What matters is not faith and works; it is not faith or works; it is faith that works. It’s not about believing in our heads but about living out our beliefs in the world.

Think about a time when you helped someone in need, offered a kind word, or lent a helping hand. Did it spark joy in your heart? That’s the power of faith in action. It’s the warmth that radiates from a soul on fire for God.

Our faith isn’t meant to be hidden away but to shine brightly through our actions. Each act of kindness, each moment of generosity, each word of encouragement, is like adding another log to the fire, fanning the flames of our faith, and warming those around us.

So today, let’s not just keep the flame alive; let’s let it burn bright. Let’s find ways to fuel our faith through acts of love and service so that together, we can illuminate the world with God’s light.

How can you show your faith through actions today?

What small act of kindness can you do to let your faith shine?

Dear God, Thank You for the gift of faith and the opportunity to live it out loud. Help me not just to talk about my faith but to show it through my actions today. Fan the flames of my heart, Lord, and ignite a passion within me to serve others with love and kindness. May my actions be a reflection of Your love, warming the hearts of those around me. Show me the opportunities You have placed in my path to make a difference, no matter how small. I am grateful for Your power and grace in my life. Let my faith shine brightly for all to see. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

Navigating Life

8 Jun

Navigating Life…

Today, let’s embrace the assurance that God guides our paths when we trust Him with all our hearts.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5

Navigating life’s complexities often feels like sailing through uncharted waters, where the fog of uncertainty makes it difficult to see the path ahead. Proverbs 3:5 offers us a celestial compass in these moments, urging us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and to resist the urge to chart our course solely with the maps drawn by our understanding.

This trust is a danceโ€”a step forward in faith, even when the music has yet to play, and a step back from our insistence on leading. It’s about finding the rhythm in reliance, the melody in surrender. As we do, we discover that what felt like relinquishing control is actually the way to true freedom.

Our journey becomes marked not by the destinations we reach but by the trust we place in the One who guides us, transforming our travels into a testament to His faithfulness. In the ebb and flow of life, may we cast our anchors in the steadfast love of God, allowing His wisdom to be the wind in our sails and His grace the lighthouse that leads us home.

Lord, Here I am, at the start of another day, leaning into Your wisdom that tells me to trust in You completely, not just bits and pieces. My mind sometimes thinks it knows best, but in my heart, I know it’s Your guidance that lights the way true.
Let today be filled with moments where I choose Your path over mine, finding in each decision a deeper trust and a closer walk with You. Itโ€™s a dance Iโ€™m still learning, but with You leading, I know Iโ€™ll find the rhythm. Thank You for Your never-ending patience as I learn and grow and for the constant light of Your love that illuminates my path. In Jesusโ€™ name, Amen.

Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

The Blessing and The Bread

8 Jun

The Blessing and The Bread…

Many churches focus on the eucharist as the bread of communion. Others don’t think the concept of eucharist is Biblical. The word ‘eucharist’ comes from the Greek ‘eu’, meaning ‘good’, and ‘charis’, meaning ‘grace’ or ‘blessing’. The eucharist was there at the Last Supper, only it wasn’t the bread at all.

It was the blessing that Messiah said over the bread. The same blessing is said in Jewish homes to this day. “Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha Olam, Ha Motzee Lechem Min Ha Aretz.” It means “Blessed are You O Lord Our God, King of the Universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.”

The truth is, the true eucharist isn’t eaten, it’s given. This one distinction is crucial, and can change your life. What makes something holy and beautiful isn’t the thing itself, but the blessing you speak over it.

Give the blessing of thanks over your bread, wine, spouse, parents, children, friends, and enemies; over every situation, good or bad. Give the blessing of thanks over your life itself, and your life will become holy and blessed, for such is the true eucharist.

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, โ€œThis is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.โ€ In the same way, after the supper, he took the cup, saying, โ€œThis cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.ย  Luke 22:19-10

Say the eucharist over all your blessings today. Make every part of your life a holy gift from Heaven.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always

Ed

Status

The Joy of Giving

7 Jun

The Joy of Giving…

Good morning,

Today, let’s embrace the joy of giving and discover the blessings that flow from a generous heart.

In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: โ€˜It is more blessed to give than to receive.โ€™
Acts 20:35

Our world is filled with messages that tell us happiness comes from acquiring more โ€“ more possessions, more achievements, and more status. But Jesus, in His wisdom, reveals a different path to joy โ€“ the path of giving.

Think about it: haven’t you felt the deepest satisfaction not when you received a gift, but when you gave one that truly made someone’s day? Haven’t you experienced a sense of purpose and meaning when you’ve used your time, talents, or resources to help someone in need? That’s the kind of blessedness Jesus is talking about.

Giving isn’t about how much you have but about sharing what you do have. Your time, your talents, your smile โ€“ they all matter. When we give, we reflect God’s own generous heart and discover a joy that no amount of “stuff” can buy.

So today, let’s challenge ourselves to be givers. Let’s look for opportunities to share a little kindness, a little love, a little bit of ourselves. Let’s discover the joy that comes from living a life poured out for others. You might be surprised at how much you receive in return.

Who in your life could use a touch of kindness or a helping hand today?

How can you make giving a daily habit, even in small ways?

Father, thank You for showing me that true joy comes from giving. In a world focused on gaining more, help me to see the beauty in sharing what I have. Whether itโ€™s my time, talents, or a simple act of kindness, let my heart be generous and open. Guide me to reflect Your love and generosity in all I do. Help me to find joy in making others smile and in meeting their needs. Fill my life with the joy that comes from giving and loving others as You have loved me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

The Prodigal Father

7 Jun

The Prodigal Father…

One of the greatest lessons you could ever learn about God is from the ‘father of the prodigal son’. He has no past, future, birth, or death because he only exists in the parable. Yet through him, you learn more about the love and mercy of God than almost every other teaching.

God’s love for you is so wonderful and pure, so absolute and perfect, so awesome that no earthly father could ever exemplify it. A flesh and blood father, even if he were like the father in the parable, would have parts of his life and love that were imperfect and inconsistent with the picture that you see there.

But the father in the parable loves totally with all his heart and all his existence. In the same way, God loves you with a love that’s perfect, pure, unconditional, steadfast, faithful, awesome, and wonderful. He loves you wholeheartedly with all His existence.

Rejoice in God’s love for you. Like the prodigal son, let it change your heart because such a love you could only get from a man who never was, or a God who always is.

Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Meditate on God as your Father today and rejoice in His love for you.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ

Status

Wisdom

6 Jun

Wisdom…

Good morning,

Today, let’s embrace the promise of God’s wisdom, freely given to those who seek it with a trusting heart.

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 1:5

In life’s journey, we often face crossroads and decisions that can shape our future. Whether it’s a career choice, a relationship challenge, or a personal struggle, these moments can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.

But James 1:5 offers us a lifeline. When we lack wisdom, we have a direct line to the source of all wisdom: God Himself. The beauty of this promise lies in its simplicity. We don’t need to prove our worthiness; we simply need to ask. And when we do, God promises to give generously, without finding fault.

This is the heart of a Father who delights in guiding His children. He invites us to tap into His infinite wisdom, to let His light illuminate our path.

Today, if you’re facing a situation where you need wisdom, take heart. You have a God who is ready and willing to guide you. Trust that He will give you the wisdom, clarity, and strength you need.

Remember, you are not alone. Your Heavenly Father loves you and is always just a prayer away

Heavenly Father, When the road ahead seems foggy and I’m unsure of where to turn, please be my guide. I know I don’t always have the wisdom to make the best choices, but I trust that You do.
Open my heart and mind to Your guidance, Lord. Give me the clarity and understanding I need to navigate life’s challenges. Help me to follow Your path, even when it’s not the one I would have chosen. Thank you for being a loving Father who never leaves my side. I trust in Your wisdom and your perfect plan for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Wisdom is the right use of knowledge. To know is not to be wise. Many men know a great deal, and are all the greater fools for it. There is no fool so great a fool as a knowing fool. But to know how to use knowledge is to have wisdom.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ