Ed Christian's World

End Time Love…

Back when many of us were growing up, we knew our next-door neighbors and the people who lived in your community. Today, if we know just the people next door, it’s impressive.

In 1964, Kitty Genovese was raped and murdered. It was reported that many people heard or witnessed the attack and did nothing. Psychologists call this ‘the bystander effect.”

They used this case as proof to claim that we are becoming a culture of strangers. Even as believers, we’re often cold and uninvolved with those around us.

The Gospel calls us to get involved with the world and to share the good news with those who are perishing. Would you let someone be murdered right in front of your eyes if you were able to stop it? No, of course not.

Yet, when we don’t share the good news of salvation with our neighbors when we’re able, we’re doing the same thing. Yes, you are your neighbor’s keeper.

Thus, open your mouth, share, and bless them with the Gospel. Don’t let them perish because you are your neighbor’s keeper.

And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 16:15

Today, take up the mission of being your brother’s keeper. Look for opportunities to share the Gospel, help the needy, and reach out to those around you.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Echo of Love…

Jesus 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.’

These verses, found in Matthew 22:37-39, are more than just words; they are the bedrock of a life lived in harmony with God and humanity. Jesus, in his wisdom, distilled the entirety of the law and the prophets into two simple, yet profoundly challenging, commands: love God and love your neighbor.

Let’s break it down.

Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This isn’t a casual affection or a fleeting emotion. It’s a complete surrender, an all-encompassing devotion that permeates every aspect of our being. It means prioritizing God above all else, allowing His love to shape our desires, direct our thoughts, and fuel our actions. It’s a love that is passionate (heart), enduring (soul), and thoughtful (mind).

Love your neighbor as yourself. This second commandment is inextricably linked to the first. We cannot truly love God, whom we cannot see, if we do not love our neighbor, whom we can see.

This love isn’t about condoning every action or agreeing with every opinion. It’s about recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of every person, seeing them as God sees them, and extending compassion, kindness, and grace. It means treating others with the same respect and care we desire for ourselves.

These two commandments aren’t separate entities; they are two sides of the same coin. When we truly love God, that love overflows and spills onto those around us. Our actions become a reflection of His love, a tangible expression of our devotion.

In our busy, often self-centered world, these commands can seem overwhelming. But they are not meant to be burdens; they are invitations. Invitations to experience the fullness of life, the joy of connection, and the peace that comes from living in alignment with God’s will.

Let us strive to live each day with a heart overflowing with love for God and a spirit eager to serve our neighbor. Let us allow these commandments to shape our interactions, guide our decisions, and transform our lives.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the simplicity and depth of your commandments. We confess that we often fall short of loving you with all our heart, soul, and mind and fall short at loving our neighbors as ourselves. Forgive us for our selfishness, our indifference, and our lack of compassion. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, that we may truly know and experience your love. Help us to see others as you see them and to extend grace and kindness to all. May our lives be a testament to your love, and may we bring glory to your name. Amen.

The measure of love is love without measure.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

In Heaven’s Eyes: Riches vs. Righteousness

Today, let’s turn our gaze upwards and contemplate what truly resonates within the divine perspective, where our eternal foundation is anchored.

Riches won’t help on the day of judgment, but right living can save you from death. Proverbs 11:4

This verse isn’t merely a cautionary note; it’s a radical realignment of our priorities. In a world obsessed with accumulating material wealth as a shield against life’s uncertainties, Proverbs 11:4 acts as a sharp, clarifying mirror. It forces us to confront the stark reality that our earthly possessions, no matter how vast, hold no sway in the face of eternal judgment.

Riches won’t help on the day of judgment. This phrase underscores the transient nature of material wealth. It’s a poignant reminder that the things we often cling to for security—our bank balances, our investments, and our physical assets—are utterly powerless to redeem us in the face of divine scrutiny. The “day of judgment” speaks of a moment of ultimate accountability, where our true character, not our net worth, will be weighed.

Right living can save you from death. This isn’t just about avoiding physical death; it speaks of spiritual and eternal life. “Right living” encompasses a life aligned with God’s moral compass—a life of integrity, justice, mercy, and love. It’s about cultivating a heart that reflects God’s character. This “death” that right living saves you from is the separation from God. It is eternal separation from God. This is the ultimate security.

The Contrast – The verse juxtaposes two opposing forces: the fleeting allure of riches and the enduring power of righteousness. It highlights the fundamental difference between worldly values and heavenly values. While the world measures success by material accumulation, God measures it by moral character and spiritual faithfulness.

The Heart of the Matter – This verse challenges us to examine the core of our motivations. Are we driven by a desire for worldly security or by a yearning for God’s approval? Do we prioritize the accumulation of wealth or the cultivation of a righteous character?

In the grand tapestry of eternity, the threads of our earthly wealth unravel, leaving us bare before the divine gaze. Yet, woven into the fabric of our souls, the threads of righteous living—integrity, love, and unwavering faith—form an impenetrable shield, safeguarding us from the ultimate separation.

Let us not be deceived by the illusion of temporal security, but instead, invest in the eternal currency of a heart aligned with God’s own.

Heavenly Father, pierce through the veils of worldly illusion that often blind us to Your truth. Grant us the wisdom to discern the fleeting nature of material wealth and the enduring value of righteous living. Help us to cultivate hearts that reflect Your character, that our lives may be a testament to Your grace. In a world that whispers of security found in possessions, let Your voice resonate louder, reminding us that true security lies in You alone. Guide us in every decision that we may walk in integrity, love, and faithfulness, securing our eternal inheritance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May we all strive to build our lives on the unshakable foundation of God’s love and righteousness.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

In The Silence of My Soul…

Each morning, as I seek inspiration for these devotions, the echoes of Grandfather’s wisdom resonate within me. He possessed a rare ability to unveil the hidden depths of Scripture to illuminate the subtle nuances that often escape our notice.

Today, my heart turns to the Sermon on the Mount, a cornerstone of Christ’s teachings. I’m mindful that I’m sharing these reflections with a group of fellow believers, individuals I’ve yet to meet, who know only a fragment of my story – a glimpse into the harsh realities of the Vietnam War.

The Sermon on the Mount, with its profound pronouncements on blessedness, righteousness, and love, offers a stark contrast to the chaos and brutality I witnessed. “Blessed are the peacemakers,” Jesus says. In a world torn apart by conflict, these words carry immense weight.

How do we cultivate peace in the midst of turmoil? How do we extend mercy when we have witnessed the depths of human cruelty?

Grandfather taught me that the Sermon is not merely a list of ethical guidelines; it’s a revelation of God’s heart. He emphasized the inward transformation that must precede outward action.

Jesus speaks of purity of heart, of hungering and thirsting for righteousness, of loving our enemies. These are not easy commands; they demand a radical shift from our perspective.

The battlefields of Vietnam taught me the fragility of life and the pervasiveness of suffering. Yet, even in those dark hours, I clung to the hope found in Christ’s words. The Sermon on the Mount reminded me that true strength lies not in retaliation but in forgiveness. It taught me that even in the face of unspeakable horrors, the seeds of love and compassion can still take root.

As we delve into these teachings, let us not merely analyze them intellectually but allow them to penetrate the depths of our souls. Let us strive to live out the principles of the Sermon, not as a burden, but as a path to true freedom and joy. May we find the courage to be peacemakers, the grace to extend mercy, and the strength to love unconditionally.

The highlight of the Sermon on the Mount is considered to be the “Beatitudes,” a series of blessings that emphasize the importance of a humble and compassionate heart, including being “poor in spirit,” “mourning,” “meek,” “merciful,” and “pure in heart,” which are found in Matthew 5:3-12

Heavenly Father, we come before you with hearts open to your Word. We thank you for the wisdom of Grandfather and for the enduring power of the Sermon on the Mount. Lord, help us to understand the deeper truths hidden within these teachings. Grant us the courage to live out your commands, to be peacemakers in a world of conflict, and to extend mercy to those who have wronged us. In the midst of our struggles, remind us of your unwavering love and the hope found in your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us, Lord, to live a life that reflects your glory and to be a light in the darkness. Amen.

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Nourishment Of The Soul…

It’s easy to feel drained, overwhelmed, and like you’re running on empty, especially when faced with the demands of life and the calling God has placed on your heart. Just as our bodies require physical nourishment to function, our spirits need sustenance to thrive.

When we neglect to feed our physical bodies, we experience fatigue and weakness. Similarly, when we neglect to nourish our spiritual selves, we become weary and lack the energy to fulfill God’s purposes.

The scripture tells us in John 6:35, “Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” Jesus, the Messiah, is the Bread of Life, the spiritual nourishment that provides the strength and vitality we need.

When we partake of this Bread, we are not simply consuming a metaphor; we are connecting with the very essence of God’s power and love.

Consider this: when we eat physical bread, it’s transformed into energy that fuels our activities. In the same way, when we partake of the Bread of Life, we receive spiritual energy that empowers us to do God’s work.

This “partaking” involves more than just intellectual assent. It means engaging with Jesus through prayer, scripture study, worship, and acts of service. It means drawing near to Him, allowing His presence to fill us, and receiving His life-giving power.

If you find yourself feeling weary, it’s a sign that you need to draw closer to the source of your strength. Perhaps you’ve been relying on your own limited resources instead of tapping into the boundless power of God. The Bread of Life offers not just energy, but specific nourishment tailored to your needs.

When you receive the Bread of God’s love, you will be empowered to extend that love to others. When you receive the Bread of His goodness, you will manifest that goodness in your daily life. And when you receive the Bread of His power, you will have the strength to overcome any obstacle and fulfill your divine calling.

Remember, Jesus said, “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal” (John 6:27).

Heavenly Father, we come before you acknowledging our weariness and our need for your strength. We thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, the Bread of Life, to nourish our souls. Lord, we confess that we have often relied on our own limited resources and neglected to partake of your abundant provision. We ask that you would forgive us for our spiritual neglect and draw us closer to you. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, and empower us with your divine energy. Help us to receive the Bread of your love, your goodness, and your power, so that we may live lives that glorify you. Lord Jesus, we open our hearts to you now. We receive you as our Bread of Life, our source of strength and sustenance. We ask that you would renew our minds, refresh our spirits, and empower us to do the work you have called us to do. We thank you for your unfailing love and your boundless grace. We trust in your promise to provide all that we need. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

This eternal food, this Bread of Life, is readily available. It’s not something we have to strive for; it’s a gift freely given.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Listening For God’s Whisper…

Good morning,

As I sit here thinking about what to write about today, a memory pops into my head about a lesson Grandfather taught me when I was very young. Whenever I had a problem, he would have me go into the canyon to Angel Grotto and sit on the edge of the cliff and listen to what God was telling me. Sometimes, it’s the sounds of silence that make you pay attention. Enjoy!

The earth trembled, flames danced, yet it was the softest whisper that carried the Divine presence. 1 Kings 19:12

We often find ourselves navigating tumultuous seas, where anxieties roar and our foundations feel unsteady. We yearn for a resounding answer, a divine proclamation to pierce the chaos. But what if the clarity we seek isn’t a thunderclap, but a gentle breeze?

Elijah, a figure of strength and conviction, discovered this truth. Amidst the dramatic displays of power – the tempestuous wind, the seismic shift, the consuming fire – God’s voice wasn’t found. Instead, it was in the subsequent stillness, a delicate whisper, that Elijah encountered the Divine.

Our contemporary lives, saturated with incessant stimulation, often deafen us to these subtle communications. We anticipate a grand spectacle, overlooking the profound messages woven into the everyday quiet.

Today, let’s cultivate intentional stillness. Let’s disconnect from the ceaseless barrage of information, breathe deeply, and attune ourselves to the quiet. God may be offering comfort, direction, or simply reminding us of His unwavering presence within the storm.

Don’t mistake the absence of thunder for the absence of God. The most transformative truths often reside in the gentle resonances of silence.

* Reflect: When was the last time you consciously created space to hear God’s quiet voice?

* Action: What practical steps can you take to cultivate moments of stillness and attentiveness in your daily life?

Heavenly Father, amidst the storms of life, when fear and anxiety threaten to overwhelm us, remind us of Your steadfast presence. Teach us to recognize that Your voice is not confined to the dramatic and the loud, but often manifests in the quietest whisper. Grant us the strength to silence the distractions of the world, to calm our hearts, and to listen attentively for Your gentle guidance. In the stillness, may we receive Your words of love, peace, and reassurance, knowing that You are ever present. Thank You for speaking to us in the quiet moments, as You did with Elijah. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Let us commit today to intentionally reducing the noise of our lives and opening ourselves to the whispers of the Divine.

True communion with God begins with attentive listening, born from a quiet heart.

Cultivate a daily mindful walk with God, recognizing His presence in every moment.

With love and reflection,

Ed 🙏🏼

Beyond Your Imagination….

What God has planned and prepared for your life is going to amaze you. You don’t have to live worried, wondering how you’re going to accomplish your dreams, how you’re going to get the breaks you need, how you’re going to solve problems.

That is what is meant by Scriptures, which say that no mere man has ever seen, heard, or even imagined what the wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:9

God has it all figured out. What He has in store is bigger than you can imagine, more rewarding, more fulfilling. He’s already ordained promotion that you didn’t see coming, favor that you didn’t deserve, increase that takes your family to a new level.

If you’ve seen it, heard it, or imagined it, it’s not what God is talking about. What He’s already set up is something that you haven’t seen. God is not thinking about doing what He has planned for you someday.

No, it’s already in place, and the good news is that He knows how to get you there. He’s going to put you at the right place, cause good breaks to find you, bring the right people to come across your path, and send blessings to track you down. Live in faith, expecting God’s goodness.  

Father, thank You that You are the Most High God and that Your dream for my life is so much bigger than my own. Thank You for the people, the favor, and the promotion You’ve ordained to come across my path. I look forward to seeing Your plan unfold in a way beyond my imagination. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Cultivating Devine Character:  The Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23 paints a vivid portrait of a life marked by divine attributes: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.”

This isn’t a checklist of virtues to attain through sheer willpower. Rather, it’s a manifestation of God’s presence within us, a natural outpouring when we remain connected to the Vine, Jesus Christ. In a world that often rewards self-assertion and fleeting pleasures, the Fruit of the Spirit offers a counter-cultural path—a path of inner transformation that radiates outward.

Love: More than mere affection, this is a selfless, sacrificial love that seeks the highest good of others, even when they don’t deserve it. It’s a love that transcends personal feelings and embraces the unlovable.

Joy: This isn’t fleeting happiness based on circumstances, but a deep, abiding sense of contentment and delight rooted in our relationship with God. It’s a joy that sustains us through trials.

Peace: Beyond the absence of conflict, this is a profound sense of inner tranquility and wholeness, a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. It’s a peace that stills the storms within.

Forbearance: This is patient endurance, the ability to bear with others’ weaknesses and shortcomings without resentment. It’s a long-suffering spirit that extends grace and mercy.

Kindness: This is active goodwill, a compassionate heart that seeks to bless and serve others. It’s a gentle spirit that extends help and comfort.

Goodness: This is moral excellence, a heart that delights in what is right and pure. It’s a character that reflects God’s own goodness.

Faithfulness: This is unwavering loyalty and trustworthiness, both to God and to others. It’s a steadfast commitment that honors our promises.

Gentleness: This is humility and meekness, a spirit that is gentle and considerate. It’s a strength tempered with compassion.

Self-Control: This is disciplined restraint, the ability to master our desires and impulses. It’s a balanced life that honors God’s boundaries.

These fruits are interconnected, growing together as we yield to the Holy Spirit’s work. They are a testament to God’s transforming power, shaping us into His image.

Heavenly Father, reveal the areas in my life where the Fruit of Your Spirit is lacking. I confess my tendency to rely on my own strength, which inevitably leads to frustration and failure. I invite Your Holy Spirit to cultivate these divine qualities within me. Help me to recognize and resist the temptations that hinder their growth. May Your love overflow from my heart, extending to those who are difficult to love. Grant me the joy that sustains, the peace that calms, the patience that endures, and the kindness that blesses. Strengthen my faithfulness, refine my gentleness, and empower my self-control. May my life be a living testament to Your transforming grace. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

We are not called to a life of perfection but to a life of progressive transformation. The Fruit of the Spirit is not a destination but a journey of continual growth. Embrace the process, trust in God’s faithfulness, and allow Him to shape you into the person He created you to be.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Waiting Period…

While you’re waiting for God to answer your prayers or see a promise fulfilled, there will be plenty of tests. When it’s taking a long time, it’s because what God has for you is going to be better than you thought, more rewarding, more fulfilling.

Patience develops the strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally, our hope and faith are strong and steady. Romans 5:4

Don’t despise the waiting period. God knows what’s best for us. Sometimes we’re waiting because another person who’s involved is not ready. Or we’re waiting because God is getting us prepared to handle the weight of blessing.

It’s going to be a big blessing, but it’s going to require greater maturity, greater strength of character. We all want everything fast, but God knows when the right time is. You have to trust God’s timing. If it hasn’t happened yet, it hasn’t been the right time.

But when God is ready, all the forces of darkness cannot hold Him back. The key is patient believing when every circumstance says there’s no way. When you do that, God says you will receive all that He promised—not some of it, not most of it, but the fullness of the blessing.

Father, thank You that Your power to strengthen me in times of difficulty is greater than the greatest force that can ever come against me. Thank You that I can patiently believe through the waiting periods. I believe that I am more than a conqueror and will overcome this. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. God does all things through His timing – patience is actually a blessing.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Power.Of: ” He Hath Said…

When we truly believe and rely on God’s spoken promises, we possess an invincible weapon. As Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “He hath said.” This simple phrase holds immense power. What doubt can withstand its sharp edge? What fear can survive its piercing truth?

The trials of life, the pain of mortality, our inner struggles, and the temptations surrounding us—all these challenges pale in comparison when we find refuge in the certainty of “He hath said.” Whether we seek peace in quiet moments or strength in times of conflict, God’s word must be our constant source of reliance.

This highlights the vital importance of diligently studying the Scriptures. A promise perfectly  to our needs may exist, yet remain undiscovered if we neglect to search. Like prisoners unaware of the key to their freedom, we may remain bound when liberation is within reach. The Bible holds potent remedies for our spiritual ailments, but we must actively seek them to experience their healing power.

Beyond simply reading the Bible, we should commit God’s promises to memory. Just as we recall the words of influential figures and cherished poems, we should deeply embed God’s words within our hearts. This will enable us to readily access them when facing difficulties or battling doubts.

Since “He hath said” is the foundation of wisdom and the source of comfort, let it reside within us abundantly, like “a well of water springing up to everlasting life.” In this way, we will flourish in our spiritual journey, growing in health, strength, and joy.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the power of Your Word, for the unwavering truth of “He hath said.” We confess that often, we allow doubts and fears to overwhelm us, forgetting the strength that lies in Your promises. Lord, help us to cultivate a deeper faith, to truly grasp the power of Your spoken word. Grant us the diligence to search the Scriptures to uncover the treasures You have placed within them. Help us to commit your promises to memory so that we may readily access them in times of need. We pray that Your Word would dwell within us richly, becoming a wellspring of life, strength, and comfort. May it be our shield against doubt, our sword against fear, and our guide in every circumstance. Lord, empower us to live by faith, trust in Your promises, and find our peace and joy in You. May we grow healthy, strong, and happy in the divine life You have given us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼