Ed Christian's World

Immanuel, Gods Presence in Sorrow

The Hebrew name “Immanuel” is more than just a title; it’s a powerful declaration. Broken down, “Im” signifies “with,” “anu” means “us,” and “El” translates to “God.” Therefore, Immanuel embodies the profound truth: “God is with us.”

Every action and emotion of Jesus was an expression of this reality. Even in moments of deep human sorrow, as recorded in John 11 when “Jesus wept,” we see Immanuel experiencing sorrow and tears alongside humanity. This reveals a powerful message: “God is with us in sorrow and tears.”

Having God in our lives doesn’t shield us from pain or grief, but it guarantees that we are never alone in those experiences. God’s presence is a constant, unwavering reality, even when we feel distant from Him.

As Psalm 34:18 beautifully states, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

In our deepest pain, He is not absent; He is Immanuel, weeping with us, loving us through our tears. If we open our hearts, we will find Him there, just beyond the veil of our sorrow.

Let us take a moment now to be still and acknowledge this profound truth.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the powerful name of Immanuel, a constant reminder of your unwavering presence in our lives. We thank you that you do not stand aloof from our pain, but draw near to us in our brokenness. Help us to recognize your nearness, even in our deepest sorrows and tears. Grant us the comfort of knowing that we are never truly alone, for you, our Immanuel, are always with us. Strengthen our hearts to lean on your presence and find solace in your unfailing love. Amen.

God doesn’t promise us a life free from pain, but He promises to be with us in the midst of it.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Breaking the Chains of Yesterday: Living a Life Like Jesus…

We are creatures of habit. This simple statement holds a profound truth about the way we navigate our days. We find comfort in routine, build our schedules around familiar patterns, and often let the echoes of yesterday dictate the choices of today. While habits can provide structure and efficiency, they can also become invisible chains, binding us to a past that may not serve our present or our potential. We can become so entrenched in our routines that we miss the vibrant, abundant life that lies just beyond the familiar.

Think about it. How many times have you reacted to a situation based on a past experience, even though the present circumstances are different? How often do you find yourself making the same choices, even when you know they don’t lead to the fulfillment you crave? We operate on autopilot, our habits steering the ship while our true selves long for a different course.

But there is a different way to live, a path illuminated by the most transformative example in history: Jesus Christ. He wasn’t bound by the habits of his time, nor did he allow the expectations of others to dictate his actions. He lived with intention, driven by love, compassion, and a deep connection to his Father. Imagine a life where our habits mirrored his:

The habit of selfless love: Jesus consistently put the needs of others before his own, offering healing, forgiveness, and unwavering compassion. Imagine if our default reaction was to seek ways to serve and uplift those around us.

The habit of seeking God’s will: Jesus constantly sought guidance from his Father through prayer and solitude. Imagine if our daily rhythm included intentional time to connect with the divine, allowing God’s wisdom to shape our decisions.

The habit of speaking truth with grace: Jesus spoke with clarity and conviction, yet always with a heart of love. Imagine if our communication was characterized by honesty tempered with kindness and understanding.

The habit of forgiveness: Jesus offered forgiveness even to those who persecuted him. Imagine if we could release the bitterness of past hurts and extend grace to those who have wronged us.

The habit of living in the present: Jesus was fully present in each moment, engaging with those around him with undivided attention. Imagine if we could break free from the anxieties of the future and the regrets of the past, embracing the beauty of the now.

Following Jesus’ example isn’t about mimicking his every action in a literal sense. It’s about cultivating the heart behind his actions. It’s about developing habits rooted in love, faith, and a desire to live a life that reflects God’s character.

This requires conscious effort, a willingness to break free from ingrained patterns, and a commitment to intentional living. It means examining our routines and asking ourselves: “Do these habits draw me closer to the person God intends me to be? Do they reflect the love and compassion of Christ?”

The path to a more fulfilling life isn’t about discarding all habits, but about consciously choosing new ones – habits that align with the example of Jesus. It’s a journey of transformation, one step, one intentional choice at a time. It’s about letting the light of Christ illuminate our path, guiding us away from the chains of yesterday and towards the abundant life offered in Him.

Therefore, be imitators of God as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.  Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV)

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that we often get caught in the comfort of our routines, sometimes to the detriment of living a life that truly honors you. We ask for your guidance and strength to examine our habits and to identify those that hold us back from becoming more like your son, Jesus. Grant us the courage to break free from patterns that don’t serve your purpose and the wisdom to cultivate new habits rooted in love, compassion, and faith. Help us to walk in love as Christ loved us, to seek your will in all things, and to live each moment with intention and grace. May our lives become a reflection of your light and love in the world. Amen.

Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Salvation Simplicity, Believe and Be Saved…

Discover anew today the powerful truth that God’s greatest gift comes wrapped in beautiful simplicity.

An earthquake shattered a jailer’s security, leading him to the fundamental question: “What must I do to be saved?” (Acts 16:30). For too many, salvation had become a complex burden of rules and striving. But in the darkness of a prison, the answer rang out with liberating simplicity: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household” (Acts 16:31).

Not perform, not earn, not try harder – simply believe. Trust. Receive. In that moment, a prison became a place of salvation, and a broken man found the One who had already done it all.

This same simple invitation echoes today: believe in Jesus. Let grace accomplish what our efforts never can. As Peter declared, “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Dear Lord, Forgive me for overcomplicating Your simple gift. Thank You that You ask for faith, not flawless performance. When doubts arise or I lean on my own strength, remind me that Your grace is enough. Help me rest in the beautiful simplicity of believing in You. Thank You for saving me, just as I am. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Your life as a Christian should be a compelling question mark against the disbelief of those around you.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Hidden Beast of Sin

Imagine a young photographer venturing into the Maine woods. Drawn by the mystery of a dark cave, he sets up his camera for a long exposure, hoping to capture what lies hidden within.

When the image finally develops, it reveals a terrifying sight unseen by his eye: a massive mountain lion, coiled and poised to strike. Unknowingly, he had stood on the precipice of danger.

This is a powerful parallel to our own lives. God warns us to steer clear of sin and the shadows it casts, yet we often flirt with the edges. We dabble in lust, bow to idols of our own making, engage in destructive gossip, embrace the fleeting allure of the world, chase after greed, harbor bitterness, indulge our carnal desires, and toy with temptation.

But within every sin, unseen in the immediate darkness, lies a destructive beast waiting to pounce. Just like the mountain lion revealed by the long exposure, the devastating consequences hidden within our sins will inevitably be brought to light with the passage of time.

Don’t be deceived into thinking you can play near the entrance of sin without consequence. Don’t give it any foothold in your life. Turn away from the darkness and run from the destruction that lurks within.

As Proverbs 1:10 wisely cautions, “My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent.”

Make a conscious decision today to maintain a wide distance from evil, temptation, and sin. Don’t even approach its doorway.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your clear warnings and for shining a light on the hidden dangers of sin. Forgive us for the times we have been foolish, drawn to the edges of darkness, and blind to the lurking destruction. Grant us the wisdom and strength to heed your call to stay far from evil. Help us to recognize the subtle allure of temptation and to turn away decisively. Fill our hearts with a desire for righteousness and guide our steps on a path that leads away from the shadows and towards your light. May we live lives that honor you and reflect your purity. Amen.

Sin will take you farther than you ever intended to go, cost you more than you ever intended to pay, and leave you with less than you ever intended to keep.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Humility, Wisdom, and God’s Grace…

Proverbs 11:2 offers a profound and enduring truth: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” In a world often captivated by achievement and outward acclaim, this verse serves as a vital compass, guiding us away from the pitfalls of arrogance and towards the enriching path of humility.

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.   Proverbs 11:2

Pride, a subtle yet potent force within the human heart, rarely announces its arrival with overt displays of superiority. Instead, it often takes root quietly, manifesting as a gradual inflation of self-importance and a diminishing sense of reliance on God. We may find ourselves subtly believing in our own self-sufficiency, slowly drifting away from the awareness of our dependence on divine grace. This insidious growth can lead us to a precarious place, built on the shifting sands of our own limited strength.

In stark contrast, true humility illuminates a different way. It is not about self-deprecation or denying the talents we possess, but rather about a profound shift in perspective – thinking of ourselves less and of God more. Humility is the clear recognition that every good gift, every ability, and our very being are ultimately derived from the boundless grace of God.

This understanding fosters a spirit of teachability, allowing us to remain open to His gentle guidance and correction, acknowledging our constant need for His wisdom in our daily lives.

As the world often clamors for attention, urging us to “Look at me!”, let us instead cultivate a quiet reverence that whispers, “Look at Him.” For it is in the act of bowing low in humble recognition of God’s sovereignty that we truly rise in wisdom and grace.

This truth is further echoed in Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

This verse beautifully underscores that humility is not merely a virtue, but a fundamental requirement in our relationship with God. It is intertwined with justice and mercy, forming a triad of essential qualities that define a life lived in accordance with His will.

Dear Heavenly Father, the temptation to seek validation and security in my own abilities often proves strong. Thank You for the unwavering truth of Your Word, reminding me that genuine strength lies not in self-exaltation, but in humble surrender to You. Create within me a heart that is truly humble – one that gratefully acknowledges Your gifts while always remembering and honoring their divine Source. When pride subtly whispers for me to take center stage, gently redirect my gaze and my heart towards You. Grant me the grace to walk the path of humility today, not as a burden, but as the very way that leads me closer to Your loving heart and aligns me with Your perfect will. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Indeed, as the wisdom of ages reminds us, “It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels.” May we always choose the path that elevates not ourselves, but the One who is truly worthy of all praise.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Zebakh, A Life, Not Just Words….

The Hebrew word “Zebakh” signifies sacrifice, a concept central to the ancient Israelite priesthood. Day after day, they presented tangible offerings upon God’s altar, not mere words, stories, or religious theories. Their focus was the physical act of sacrifice.

Similarly, the very heart of our faith rests upon a singular, ultimate Zebakh: the sacrificial offering of Jesus Christ’s life. On Calvary, God didn’t deliver a theological discourse; He offered His Son. Consequently, our faith isn’t a collection of eloquent pronouncements.

It is the acceptance and embrace of that life-giving sacrifice. Unlike other belief systems built on philosophies and teachings, our faith is anchored in a real, divine offering.

Therefore, our spiritual journey cannot be primarily defined by words, doctrines, or even discussions about the Lord. While these have their place, our core must be the sacrifice itself – the Lord Jesus, His very being, His life poured out for us.

Likewise, the offering we present back to God should transcend mere words. It must be our very lives laid down on His altar, a living sacrifice. Let go of the peripheral anxieties and preoccupations of life and return to the foot of the cross. There, at Calvary, you will discover the true Zebakh, the profound offering bestowed upon you: the very life of God.

As 1 Peter 2:5 reminds us, believers are living stones, being formed into a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, called to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the ultimate Zebakh, the immeasurable gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. We pray that our lives would be a true reflection of this sacrifice, not just in word but in deed. Help us to lay down our own agendas and concerns and to offer ourselves fully to You, as living sacrifices, acceptable through Jesus our Lord. May we move beyond the limitations of mere religion and doctrine and encounter the vibrant reality of Your presence in our lives. Amen.

Our faith is not a lecture to be learned but a life to be lived, rooted in the undeniable sacrifice of the One who gave it all.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Opening the Gates of the Heart…

The journey to love is often perceived as an outward quest, a tireless search for “the one” or the perfect circumstance. We scan faces in crowds, swipe through profiles, and orchestrate encounters, hoping to stumble upon the affection we so deeply crave. Yet, today’s reflection gently shifts our focus inward. It reminds us that the truest work lies not in finding love, but in the courageous act of dismantling the walls we’ve unknowingly erected around our own hearts.

Think of these barriers as layers of protection, built brick by weary brick from past hurts, disappointments, and ingrained fears. They might manifest as cynicism, a reluctance to be vulnerable, or a constant anticipation of pain.

While these walls may have served a purpose in shielding us, they ultimately imprison the very love we yearn for. They filter out the warmth, deflect the genuine connection, and whisper doubts that prevent us from fully embracing the present moment.

The invitation today is one of brave self-discovery. It asks us to honestly examine the inner landscape of our hearts and identify these self-imposed limitations. What are the stories we tell ourselves that keep love at bay? What fears whisper in the quiet moments, urging us to remain guarded? Perhaps it’s the fear of rejection, the memory of betrayal, or the ingrained belief that we are somehow unworthy of true affection.

The path to opening ourselves to love is not always easy. It requires vulnerability, a willingness to feel, and a conscious choice to trust even when the shadows of past experiences linger. It demands that we keep our hearts and minds “wide open,” like windows allowing the sunlight to stream in, even when a storm threatens on the horizon.

The wisdom shared reminds us that peace isn’t found in a trouble-free existence, but rather in the unwavering presence of love within us. This inner love acts as an anchor, grounding us amidst the inevitable challenges of life. As we actively seek out the good in others and the positive aspects of our circumstances, we begin to tap into this wellspring of love within ourselves. It’s a beautiful reciprocity – the more we see love in the world around us, the more we awaken to the love that resides in our own being.

Let us then, not focus solely on the external search, but embark on the more profound and transformative journey of inner excavation. Let us gently dismantle the barriers, brick by weary brick, and allow the radiant light of love to shine through, both for ourselves and for those around us.

Heavenly Father, I confess that at times, fear and past hurts have led me to build walls around my heart, unknowingly shielding myself from the very love I desire. Grant me the courage to look honestly within, to identify and gently dismantle these barriers. Help me to trust again, to keep my heart and mind open even when vulnerability feels daunting. Fill me with your peace, which is not the absence of trouble, but the constant presence of your love within me. Guide me to see the good in others and in every situation, so that I may discover and embrace the abundant love that resides within my own soul. Amen.

We love because he first loved us. – 1 John 4:19

This powerful verse reminds us that love is not a finite resource we must strive to attain on our own. It originates from a divine source, a boundless and unconditional love that has already been poured out upon us. Knowing this truth can empower us to release our fears and open ourselves to receive and give love freely, mirroring the very love that created us.

That simple greeting and a smile goes a long way in making someone’s day a bit brighter. It will also make your day better too. A little love goes a long way – give it a try!

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Hopeful Devotion…

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

In the midst of life’s uncertainties, when the path ahead seems shrouded in mist and doubt creeps into our hearts, the words of Jeremiah 29:11 offer a powerful anchor. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This isn’t a casual promise; it’s a declaration from the very creator of the universe, a testament to His unwavering love and intentional purpose for each of us.

Often, our limited human perspective can only see the immediate challenges, the setbacks, and the moments of pain. We might question God’s intentions when life throws us curveballs, wondering if we’ve been forgotten or abandoned. But this verse reminds us that God’s vision is far greater than our own. His plans are not confined to our present circumstances; they stretch into a future filled with hope and well-being.

The word “prosper” here isn’t solely about material wealth. It encompasses wholeness, flourishing, and a deep sense of purpose. God desires for us to thrive in every aspect of our being – spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. The assurance that His plans are “not to harm you” offers comfort in times of difficulty. Even when we face trials, we can trust that God is working through them, shaping us and guiding us towards that hopeful future He has envisioned.

This verse is an invitation to release our anxieties and surrender to God’s loving guidance. It calls us to trust in His wisdom, even when we don’t understand the present. By focusing on His promise of hope and a future, we can find strength to persevere through challenges, knowing that we are held in the palm of a loving hand. Let Jeremiah 29:11 be a daily reminder that we are not adrift, but part of a grand design orchestrated by a God who loves us deeply and desires our ultimate good.

Heavenly Father, we come before you today, holding onto the truth of your Word in Jeremiah 29:11. Thank you for your clear and powerful declaration of your plans for us – plans to prosper us, not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future. Forgive us, Lord, for the times we allow fear and doubt to overshadow your promises. Forgive us when we focus on our limited understanding and fail to trust in your infinite wisdom and love. We pray for the grace to truly believe in your good intentions for our lives. When we face difficulties, help us to remember that you are working behind the scenes, shaping us and guiding us towards your intended purpose. Strengthen our faith to see beyond our present circumstances and to hold onto the hope you offer. Grant us the discernment to recognize your hand at work in our lives, even in unexpected ways. Help us surrender our own plans and desires to your perfect will, trusting that your way is always best. Thank you, Lord, for the assurance of a hopeful future in you. May we live each day with the confidence that we are loved, guided, and destined for good according to your perfect plan. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

God’s plans for you are not a suggestion; they are a declaration of His unwavering love and a blueprint for a future brimming with hope. Trust the Architect, even when the construction phase feels chaotic.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Humility  – The Path To Blessings…

The humbling of our souls, though it may feel like a stripping away, invariably ushers in a positive blessing. When we willingly empty our hearts of self-importance and ego, we create a void that God longs to fill with His boundless love.

Before honor is humility. — Proverbs 15:33

For those who yearn for deep and intimate connection with Christ, let them remember the Lord’s own declaration: “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.”

Indeed, as Proverbs wisely states, “Before honor is humility.” To ascend to the heights of spiritual communion, we must first stoop low. Did not our Savior, Jesus, descend in humility so that He might ascend in glory?

Similarly, we must cultivate a downward growth in our spirit to experience an upward blossoming in our relationship with God. The most profound and sweetest fellowship with heaven is reserved for those who embrace humility and for them alone.

God withholds no true blessing from a spirit that is utterly humbled. “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” a realm overflowing with unimaginable riches and treasures. The entire treasury of God is freely given to the soul that possesses the humility to receive it without succumbing to pride.

Our Heavenly Father pours out blessings upon us to the very limits of what is safe for our spiritual well-being. If a blessing seems withheld, it is often because our unhumbled hearts are not yet ready to receive it without danger. Imagine an unyielding spirit claiming victory in God’s holy work – it would likely seize the glory for itself, only to be defeated by the next challenge.

Therefore, we are kept in a state of humility for our own protection and growth. When a person is genuinely humble, never daring to claim even the smallest sliver of praise for themselves, the possibilities of what God will accomplish through them are virtually limitless.

Humility prepares us to be recipients of God’s abundant grace and equips us to interact effectively and compassionately with our fellow human beings. True humility is a precious flower that enhances any spiritual landscape.

This virtue of humility is like a universal seasoning that enriches every aspect of our lives. Whether we are engaged in prayer or offering praise, whether we are laboring diligently or enduring suffering, the genuine essence of humility can never be overused. It only serves to enhance and deepen our experience.

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge our proneness to pride and self-reliance. We ask for the grace to cultivate true humility within our hearts. Empty us, Lord, of all that hinders us from fully receiving Your love and Your blessings. Grant us the contrite spirit that draws Your gaze and the poverty of spirit that inherits Your kingdom. May we learn to stoop so that we may truly ascend in our relationship with You. Amen.

Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

The Big Picture of Life….

It was early morning, and the sun had just begun to rise. Grandfather took me on a journey to the city through the desert riding on horses. The purpose of the trip was to pick up supplies for the school. But, as usual, he had more than one purpose in mind.

One thing I want you to do today, he said, is to keep watch over the sun.

It was a strange directive, even for a nine year old, but I did my best, noting from time to time it’s position in the sky. At journeys end, upon our return, he questioned me.

What did you see? He asked

Nothing out of the ordinary, I replied, nothing of note. The sun was just the sun.

I imagine, Grandfather said, that at times it was obscured by the mountains, the trees, and the buildings of the city. But otherwise, I imagine it stayed the same, certainly the same size. I would also imagine that the landscape was continually changing. Everything was changing around us except for the sun.

That’s true, I said, but isn’t that the way the sun works?

Yes, but why is that the way the sun works? Then he added, It’s because although a mountain or a house or even a hand can appear bigger than the sun and can, for a time obscure it, the reality is that the sun’s true magnitude, it’s actual size, is so enormous, so colossal, that the highest mountain on earth is as nothing in comparison. It doesn’t appear so in the short run, but it becomes clear over the long run. Even in our little journey, everything we saw completely changed, the hills, the mountains, everything but the sun. If we had traveled thousands of miles, it wouldn’t have made a difference. The sun’s colossal magnitude is manifested by it’s changelessness.

What does that reveal? I asked.

Then Grandfather smiled and said two thousand years ago, Jesus said, ‘ I am the Light of the World.’ Since that time, ages have begun and ended, continents and civilizations have been discovered, kingdoms and empires have risen and fallen, kings and luminaries have appeared and passed away. And some of these have, for a moment, seemed larger. For a time, they obscured the figure of the Nazarene. But in the long run, over the course of the long journey, they’ve all passed away. Everything has changed… except Him. All the rest lies in ruins and rubble or in the pages of history… but He remains unchanged, undiminished.. as central, as pivotal and as colossal as He has ever been. Everything changes, but Him. He is the sun. The immensity of His magnitude is manifested by His changelessness.

Dear Lord, Thank you for the powerful reminder of your unchanging nature, your colossal magnitude that dwarfs all the fleeting challenges and changes in our lives. Just as the sun remained constant in the sky despite the shifting landscapes, help us to keep our focus on you, the true Light of the World. Grant us the wisdom to see our current problems in the light of your eternal perspective, knowing that they are temporary and small in comparison to your greatness. May we find comfort and strength in your steadfastness, trusting that you remain our constant and unwavering source of hope and peace. Help us to walk daily with you by our side, drawing strength from your presence and guidance. May we always remember that you are the “Big Picture,” the unchanging truth in a world of constant change. In your name, we pray, Amen.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  Hebrews 13:8

Today, see all things in view of the big picture. Whatever problems or issues you have are small in comparison to Him and will pass away in the magnitude of the Son.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼