Ed Christian's World

The Foundation of True Wisdom…

Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”

In a world constantly seeking the next great idea, the latest trend, or the quickest path to success, we are often told that wisdom comes from experience, education, or even raw intelligence. While these certainly play a role in accumulating knowledge, true wisdom, according to the ancient proverb, begins in a far more profound place: the fear of the Lord.

This “fear” isn’t a cowering terror, but a deep reverence, an awe-filled respect for the Creator of all things. It’s the recognition of His absolute sovereignty, His perfect holiness, and His unfathomable love. When we truly grasp who God is, our perspective shifts. Our priorities are realign. We begin to see ourselves, our lives, and the world around us through His divine lens.

From this respectful awe springs genuine knowledge of the Holy One. It’s not merely intellectual assent to theological concepts but an intimate, personal understanding that transforms our hearts and minds. This knowledge isn’t gleaned from textbooks alone; it’s forged in prayer, in worship, in studying His Word, and in surrendering our will to His.

When we prioritize fearing the Lord and diligently pursuing knowledge of Him, we lay the only true foundation for lasting wisdom and understanding. We gain insight that transcends earthly limitations, guidance that never fails, and a peace that the world cannot give. This is not just a verse for scholars or theologians; it is a profound truth for every person seeking a life of purpose, meaning, and true fulfillment.

The fear of the Lord is not just a feeling; it is the fertile soil from which all genuine wisdom grows, bearing the fruit of understanding that truly satisfies the soul.

Heavenly Father, We come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging Your supreme greatness and holiness. Forgive us for the times we have sought wisdom in worldly pursuits alone, neglecting the one true source. Open our eyes, Lord, to understand what it means to truly fear You – not with dread, but with a profound reverence and awe for who You are. Grant us the grace to diligently seek knowledge of You, not just intellectually, but with a desire for a deeper, more intimate relationship. May this fear and knowledge be the starting point for all our understanding, guiding our steps, illuminating our decisions, and shaping our lives according to Your perfect will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

In Whose You Are…

As we start this new day, let’s find comfort and strength in the beautiful promise found in Isaiah 46:4. May this verse remind us of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness, from our first breath to our last.

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.    Isaiah 46:4

Life has a way of taking us through unexpected twists and turns, doesn’t it? One moment we’re riding high, the next we’re wondering how we’ll make it through the day. But in the midst of life’s challenges, there is One who remains constant: our loving Heavenly Father.

Isaiah 46:4 is a powerful promise straight from God’s heart to ours. He’s reminding us that He has been with us from the very beginning, and He will continue to be with us, sustaining us, carrying us, and rescuing us – even into our old age.

And the beautiful thing is, this promise isn’t dependent on our performance or perfection. It’s rooted in God’s character, in His steadfast love and faithfulness. So even on those days when we feel weak or weary, we can lean into His strength and know that He’s got us.

Today, wherever you find yourself on life’s journey, take a moment to rest in this promise. The God who has carried you thus far isn’t going to let you go now. You are forever held in His loving embrace.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the beautiful promise in Isaiah 46:4. Life can be a wild ride sometimes, but it’s so comforting to know that You’re always there with me, my rock-solid foundation through it all. You’ve been with me since day one, and Your love will be with me until the very end. When I’m weak, You give me strength. When I stumble, You hold me up.  Thank you for reminding me that my value isn’t in what I do, but in whose I am—Yours. You’ve promised to carry me, sustain me, and rescue me through every season, and that brings me so much peace. Help me always remember that I’m held securely in Your loving arms. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

God will meet you where you are in order to take you where He wants you to go.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Focusing On Jesus: The Source of Our Hope

It’s a constant spiritual battle: the Holy Spirit is always working to direct our gaze toward Jesus, while Satan actively tries to pull our attention inward, making us focus on ourselves.

Satan whispers doubts like, “Your sins are unforgivable; you lack faith; your repentance isn’t enough; you’ll never persevere; you don’t have the joy of God’s children; your grip on Jesus is too weak.”

These thoughts, all centered on self, will only lead to discomfort and uncertainty.

However, the Holy Spirit redirects our focus entirely away from ourselves, reminding us that “Christ is all in all.” It’s crucial to remember that your salvation doesn’t depend on how tightly you hold onto Christ, but on Christ Himself. Your joy in Christ doesn’t save you; Christ does. Even faith in Christ, though the instrument, isn’t the ultimate source of salvation; it’s Christ’s blood and merits.

So, instead of examining your grip on Christ, look to Christ. Don’t focus on your hope, but on Jesus, the wellspring of that hope. Don’t fixate on your faith, but on Jesus, the one who initiates and perfects it. We won’t find true happiness by dwelling on our prayers, actions, or emotions. It’s who Jesus is, not who we are, that brings peace to our souls.

To overcome the devil and experience peace with God, we must consistently be “looking unto Jesus.” Keep your eyes fixed on Him. Let His death, His suffering, His merits, His glory, and His intercession remain vivid in your mind. Look to Him when you wake and when you go to sleep. Don’t let your hopes or fears stand between you and Jesus. Pursue Him diligently, and He will never abandon you.

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness:
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

Heavenly Father, We humble ourselves before You, acknowledging our constant tendency to look inward and to doubt. Forgive us for the times we focus on our shortcomings, our wavering faith, or our past failures, rather than resting in Your boundless grace. Holy Spirit, we pray that You would continually turn our eyes to Jesus. Help us to see Him as the author and perfecter of our faith, the one whose blood and righteousness alone secure our salvation. Free us from the deception of the enemy who seeks to distract us with self-condemnation. Lord Jesus, we fix our gaze upon You. We remember Your sacrifice on the cross, Your triumphant resurrection, Your glorious ascension, and Your ceaseless intercession for us. Let Your merits be our only plea, Your love our only hope, and Your power our constant strength. May our lives be a testament to the truth that our hope is found in nothing less than Your finished work. Keep our hearts and minds steadfastly on You, so that we may live in Your peace and glorify Your name always. Amen.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Live A Full Life…

Today’s devotional is for anyone who’s ever stayed quiet, held back, or hid part of who they are—just to be liked.

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. Proverbs 29:25

She used to sing with abandon in church—until someone pulled her aside and suggested she “tone it down.” Now she mouths the words.

We all know this shrinking. Maybe yours started with a sarcastic comment about your dreams. Or that look when you shared your heart. Solomon warned us that fearing people is a trap. And we walk right into it, editing ourselves down until we’re unrecognizable.

Here’s what changed everything for me: I realized people-pleasing isn’t humble—it’s exhausting. You can’t love people you’re desperately trying to impress. You can’t bless anyone while managing their opinions. You can’t shine while constantly dimming your light.

God doesn’t want your perfect performance. He wants your real self—the one He delighted in creating. His approval isn’t fickle like theirs. It’s settled. Permanent. Yours.

When you finally believe that, you stop shrinking. You sing loud, dream wild, love freely. Not to prove anything—but because you’re already proven.

Someone needs exactly what you’ve been hiding.

How would you live if you trusted God’s opinion more than people’s?

Father, Thank You that I don’t have to earn Your love or perform for Your approval. Still, I admit—I shrink back. I hide parts of myself to fit in, to be liked, to avoid judgment. Remind me today that I am already chosen, already loved, already enough in Your eyes. Give me courage to stop hiding. Let my life speak honestly, and my love shines freely—not to impress, but to reflect the freedom I’ve found in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The remarkable thing about God is that when you fear Him, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Living With Anticipation And Purpose…

We all understand the excitement of a countdown—the growing anticipation for a cherished holiday, a special birthday, or a long-awaited event. Yet, when it comes to the promised return of Jesus, there’s no visible clock ticking down the moments.

Matthew 24:44 clearly states, “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him.”

This isn’t a warning to instill dread, but a profound encouragement to embrace each day with purpose and readiness.

Imagine the joy of a surprise visit from someone you dearly love. Wouldn’t you want to be prepared? Your home would be welcoming, your heart open, and you’d be eager to greet them.

This analogy perfectly captures how we are called to live in anticipation of Jesus’ return. It’s not about achieving perfection but about being prepared. This readiness involves nurturing our relationship with God, pouring into our loved ones, and serving others with a truly generous spirit.

Let’s shift our focus from merely “waiting” to actively “living.” Each day presents a fresh opportunity to love, to serve, and to share the hope that Christ offers. By doing so, we embody the very essence of readiness, ensuring that whenever He comes, we’ll be found engaged in His work, eagerly awaiting His glorious arrival.

The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is to live a life devoted to Him in the present.

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the promise of Your Son’s return, a promise that fills our hearts with both hope and anticipation. Help us, we pray, to live each day not with fear but with intentionality and purpose, as if today were the day You would call us home. Soften our hearts, Lord, that we may continually draw closer to You, investing in our relationships and serving those around us with genuine love and generosity. May our lives be a testament to Your grace, always ready to welcome You with joy. Amen.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Embracing God’s Global Glory

Do you ever feel caught in life’s endless cycle, constantly pursuing temporary pleasures and hollow aspirations? It’s a feeling Habakkuk, a prophet of God, knew well. He witnessed people tirelessly striving for things that ultimately crumble or fade away.

Yet, amidst this, God reveals a profound truth—a promise as immense and awe-inspiring as the deepest ocean: a day is coming when His glory will completely fill the earth. Every corner, every heart, every life will intimately experience His magnificent splendor.

This isn’t merely a distant dream; it’s a present invitation to live differently. It’s an opportunity to step away from the relentless pace and embrace the abundant life Jesus offers. We are not just bystanders in this unfolding narrative; we are active participants.

Imagine: every nation, every tribe, and every language united in a harmonious symphony of praise to the King of Kings. This is the future we are actively shaping, one act of kindness, one word of truth, and one moment of grace at a time.

So, let’s abandon the superficial pursuits and immerse ourselves in the boundless depths of God’s love. Let’s live lives that resonate with eternity, lives that reflect His glory in every aspect. Ultimately, what truly matters isn’t what we accumulate in this world, but what we contribute to His Kingdom.

Dear Lord, forgive me for getting caught in the relentless pace, chasing after fleeting desires that ultimately disappoint. It’s so easy to lose sight of what truly matters amid life’s countless distractions. But today, Your promise in Habakkuk ignites a profound hope within me. I envision that breathtaking scene of Your glory flooding the earth, and I long to be a part of it. Help me to step off the treadmill of emptiness and onto the path You’ve laid out for me. I want to be a wave in Your ocean of glory, Lord, carrying Your light and love to everyone I encounter. Help me to live a life that truly counts, a life that echoes with eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Our highest and most privileged calling is to align with God’s will, empowered by His Spirit, for the ultimate expression of His glory.

Walk daily with God by your side!

With love,

Ed 🙏🏼

God’s Boundless Gifts: Mercy, Peace, and Love…

The opening of the Book of Jude isn’t just a salutation; it’s a revelation of God’s very nature: “Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance” (Jude 1:2).

These three divine gifts—mercy, peace, and love—flow directly from the Father’s heart and touch the deepest parts of our being.

Why these specific gifts? Because they address our most fundamental needs. We yearn for mercy when we stumble and fall short. We long for peace when life’s challenges become overwhelming. And we hunger for an unwavering love that embraces us, flaws and all.

God’s response to these profound needs isn’t a cautious distribution based on our deserving. He doesn’t offer a temporary solution until we falter again. Instead, He pours out abundance—limitless waves of mercy that extend beyond our deepest regrets, a peace that transcends our greatest fears, and a love that fills voids we didn’t even realize existed.

This is the essence of our Father’s heart: He delights in giving until our cups overflow, watching with joy as we discover the immeasurable extent of His generosity. Today, let this powerful truth take root within you: you are blessed with an overflowing abundance, not because you’ve earned it, but simply because you are His beloved child.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the boundless ocean of Your mercy, peace, and love. Open our hearts to fully receive the abundance You so freely give. Help us to rest in Your unfailing love, find peace amidst every storm, and embrace Your mercy as we navigate life’s journey. May Your generous spirit fill us and overflow into the lives of others for Your glory. Amen.

The great acts of love are done by those who are habitually performing small acts of kindness. We pardon in the degree that we love. Love is the will to extend one’s self for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another’s spiritual growth.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Eternal Life – A Dress Rehearsal…

Today, let’s dive into the life-changing truth found in John 6:47. May this verse remind us of the incredible gift of eternal life that is ours through faith in Jesus Christ.

Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. John 6:47

This earthly life is just preparation – the dress rehearsal for the real, eternal life that Jesus promises to those who believe in Him. Our time here allows us to get spiritually fit, developing the character for our forever role.

We go through cycles of challenges not just to build our strength but to realize this world’s comforts are temporary. God wants us focused on the permanence of that promised eternity, not getting distracted by possessions, popularity, or pressure.

When we obsess over our problems, we turn inward and lose sight of God’s greater purposes. But when we shift our gaze to Him, our pain dissipates as we remember the gift of eternal life that outshines any earthly struggle.

The good times and bad are opportunities to practice pursuing Christ above all else. To embrace the peace, purpose, and hope that come from knowing this life is just the warm-up act before the real, eternal show with God.

So let’s not get consumed by the temporary. Whether life is a valley or a peak, we’re just rehearsing for the ultimate prize – eternity with our Lord and Savior through the promise of John 6:47. Our focus determines our readiness for that eternal role.

Heavenly Father, Help me remember that this life is but a preparation for the eternal life promised to those who believe in Your Son Jesus. May I not get distracted by temporary pleasures or problems, but keep my focus on the permanence of Your promises. Use the highs and lows I experience to shape my character for my forever role with You. Let the peace, purpose, and hope found in Christ sustain me through any earthly struggles. Prepare my heart to one day join You in the reality of John 6:47’s promise – everlasting life in Your glorious presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Aim at Heaven, and you will get Earth ‘thrown in’: aim at Earth, and you will get neither.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

Contentment…

The ancient Japanese tale of Hashnu the stonecutter beautifully illustrates a universal truth: true power and contentment aren’t found in external circumstances or material possessions but in recognizing and embracing our own inherent worth Hashnu, constantly striving for what he perceived as “more powerful” – a king, the sun, a cloud, a rock – ultimately found himself in a cyclical pursuit of elusive satisfaction.

It was only when he witnessed the humble stonecutter, a reflection of his original self, that he understood the profound strength of being content with who you are.

This resonates deeply with the wisdom found in Hebrews 13:5: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'”

Just as Hashnu learned that external power was fleeting, we are reminded that true security and blessing come not from what we accumulate or achieve in the world, but from the unwavering presence and love of the Divine.

Our worth isn’t dictated by our job title, our bank account, or our social status. It’s an intrinsic gift, given to us by a loving God who promises constant companionship and support, regardless of our situation.

Today, let’s take a moment to reflect on Hashnu’s journey and the timeless message of Hebrews. No matter our current “station or circumstance,” we are indeed blessed and loved.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of life and for Your constant presence in our lives. Help us to find contentment in who You have made us to be, and to trust in Your unfailing love and promises. Free us from the endless pursuit of more, and open our eyes to the blessings that already surround us. May we always remember that You are with us, never leaving us nor forsaking us. Amen.

The greatest wealth is to live content with little.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼

A Greatfull Heart. ..

In our pursuit of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, we may find ourselves wondering where to begin. The answer lies in a simple yet transformative practice: gratitude.

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.    Mark 12:30

Gratitude is the spark that ignites a deep, abiding love for God. It’s the lens through which we begin to see His hand in every aspect of our lives. When we cultivate a grateful heart, we train our eyes to see the countless ways God is moving, providing, and caring for us.

Each whispered “thank You” becomes a seed of love, planted in the fertile soil of our hearts. As we water these seeds with consistent acknowledgment of God’s goodness, they grow into a lush garden of adoration and devotion.

Through the practice of gratitude, we discover that loving God with our entire being isn’t a distant, abstract concept. It’s a natural outpouring of a heart that recognizes the depth and breadth of His love for us.

Today, embrace gratitude as your pathway to a deeper, more intimate love for God. Let each thankful thought and word draw you closer to the heart of the One who loves you beyond measure.

Heavenly Father, In my journey to love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, guide me to start with a heart of gratitude. Let me see Your hand in the small and grand moments of my life, acknowledging each as a gift from You. As I express my thanks, deepen my love for You, allowing it to flourish and encompass every part of my being. Help me to recognize and cherish Your constant presence, finding new reasons to be grateful each day, and drawing closer to You in every grateful thought and word. Thank You for Your love that never fails, a love so grand that it compels me to love You in return with all that I am. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Though we are incomplete, God loves us completely. Though we are imperfect, He loves us perfectly. Though we may feel lost and without compass, God’s love encompasses us completely. … He loves every one of us, even those who are flawed, rejected, awkward, sorrowful, or broken.

Walk daily with God at your side!

Love always,

Ed 🙏🏼