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Tongues

Tongues as a Sign to Unbelievers 

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The Languages of Pentecost

Unlocking the Mystery: The Four Kinds of Tongues in the Bible – Part 1

The day of Pentecost marked a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and with it came a miracle that left Jerusalem in awe. Believers spoke in languages they had never learned, and every foreigner present heard the Gospel in their own tongue. This first kind of tongues, tongues as a sign to unbelievers, reveals the supernatural reach of God’s power.

“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with different tongues, as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out. Now there were Jews residing in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the crowd came together, and they were bewildered because each one of them was hearing them speak in his own language.” (Acts 2:4–6, NASB)

What Are Tongues as a Sign to Unbelievers?

At Pentecost, tongues served a clear purpose: to show unbelievers the reality and power of the living God. The disciples spoke real, known human languages they had never studied. As the crowd gathered, each person heard the message in their own native tongue. Nations and languages that had been scattered were suddenly united in one message: the mighty deeds of God.

This was a miracle not of chaos but of clarity. It was a moment when the power of the Holy Spirit overruled human limitations, reaching hearts across cultural barriers.

Why Tongues as a Sign Matter

Paul later affirms this type of tongues:

“So then, tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is for a sign, not to unbelievers but to those who believe.” (1 Corinthians 14:22, NASB)

Tongues as a sign speak directly to unbelievers in their heart language without the need for an interpreter. It’s God Himself initiating the conversation, showing that no human culture or barrier can stop the spread of the Gospel.

Speaking in Tongues as a Sign to Unbelievers

In a contemporary setting, a remarkable incident occurred during a prayer meeting. A participant, unfamiliar with the Hebrew language, felt led by the Holy Spirit to speak in tongues. As he did so, a newcomer to the group, who was fluent in Hebrew, was astonished. He asked, “Do you speak Hebrew?” The speaker replied, “No, not at all.” The newcomer explained that he had clearly understood the message in Hebrew, which deeply moved him and affirmed the presence of God’s power in the gathering. (kingdomanointing.com)

This modern testimony echoes the events of Pentecost, demonstrating that the Holy Spirit continues to use the gift of tongues to reach unbelievers, transcending language barriers and affirming the Gospel’s truth.

The Shofar Blast to Gather Nations

In ancient Israel, the shofar’s blast called the people together. At Pentecost, the “blast” of tongues gathered the nations. It was the divine announcement: the King reigns, and His salvation is for all peoples. Just as the shofar pierced the air and demanded attention, the sound of Spirit-inspired tongues drew the nations to the message of the Messiah.

Self-Examination Questions

  • Am I open to the Holy Spirit using me beyond my natural abilities?
  • Do I believe God still works miracles like He did at Pentecost?
  • Have I prayed for boldness to share the Gospel with those beyond my language or culture?

The Gospel in Every Tongue

The first kind of tongues reminds us that God’s mission is global. He desires that every tribe and language hear of His mighty deeds. Tongues as a sign to unbelievers reveal that He is not silent. He is calling the nations to Himself with power and clarity.

“And it will be that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Acts 2:21, NASB)

Prayer

Lord Yeshua, thank You for pouring out the Holy Spirit with power at Pentecost. Fill us again, that we may boldly proclaim Your mighty deeds. Break through every language barrier and cultural wall by Your Spirit. Make us vessels for Your glory. In Your Name we pray, amen.

⸻

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Faith

God’s Faithfulness and Promises

In the beginning, God spoke, and all creation obeyed. From the first breath of life to the stars flung across the heavens, the Word of God stood sure. God’s faithfulness and promises are not mere whispers in the wind; they are the bedrock upon which all life stands.

Throughout the ages, God has never broken a promise. When He covenanted with Noah, He sealed it with a bow in the clouds (Genesis 9:13, NASB). When He spoke to Abraham, He swore by Himself, for there was no one greater (Hebrews 6:13, NASB). In every generation, God’s covenant love has remained steadfast.

“Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His faithfulness to a thousand generations for those who love Him and keep His commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9, NASB)

The faithfulness of God is not abstract. It is not distant. It breathes into the heart of every believer. When we are faithless, He remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13, NASB). His promises do not depend on man’s strength, but on His eternal nature.

The greatest expression of God’s faithfulness and promises is found in Yeshua, our Messiah. In Him, every promise finds its “Yes” and its “Amen” (2 Corinthians 1:20, NASB). The covenant of old, sealed by the blood of bulls and goats, gave way to a better covenant, established on better promises (Hebrews 8:6, NASB).

Beloved, consider the promises of God:

  • He promised never to leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5, NASB).
  • He promised to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11, NASB).
  • He promised eternal life to all who believe (John 3:16, NASB).
  • He promised to finish the good work He began in you (Philippians 1:6, NASB).
Prayer of agreement

God’s faithfulness and promises are not fragile threads but cords of love that cannot be broken.

In our lives, we see His faithfulness in every sunrise, in every answered prayer, and even in every waiting season. His Word stands eternal. When the world shakes, God remains unshakable.

Abraham waited years to see the son God promised. Israel wandered the desert but eventually entered the Promised Land. David, anointed king in his youth, waited decades to sit on the throne. In all of this, God’s faithfulness and promises proved true.

Let this truth sink deep into your soul: God does not lie. He does not waver. What He has spoken, He will accomplish. “God is not a man, that He would lie, nor a son of man, that He would change His mind. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Numbers 23:19, NASB)

Child of God, you are living proof of His covenant-keeping love. You are a testimony that God’s faithfulness and promises endure. Every breath you take is grace. Every step you walk by faith is a declaration: “My God is faithful.”

Do not grow weary in the waiting. Trust Him. Hold fast to the promises. For it is written: “Let us hold firmly to the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23, NASB)

Teach us to pray like Moses
Learn to pray like Moses through Psalm 90—teach us to pray like Moses with awe, humility, and eternal perspective in every word.

God’s faithfulness and promises are the anchor for your soul. In joy and sorrow, in plenty and want, He remains the same. Press into Him. Seek His face. Remember that His covenant with you is sealed by the blood of Yeshua and cannot be undone.

Let us pray.

Father, we stand in awe of Your faithfulness. You have never failed. You keep all Your promises. Anchor our hearts in Your truth. Teach us to trust You even when we do not see. Help us to walk by faith, knowing that You are working all things for our good. Draw us closer to You. Let us live as testimonies of Your unchanging love. In the name of Yeshua, our covenant-keeping King, we pray. Amen.

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ginosko

Know the Living God

“Be still and know that I am God.” —Psalm 46:10 (NASB)

Beloved, it is not enough to know about God, but to know the Living God. Many have studied His name, read His Word, even walked among His people—yet never encountered Him face to face. This is the tragedy of religion without revelation, theology without intimacy. But God did not create you for a shallow knowledge. He created you to know Him.

In Hebrew, yadaʿ; in Greek, ginōskō. This is not mere head knowledge—it is intimate, covenantal, heart-deep knowing. It speaks of relationship, not information. It is how a husband knows his bride, with love and faithfulness. It is how a shepherd knows each sheep by name, tenderly and without mistake. It is how a child knows the voice of their father, with instinct and trust. This is how God knows us—and how He calls us to know Him. “I am the Good Shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me” (John 10:14, NASB).

From the beginning, God has desired to be known so that we would know the Living God. “They will know that I am the Lord their God who brought them out of the land of Egypt” (Exodus 29:46, NASB). His mighty acts were not for spectacle but for relationship. He gave signs, sabbaths, deliverance, and commandments—all so His people would know Him. He speaks to the humble, “That I may know You, so that I may find favor in Your sight” (Exodus 33:13, NASB).

But how easily people settle for knowledge about God instead of truly knowing the Living God. They memorize doctrine but never fall in love. They attend services but never commune with the Spirit. They use His name but do not know His voice. What did Yeshua say? “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3, NASB).

Do you know Him? Truly?

The prophets cried out for this very thing. Hosea wept, “Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord” (Hosea 6:3, NASB). Jeremiah thundered, “Let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me” (Jeremiah 9:24, NASB). And the psalmist declared, “Those who know Your name will put their trust in You” (Psalm 9:10, NASB).

To know the Living God is to walk in His presence, abide in His truth, and burn with love for Him. It is to hear Him say, “You are Mine” (Isaiah 43:1, NASB), and to answer, “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12, NASB). This is the call—to move from the outer courts of information to the holy of holies of intimacy.

The early church knew this power. Paul cried out, “That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection” (Philippians 3:10, NASB). Peter prayed, “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God” (2 Peter 1:2, NASB). And John testified, “We know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we may know Him who is true” (1 John 5:20, NASB).

This is your invitation.

Not just to study—but to seek.
Not just to understand—but to encounter.
Not just to hear about God—but to know Him.

Let us pray

Father, El Elyon, the Most High—draw us close to You. Open the eyes of our hearts to know You, not by intellect alone, but by Spirit and truth. Like Moses, we say, “Show me now Your ways, that I may know You.” Like Paul, we press on to know the Living God. Like David, we thirst for You as the deer pants for the water brooks. Take us deeper than we’ve gone before. Let our hearts burn with the knowledge of the Holy. Let every other pursuit fade until we are found in You alone.

We want to know You.

Not just facts—but Your face.
Not just power—but Your presence.
Not just names—but You, Yeshua, our God and King.

Amen.

See Also

Revival, The Pursuit

The Lord Is Near—Do Not Turn Away

Beloved, hear the voice of the Lord—do not harden your heart, for The Lord Nears.

{Day Five}

God’s Unchanging Call to You

God never changes. He is I AM (Exodus 3:14), the eternal foundation against which all things are measured. Though the world shifts and people falter, God remains faithful, merciful, and ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5). The Lord nears, His love is abundant, His mercy overflows, and He calls to all who will listen.

Yet, He does not leave us as we are. He desires a transformation—not just an outward confession but a deep, lasting renewal in our souls. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), not to condemn but to bring true, lasting life. Indeed, the Lord nears to bring transformation.

If you hear His voice today, do not resist (Hebrews 3:15). The hardened heart shuts out the voice of God, but the heart that is tender before Him will be filled with His presence as the Lord nears.

The Spirit Moves in Power

When the Word of God is spoken, the Spirit moves. As Peter preached, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard (Acts 10:44). This is not a distant event—it is the reality of God at work today. The Lord nears through His Word.

God’s Word is not empty—it is living, active, and powerful. Those who receive it become living letters, written not with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God, inscribed upon human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your life becomes a testimony, a witness of the transforming power of God.

But transformation requires surrender. The Spirit does not merely declare us righteous—He makes righteousness our desire. The atonement in Christ’s blood has made this change possible, and the Holy Spirit makes it a reality.

What Must You Do?

If the Spirit is speaking to you, do not ignore Him. The enemy wants to keep you indifferent, distracted, or convinced that you can wait. But now is the time to seek the Lord.

Here’s how you can respond:

1. Call upon Him in prayer. Open your heart to Him and invite the Holy Spirit to reveal anything that needs to change. Remember, the Lord nears those who seek Him.

2. Repent and surrender. If there is sin in your life, confess it and ask God to cleanse you. He is ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5).

3. Read His Word with expectation. The Spirit speaks through Scripture—let it shape you.

4. Act on what you hear. Obedience is the key to spiritual growth. The more you follow His leading, the more His presence will be evident in your life.

5. Stay in community. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and challenge you to walk in faith.

A Final Warning and a Promise

The Lord is near—do not turn Him away. Indifference is dangerous. When we reject the voice of the Spirit, our hearts grow cold, and the conviction we once felt fades. But for those who seek Him, He will answer.

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” (Isaiah 55:6)

God is calling—will you answer?

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Christian Living, Spiritual

Renew Your Mind

The mind is the battlefield where spiritual victories and defeats take place. Your thoughts directly influence your actions, emotions, and the condition of your heart. Therefore, renewing your mind daily is essential for living a life pleasing to God. The Bible reminds us, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, think about these things” (Philippians 4:8, NASB 2020). This verse serves as both a guide and a challenge to focus on God’s truth instead of the noise around you.

Why You Must Renew Your Mind Daily

Without renewal, your mind becomes vulnerable to worldly influences, fear, and distractions. The world constantly tries to conform you to its patterns, filling your thoughts with doubt and negativity. But God calls you to transformation through the renewing of your mind. As Romans 12:2 (NASB 2020) urges, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Think of your mind like a garden. If you neglect it, weeds will overrun it. However, if you tend to it daily—removing weeds, planting seeds, and watering them—it will flourish. Similarly, God’s Word and prayer act as tools to cultivate a pure, renewed mind.

How to Align Your Thoughts with God’s Truth

1. Start Your Day with Prayer

Each morning, ask God to renew your mind and align your thoughts with His truth. Pray as David did: “Create in me a clean heart, God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me”(Psalm 51:10, NASB 2020). By beginning the day with this request, you set the tone for a Christ-centered mindset.

2. Meditate on God’s Word

Meditate on Scriptures that reflect what is pure, honorable, and praiseworthy. For example, read Philippians 4:8 and consider how your current thoughts align with these virtues. When negative or fearful thoughts arise, counter them with God’s promises, such as “You will keep in perfect peace the one whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3, NASB 2020).

3. Guard Your Mind

Be intentional about what you consume. The media, conversations, and entertainment you engage with all shape your thoughts. Ask yourself: Does this reflect what is pure, lovely, and commendable? If not, replace it with something that does.

4. Take Every Thought Captive

When intrusive or negative thoughts arise, take them captive and make them obedient to Christ. As 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NASB 2020) says, “We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.” Picture yourself capturing those thoughts like a bird in a net and handing them over to Yeshua.

Illustration: The Renewed Mind is Like a Filter

Imagine a water filter. Without it, impurities pollute the water, making it harmful to drink. Your mind works the same way. If you allow unfiltered thoughts to remain, they can pollute your heart and actions. Renewing your mind daily is like installing a spiritual filter that keeps impurities out and allows God’s truth to flow freely.

The Results of a Renewed Mind

When you renew your mind daily, you experience transformation. You will notice a shift in how you react to challenges and perceive the world. You’ll walk in greater peace, as God promises in Isaiah 26:3. Your heart will also grow in purity, allowing you to see God more clearly, as Yeshua declared: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” (Matthew 5:8, NASB 2020).

Final Plea: Make Renewal a Daily Priority

Don’t wait until you feel overwhelmed or lost to seek God’s renewal. Make it a daily practice. Set aside time every morning to pray, read the Word, and refocus your thoughts on the things of God. Doing this will prepare you to face the day with the strength and clarity that only Yeshua can provide.

Prayer for Daily Renewal:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word that renews and restores us. We ask You to create in us clean hearts and renew steadfast spirits within us. Help us to think about what is true, honorable, and worthy of praise. Guard our minds from negativity and lies, and help us take every thought captive to the obedience of Yeshua. We surrender to Your will and ask for Your Spirit to transform us daily. In Yeshua’s name, we pray. Amen.

See Also

Faith, The Pursuit

The Cost of Saying Yes to God

Beloved, what would it take for you to trust God completely? Not just in the easy moments, but when the stakes are high, the future is uncertain, and the cost feels unbearable. Blind, unconditional faith is not about ignorance; it is about trust—a trust so deep that before God even asks, your heart cries, “Yes, Lord!”

Abraham stands as a towering example of this kind of faith. When God commanded him to sacrifice Isaac, his promised son, Abraham obeyed without hesitation. “By faith Abraham, when he was tested [that is, as the testing of his faith was still in progress], offered up Isaac” (Hebrews 11:17 AMP). Abraham didn’t demand answers or explanations; he trusted that God’s promises are unshakable and that His ways are always perfect. Can you say the same? Would you lay down what is most precious to you, knowing God’s plan is greater? Abraham’s faith came from seeking God’s presence continually.

The prophet Isaiah’s response to God’s call echoes the same surrender. When God asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” Isaiah didn’t hesitate. He declared, “Here I am. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8 AMP). He didn’t ask about the mission or the dangers involved. He simply trusted that to obey God was the highest honor.

Mary and Joseph, too, modeled this unwavering obedience. Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38 AMP), even though her “yes” invited public shame and possible death. Joseph obeyed the angel’s command to take Mary as his wife and protect the unborn Savior, despite the whispers of scandal and the uncertainty of the road ahead. Their faith was not blind to the cost; it was fixed on the God who is faithful. Their actions showed that seeking God’s presence was paramount in their lives.

Now, beloved, I ask you: where is your faith? Are you holding back parts of your life, waiting for assurances or guarantees before you obey? Or is your heart fully surrendered, saying, “Yes, Lord,” before you even know the question? Blind unconditional faith is not a leap into the dark; it is a leap into the arms of a God who has never failed. Your leap begins with seeking God’s presence daily.

The world needs men and women like Abraham, Isaiah, Mary, and Joseph—people who trust God no matter the cost. Rise up and say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Let your life be a testimony of faith that inspires others to lay down their fears and follow Him with reckless abandon. By seeking God’s presence, you inspire others to deepen their faith.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts longing to trust You more. Teach us to say “yes” before You even ask, to follow You with bold, unconditional faith. Strip away our fears and hesitation, and fill us with the courage to obey You no matter the cost. May our lives echo the words of Isaiah: “Here I am, send me.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now is the time to surrender, beloved. God is calling—will you answer?

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Mercy

The Boundless Mercy of God

Have you ever stopped to consider the depth of God’s mercy? His compassion toward us exceeds every sin, failure, and weakness. The truth of God is eternal: He does not deal with us according to our sins. Psalm 103:10 (AMP) declares, “He has not dealt with us after our sins nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.” This profound truth forms the foundation of the Gospel.

God’s mercy is not something we earn; it is a gift freely given. Deuteronomy 9:5 reminds us that “It is not for your righteousness or the uprightness of your heart that you are going to possess their land, but because of the wickedness of these nations the Lord your God is driving them out before you, and to confirm the promise which the Lord swore to your fathers.” In the same way, He forgives us not because of our works but for the sake of His name and glory (Ezekiel 36:22). This unmerited grace demonstrates the vastness of His love.

God’s Mercy Removes Our Sin Completely

One of the most beautiful truths in Scripture is that God doesn’t simply set aside our sins—He removes them entirely. As Psalm 103:12 (AMP) says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” Imagine this: the east and west never meet. This imagery assures us that our sins, once forgiven, are gone forever.

Isaiah 44:22 further confirms this promise: “I have wiped out your transgressions like a thick cloud and your sins like a heavy mist. Return to Me, for I have redeemed you.” God invites us to return to Him, no longer weighed down by guilt or shame. Through Christ, He casts our sins into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19) and remembers them no more (Hebrews 10:17).

Live in Gratitude for God’s Mercy

God’s mercy calls for a response. His forgiveness isn’t meant to be taken lightly. Reverence and awe should fill our hearts, knowing the cost of this grace. Romans 8:32 reminds us that God did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all. In light of this great sacrifice, we are called to live lives of gratitude, forgiving others as He has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32).

Let this truth sink in: “The Lord knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust” (Psalm 103:14). God’s mercy is rooted in His deep understanding of our weaknesses. He is patient and compassionate, like a father who tenderly cares for his children (Psalm 103:13). Even in our frailty, He draws near to us, offering mercy and grace in our time of need (Hebrews 4:15-16).

How to Respond to God’s Mercy

1. Acknowledge Your Need for Forgiveness: Come humbly before God, confessing your sins. Psalm 32:5 says, “I acknowledged my sin to You, and I did not hide my wickedness; I said, ‘I will confess all my transgressions to the Lord,’ and You forgave the guilt of my sin.”

2. Trust in His Promises: God’s Word is clear—your sins are forgiven and removed. Live in the freedom of His grace.

3. Extend Mercy to Others: As you have received forgiveness, forgive others. Matthew 6:14 reminds us, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

4. Live in Gratitude: Let every day reflect your thankfulness for God’s mercy. Worship Him, honor Him, and walk in obedience to His Word.

Final Encouragement

Beloved, God’s mercy never fails. He has removed your sins as far as the east is from the west and remembers them no more. Do not live in condemnation, for “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Instead, walk in the freedom of His grace, trusting in His unfailing love.

Prayer of Gratitude

Father, thank You for Your boundless mercy and for removing our sins completely. We are humbled by Your forgiveness, knowing we do not deserve it. Teach us to live in reverence and gratitude, forgiving others as You have forgiven us. May our lives reflect Your glory and draw others to Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Advent, Humility

Humility in the Manger

Luke 2:6-7 While they were there [in Bethlehem], the time came for her to give birth, and she gave birth to her Son, her firstborn; and she wrapped Him in [swaddling] cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no [private] room for them in the inn. 

Beloved, let us reflect deeply on the profound mystery of godliness revealed in Jesus Christ: “He was revealed in human flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory” (1 Timothy 3:16, AMP). The eternal Son of God humbled Himself beyond human comprehension: “Although He existed in the form and unchanging essence of God, [He] did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped…but emptied Himself [by assuming the form of a bond-servant]” (Philippians 2:6-7, AMP). Consider this divine paradox: the Ancient of Days became an infant of days to draw near to you.

In His humble birth lies a piercing truth: “The Word (Christ) became flesh, and lived among us” (John 1:14, AMP). The One who declared, “Heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool” (Isaiah 66:1, AMP), chose a manger for His first earthly bed. Do you grasp the weight of this? The Creator of the cosmos wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a feeding trough—this is the humility of our King.

The Call to Follow Christ in Humility

Hear the unchanging call of Christ: “Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls” (Matthew 11:29, AMP). The stable preaches an eternal sermon: “God opposes the proud but continually gives the gift of grace to the humble” (James 4:6, AMP). Beloved, if you would seek Christ, you must walk the path of humility He has laid before us.

To those chasing wealth or status, consider: “For you are recognizing the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [His astonishing kindness, His generosity, His gracious favor], that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9, AMP). Let the divine condescension of Christ move your heart to abandon pride and worldly ambition.

The manger proclaims a hard but beautiful truth: “Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith [and as believers, to be heirs of the kingdom]?” (James 2:5, AMP). You cannot cling to pride and truly seek Christ. Instead, come as the shepherds did—simple, humble, and willing to bow low.

The Hope of Christ for the Broken

To the unworthy and weary, take heart! “For God did not send the Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him” (John 3:17, AMP). The stable speaks across centuries: Christ came for those who know their need for Him. The message of Christmas is one of hope for the humble and the broken: “Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]” (Matthew 5:3, AMP).

Let this truth transform you: “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places…I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2, AMP). But the path to this glory begins at the lowly stable. Jesus Himself said, “Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:12, AMP).

Come to the Manger and Be Transformed

Beloved, this same Jesus who lay in the manger now reigns at the right hand of God: “He is at the right hand of God [that is, the place of honor and authority], with all angels and authorities and powers made subservient to Him” (1 Peter 3:22, AMP). Will you not come to Him? Lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily entangles, for here is the paradox of our faith: “Whoever finds his life [in this world] will eventually lose it [through death], and whoever loses his life [in this world] for My sake will find it [that is, life with Me for all eternity]” (Matthew 10:39, AMP).

Come with the faith that trusts, the humility that bows, and the love that surrenders all. For “to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God” (John 1:12, AMP). Just as He left heaven’s glory for a manger’s straw, He promises: “The one who comes to Me I will most certainly not cast out” (John 6:37, AMP).

Will you come? Will you bow low before the manger and surrender all to Him who gave everything for you?

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself to become a servant for our sake. Teach us to walk in His humility, to lay down our pride, and to come to You empty of ourselves. Help us to see the beauty of the manger and the glory of Your grace poured out for us. Transform our hearts and draw us closer to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

See Also

Advent

Prepare the Way: Walking in the Light of Christ This Advent

Advent is a sacred time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ, the Light from on high. In Luke 1:76-80 (AMP), the prophetic mission of John the Baptist serves as both a foreshadowing of the Messiah’s work and a call for us to align our lives with God’s purposes. When we look to the original Greek text, we find deeper layers of meaning that enrich our understanding of these verses and their relevance to our lives today. This helps us prepare the way for the Light of the World.

“And you, little one, shall be called a prophet of the Most High; for you shall go on before the face of the Lord to make ready His ways” (Luke 1:76 AMP).

The Greek word prophētēs reminds us that John was not merely a predictor of the future but a spokesperson for God, boldly proclaiming the truth and preparing hearts to receive Jesus. His mission, grounded in the authority of the Most High (Ὑψίστου), was to clear the way for the Savior. Similarly, Advent calls us to prepare—not just our homes and traditions, but our hearts and lives—so that Christ may reign fully in us. Hence, we must prepare the way for the Light of the World.

The Knowledge of Salvation and the Tender Mercy of God

John’s message was centered on salvation: “To bring and give the knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness and remission of their sins” (Luke 1:77 AMP).

Here, the Greek word sōtēria (salvation) speaks of deliverance, preservation, and healing, emphasizing that salvation through Christ is holistic and life-transforming. This salvation is more than an intellectual concept; it is an experiential gnōsis—a deep and personal encounter with God’s grace. At its core is aphesis, the complete release from the burden of sin, offering freedom and reconciliation with God. Preparing the way for the Light of the World is paramount to receiving this salvation.

This salvation flows from the tender mercy of our God (σπλάγχνα, splanchna). The Greek imagery here is profound: it reflects a deep, visceral compassion—God’s very heart moved toward humanity. It was this mercy that prompted God to send His Son as the Anatolē, the “Dawn from on high,” to illuminate the darkness of our sin and despair.

The Light That Dispels Darkness

“To shine upon and give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to direct and guide our feet in a straight line into the way of peace” (Luke 1:79 AMP).

The Greek verb phōtisai (to enlighten) reveals the transformative power of Christ’s light. This is not a superficial illumination but a deep unveiling of truth and grace that rescues us from skotos (spiritual darkness). Isaiah 9:2 echoes this theme: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” Advent reminds us to prepare the way for the Light of the World, as Jesus not only dispels our darkness but guides us into the hodon eirēnēs—the way of peace. This peace (eirēnē) is far more than the absence of conflict; it is a wholeness, harmony, and restoration that comes from being reconciled with God.

Strengthened for the Mission

The passage concludes with John’s preparation: “And the little boy grew and became strong in spirit” (Luke 1:80 AMP).

The Greek word krataiousthai (became strong) speaks of empowerment and resilience, developed through time in the wilderness (erēmois). The wilderness was not a place of isolation but of preparation, where John was refined and strengthened for his prophetic calling. Advent invites us into our own wilderness—a sacred space to quiet our hearts, listen to God, and allow Him to prepare us for the work He has for us.

Lessons for Us Today

1. Prepare the Way. Like John, we are called to prepare the way for Christ, not just externally but within our hearts. Advent is a time to remove distractions, repent of sin, and align ourselves with God’s will.

2. Experience Salvation. Salvation is not just knowing about God; it is encountering His grace personally. Through His tender mercy, God invites us to experience freedom, healing, and wholeness in Christ.

3. Walk in the Light. Jesus is the Light that dispels our darkness and leads us into the way of peace. This Advent, let us invite His light to shine into every corner of our lives, illuminating what needs transformation.

4. Grow Strong in Spirit. Spiritual growth requires time in the wilderness—quiet moments of prayer, reflection, and dependence on God. As we seek His face, He strengthens us for His purposes.

Advent Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your tender mercy and the Light from on high who has come to rescue us from darkness. As we journey through Advent, prepare our hearts to receive more of You. Help us to walk in Your light, experience Your salvation, and proclaim Your truth to a world in need. Strengthen us in spirit, as You strengthened John, so that we may live boldly for Your glory. Guide our feet into the way of peace and draw us ever closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Light has dawned. Let us prepare the way of the Lord and walk in His peace.

See Also

Advent, The Pursuit

The Pursuit: A Call to Seek Him This Christmas

“You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:13 (AMP). The pursuit of God this Christmas can bring new meaning to the holiday season.

As December 18th dawns, the nearness of Christmas reminds us of a profound truth: God has pursued us. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world not as a distant observer but as Emmanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23 AMP). Now, the call rests on us to pursue Him in return. This pursuit is the great journey of the believer’s heart—to seek the One who first sought us.

A God Who Draws Near

The pursuit of God begins with this eternal truth: He came to us first. The Gospel of John declares, “And the Word (Christ) became flesh, and lived among us; and we [actually] saw His glory, glory as belongs to the [One and] only begotten Son of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 AMP).

Here, John speaks with awe of the God who did not leave us to grope in darkness but entered it Himself to bring us light. The incarnation is the ultimate act of divine pursuit, where the Creator stepped into creation to restore what was lost.

A.W. Tozer captures this beautifully: “The voice of God is a friendly voice. No one need fear to listen to it unless he has already made up his mind to resist it.” God’s pursuit of us is not harsh or demanding but tender and loving, a call to return to Him.

The Call to Seek Him

While God initiates the pursuit, Scripture repeatedly calls us to respond. “Draw near to God [with a contrite heart] and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8 AMP). This mutual pursuit reflects the intimate relationship God desires with His people. Tozer describes this paradox, writing, “To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love.”

1. Seeking His Presence

David cried out, “As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God” (Psalm 42:1 AMP). The pursuit of God is a deep thirst that nothing else can quench. This Christmas, amidst the lights and carols, let us not settle for hollow traditions. Instead, let us long for the living God, pressing into His presence.

2. Seeking His Kingdom

Jesus Himself instructs us, “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also” (Matthew 6:33 AMP). The pursuit of God is not merely about personal experience; it is about aligning our lives with His kingdom purposes.

3. Seeking His Word

God’s Word is a treasure for those who pursue Him. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 AMP). In this season, when schedules overflow with busyness, let us commit to seeking God through His Word, allowing it to guide our steps and renew our minds.

Christmas: A Season to Renew the Pursuit

1. Remember the Gift of Emmanuel

The birth of Christ is the ultimate declaration of God’s desire for relationship with His people. This truth should compel us to pursue Him with greater passion. Charles Spurgeon writes, “Immanuel, God with us, in our nature, in our sorrow, in our life work, in our punishment, in our grave, and now with us—or rather, we with Him, in resurrection, ascension, triumph, and Second Advent splendor.”

2. Respond to His Love

Christmas reminds us that God’s pursuit of us is not passive. It is active and sacrificial. “For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son” (John 3:16 AMP). As we ponder His love, let us respond by loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

3. Live in Anticipation

The pursuit of God is not just about the here and now; it is about eternity. Paul writes, “But [I actively] press on so that I may take hold of that [perfection] for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Philippians 3:12 AMP). Like Paul, we are called to press forward, longing for the day when we see Him face to face.

Practical Steps to Pursue God This Christmas

1. Pause and Pray

Carve out intentional time each day to sit in God’s presence. Prayer is not just speaking; it is listening, longing, and waiting on Him.

2. Dive into Scripture

Reflect on the promises of God’s coming. Meditate on passages like Isaiah 9:6 and Luke 2, letting the truth of His Word stir your heart.

3. Worship Wholeheartedly

Let your worship go beyond music. Let it be a lifestyle—a daily offering of gratitude and obedience to God.

4. Give and Serve

Pursuing God often means reflecting His love to others. This Christmas, seek to serve someone in need, showing the light of Christ through your actions.

The Reward of Pursuit

Jesus promises, “Ask and keep on asking, and it will be given to you; seek and keep on seeking, and you will find; knock and keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7 AMP). To pursue God is to find Him, and in finding Him, we discover the fullness of life.

John, the beloved disciple, puts it simply yet profoundly: “We love, because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19 AMP). Our pursuit is merely a response to the love He has already lavished upon us.

Closing Prayer

Lord, You have pursued us with an everlasting love, sending Jesus Christ to dwell among us. This Christmas, we desire more of You. Stir our hearts to seek You with all our strength, that we may know You more deeply and reflect Your love more clearly. Draw us closer, and let our pursuit of You be the defining mark of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also