YOU Podcast: Recent Episodes
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YOU podcasts provide a candid overview of each YOU Bible Study session. General editor Mark Croston and content editor Christina Zimmerman casually discuss each biblical topic from a personal point of view with a strong theological and biblical emphasis. The intent of these podcasts is to provide YOU teachers with not only a time-efficient overview of each session but also creative and meaningful teaching points and ideas. These podcasts ready teachers to present a dynamic biblical yet personal teaching experience for their students.
In the song “Evidence”, Josh Baldwin sings about the faithfulness of God. Who, throughout his entire history, has walked beside him in the winter storms, in the spring, in every season of life. In surveying God’s goodness, he asks God to help him remember that in times of weakness and fear, God would still lead him to victory, because God is his strength and always will be. The ultimate evidence of God’s endless faithfulness is the cross and an empty grave, and because of Jesus, all Baldwin’s sins have been rolled away.
In Lamentations 3:22-23, Jeremiah declares, “Because of the Lord’s faithful love, we do not perish, for his mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!”
Baldwin’s song and Baruch’s story reminds us that God keeps His promise to never leave us, nor abandon us (Heb. 13:5), and even in the difficult seasons of life, God remains faithful. In Lamentations 3:22-23, Jeremiah declares, “Because of the Lord’s faithful love, we do not perish, for his mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness!” The bible also says that “without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (Heb. 11:6). Baruch’s story reminds us that a faithful God also rewards faithfulness.
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He fought his way into the hearts of millions. But some of his most famous moments were not his moves in the ring but his words outside the ring. “Float like a butterfly; sting like a bee. You can’t hit what your eyes can’t see.” “I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was. I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that I was really the greatest.” By the 1990’s, Muhammad Ali’s wife was using the term “Greatest of All Time” and shortening it as an acronym, G.O.A.T. Today many people use the term to refer to sports icons and musicians. Some people call themselves, The G.O.A.T.
Today, we accept pride as an ego-booster and confidence-builder. Even trash- talking the opposing team before the game is acceptable and not frowned upon.
The Bible still reminds us that: “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall” (Prov. 16:18).”
But the Bible still reminds us that: “Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall” (Prov. 16:18). Yes, we need a refresher course from Haman that in whatever we do, we should do it with humility.
The post MORE THAN A SIDEKICK, Serving Alongside Others: Haman (YOU-Sum’24, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
African Americans have often felt pressured, not only from their own communities to meet the culture’s expectations of what it means to be Black, but to refute the wider culture’s often negative stereotypes of African Americans, while wrestling with their own unique callings and identities. African Americans are not monolithic. There are various political, social, economic, and religious views that exist among Blacks.
While there is this sense of responsibility to represent our culture positively and accurately, what helps us not to be confined to both color and cultural expectations is being followers of Jesus Christ.
It is being led by both the Spirit and the Scriptures that help us to transcend social expectations, which will often put us at odds within our own culture and the culture at large.”
It is being led by both the Spirit and the Scriptures that help us to transcend social expectations (Ro. 12:1-2), which will often put us at odds within our own culture and the culture at large. There is a song by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, “Order my Steps.” It says, “The world is ever changing, but You are still the same. If You order my steps, I’ll praise your name.” We honor God, not by meeting cultural expectations, but by submitting to the Spirit and ordering our steps in His word (Ps. 119:105).
The post MORE THAN A SIDEKICK, Serving Alongside Others: Jonathan (YOU-Sum’24, Study 2, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
Charles Richard Drew (June 3, 1904) is considered by many to be one of the unsung, under-appreciated heroes of history. He was an African American surgeon, researcher, and the first Medical Director of the American Red Cross Blood Services. Drew spoke against the U.S. Navy’s policy of blood separated by race and his groundbreaking plasma research helped save thousands of lives during World War II. Dr. Drew resigned from the Red Cross to teach at Howard University and to train Black students for American Board certification and to become surgeons. He advocated for African American doctors to be admitted into the American Medical Association (AMA) because the AMA had never admitted a Black doctor.
After his premature death in an auto accident, his work and advocacy continued to inspire many, and 18 years after his death, the AMA ended its policy of racial discrimination. Dr. Drew’s research and work is still used today.
Even before he was king, David served with excellence though King Saul, his boss, hated him. Our service may seem menial to some, but to God it really matters.”
Even before he was king, David served with excellence though King Saul, his boss, hated him. Our service may seem menial to some, but to God it really matters.
The post MORE THAN A SIDEKICK, Serving Alongside Others: David (YOU-Sum’24, Study 2, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Barack Obama became the first African American to hold the office of President of the United States of America (2009-2017). However, there were many African Americans who ran for president before him, and who are often not credited for paving the way. These men (Frederick Douglas, Jesse Jackson) and women (Shirley Chisolm, Lenora Fulani), along with several others, changed the way that the country and the world viewed African Americans by breaking barriers, addressing stereotypes, and rewriting false narratives. Despite not achieving their goal, they continued to work for the greater good of their community, country, and the world.
We mustn’t give up, because our service to God is valuable, no matter who gets the credit.”
Have you ever experienced disappointment when someone failed to mention your name, recognize your contribution, or give you credit for your work? Have you ever waited for a simple, “thank you” from somebody you helped, but it never came? In this session, we’ll see that Barak was told upfront he would receive no honor for the battle he would lead and fight, yet he still went to the battlefield and did what the Lord wanted him to do. There’s an important lesson here for each of us. We mustn’t give up, because our service to God is valuable, no matter who gets the credit.
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Amelia Boynton, a civil rights activist who held Black voters registration drives in Selma, Alabama, asked the foremost leader of the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr., and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) to come to Selma and help secure voting rights for African Americans. Dr. King accepted, and the SCLC established their headquarters in Boynton’s home. They planned a march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama, March 7, 1965. Six hundred protestors showed up for the event. On Edmund Pettus Bridge, peaceful marchers were beaten with batons and tear gassed by police. Seventeen protesters were sent to the hospital, including Boynton. A newspaper photo of Boynton lying bloody and beaten unconscious, drew national attention. The event became known as Bloody Sunday. It prompted President Lyndon B. Johnson, with Dr. King looking on, to sign the Voting Rights Act on August 6, 1965, which prohibited racial discrimination in voting. Boynton was the guest of honor.
In 1990, Amelia Boynton was awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Freedom. Her contributions to the civil rights movement were dramatized in the 2014 Oscar-nominated film Selma.”
In 1990, Amelia Boynton was awarded the Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Freedom. Her contributions to the civil rights movement were dramatized in the 2014 Oscar-nominated film Selma.
The post MORE THAN A SIDEKICK, Serving Alongside Others: Aaron and Hur (YOU-Sum’24, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
Old school verses new school-which is better? From music to dances and even clothing styles, the debate between the generations is ongoing.
We might laugh at that statement while reminiscing about our most recent dance battle with our kids. Even so, many of us prefer something new to something old:
- We prefer driving a new car to driving an old car.
- We prefer to live in a new house rather than in an older house.
- We prefer new clothes to hand-me-downs.
- We prefer the latest hairstyles to ones from a few years ago.
- We prefer taking a new job rather than continuing in the job we currently have.
Newness wears off quickly. A new car loses its new car smell and before we know it, there is a scratch or ding. New clothes become last year’s fashion, and hairstyles also come and go. Indeed, a few years later, when we view old pictures, we can’t believe we ever dressed that way or wore such hairstyles! And we may tire of a new job as quickly as we tired of our old one.
God has promised us something new that will last forever: an unending relationship with Him that begins when we place our faith in Jesus Christ.”
However, God has promised us something new that will last forever: an unending relationship with Him that begins when we place our faith in Jesus Christ. Fads and trends will come and go, but the new life God offers us will never fade. The abundant life Jesus offers us begins when we choose to trust Him (John 10:10).
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise of a New Covenant (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
Traveling to Israel on a pilgrimage to what many Christians refer to as “the Holy Land” may be on your “bucket list.” Visiting the actual places that are described in the Bible is said to be a life-changing, spiritual experience.
One of the highlights in the northern region of Galilee is Mount Arbel. From atop the mountain, one can see where the international highway ran right next to the mountain.
People from many different nations traveled that ancient highway. Powerful kings from Assyria, Babylon, Greece, and Rome led their armies through that area. Those kings were great, but now they’re gone. Their kingdoms didn’t last.
Even a country as great as the United States has no guarantee it’s power will last. Ultimately, only one kingdom will stand forever— the kingdom over which Jesus Christ will rule.”
History has seen many empires, dynasties, and kingdoms come and go. At the height of their power and greatness, the leaders of those kingdoms might have thought they would remain on top of the world, but history has proven otherwise. Even a country as great as the United States has no guarantee it’s power will last. Ultimately, only one kingdom will stand forever— the kingdom over which Jesus Christ will rule. King David was quite aware of God’s blessing on his life. David had a plan to serve God well, but God had a greater plan for David.
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise of a King (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
“Blessed are the humble, for they will inherit the earth” (Matt. 5:5).
Humility is an attribute of Christ, and it’s an attribute that He wants us to have. But for many believers, acquisition of humility is not easy. We live in a world that is controlled by strong attitudes of pride and where the ambitions of many people are to take what they want without regard for others. This is the world’s definition of “inherit the earth,” but it’s not what Jesus meant. This prideful cultural attitude is driven by a “me” generation of people that look out for themselves. Unfortunately, this attitude sometimes seeps into the church and into the hearts of Christians.
God loves us and wants to send a revival that
would heal our land.”
The upside-down, prideful attitudes of the world have no place in our hearts and our lives. Through King Solomon, God gave this same message to the Israelites. Prideful attitudes had caused them to choose the waywardness of the world. This led to suffering and distress. God’s solution was for the people to return to Him in repentance and humility, so that He could extend His blessings. This is a lesson that we can learn to lead.
The post SPECIAL FOCUS: Praying for Our Nation (YOU-Sum’24, Special Focus Study) appeared first on YOU.
No matter our age or status, rules are a part of life. Most of us as children likely had to hold a parent’s hand when we walked across the street or through parking lot. Our parents had rules for us because they wanted to keep us safe. At the time, we probably thought of the rules as limiting our freedom. Some of us broke the rules in rebellion, while others waited it out until reaching an age where that rule no longer applied.
Many aspects of our lives come with rules. The places we work have procedures to follow. We have traffic laws that tell us how fast we can drive on roads, when we need to stop, and more. Sports in which we engage, such as basketball, football, and volleyball also have rules.
People sometimes question certain rules and their relevance, but they still obey them because they know they must. If we’re honest with ourselves, we probably consider some of life’s rules a bit restrictive or even irrelevant.
God intends His commands for our blessing, and when we obey them, we experience life to the fullest, as it is meant to be.”
Similarly, when it comes to one’s relationship with God, many people view His commands as confining, obsolete, or as mere suggestions. However, God intends His commands for our blessing, and when we obey them, we experience life to the fullest, as it is meant to be.
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise to Make a Holy Nation (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
Study or visualize the sinks you have in the rooms of your home. Connected to the sinks there are pipes, faucets, and hoses. Considering these fixtures, what do they all have in common? Yes, they help to bring water into our living environment.
Someone might ask, “Which of these items is most important?” Well, from one perspective, they’re all important. Without any one of them, the water doesn’t make it into the sink. Yet, the water is what’s most important; the other items only create a means through which the water can flow.
God’s plan of salvation included Abraham and his descendants—ultimately the nation of Israel—as His spiritual vessel. God professed that Abraham would be the “father of many nations” to include kings (Gen. 17:4-6) and ultimately the King of Kings. Through this bloodline, God would bring a Savior, Jesus, and through Jesus, God would bring hope and reconciliation to the whole world.
God promised to bless all people through His chosen people.”
In essence, God promised to bless all people through His chosen people.
The book of Genesis records how God promised Abraham that through him, blessing would come to the world. Today’s session features Bible verses important to laying the foundation for God’s purpose and plan.
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise of Blessing (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Can you name a “new beginning” in your life—a time when you started over in some way?
Sometimes new beginnings come when we move to a new place. Others experience a new beginning after graduation from college, when they marry, or take a new job. These new beginnings often bring excitement and great anticipation. Other new beginnings tend not to bring joy. The death of a family member, a failed marriage, an unexpected medical diagnosis, or even a natural disaster can leave us sad and devastated.
New beginnings, whether we view them as good or bad, are transitions. We all face various transitions in our lives at some point, but God will give us the grace to move forward in these transitions, no matter our circumstances.
God will give us the grace to move forward in transitions, no matter our circumstances.”
The Book of Genesis records how God judged the world through a great flood, but through Noah and his extended family, God preserved His creation and provided a fresh start. God’s instruction to Noah reinforces for us God’s continued care for His creation. He reaffirmed His covenant with humanity, affirmed the value of human life, and promised to preserve His creation.
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise of Preservation (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
God created you on purpose for a purpose. Think for a few moments about the implications of that statement. What if life does have purpose? What if I have a purpose, a specific purpose? What if there truly is a God who has created me to fulfill His purpose, and if so, what is that purpose? People have responded to questions like these in various ways:
- “Life has no lasting purpose, so I’m just doing me.”
- “I’m going to devote myself to a particular purpose to make the world a better place.”
- “My purpose is my ministry. It is a calling from God, and I find joy in doing His will.”
I once heard someone say, “Many people spend more time planning their vacations than they spend planning their lives.” Indeed, some individuals arrive at the end of life disappointed they didn’t live more purposeful lives. They regret missed opportunities.
“Most people spend more time planning a one-week vacation than they spend planning their life.”
Michael Hyatt
In the book of Genesis, we read the biblical perspective on God’s purpose for humanity. God created us in His image and gave us dominion over all the earth and everything in it. Although sin has marred God’s image in us, His purpose for us remains. Oh, what a blessing it is that we can represent God and His purposes on earth!
The post PROMISES WE CAN COUNT ON: God’s Promise of Fruitfulness (YOU-Sum’24, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
With the annual charity drive in full swing, a university representative reached out to fellow alumni. One conversation sounded like this:
“Good evening. Our records indicate that you haven’t yet contributed to our “Building the Legacy” fund. This year, we’d like to provide more scholarships to help more brothers and sisters achieve their dream of going to college. Would you like to give today?”
Without hesitation, the man replied, “Brother, I have a family to take care of. We just rebounded from the pandemic, and between the wife, kids, and bills, I don’t have the extra to give.”
To put it mildly, generosity is a stretch for some of us! It doesn’t flow naturally from our hearts, even for believers. Though giving is a delicate subject, God’s Word puts a great deal of importance on it.”
“I get it,” the alumni rep stated. “Family first. No worries. We’ll reach out again next year.”
With a shrug, the man replied, “Honestly, even if I have it, I probably won’t give it. I have to look out for me and mine. If I don’t, who will?”
To put it mildly, generosity is a stretch for some of us! It doesn’t flow naturally from our hearts, even for believers. Though giving is a delicate subject, God’s Word puts a great deal of importance on it. Let’s look at a powerful passage that has some practical insights to grow in generosity!
The post THE JOY OF GIVING (YOU-Spr’24, Special Focus Study, Session SF) appeared first on YOU.
A familiar analogy that my pastor frequently says to the members is that we are not called to be “Lone Ranger” Christians. We were never meant to live this Christian life alone. God has put us around other Christians so that we might shape and sharpen one another. One of the greatest examples of this that I have seen is when a fellow believer has experienced the loss of a loved one.
We are not called to be “Lone Ranger” Christians. We were never meant to live this Christian life alone.”
How encouraging it is for the suffering, distressed, or saddened person to receive a phone call from their fellow brother and sisters in Christ? How comforting it is when they wrap their arms around you and give the person an encouraging word? Death can be a tough time for any person, but it is so much tougher if you’re dealing with the loss by yourself. I have heard from many who experienced a loss that it would have been impossible for them to endure it without their church family. Let’s continue to be there for one another and live life together in Christ!
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Doing Life Together in Christ (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
The sports industry is big business. One of the most popular to watch is football. The fanbase of some of these teams is huge. I remember my husband wearing a sweatshirt of his favorite team, the Tennessee Titans. A Titans fan walked up to him and enthusiastically discussed with him their team. This person was a complete stranger. Families during Superbowl season host parties in honor of their team. During the game, you see them comforting and encouraging one another. The funniest thing is when they start encouraging the players on the screen. The players can’t even hear them, but they are supported. This proves that sports fans have an unusual brotherhood.
We must carefully shine before others that they may see God’s love, care, goodness, mercy, grace, and patience. Let us shine for Christ!”
This is the image that Christians must display before the world. When they see us; they must see a true brotherhood and sisterhood. In a world where people are constantly at odds with one another; we must be unified. There is a song that says, “the Jesus in me loves the Jesus in you. It’s so easy (x3), so easy to love.” The church should reflect Christ. We must emulate Him. The world is looking at the church and the way we interact with each other. We must carefully shine before others that they may see His love, care, goodness, mercy, grace, and patience. Let us shine for Christ!
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Serving in Christ (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
Maranda Curtis sings a song entitled, “Nobody Like You Lord.” Some churches sing this song as part of praise and worship on Sunday mornings. In the recorded version of the song, toward the last part of the song the artist says, “Who wouldn’t serve a God like this?” These lyrics speak to the magnificence of the Lord God Almighty, particularly His works and ways. Ms. Curtis’s song highlights why Christians serve God the Father through Jesus Christ. He demonstrates that He is a healer, sustainer, and provider.
When you think about all of the tragedies that have happened in the world and how God has kept you; it’s easy to say, “Who wouldn’t serve a God like this?””
When you think about all of the tragedies that have happened in the world and how God has kept you; it’s easy to say, “Who wouldn’t serve a God like this?” He has healed many of us from illnesses that sometimes even the doctors were baffled. Their medical studies couldn’t even explain it. Even as we hear testimonies like that; we can say, “Who wouldn’t serve a God like this?” You see as we, a body of believers, come together on Sunday morning; we all have experienced the faithfulness of God. When you hear the testimonies of others and even think of how God has kept you; it is easy to say, “Who Wouldn’t Serve a God Like That?” As we are experiencing the mercies of God through the week, the momentum has built up. It evokes us to worship our King of King and Lord of Lords. How encouraging it is to corporately worship this amazing God! He is worthy to be praised!
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Worshiping God (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
In today’s society, there are various companies that specialize in tracing the genealogy of families. In doing so, they seek to help people discover their ancestors, traditions, culture, origins, and history. This information, in many cases, provides the individual or family, a sense of identity. For years this research was done through word of mouth, photos and family records. Through technological advancements this work is now done digitally. Ancestry.com started in 2012 and enables its subscribers to trace their family back many generations. It is safe to say that users will either be elated or disappointed in who they are related to.
As Christians, our worth is not connected to the type of genealogy that can be searched through a website. Our identity is found in Christ.”
As Christians, our worth is not connected to the type of genealogy that can be searched through a website. Our identity is found in Christ. We can boldly proclaim that Christ has given us a new identity. We are now forgiven, loved, cared for, etc., because of the Lord Jesus. Through Him, we learn we are more than the external— our career, economic status, or appearance. We know that we are chosen ones, dear children of God, His sheep, children of light, vessels of honor, and heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17). What a sense of worth we have in knowing that we have such a strong identity!
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Growing in Christ (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
“Sharing is caring” is a popular phrase that communicates that people demonstrate that they care when they share what they have with others. We see many examples of this in our daily lives. As a teacher, I witnessed this in action when during the time of recess students would share the ball on the playing field with each other. As a parent, I saw this phrase come to life when one of my children shared with or even gave away their toys to other children.
“Sharing is caring” is a popular phrase that communicates that people demonstrate that they care when they share what they have with others.”
Shoppers who run across a great sale or a fantastic deal tend to share that information with those they know and even with complete strangers. You want them to benefit from the deal just as you have. The excitement and enthusiasm that is displayed when sharing about a clothing sale, a place to get quality merchandise for cheap, or a place to save on gas can be infectious. People tend to continue to share what they deem as good news. This is what sharing should look like in the body of Christ. Christians have the best news of all. As we enter into this lesson, let each of us make the necessary changes in our thoughts and feelings so we can share the best deal of all with the same enthusiasm as we do temporal things.
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Sharing Christ (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
During the housing market craze many homebuyers were faced with bidding on homes that had multiple offers. In order to have an advantage and an attractive offer many bought homes without a home inspection. How sad it was when some found out that their home had foundation issues.
As a child, we sang the song, “The Wise Man Built His House Upon a Rock.” The song is based on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7:24-27. I didn’t understand it at the time. It basically is stating that in this world, we will encounter many challenges. Our foundation determines how we persevere during those times. Just like a house with a bad foundation; a relationship not built upon The Rock will not last. Let’s not end up like the homeowners who are faced with knowing that the foundation on which their home is built will not last.
Just like a house with a bad foundation; a relationship not built upon The Rock will not last.”
We can rest assured that if our foundation is built on the True Rock, Jesus Christ we will be able to endure. As church, it is imperative that all we do is centered around Christ. Though Satan may throw his fiery darts; as believers we can stand if our foundation is solid. The sure foundation for Christians is not just hearing the words of Christ but actually doing it. This way we know our foundation is solid.
The post BEING AN AUTHENTIC CHURCH: Built on Christ (YOU-Spr’24, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
“Sharing” has a different connotation than it did twenty years ago. In those days, “sharing” something generally required physical proximity to another. You could share a sandwich, share some news, or share a seat, but now sharing is done in different ways.
If we are enjoying a meal, we share it. If we take a good picture, we share it. If we think of something witty (or sarcastic), we share it. We accomplish this not on a one-to-one, physical proximity basis, but through Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. In fact, you could argue that given the proliferation of “sharing,” we are better “sharers” now than at any point in history.
We are commanded and equipped to tell others about the life, ministry, and mission of Jesus.”
Interesting, in light of our abundant sharing, we don’t take the chance to share more about Jesus. But that is exactly what is required of us as His followers. We are commanded and equipped to tell others about the life, ministry, and mission of Jesus. We do this because this news is simply too big and too good to keep to ourselves.
The post IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS: The Mission of Jesus Shared (YOU-Spr’24, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
Lewis Latimer could not predict the future, though it might have seemed like he could from his work. Latimer, a member of Thomas Edison’s research team, improved the light bulb with the invention of the carbon filament in 1882. He went on to become the head draftsman (someone who draws pictures of machines, buildings, or inventions) for General Electric.
Additionally, he went on to design a bathroom for railroad cars, a disinfecting and cooling device, a hat and coat rack, the locking umbrella and a device for supporting books. He also worked with Alexander Graham Bell as draftsman for the telephone. Despite all his knowledge and foresight, he was human and not infallible. He, like many of the inventors he worked with during his time, could not understand how humans would use their advancements in technology.
Jesus was fully human, but also fully divine, and completely infallible. Jesus never gave a false prophecy. Even His most seemingly impossible prophecy, His own resurrection, came true.”
But what about Jesus? He was fully human, but also fully divine, and completely infallible. Jesus never gave a false prophecy. Even His most seemingly impossible prophecy, His own resurrection, came true. Indeed, everything relied on Jesus being right—and He was!
The post IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS: The Resurrection of Jesus (YOU-Spr’24, Study 1, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
The average American holds a debt balance of $96,371.2 That total comes from a variety of different sources including credit cards, car loans, student loans, and mortgages. And while some sources of debt are more destructive than others, most every adult knows what it is to live life owing someone something every month.
While we become accustomed to the idea, it is still refreshing to think about what life would be like to be free and clear from all debts. And yet the removal of debt only happens through discipline and effort.
We all owe—the debt of sin, accumulated over a lifetime of rebellious choices made against a holy God.”
But this debt is only a shadow of the greater debt we all owe—the debt of sin, accumulated over a lifetime of rebellious choices made against a holy God. But unlike the rest of our debts, the debt of sin can never be cleared in our own effort. It must be paid. The question is, who is going to make that payment for us?
The post IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS: The Death of Jesus (YOU-Spr’24, Study 1, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
We come in contact, both in person and online, with hundreds – if not thousands – of people every day. As we do, we tend to subconsciously divide these people into a series of concentric circles. These circles represent our relationship to those people, moving from simply being in their vicinity, to being an acquaintance, and eventually to our inner circle of those closest to us. In general, the further out a person is in our concentric circles, the less we have to concern ourselves with them. If a person is on the outer ring, they do not have to be “dealt” with; we can simply encounter them and then move on about our day.
We come in contact, both in person and online, with hundreds – if not thousands – of people every day. We can simply encounter them and then move on about our day.”
Jesus breaks this mold. He is the only person in history who must be dealt with. His identify demands this and our identity is shaped by how we respond to him. Much as a person might try to keep Jesus in that outer circle, He demands to be dealt with. The question, in fact, is not whether every human being will deal with the identity of Jesus; it’s a question of when and how they will deal with the identity of Jesus.
The post IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS: The Identity of Jesus (YOU-Spr’24, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Unless you live in a home that’s been newly built, there are likely imperfections everywhere you look. Paint gets chipped; walls get dented and dinged; floors get scratched. Further, as a home ages, it also settles, and with that settling generally comes some minor cracking. You might turn around one day and find that the doors don’t close as smoothly as they once did, or that there are some hairline cracks in the corners of rooms.
While that’s generally nothing to worry about, occasionally these types of things are symptoms of something much more serious happening in the foundation of the home. In that case, you might try and patch the cracks or paint over the blemishes, but they will always return . . . and worse.
Unless you live in a home that’s been newly built, there are likely imperfections everywhere you look.”
In a similar way, it’s not hard to find “cracks” in the world today. We are daily bombarded with reports of violence, anger, disease, and a host of other issues. It’s important to note that as terrible as these issues are, they are symptoms of an even greater issue—one at the very foundation of who we are as human beings. The ministry of Jesus helps us to understand not only these surface-level issues, but it points us to the deeper issue at hand.
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One day some soldiers found a little package in a clover field south of Frederick, Maryland, on September 13, 1862. It was a roll of paper wrapped around three cigars. Though they were initially excited to find the cigars, the real excitement came when they read the paper. It was a copy of Robert E. Lee’s Special Orders No. 191, and it detailed the general’s plan of attack to invade Maryland. The paper made its way through the chain of command and was instrumental in the Battle of Antietam, which ended Lee’s first invasion of the North. Talk about being at the right place at the right time!
Jesus did not come to simply stumble around looking for random lost individuals, but He came prepared to fulfill a perfectly orchestrated and intentional mission for God.”
Those soldiers demonstrated their faithfulness by putting away the cigars and reporting what they had found. However, the soldiers were fortunate. They had not been assigned the task of locating Lee’s plan of attack. A serendipitous circumstance is much different than a specific mission. The former is about chance; the latter is about intentionality. The former is a lucky confluence; the latter is about orchestrated design. When it comes to Jesus and His mission, we find someone more qualified to thwart the enemy’s plans. Jesus did not come to simply stumble around looking for random lost individuals, but He came prepared to fulfill a perfectly orchestrated and intentional mission for God.
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One of the most nerve-racking parts of the parenting experience happens around year fifteen or sixteen. The parents move to the passenger seat, and the son or daughter steps behind the wheel. Lord, have mercy!
You forget how many moving parts there are in this process of learning to drive–signs, lane changes, lights, gas pedals, brakes, merging, yielding, and most of all, stopping. You’ve been doing it for decades, and now you’re tasked with the job of teaching your child something that’s second nature to you.
In Luke 17, Jesus is preparing to hand over the keys to a fledgling group of disciples. He’s pressing them toward a mature faith. ”
We find ourselves exclaiming, “Go! Go! Go!” “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” “Now!” “Don’t drift!” My son’s favorite: “Watchawatchawatcha!” They still tease me about that one. In Luke 17, Jesus is preparing to hand over the keys to a fledgling group of disciples. He’s pressing them toward a mature faith. We get to listen in and learn what mature faith is all about.
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There are times to “just worry about yourself,” there are also times we need to step in and act with wisdom to keep something bad from becoming a disaster.
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Christians need to be nourished and cherished so we can grow. We need constant and consistent time in the Word, on our knees, and with God’s people. Only nourishing your spiritual person on Sundays is not enough to see real growth.
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Method actors are likely to be trained thespians. They are named for the original actor, Thespis, who performed in ancient Greek amphitheaters. At that time, actors were called hypocrites, a Greek word meaning “one who wears a mask.” These hypocrites shielded their identity to play a role as someone else.
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Coming to Christ changes the way we think. We must discover how life takes on new meaning when we live for Christ, instead of ourselves.
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Life is not meant to be lived alone... Believers are desperately searching for advice about living life for God’s glory... We must learn how the Holy Spirit helps saints know how to live in ways that are pleasing to God.
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Like Covid-19, sin ravages the lives of people. Though God provides a divine remedy to sin, most people are unaware of how it works. When we learn how to live out the truth that, in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, we have victory over death and sin.
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When it comes to God... He is utterly unique and distinct from His creation. The Lord God declared concerning Himself that “there is no one like me on the whole earth” (Ex. 9:14)."
The post SET APART-A Life Lived for God: The Holiness of God (YOU-Sum’23, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
In the shadows of moms and dads, kids seek to emulate everything their parents are doing from how to cook, to way they talk, and to attending church. In many ways, that’s what mentoring is all about: learning to follow the pattern of others so that spiritual growth happens.
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Nothing on this earth will last forever. Scripture says, “There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven” (Eccl. 3:1) and everyday life proves this to be true. No matter what we try to hold onto, all aspects of life shift at their God-given pace. Children grow into adulthood, friends change or move away, jobs morph into careers, parents turn into colleagues, loved ones pass away, and newborns enter the physical world with each passing second.
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Though Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was and is often celebrated, and rightfully so, one could reasonably argue that what he accomplished would not have been remotely possible were it not for his wife, Mrs. Coretta Scott King.
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We will experience our share of failures and successes. Failure, however, doesn’t need to define us...God can use those failures for good in our lives and for good in the lives of others.
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God positioned this man as an example of how to lead my family and love the people in my generation. This session provides a look at how God did a similar work through Moses for Joshua’s sake. God used Moses to mentor Joshua, who became a strong leader that followed God’s counsel. Joshua was a product of Moses’s mentorship.
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We have a choice: we can learn from experiences, or we can learn from others. Learning from our own experiences can often be painful, frustrating, and time consuming, not to mention costly. Learning from others saves time and resources and lessens pain and frustration. A wise person does the latter.
We can learn from experiences, or we can learn from others… A wise person does the latter.”
We need three types of people in our lives.
Friends. Those who walk alongside us whom we can mutually support and encourage. Friends help us to boost our self confidence and self worth.
Mentors. Those we learn from as they share wisdom and life lessons. They challenge us to grow and fulfill our potential. Mentors can help us to
actualize our deepest dreams and fullest potential.
Mentees. Each of us ought to be mentoring others, people with whom we can share our experiences. As we have been mentored, we can do the same for someone else. We should not discount what we know, especially when sharing what we know
inspires others to be better.
Today’s session looks at a brief incident of mentoring in the life of Moses. Without the mentoring that took place, Moses’s life could have been quite different.
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It was over twenty years ago, but I still remember the email. We had announced a difficult ministry decision for the church, and though I imagined some might not be happy, I wasn’t prepared for what I received: a long— very long—email from a church member, full of words that would shift a film from PG-13 straight into R. It was full of unbridled fury, even calling into question my credentials as a pastor.
Thankfully, he and I were able to come together and talk through these issues. At the same time, I often come back to that as a sobering reminder of the impact of this kind of criticism. To be clear, it wasn’t that I was beyond criticism. Rather, the way this person responded could have caused serious damage to our relationship
and our larger work for the kingdom of God.
There is a place for honestly confronting others
when done in a loving and gracious way. Yet
maturity means learning to guard our hearts
from an unhelpful critical spirit.”
There is a place for honestly confronting others when done in a loving and gracious way. Yet maturity means learning to guard our hearts from an unhelpful critical spirit as we’ll learn in this story of Miriam and Aaron’s criticism of Moses.
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Tuskegee Airmen servicemen were the first African American flying unit in the U.S. military. Their first mission was on June 2, 1943, when they launched a strafing attack on Pantelleria Island, an Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea. Later that year the army activated three more squadrons who joined in 1944 and constituted the 332nd Fighter Group. These men fought in the European theater and were noted as one of the Army Air Forces’ most successful and most-decorated escort groups.
Altogether, 992 pilots graduated from the Tuskegee Airfield courses. They flew 1,578 missions, destroyed 261 enemy aircraft, and won more than 850 medals.
Our enemy, the devil, is vicious, but in Christ, our victory is sure. The battle against temptation means we must be strong, suit up, and stand firm.”
The Christian life is also a battle. In Ephesians 6:10-18, the apostle Paul uses an analogy of military armor and relates it to the spiritual armor God has provided for the spiritual battle we face. Our enemy, the devil, is vicious, but in Christ, our victory is sure. The battle against temptation means we must be strong, suit up, and stand firm.
The post DEALING WITH TEMPTATION: The Strength to Stand Against Temptation (YOU-Spr’23, Study 2, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
Anyone who has ever purchased a home knows there can be a big difference in what the buyer or seller sees and what a certified home inspector sees. We may try to look beyond the things that appeal to us—the layout of the house, the size of bedrooms, and so forth—and see a crack in a ceiling or a door that doesn’t shut well, but the inspector doesn’t stop there. He’ll investigate why the ceiling is cracked. He’ll crawl under a house and see problems we don’t. His trained eye sees things we can’t with our limited view.
If you think God will forgive your sin because it’s no big deal, your view of God is too small. If you think God will not forgive your sin because He is a harsh and angry God, your view of God is too small.”
We can also have a limited view of God. For example, the way you deal with sin says a lot about what you believe about God. If you think God will forgive your sin because it’s no big deal, your view of God is too small. If you think God will not forgive your sin because He is a harsh and angry God, your view of God is too small. Let’s discover the right view of God, one that will move us to run to Him when we sin.
The post DEALING WITH TEMPTATION: Recovering from a Fall into Temptation (YOU-Spr’23, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
We enjoy those moments when good things happen to us. We feel good when
we’ve accomplished something. With those accomplishments and good experiences, we naturally want to tell others. Unfortunately, in the process of telling others, our words can easily turn into, “LOOK AT ME!” We don’t have to utter those exact words, but it can certainly come across as exalting ourselves. Social media sites are overrun with posts that make the person look really good. And the more “likes” a person gets for what he or she has said, the better this person feels.
Social media sites are overrun with posts that make the person look really good. And the more “likes” a person gets for what he or she has said, the better this person feels.”
Self-exaltation is deceiving and fleeting. What happens when our next posting doesn’t get as many “likes”? We can feel defeated.
Jesus was tempted to exalt Himself in a way that was not right. Jesus certainly deserves our praise and exaltation, but He would not seek it in a way that was outside His Father’s plan. As we consider this temptation before Jesus, we’ll discover the joy that comes with making much of God rather than ourselves.
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Sometimes believers give God specific ways He must respond to their prayers. They will even seek a confirmation from God, saying, “God, I will know it’s what You want if a cardinal lands on the fence three times.” That may sound a bit humorous, but some of us will test God that way. We dictate the specificity of our prayers. This reminds me of the tale of the drowning man who prayed to God to rescue him. Two boats and a helicopter came by and offered the man assistance, but he refused and ultimately drowned. When the man got to heaven he asked God, “Why didn’t You miraculously save me?” God responded, “I sent two boats and a helicopter to rescue you and you refused.” Because the man was looking for specific signs and wonders, he missed God’s provision.
God is faithful. We don’t need to test Him or dictate how He should respond. We simply need to ask Him for what we need and trust that He can handle things the way He chooses.”
God is faithful. We don’t need to test Him or dictate how He should respond. We simply need to ask Him for what we need and trust that He can handle things the way He chooses. Remember what He has done for you in the past; He will do it again.
The post DEALING WITH TEMPTATION: The Temptation to Test God (YOU-Spr’23, Study 2, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Advertisers often make self-indulgence a part of their marketing strategies. We want to drive this vehicle, wear these shoes, or carry this credit card now. In recent years, instant gratification has become more than just a tactic to appeal to us; it has become a reality. The Internet has redefined shopping. Media like books and music can be downloaded and enjoyed immediately. Online purchases can often be delivered the next day—and in some areas, you can receive your order the same day. Instant gratification has become far more instant!
From the beginning, Satan has used instant gratification to entice us. He used it with Adam and Eve (Gen. 3), he tried it on Jesus, and he’ll try it on us. Use spiritual discernment to see these tactics for what they are; tricks packaged as treats.”
Advertisers were not the first to use this strategy. From the beginning, Satan has used instant gratification to entice us. He used it with Adam and Eve (Gen. 3), he tried it on Jesus, and he’ll try it on us. Use spiritual discernment to see these tactics for what they are; tricks packaged as treats. Further, as we look at how Satan made cunning attempts with Jesus and study Jesus’s responses, we can learn to trust God and what He provides rather than fall for the “okey-doke” to gratify ourselves.
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We all have a favorite food or foods. Some of us prefer sweets such as grandma’s famous sweet potato pie or that mouth-watering pound cake. While others like so-called comfort food such as mac and cheese. The aroma and the visual appeal of these foods can draw us in, while that satisfying feeling we get when we take that first bite can hook us. Before we know it, we have had one too many slices of pie, cake, or that extra serving of mac and cheese. That is how temptation works. It is alluring and beckons us to come and indulge. Temptation promises something good, but it delivers something harmful, even deadly.
As we wrestle with various temptations, we may want to blame Satan, saying, “The devil made me do it!” We sometimes give the devil credit for things that are in our control… “Yield not to temptation for yielding is sin . . . Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.”
As we wrestle with various temptations, we may want to blame Satan, saying, “The devil made me do it!” We sometimes give the devil credit for things that are in our control. However, I am reminded of the lyrics of a hymn by H.R. Palmer which has a reminder for us all. “Yield not to temptation for yielding is sin . . . Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.” Yes, trust and believe that “Jesus will carry you through.”
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We have often heard the quote, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes.” The speaker desires to emphasize three things: promises can be broken; eventually everyone pays taxes; and eventually everyone dies. Death is a certainty we begin to come to grips with at a young age.
In preparing to attend a funeral service, a mom was prepping her young son on what to say and do. She told our son about the receiving line and how, when it was their turn to speak to the family, he should say “I am sorry for your loss.” In a mixture of confusion and frustration, he immediately responded with, “Why should I be sorry? I didn’t kill her.”
Jesus Christ conquered death, and through faith in Him, we have eternal life.
We got a good laugh out of his innocent response, but death is no laughing matter. It strikes the young and the old. No one escapes its earthly grip. However, the good news for believers is that it is not the last word. Jesus Christ conquered death, and through faith in Him, we have eternal life.
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The church I grew up in had a choir, and occasionally, one particular lady would sing a solo. The problem was she was not a good vocalist. Even as a kid, I thought someone should tell this lady not to sing because she was embarrassing herself and she did not even know it. This was before the days of American Idol. There was no Simon to tell her the truth about her singing.
We often fool ourselves into thinking we are better at something than we really are. If we enjoy doing something, we assume we are fairly good at it. This doesn’t just apply to hobbies or jobs; we often apply this to the whole of life. We think we are better people than we are. We assume that we are better behaved than most of the people we know.
When we compare ourselves to Jesus, our best is completely inadequate. But through Jesus, we also have hope!
The problem is we aren’t, and the Bible makes that clear: we are sinners. In fact, when we compare ourselves to Jesus, our best is completely inadequate. But through Jesus, we also have hope!
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If you have a driver’s license, then at some point you were administered an eye test. To pass the test the department of highway requires 20/40 vision and peripheral fields of 120 degrees in at least one eye. When the test is administered, the potential drivers must read the letters on the screen. No problem. However, when people don’t pass this important test, with or without glasses, it means their eyes are not working well, and a driver’s license is not issued. But there’s hope. A statement from their eye doctor, indicating specific vision problems will clear things right up.
This is often how we operate in the spiritual realm. We think we’re seeing well and seeing life for what it is, but because of sin our vision is hazy. We see the world through a film of selfishness, anger, and hate that serves no good purpose for ourselves or for others. We need new glasses.
When we encounter Jesus and see the world through Him, we see the truth—and we see it clearly.
When we encounter Jesus and see the world through Him, we see the truth—and we see it clearly. He offers us a holy prescription.
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A preacher spoke about a sermon he preached on how God had forgiven us and, therefore, we needed to forgive others. Following the sermon, the preacher said he was visited in his office by a man who wanted to speak to him about his sermon. To know someone wants to “discuss the sermon” fills every pastor with a note of uncertainty. The preacher probably considered: Will this be praise or a heavy critique? Was he going to critique the interpretation of the text? Was he going to point out an ill-advised illustration that was used?
However, the man sat before the preacher in tears. He told the preacher that he had done some horrible things in his life, and he wasn’t sure he could ever be forgiven.
Many people live under a heavy burden, knowing the hurt they have caused, and carrying the shame and guilt it brings, but there is good news…
Many people live under this heavy burden, knowing the hurt they have caused, and
carrying the shame and guilt it brings. The good news that was shared with this man is the same good news that is available to all. Jesus came to forgive us, and on the cross He bore our shame.
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In 2021, golf legend Tiger Woods was involved in a serious car accident. The Genesis GV80, which he was driving sustained major damage when Woods went across two lanes of road after crossing the median then finally hitting a curb, hitting a tree, and landing on its side. The rescuers had to free Woods from the damaged car with a pry bar and an ax.
The injuries Woods sustained were extensive. The bone in his right leg was exposed and broken in two places. Doctors inserted a combination of rods and screws to stabilize his foot and ankle bones. Woods was physically broken, but in about a year, his doctors and therapists were able to get him back on his feet again.
In 2021, golf legend Tiger Woods was involved in a serious car accident. The Genesis GV80, which he was driving sustained major damage…At some time in our lives, we have all been physically, emotionally, or even spiritually broken.
At some time in our lives, we have all been physically, emotionally, or even spiritually broken. This is when we have reached the end of any options for fixing ourselves. But this is also when we should begin to explore what God can do. It is the time to turn to the only One who can meet our needs.
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Several years ago, I was training for a marathon. As you know, running a marathon requires hours of training and strict discipline. One morning I set out on a 16-mile run. When I began, the temperature was about 50 degrees, but quickly rose into the 80s. It was at that point I realized I had not brought enough water. Being determined, or stubborn, as some might say, I pressed on. It wasn’t long before I became extremely thirsty. I became so thirsty that my kidneys hurt. That’s dangerous. Thankfully, I was able to make it back to my car, rehydrate, and recover.
Physical thirst tells us we need water, but what are the signs of spiritual thirst in our lives? Perhaps, we start to lose our temper over little things, become consumed by worry, or experience a growing sense of guilt, and even fear. These symptoms may serve as a warning sign to our deeper need for the living water that is only found in Jesus.
Physical thirst tells us we need water, but what are the signs of spiritual thirst in our lives? Perhaps, we start to lose our temper over little things, become consumed by worry, or experience a growing sense of guilt, and even fear. These symptoms may serve as a warning sign to our deeper need for the living water that is only found in Jesus. When we come to know the One who sees past our brokenness, our spiritual thirst is exposed as in John 4:7-26.
The post MY ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS: Jesus Met My Greatest Need (YOU-Spr’23, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
Some people are obsessed with Hollywood personalities. They religiously watch the Oscars, the Emmys, the Grammys, and other award shows. Even worse, they try to emulate the way actors dress, talk, and behave. Believers who do this will over time draw further and further from the Lord, because it is an obsession to be like the Hollywood crowd.
You may not be obsessed like those who want to be like a Hollywood star, but you are still not striving to be like Christ. God’s transforming work in your life is not less powerful and marvelous. God speaks and calls you to be more and more like Jesus.
As believers, our greatest fulfillment should be to emulate our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.”
As believers, our greatest fulfillment should be to emulate our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The people we surround ourselves with should encourage us to be more like Him. A pastor was quoted as saying the Word will either draw you to Christ or drive you away from Him. Let us strive to live godly lives so that others will be convicted to be more like Jesus.
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When we gaze at a piece of art, we don’t always marvel over the canvas. We don’t get excited about a particular shade of blue in the painting. We sometimes marvel over the artist.
Take the sculpture Stone of Hope by Lei Yixin. It is considered one of the finest sculptures of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. When we walk into the West Potomac Park in Washington D.C., and we marvel over how beautiful the stone is. While it is an exceptional piece of pale pink granite, everyone’s amazement is also drawn to what Lei Yixin did with it. We marvel at how this artist painstakingly chiseled such incredible detail in stone. And at about 30 feet tall, this was no weekend project. Lei Yixin worked for about two years on his sculpture.
As God’s creation, our lives are to point to the glory of our Creator. God calls us to live for His glory—and it’s in His glory we find out greatest purpose.”
We don’t just glory in the sculpture; we glory in the sculptor. It’s not simply Stone of Hope; it’s also about the artist. We can’t look at this sculpture and not think of who carved it. As God’s creation, our lives are to point to the glory of our Creator. God calls us to live for His glory—and it’s in His glory we find out greatest purpose.
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Yes, God speaks to us. However, God is holy and loving. As a result, God will never say or do anything that is unholy or unloving—and He would never call us to do something unholy or unloving.
- How would you respond if your friend claimed that God told him he did not have to forgive someone who had offended him?
- What would you say if a coworker asserted that God told her it was okay to abort her perfectly healthy unborn baby?
When people say that God told them to do something that is contrary to His nature, we can be confident that they have not heard from God. He always speaks in ways that are consistent with His character. He makes no exceptions. God never speaks out of character!
When people say that God told them to do something that is contrary to His nature, we can be confident that they have not heard from God.”
We hear in Exodus 34 the very words of God about His faithfulness and unchanging character. And with that, we’ll gain the confidence to trust Him in what He says through whatever way He chooses to speak.
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My husband was diagnosed with a very serious illness that almost took his life about seven years ago. We had to take a huge step of faith, because he could no longer work. There were months we struggled to pay bills and even had to limit what we bought at the grocery store. This was a path we had not walked before; a path that did not give us many options. But we recognized the need to trust God and place our confidence and faith in Him.
The Lord did not provide a windfall of money all at once. Rather, as we trusted Him, God provided. At times, fellow believers would provide money in cards, or someone would press a check in my hand at just the right time. God spoke to their hearts, and they responded with gifts of love.
Everything God does in our life increases our faith in Him. We knew that God was walking with us, so we trusted Him to provide.”
Some wondered why God would not give us all the money we needed all at once, but we learned a valuable lesson in that process: Everything God does in our life increases our faith in Him. We knew that God was walking with us, so we trusted Him to provide.
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Times may arise as parents, when we “make” our children apologize to each other for ill behavior. We might notice that in many cases; they do not mean it. I remember my husband telling me one day of a transformation in one of our children. My son had wronged a child on the playground. My husband witnessed our son (1) crying to God in prayer on the playground, asking God to forgive him and (2) apologizing to the other child and asking to be forgiven.
The actions of our son had been drilled in through Sunday school and through our
discipline as parents. He finally got it, and this was a blessing for him and for our family.
A primary way God speaks is by convicting us of our sin. He loves us too much to allow us to rush headlong into sin without calling us to repent and return to Him.”
A primary way God speaks is by convicting us of our sin. He loves us too much to allow us to rush headlong into sin without calling us to repent and return to Him. The Holy Spirit was obviously convicting my child, for he went to great lengths to apologize for his sinful behavior. What an amazing testimony of the power of the Holy Spirit? As Christians, we should never feel right doing the wrong thing.
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If you have never received a spam call or a spam email, then you don’t have a phone or an email address. That’s how rampant these messages are. Common spam calls have alerted listeners to the need to renew a car warranty, a need to file for insurance, or one that I received recently was a need to pay taxes. The caller had me going at first. It was not until he asked me to pay my taxes by getting into my car, driving to a drug store, and purchasing gift cards to send to him that recognized I was being scammed.
The world is filled with false and deceptive voices, some of them are about religion and many of them even claim to speak for God. As believers we know God is sovereign and reigns supreme. We also know He is omniscient and knows all.
The world is filled with false and deceptive voices, some of them are about religion and many of them even claim to speak for God.”
Therefore, when we hear these messages, in many cases, we absolutely must ask: “What does the Book say?” The Bible shows us how we can distinguish between what’s valid and what’s not.
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In 2012, Trayvon Martin, an unarmed 17-year-old, was shot dead in Sanford, Florida, by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman. Trayvon, who was Black, was walking home from a store when Zimmerman, thinking Trayvon was suspicious, tackled him. When it appeared that Trayvon was gaining the edge in the fight, Zimmerman, who is not Black, shot and killed the teen, claiming self-defense.
Two years later, he was acquitted of all charges in Trayvon’s death. Outrage in the Black community inspired the birth of BlackLivesMatter, an organization and a movement further fueled by the 2013 fatal shooting of Michael Brown. These two murders and others, including the callous 2020 murder of George Floyd have made #BlackLivesMatter a rallying cry and plea to the world to recognize that Black people do matter.
God values all He has created.
Black lives are valuable because God says so. Black people may be devalued in far too many circles, but God values all He has created. He always has and always will.
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Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years of imprisonment in South Africa for fighting against apartheid, was perhaps the most memorable image of the end of apartheid. Apartheid, much like Jim Crow in the United States, enforced “separate but equal” laws. Apartheid deprived Blacks of citizenship and forced Blacks to live in impoverished neighborhoods, despite the fact that South African wealth depended on Black labor. While imprisoned Mandela’s working conditions damaged his eyesight and possibly contributed to his tuberculosis.
Nelson Mandela’s release after 27 years of imprisonment in South Africa for fighting against apartheid, was perhaps the most memorable image of the end of apartheid.“
Upon his release, Mandela was taken to Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s home for a short period of rest, as the work for ending the effects of apartheid was just beginning.
Many have not endured what Mandela endured. But we’ve had to endure hardship, where times of rest have been brief, because the work most go on. But there is an end, because one day we will find rest. The prophet Zephaniah reminds us that not only will fear be a thing of the past, but we’ll find rest in the eternal kingdom of God.
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Some years ago, I chaperoned some students on a team-building excursion. One exercise involved standing on top of a thirty-foot pole and jumping to catch a trapeze bar. Of course, we would be harnessed in, but a lot of fear can run through your mind when you’re standing thirty feet in the air. I know. I was “volunteered” to be the first one to make the climb and jump.
Climbing the small pegs to the top of the pole was daunting; standing on the small platform was worse. But the worst was yet to come. Even though I was wearing a harness, fear gripped me as I looked at the trapeze bar six feet away. With a crowd of teenagers eyeing me, I counted to three and leaped. I grabbed the bar!
Courage: Leaping in the face of fear!“
What was interesting is that fear didn’t leave me. I leaped despite it. That’s courage: leaping in the face of fear. Jesus’s disciples in Matthew 14 had an opportunity to exhibit such courage— and we do too. The key is following God’s instructions, fixing our eyes on Jesus, and trusting that He will keep you.
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Let’s get rid of one mistaken idea about older adults: They don’t like change. The rationale has been that they don’t like change because they’re older and, therefore, set in their ways. But the truth is: None of us like change—and we all get set in our ways! We get used to a routine or doing things a certain way, and we see no reason to change.
Of course, we willingly make some changes on our own: purchasing a different car, changing to a new job. We embrace the changes that come with becoming a parent [grandparent]. But when change is thrust upon us by others, we can resist. What if things aren’t better? What if this is harder? What if . . .? We can quickly raise a lot of concerns and potential fears.
Even when we know God is behind the change, fear can still be present.”
Even when we know God is behind the change, fear can still be present. In Luke 1, we see a young woman who was about to experience an incredible change in her life and circumstances. We can be encouraged by her example to trust God no matter what.
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In 2002, Kirk Franklin released his chart-topping album, The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin. One song entitled, “He Reigns,” extols an awesome God, who reigns with wisdom, power, and love. His awesomeness takes away the fear in us, and we praise Him, because we know He can deliver us. The devil can’t block us, nothing can stop us because, “Our God is an awesome God!”
The post PUTTING FEAR IN ITS PLACE: The Fear of God (YOU-Win’23, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
I loved the testimony service though. Sister McRae led us in the songs of Zion, and Mother Ridgeway’s raspy voice testified of God’s redemptive power. The psalmist calls for that same kind of thankful worship of God. His cry for a collective praise is nothing but a good-ole fashioned testimonial service that gave reasons the Israelites should be thankful. That call extends to you and me.
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Mary Bethune’s life should challenge us to serve young people who represent generations of tomorrows. She lived what this session teaches—to passionately pass along our faith by guiding others in righteousness. This can be achieved by communicating God’s Word with others.
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Amanda Berry Smith was an American evangelist and former slave born in 1837. She founded an orphanage home and was often called “God’s image carved in ebony.” Just like Amanda Smith, we should act on what we know from God’s Word.
The post HOW TO BUILD YOUR LIFE ON GOD’S WORD – Obey God’s Word (YOU-Fal’22, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
Researchers contend that we are exposed to anywhere between 4,000 and 10,000 messages a day. We face a constant barrage of messages competing for our attention, but how many of them are important and worthy of our time? By contrast, everything in God’s Word is worthy of our time. We benefit greatly when we regularly think about and meditate on the truths in Scripture.
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Simply reading Scripture certainly allows us to know God and His Word. But studying the Bible takes it to a deeper—and richer—level. The words, the events, and the teaching of the Bible come alive when we invest the time to do more than just read the text. But it’s more than an exercise to fill our brains with facts; our lives become rich as we live out what we study.
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Although technology has been advantageous for keeping the church connected, its downfall is seen because of the difficulty for some to listen to God’s Word at home. Various distractions or simple tasks get in the way of our commitment to hear God’s Word. These are difficulties that we simply must overcome because technology is here to stay. No matter the method or place, God wants us to regularly and purposefully hear His Word faithfully taught.
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Lives lived without Christ know spiritual chaos. These people do what is right in their own sight. As believers, we also can become duped by the sound of competing beliefs and behaviors of the world. Nevertheless, when we ground our lives on God’s Word, we follow the Conductor of the universe living victoriously and marching to the beat of the beautiful song He has given us in His Word because of His great love for us.
The post HOW TO BUILD YOUR LIFE ON GOD’S WORD – Why We NEED God’s Word (YOU-Fal’22, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
We can also be wrong about the future and what we plan to do. When that happens, how do we respond? In this last session from the Book of James, we’ll see where our focus should be even as we plan for the future.
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Your Priorities (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
One minute, two children will be sitting next to one another, happily playing with their toys. In the next minute, one of them will try to take the other one’s toy away.
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Facing the Enemy (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
It is estimated that people spend fifty-two minutes a day talking about someone who is not present. In other words, people spend almost an hour every day engaged in gossip.
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Your Conversations (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
You would think that, with such a large majority professing belief in God, and nearly as many claiming faith in Christ, the ethical and moral standards of Americans would be higher. Unfortunately, that is not the case. If 63 percent of us claim to be Christian, where are our ethics and morality?
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Your Actions (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Racism and prejudice are far more common than they should be among those who agree that “all are created equal.” Whether the distinctions we make are racial, socioeconomic, religious, or political, we often treat people differently because they are different than us or cannot do something for us. James pointed to a better way. He taught that we should treat everyone the same.
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Your Relationships (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
Hank Aaron’s faith was on display as he proclaimed his dependence on God’s wisdom and strength. When asked about setting the new home run record, he responded that he trusted God’s will. Aaron turned from hatred and violence to embrace the joy of baseball and broke Babe Ruth’s home run record in Atlanta
on April 8, 1974. It’s difficult even to think of joy in trying moments such as those Hank Aaron experienced, yet James wrote that believers should consider trials joyous.
The post JAMES: LIVING OUT YOUR FAITH – Faith on Display in Hard Times (YOU-Fal’22, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
The devastating effects of COVID-19 pale in comparison to the desperation of being separated from a right relationship with God and the urgency of our mission to reach those lost people with His message of reconciliation. Let’s consider how we can love our neighbors by helping them find their greatest joy and deepest need—the Lord Jesus Christ.
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With this study from Matthew 18, we’ll consider a debilitating ailment of the soul: unforgiveness. Unforgiveness robs us of the life we’re meant to live: a life of joy, peace, and love for God and others.
The post HOW TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR: Forgive Your Neighbor (YOU-Sum’22, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
In the Book of Romans, Paul gave us the most complete theology of salvation in Scripture. Then in Romans 12, he showed us how to live out that salvation. The awe-inspiring mercy of God moves us to present ourselves as living sacrifices, a spiritual act of worship. We see that life of worship on display when we love and honor others.
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If we are to carry out the Lord’s commandment to love others as ourselves, we must be trained by the Holy Spirit. One of the primary ways the Holy Spirit shapes us is through prayer. When we pray for others, we are building a spiritual skill and strength to love like Jesus loves.
The post HOW TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR: Pray For Your Neighbor (YOU-Sum’22, Study 2, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
A genuine believer is one who has been transformed by the love of God and loves as He loves. God takes the real thing seriously—and so should we.
The post HOW TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR: What Does Love Look Like? (YOU-Sum’22, Study 2, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
Let’s be honest. It’s not always easy to love those around us. We live in an “age of rage,” a time when social media controversies are part of life and people regularly spew harsh and hateful words to one another. Yet, the follower of Christ is to be different. Scripture’s command to love one another sets Jesus’ followers apart from those who don’t know Him.
The post HOW TO LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR: Who Is Your Neighbor? (YOU-Sum’22, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
In a scene from the 2002 film, “Drumline,” Dr. Lee asked the band section leaders, “What is our concept?” With purpose and in unison, they replied, “One Band, One
Sound.”
The post NEVER ALONE-The Holy Spirit In Our Lives: United Through The Spirit (YOU-Sum’22, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
As we study Paul’s instructions to the churches in Galatia, remember it is easy to think you can do it by yourself or seek to prove to others that you can do it. As saints, let’s not forget our walking partner because it is easy to do.
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During the Civil Rights era, countless leaders sacrificed comfortable, simple lives for the benefit of others... Where would we be if these individuals chose to look out for themselves and their own comfort?
The post Interdependent Independence (YOU-Sum’22, Study SF, Special Focus Session) appeared first on YOU.
We cannot live this Christian life in the flesh. We need help and God has provided it through the His Spirit. As we study Paul’s instructions to the church of Ephesus, we will learn that help is available. We can walk in God’s light and walk in His wisdom.
The post NEVER ALONE-The Holy Spirit In Our Lives: Filled With The Spirit (YOU-Sum’22, Study 1, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
As a Christian, you may not have a necklace that has a cross on it, yet those around you should know that you are saved. How? The presence and power of the Holy Spirit abiding in you should demonstrate to others that you have been changed.
The post NEVER ALONE-The Holy Spirit In Our Lives: Indwelt By The Spirit (YOU-Sum’22, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
When Nicodemus approached Jesus to ask a tough question, Jesus did not give him a fairy tale. He tackled the question head on before Nicodemus got the chance to even present it.
The post NEVER ALONE-The Holy Spirit In Our Lives: Born Again By The Spirit (YOU-Sum’22, Study 1, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
We have not been left to handle our heartache alone. Christ promised that He would send another Counselor, the Spirit of Truth, who would guide us into all truth. He promised that He would send the Holy Spirit and that His disciples would never be alone.
The post NEVER ALONE-The Holy Spirit In Our Lives: Convicted By The Spirit (YOU-Sum’22, Study 1, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
If we live daily with the anticipation and expectation of Christ’s return, His return will be something we rejoice over. We are to live our lives so that when Christ returns, we will be unashamed before Him (1
John 2:28).
The post LIVING WITH THE END IN MIND: Stay Prepared and Ready (YOU-Spr’22, Study 2, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
For followers of Christ, “It ain’t over ‘til it’s over” applies to the return of Christ. We are called to serve Him and continue serving Him until He calls us home.
The post LIVING WITH THE END IN MIND: Keep Serving Faithfully (YOU-Spr’22, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
History is full of many misfires about Jesus’ return. Some of these misfires are created by heretical teachers hoping to gain a following. On other occasions, a misfire occurs because well-meaning believers get caught up in their zeal about end times and misread events.
The post LIVING WITH THE END IN MIND: Trust God’s Timing (YOU-Spr’22, Study 2, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
When He - Jesus - comes back, the signs of His return will be clear and unmistakable. They will be obvious! While we will not be privy to any advance warning, Christ’s return will be a powerful, can’t-miss event. I’ll gladly welcome that moment to “go home” and be with Him. In Matthew 24, Jesus told us what that day will be like.
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For any child, it is a horrible feeling when they don’t know where their parents are. I was troubled to think he might have believed I had actually forgotten him. In the same way, many of us have also felt at moments that we are forgotten by God. As we continue our study of the end times and Jesus’ return, we will see that God will never forsake us or abandon us.
The post LIVING WITH THE END IN MIND: Know What’s Coming (YOU-Spr’22, Study 2, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
Growing in faith is a lot like maturing in life. While young we become disillusioned that life would be easier. The grass on the other side always seems to be greener. As our faith grows we assume Christ would shield us from the struggles of life. However, no matter where we are in our faith walk, trials are part of the Christian life.
The post LIVING WITH THE END IN MIND: Stand Strong to the End (YOU-Spr’22, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
Matthew closed his Gospel with the account of two women who had watched Jesus suffer and die. It had been difficult to accept this harsh reality, but that was their reality. It was in that frame of mind that they went to the tomb and experienced their own joyous surprise.
The post Jesus Lives – And You Can Too (YOU-Spr’22, Study SF, Special Focus Session) appeared first on YOU.
“Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I’m happy, tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.” - MLK, April 3, 1968
The post LIVING LIFE CONNECTED TO CHRIST: A Life of Victory (YOU-Spr’22, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
Suffering may not be a common topic of conversation. However, suffering for the sake of Jesus and being persecuted because we follow Him is something He told us to expect. In John 15 and 16, the Lord warned us to prepare to suffer. Jesus wanted us to understand that living connected to Him means we will be mistreated. However, we can endure the hard times because He is with us, and He is worth it.
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Jesus wants us to taste and see His love. His love runs deep and should grow in our hearts on a daily basis. An understanding of His love helps us to love one another well.
The post LIVING LIFE CONNECTED TO CHRIST: A Life of Love (YOU-Spr’22, Study 1, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
We experience sessions of doubt. But thankfully, the work of Jesus is more powerful than our doubts. Jesus is demonstrably for us. We can trust He is with us, bringing us to the Father, no matter what we face.
The post LIVING LIFE CONNECTED TO CHRIST: A Life of Trust (YOU-Spr’22, Study 1, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
Judas may be an uncommon name, but betrayal is a common behavior. We live in culture where trust in others has been shattered by deeds of disloyalty. However, loyalty can often be purchased, and sometimes at a high price. We encounter this in nearly every area of life. We sometimes see it in ourselves. We might even see it in the people of God.
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I have read a lot of books about kings, swords, and medieval battles. I have discovered that these books of fantasy tend to highlight a fundamental flaw of humanity. In these fictional worlds, strong kings crush weak ones. The fastest blade wins.
Of course, we don’t live in a time of swords and kings, but ours is still a world in which those with strength often oppress instead of support. In the real world, many in positions of power abuse it, but the strongest person in history set a different example. Jesus walked the earth with the power of God Himself, but He didn’t crush, kill, or overwhelm. He had power the world had never seen, but He used it to serve.
Jesus walked the earth with the power of God Himself, but He didn’t crush, kill, or overwhelm. He had power the world had never seen, but He used it to serve.
That is to be our way as well. Since being connected to Christ gives us opportunity for abundance, and since being like Jesus means becoming the person God wants us to be, then we should treasure humility. The God of heaven put on flesh and served the world, and we reflect Christ powerfully when we serve with humility.
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I had told my wife many times that I was an outstanding driver in snow. Growing up in northern Illinois, I had learned to handle the slick roads. Yet, as we drove one of our sons to a party, she clearly doubted my skills. The powder was sticking to the windshield, and she asked me to please slow down. I rolled my eyes—and promptly lost control of the vehicle. Moments later, we were in a ditch, spinning the tires, and having a marital moment in front of the kids. We were stuck because I wouldn’t listen.
It’s one thing to be momentarily stuck in the snow, but many people live their lives stuck. It’s not the snow that causes the problem, but the unforgiveness that surrounds them. Nothing prevents a person from moving forward like the holding of grudges.
Nothing prevents a person from moving forward like the holding of grudges..
In this final session, Joseph had seen the plan of God in the decisions of his brothers that caused so much pain in his life. Let’s take one more look at Joseph and see what he can teach us about looking at our own struggles in light of the grace of God.
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As kids, we could look at certain foods and be convinced it would taste bad. And some foods can surprise us. Take, for example, an apple. Nothing tastes better than biting into a pretty red apple—and nothing tastes worse than discovering that apple is quite bitter! You don’t want someone snapping your picture at that moment because a screwed up face isn’t the best for a photo opportunity.
The face of bitterness is not attractive, yet many people wear that face today. Their bitter expressions are not because of unpleasant food, but because of painful moments in their past. We can wash away the bitter taste of bad food, but the bitterness that comes from the betrayal of others or our own bad decisions can rob us of our joy and prevent us from moving forward with God and others.
We can wash away the bitter taste of bad food, but the bitterness that comes from the betrayal of others or our own bad decisions can rob us of our joy and prevent us from moving forward with God and others.
Joseph displayed a different face. Joseph provides a pattern for us to follow, as he refused to be bitter. He chose to forgive and let his brothers “off the hook” for what they did to him. We, too, can choose to be bitter or better.
The post How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls: The Pitfall of Bitterness (YOU-Win’22, Study 2, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.
Life is full of ups and downs. A basketball star shoots a game-winning three-pointer, and his name is all over the media. The following week, however, an injury brings his career to a shocking end. He goes from hero to zero. The opposite can also happen. A teenage girl living in poverty creates a YouTube® video, and it goes viral. Within days, she’s offered multiple opportunities to sing. Her sudden success inspires young musicians everywhere.
Sudden reversals can flip the script for all of us, creating a test of our faith and character. For many of us, the arrival of the pandemic in 2020 caused just such a sudden reversal.
His many years of suffering were finally repaid with a huge personal reward.”
In today’s study, we’ll see Joseph travel from the prison to the palace in a single day. His many years of suffering were finally repaid with a huge personal reward. Notice the way Joseph kept his eyes on God through the good times and the bad. While success can cause some to grow self-sufficient and self-absorbed, Joseph modeled for us what it means to remain faithful no matter how high or low life takes us.
The post How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls: The Pitfall of Hard Times (YOU-Win’22, Study 2, Session 4) appeared first on YOU.
In Rocky Balboa (2006), Rocky said, “It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward.” While Joseph never had the chance to see a Rocky film, there’s a good chance he would have agreed with and felt that line. In today’s session, we will see how Joseph chose to press on, even through continued disappointment.
In Rocky Balboa (2006), Rocky said, “It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward; how much you can take and keep moving forward.”
Have you walked through a season when you couldn’t seem to catch a break? Did you ever wonder if good days would be a reality for you? Maybe you lost a job around the same time a loved one died during a global pandemic. Or you went through a painful divorce just as you received devastating news from the doctor. Life can throw many hard punches at us. We may even be tempted to let our hope in God fade.
As you read this part of Joseph’s story, be encouraged that the Lord will always see His children through. As Jesus said: “You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world” (John 16:33).
The post How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls: The Pitfall of Injustice (YOU-Win’22, Study 2, Session 3) appeared first on YOU.
We see enticing objects, and we feel the urge to respond. A second helping of chocolate cake. An ad for an item we don’t need and can’t afford. A “click here to see more” online. Temptation lies around every corner.
We often resist temptation as long as someone is looking over our shoulder and says, “Don’t eat that” or “You really don’t need that.” Someone is watching over our shoulder at all times: God!
In today’s study, Joseph modeled what it means to live with that truth in mind: God is watching our every move. Joseph’s aim was to keep himself clean in the midst of a dirty culture. That is our challenge as well.
Many of us are tempted to love money; pursue a relationship that could destroy a marriage; envy a co-worker who is experiencing great success; seek the “likes” of other people more than the approval of God.
You may not be tempted in the same way Joseph was, but you will face temptation. We all do. Many of us are tempted to love money; pursue a relationship that could destroy a marriage; envy a co-worker who is experiencing great success; seek the “likes” of other people more than the approval of God. Joseph’s approach to temptation can help all of us.
The post How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls: The Pitfall of Temptation (YOU-Win’22, Study 2, Session 2) appeared first on YOU.
Let’s be real. Life in this post-Christian world in which we live, but are not of, is filled with disappointments. Things don’t always turn out the way we think they will or should. In the Old Testament, Joseph was one of those rare people who learned the art of making the best of his circumstances, good or bad, and of refusing the temptation to be bitter. No matter what happened to him, he kept his eyes on the Lord and on the future which God revealed He had already planned.
No matter what happened to him, he kept his eyes on the Lord and on the future which God revealed He had already planned.
Trust is a priceless treasure, and it really hits hard when trust is deceived. Have you ever had a close friend turn on you? A brother or sister file a lawsuit against you? A parent disown you? The pain of betrayal can be soul crushing.
Kevin was a church planter. At age 25, he felt called to start a new church. He gathered a launch team and hosted meetings to determine interest. Knowing he wasn’t strong in organizational skills, Kevin wisely surrounded himself with a solid team of strategists. The church took off like a rocket.
But then the unthinkable happened. Behind the scenes, Kevin’s launch team he put in place held a series of secret meetings. They chose to search for a fresh leader with stronger administrative skills, and they fired Kevin from the church he was led to start.
Maybe you have a story like Kevin’s. Betrayal can be devastating and bitterness can consume us. We don’t have to face betrayal alone. God still works as we’ll see in the life of Joseph.
The post How to Avoid Life’s Pitfalls: The Pitfall of Betrayal (YOU-Win’22, Study 2, Session 1) appeared first on YOU.
It was April 1963 in Birmingham, Alabama—a city some considered to be the most segregated city in the United States, and known for brutal violence toward African-Americans. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and others worked for years with the local government to address issues of injustice to no avail. And so, after months of planning and strategizing, they began their nonviolent protests—much to the frustration of white pastors in the area who criticized Dr. King and accused him of acting in a way that was “unwise and untimely.”
Dr. King responded with his profound “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” He boldly challenged the passivity, indifference, and self-preservation of the church leaders. He wisely reminded them that no one lives in a bubble: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
King, Martin L. Letter from the Birmingham Jail.
San Francisco: Harper San Francisco, 1994.
The issues of passivity, indifference, and self preservation were the central topics the prophet Obadiah addressed in his message to the nation of Edom. Obadiah’s message is painful, but it has incredible application for us today.
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Long before everyone had a camera on their phone, we had to buy film then pay someone to develop that film. The man who brought cameras into every household was George Eastman. The New York Times said of him, “He should be the most thanked man in the world,” not because of his camera and film, but because of his business practices.
Eastman reduced the work hours of his employees. His company had a medical
department and a medical disability fund. He established a retirement plan and life insurance for his employees. He instituted a profit-sharing plan for employees. He hired women and the disabled.
Many companies offer benefits today, but when Eastman did it, it had never been done before. He cared for his employees.
George Eastman was a pioneer in caring for employees, but it pales in comparison to the care of Jesus. As our loving Shepherd, Jesus loves, leads, and cares for us.
George Eastman’s attitude toward others is commendable, but it pales in comparison to the care of Jesus. As our loving Shepherd, Jesus loves, leads, and cares for us.
The post Irrefutable: Prophecies that Point us to Jesus – The Ruler Who Cares for His People (YOU-Win’22, Study 1, Session 6) appeared first on YOU.
One of my favorite parts of Christmas is all the lights. Lights on the tree. Lights on the house. Christmas lights throughout the city. My family loves checking out lights in parks and neighborhoods all over our city. Something about lights adds to the celebration of the Christmas season.
But then January arrives, and the lights come down. In my part of the country, that leaves us with the cold, dreary climate of winter. It may be a new year, but we drift back to our old ways and habits. We are reminded that darkness defines the world in which we live.
To whatever you may be anticipating in 2022, add this: let the love of God and the light of Christ shine in your life.
We may have taken down all the Christmas lights, but the light of Christ is not gone. Christ came into the world to be the light we need. Light shines brightest in the darkness, and Christ shines brilliantly into our lives, revealing God’s glory and love for us. To whatever you may be anticipating in 2022, add this: let the love of God and the light of Christ shine in your life. And may that light be what others see
so they will want to shine too.
The post Irrefutable: Prophecies that Point us to Jesus – The Light and Glory of God (YOU-Win’22, Study 1, Session 5) appeared first on YOU.