Fear Not: Embracing the Meaning of Jesus’ Birth

This week, we are continuing our series called Jesus Is. We’re looking at the person and divinity of Jesus through the gospel of Luke. If you remember last week, we talked about the most important question: Who is Jesus to you? Because how we answer that question defines how we live our lives. Are we going to be the lord of our own life, or are we going to allow Christ to be the Lord of our life—our Savior who shines His light and love through us?

Today we’re going to look at His birth. And the reality is this: Jesus is so much more than just a Christmas story.

It’s a shame that we keep His birth narrative tucked away for one month a year in December, because the truth of Christ is that He is always making us new. He is always coming into our lives and helping us be born again into this world so that we can be the people God has called us to be.

Scripture Readings

Luke 1:26–38 – The angel Gabriel appears to Mary and proclaims the birth of Jesus.

John 1:1–14 – The Word became flesh and lived among us, full of grace and truth.

Three Truths from These Scriptures

1. Be Not Afraid

Imagine being Mary—just going about her day when suddenly an angel appeared. The first words spoken were: “Do not be afraid.”

Fear is powerful. Whatever we fear, we often end up worshiping, giving it energy and control over our lives. But Scripture is clear—fear only God. Not in the sense of being scared, but with reverence, awe, and respect. When we remember we stand in the presence of the Creator of the universe, we find strength, peace, and boldness. All other fears lose their grip.

Christians don’t have to live in fear—whether it’s bad news, social pressures, or everyday worries—because God is with us.

2. God Will Do Whatever It Takes to Reach His People

If God was willing to come down in human flesh, live like us, and even suffer with us, that means humanity is deeply valuable to Him. He uses imperfect people—like Mary, Joseph, and even you and me—to reveal His presence to the world.

That’s why this story isn’t just for Christmas. The incarnation means God is still with us—every day, in every place. He steps ahead of us, creates opportunities for grace, and empowers us to share His kingdom with others.

Sometimes that’s as simple as handing someone a card that says, “We’re praying for you.” Sometimes it’s sharing our story or being present in someone’s darkest moment. The incarnation proves God will stop at nothing to reach us—and He calls us to do the same for others.

3. God Brings Heaven to Earth

Because Jesus put on flesh, heaven is no longer just a far-off hope. It’s here, breaking into our reality.

Jesus’ first sermon was, “The kingdom of heaven is here. Repent and believe the good news.” That means heaven is something we can experience, not just imagine. We experience it in worship, in moments of prayer, in acts of love and forgiveness, and even on a beach with strangers when the Holy Spirit breaks into a conversation.

Heaven is here—and through Jesus, we get to share it.

More Than a Christmas Story

So, church, let’s not limit Jesus’ birth to a once-a-year holiday story. Let’s live daily in the truth that:

  • We do not have to be afraid.
  • God will do whatever it takes to reach His people.
  • Heaven has come to earth.

The incarnation is ongoing—God with us, still today. And that changes everything.

Closing Prayer

Gracious and holy God,

Thank you for coming to your creation, for the Creator becoming part of creation. Thank you for doing whatever it takes to reach your people—not just with words, but by putting on flesh and living among us. Help us stand in awe of You, live without fear, and boldly show the world that heaven is here. May our lives reflect Jesus Christ, full of grace and truth. Amen.

Practical Tips for Fearless Evangelism

One of the most common struggles I hear from Christians is this: “I want to share my faith, but I don’t know how to do it without sounding awkward or afraid.” If that has ever been you, let me reassure you that you are not alone. Even the most faithful followers of Christ sometimes hesitate when the opportunity to talk about Jesus presents itself. The good news is that God has not called us to be perfect evangelists, but faithful witnesses.

1. Remember Who You Are Representing

Sharing the gospel is not about showing off how much you know. It is about pointing people to Jesus. You do not have to have all the answers, but you do have a Savior who changes lives. When you focus on Christ instead of yourself, the pressure to “get it right” fades away.

2. Start With Listening

Most people are not looking for a sermon when they open up about their life. They are looking for someone who cares. Ask questions. Listen with compassion. Often the Holy Spirit will give you the right words to say because you took the time to hear the person’s heart.

3. Share Your Story

One of the easiest ways to share the gospel is to tell your own story. Talk about how Jesus has made a difference in your life. People can argue with theology, but they cannot argue with your personal testimony. When you share how Christ has carried you through fear, doubt, or loss, you offer hope in a way that feels real and relatable.

4. Use Simple Language

You do not have to sound like a preacher to share your faith. Avoid church jargon that might confuse someone who is new to Christianity. Instead of saying “justification” or “sanctification,” say “God forgave me” or “God is changing me.” Keep it clear, honest, and heartfelt.

5. Trust the Holy Spirit

At the end of the day, it is not your job to convert anyone. That is the work of the Holy Spirit. Your role is to plant seeds, to love people, and to open the door for God to do what only He can do. When you trust Him with the results, the fear of failing melts away.

6. Practice Everyday Opportunities

You do not have to wait for a big moment to share your faith. Practice in small ways—offer to pray with a coworker, share a Bible verse that encouraged you, invite a neighbor to church. When evangelism becomes part of your everyday rhythm, it feels natural instead of awkward.

The gospel is not a sales pitch. It is good news. And when you remember that good news has already changed your life, you will be able to share it with authenticity, confidence, and joy.

Jesus: The Central Puzzle Piece in Life

Scripture:

“Once, when Jesus was praying alone, with only the disciples near him, he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say that I am?’ They answered, ‘John the Baptist; but others, Elijah; and still others, that one of the ancient prophets has arisen.’ He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?’ Peter answered, ‘The Messiah of God.’” – Luke 9:18–20

This morning we begin a new sermon series called Jesus Is… Over the next several weeks, we will look at different aspects of who Jesus is and why it matters for our daily lives. If you think about it, understanding Jesus is a lot like putting a puzzle together. There are so many pieces—His teachings, His miracles, His compassion, His sacrifice—and sometimes we focus on the pieces we like best. But before we can put the puzzle together, we have to begin with the most important piece: Jesus’ question, “Who do you say I am?”

Imagine the scene. Jesus could have asked this question in Jerusalem, in front of the religious leaders, sparking controversy earlier than necessary. He could have asked it after feeding the five thousand, while the crowds were amazed by His power. But He didn’t. Instead, He waited until they were in Caesarea Philippi—a place surrounded by pagan temples, statues of false gods, and shrines to Caesar himself. The air was filled with the smell of incense and the echo of prayers to rulers and idols who claimed ultimate allegiance. It was there, with competing voices of “lords” all around, that Jesus asked His disciples: “Who do the crowds say I am? … Who do you say I am?”

Peter’s answer—“You are the Messiah of God”—was not just a title. It was a declaration that Jesus, and no one else, was Lord. Those words, Messiah of God, remain the most important confession of faith we can ever make.

The truth is, however we answer that question will shape everything about our lives. If Jesus is just a great teacher, then we may become people who admire His wisdom but stop short of transformation. But if Jesus is the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world, then our lives must reflect that truth. We will be people who step out in faith, who show compassion to others, and who seek to bring healing, wholeness, and hope wherever we go.

This is why the question is so important. Who do you say Jesus is when you’re making big life decisions—choosing a career, considering retirement, or moving to a new place? Who do you say Jesus is when you’re stuck in traffic or standing behind the person who frustrates you most? Who do you say Jesus is when tragedy strikes or when division fills our communities? How we answer will determine who we become and how we respond to life’s challenges.

We live in a world filled with competing claims for our attention and allegiance. Political leaders demand loyalty. Companies want us to spend our money. Technology promises to make our lives easier, and in many ways it does, but it can also distract us from what really matters. Every day, something or someone asks for the place that only Jesus deserves. That is why His question still matters: Who do you say I am?

This past week has reminded us how deeply divided our world can be. Yet, even in the midst of division, people have also come together, calling for peace and an end to violence and hatred. As followers of Jesus, we must decide whether we will allow the world to divide us by politics, nationality, ideology—or whether we will be united by the confession that Jesus alone is Lord.

Some may say, “But didn’t Jesus come to bring division?” Scripture does tell us that His presence can divide even families. Yet, His ultimate mission is to bring peace and unity among His people, so that together we might show the world what it looks like to live under His Lordship. We cannot expect non-Christians to act like Christians, just as we cannot expect children to act like parents. Instead, we are called to meet people where they are, to show them the love of God through our lives, and to invite them into the truth of the gospel.

At the heart of this truth is John 3:16—not that God loved one nation or one group, but that God so loved the world. When we unite around this truth, everything else falls into place. Our different perspectives, experiences, and worldviews do not disappear, but they are reshaped under the Lordship of Christ.

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, wrestled with this very question. On his journey to America, he met Moravians whose deep faith challenged him. When asked what he believed about Jesus, Wesley could only say, “I believe He is the Savior of the world.” But when pressed, “Do you believe He came for you?” he struggled to answer. It was not until later, when his heart was “strangely warmed,” that he fully realized Jesus came for him personally. That realization changed everything—and through Wesley, God sparked a movement that has impacted millions.

How we answer the question of who Jesus is has eternal consequences. It shapes our lives, our witness, and even the world around us. If Jesus is Lord, then we live with confidence, compassion, and hope, no matter the circumstances.

So, church, let me ask again: Who do you say Jesus is? This is the most important question you will ever answer. And how you answer it will shape not only your own life but also the life of the church and the world we are called to serve.

Prayer:

Gracious and holy God, we confess today that Jesus is Lord. Guide us and direct us to keep the most important piece of life’s puzzle in the right place—our confession of who You are. Everything else depends on this truth. Help us to see Your presence at work in our daily lives and to live boldly as Your people. Bind us together as one church, united by Your Spirit, and send us into the world to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. Amen.

Make Everyday Choices That Matter Forever

Have you ever stopped in the middle of your busy day and asked yourself: “Will this matter in eternity?”

We fill our schedules with meetings, errands, emails, and endless to-dos. Yet when the dust settles, only one question echoes beyond time: Did I live today in light of forever?

Living Beyond the Temporary

The truth is, much of what we stress about will not matter in a week, let alone in eternity. What will matter is the love we gave, the faith we lived, and the people we pointed toward Jesus.

Scripture reminds us:

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” — 2 Corinthians 4:18

Every conversation, every act of kindness, every prayer whispered for someone else has eternal weight. Eternity is not just a distant reality. It is shaped by the choices we make today.

Practical Ways to Live with Eternity in Mind

  1. Love people deeply. Send that encouraging text. Forgive freely. Listen with compassion.
  2. Serve selflessly. Hold the door, volunteer, mentor, or share your time with someone in need.
  3. Invest in God’s Word. Five minutes in Scripture today can ripple into an eternity of faith.
  4. Pray with purpose. Your prayers may be unseen now, but they shape eternal outcomes.
  5. Share your faith. Point someone to Christ, not just with your words, but with your life.

Why This Matters

Imagine standing before God and looking back at your life. What stories will you tell? What people will thank you for showing them Christ? What eternal impact will flow from your ordinary days?

The good news is this: you do not have to do everything. You just have to do the next faithful thing. One step. One word. One act of love. That is how eternal legacies are built.

So pause today. Ask yourself: What can I do right now that will echo in eternity?

And then, do it.

Call to Action

Today matters more than you think. Choose to live with eternity in mind. Start small. Start now.

Because when all is said and done, the only things that last forever are God, His Word, and people.

How to Know If You’re Following Jesus or Just Admiring Him

How Do You Know If You’re Truly Following Jesus?

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’” — Matthew 16:24

It’s one of the most important questions any believer can ask:

Am I truly following Jesus… or just admiring Him from a distance?

In our world today, it’s easy to associate being a Christian with attending church, being a good person, or checking off spiritual boxes. But Jesus never called anyone to be a fan—He called us to be followers. And following means movement. It means direction. It means discipleship.

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about pursuit. So today, let’s walk through a few biblical self-checks to help us ask: Am I really following Jesus… or just standing near Him?

1. 

Do You Know His Voice—and Listen to It?

Jesus said:

“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27

To follow Jesus, you must first hear His voice. Not just once in a sermon or in a crisis, but regularly, through Scripture, prayer, worship, and the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I spending time in God’s Word with a heart that listens?
  • Do I adjust my life when Scripture challenges me—or do I tune it out?
  • When God speaks, do I respond?

Followers of Jesus don’t just hear—they obey. Not because we have to, but because we want to. We trust that His way is better than ours.

2. 

Are You Carrying Your Cross—Daily?

Jesus didn’t sugarcoat the cost of following Him. He said it plainly:

“Whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” — Luke 14:27

The cross was not a metaphor for inconvenience—it was a symbol of death. Following Jesus means dying to self, daily. It means letting go of pride, selfish ambition, bitterness, and comfort. It means putting God’s will above your own.

This doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes it’s saying no to temptation, forgiving someone who doesn’t deserve it, or serving quietly when no one is watching.

Ask yourself:

  • What am I laying down for the sake of following Jesus?
  • Have I gotten too comfortable with a faith that costs me nothing?

Grace is free—but following Jesus will cost you your life. And strangely, that’s where real life is found.

3. 

Are You Becoming More Like Him?

Paul writes:

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 11:1

Discipleship is about transformation. We don’t just believe in Jesus—we become like Him.

Are you more patient, loving, truthful, humble, and courageous than you were a year ago?

Do your priorities reflect the heart of Christ?

Do others see Jesus in you—at home, at work, online?

This isn’t about comparison. It’s about growth. The more time you spend with Jesus, the more your life will begin to resemble His.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I growing in spiritual maturity?
  • Are there areas of my life where I’m resisting God’s transformation?

4. 

Are You Loving Others Like Jesus Would?

Jesus said the defining mark of His followers would be love:

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:35

Not by how much we know. Not by how right we are. But by how well we love.

This kind of love isn’t always easy. It requires grace, forgiveness, sacrifice, and compassion—especially when it’s not reciprocated.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I growing in my love for others, even the difficult ones?
  • Do I show grace to the broken, the overlooked, and the marginalized?

Following Jesus means loving as He loved—radically, relentlessly, and without condition.

5. 

Are You Willing to Go Where He Leads?

When Jesus called His first disciples, they left everything to follow Him.

“Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” — Matthew 4:20

Discipleship means movement. It means we don’t stay where we are—not spiritually, not emotionally, not relationally. Following Jesus will often pull us out of comfort zones and into the unknown.

Ask yourself:

  • Is there something God’s calling me to do that I’ve been resisting?
  • Am I willing to follow Him into new territory—even if it’s hard?

Sometimes, following Jesus will require leaving behind something familiar—an old habit, a toxic relationship, a dream you’ve clung to. But what you gain in return is far greater: Jesus Himself.

So… Are You Truly Following Him?

This isn’t about guilt—it’s about grace.

This isn’t about performance—it’s about presence.

This isn’t about being perfect—it’s about staying close.

Jesus doesn’t ask us to have it all together before we follow. He simply says, “Come.”

So, friend, wherever you are today—whether you feel on fire for God or tired from the road—take a moment to assess your heart.

Because the question isn’t just, “Do you believe in Jesus?”

It’s: “Are you following Him?”

Let’s Reflect Together:

  • What is one step of obedience Jesus is calling you to take this week?
  • What area of your life is hardest to surrender to Him?
  • How can you encourage someone else to keep following Jesus?

Want to keep growing?

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Living Gracefully: Embracing God’s Favor Everyday

What Is Grace, and How Should It Change the Way We Live?

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” — Ephesians 2:8

Grace. It’s a word we hear often in church, in hymns, and even in casual conversation. We say grace before meals. We talk about someone being graceful under pressure. But when Scripture talks about grace, it’s describing something far more powerful—and far more personal.

Grace is one of the most beautiful, misunderstood, and life-altering truths of the Christian faith. It’s not just a theological idea. Grace is the very heartbeat of the gospel—and it changes everything.

What Is Grace?

In simple terms, grace is the unearned, undeserved favor of God.

It’s God’s goodness extended to us not because we’ve earned it, but precisely because we haven’t. It’s the reality that God comes to us, loves us, forgives us, and empowers us—not because of who we are, but because of who He is.

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, described grace in three ways:

  • Prevenient Grace — God working in our lives before we even realize it.
  • Justifying Grace — God’s forgiveness that makes us right with Him.
  • Sanctifying Grace — God’s continued work of transforming us to reflect Jesus more and more.

Grace is not just a one-time pardon. It’s a lifelong invitation to walk with God in freedom, humility, and love.

Grace Frees Us from Shame

One of the greatest burdens people carry is shame—the voice that says, “You’re not good enough,” or, “You’ll never change.” But grace speaks a better word.

Grace says, “You are loved as you are, not as you should be.”

When you truly understand grace, it disarms shame. You no longer have to earn God’s approval. You’re already accepted. You’re already forgiven. That changes everything about how you relate to God. You come not out of fear, but out of joy. You pray not to perform, but to connect.

You can stop striving to be “enough” and rest in the reality that Jesus is enough.

Grace Changes the Way We See Others

If grace transforms how we relate to God, it also transforms how we treat others.

When you’ve experienced undeserved love, you begin to extend it. When you’ve been forgiven, you become more forgiving. When you’ve been met with kindness, you start leading with kindness.

The Apostle Paul puts it this way:

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32

We live in a world hungry for grace but quick to condemn. But what if the Church was known as a community of grace-filled people? What if your family, your friendships, your workplace began to reflect the same grace God has shown you?

Living by grace doesn’t mean we ignore sin or avoid truth. It means we speak the truth in love, remembering that we too stand only by the grace of God.

Grace Gives Us Power to Grow

Sometimes we think grace means “God does it all, and I do nothing.” But that’s not quite right.

Grace doesn’t just forgive us—it empowers us.

Titus 2:11–12 says:

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness… and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives.”

Grace is not a license to keep living in sin—it’s the power to start living in freedom. It shapes our habits, our desires, our relationships. It gives us strength in weakness and hope in failure.

When we stumble, grace picks us up. When we feel inadequate, grace reminds us that God is still at work. This is the grace that doesn’t just meet us at the altar—it walks with us every day.

Living a Grace-Filled Life

So, how should grace change the way we live?

  • We receive it humbly. Stop trying to earn God’s love. It’s already yours.
  • We extend it freely. Be generous with kindness, forgiveness, and patience.
  • We walk in it daily. Let grace empower your choices, not guilt or pressure.
  • We speak it boldly. Tell others about the God whose grace never runs out.

You are not the sum of your failures or successes. You are not defined by your worst day. You are not beyond hope.

You are a recipient of grace—and that means your story isn’t over.

Final Thoughts

Grace is more than a doctrine. It’s an invitation. An invitation to come home, to start fresh, and to live in the freedom of God’s love.

So today, wherever you are, take a deep breath. You don’t have to have it all together.

You just have to come with open hands and a willing heart.

Because grace will meet you there—and it will never leave you the same.

Let’s Reflect Together:

How has grace changed your life? Who in your life needs to experience the grace you’ve received? Share your thoughts in the comments below or message me privately—I’d love to pray with you.

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Reflecting God’s Image: The Value of Every Person

What Does It Really Mean to Be Made in the Image of God?

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” — Genesis 1:27

It’s one of the first truths we encounter in Scripture, and yet it may be one of the most misunderstood: you and I are made in the image of God.

But what does that really mean?

This idea, known in Latin as the Imago Dei, is more than a theological concept. It is the foundation of our identity, the source of our purpose, and the lens through which we are called to see others. Let’s unpack how this truth can shape the way we live every day.

1. 

Identity: You Are More Than the Labels

In a world that tries to define us by our job titles, social media presence, mistakes, or achievements, the truth of Genesis 1:27 reminds us of something far deeper: you are made in the image of God. That means your value isn’t earned—it’s inherent.

Being made in God’s image means we reflect His nature. We’re wired for creativity, built for relationship, and capable of love, justice, mercy, and truth. No matter your past, your worth is not in question. You bear the mark of the Creator.

When we understand that our primary identity is not what we do but whose we are, we begin to live from a place of confidence and freedom. You’re not a mistake. You’re not an accident. You are God-crafted, God-imaged, and God-loved.

2. 

Purpose: You Were Made to Reflect God

To be made in the image of God is also to be called. Just like a mirror reflects light, we are meant to reflect God’s character to the world around us. That’s our purpose.

That doesn’t mean you have to be perfect—but it does mean your life has divine significance. Whether you’re raising kids, working in an office, teaching a classroom, or just trying to figure things out, you were made to point people toward the goodness of God.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” That means you are not only made by God, you are made for something beautiful. Every act of kindness, every word of encouragement, every choice to forgive—it all echoes the image of the One who made you.

3. 

Relationships: Everyone You Meet Bears God’s Image

This truth doesn’t just shape how we see ourselves. It also transforms how we treat others.

When you recognize that every person bears the image of God, it becomes impossible to dehumanize, demean, or dismiss anyone. Whether it’s the neighbor who annoys you, the stranger who votes differently, or the person who hurt you—each one carries the divine fingerprint.

This truth grounds Christian ethics. It’s why we fight for justice, defend the vulnerable, and honor human life at every stage. It’s why Jesus told us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). Because when we love others, we are loving those whom God has created to reflect Himself.

Living in the Image of God

Understanding the Imago Dei doesn’t just give us something to believe—it gives us a way to live.

  • It gives us dignity. You matter, not because of what you’ve done, but because of who made you.
  • It gives us purpose. You were created to reflect God’s love and goodness.
  • It gives us compassion. Every person is sacred because every person bears the image of the divine.

In a noisy world that tries to confuse and divide us, this truth centers us. And maybe that’s the point. Before anything else, God wants us to remember who we really are—and who we’re really made to be.

So the next time you look in the mirror, remind yourself:

“I am made in the image of God. That means I matter, I’m called, and I belong.”

Let’s Reflect Together:

What does it mean to you that you are made in God’s image? How does this truth change how you see yourself—or others? Share your thoughts in the comments below or send me a message. I’d love to hear your story.

Want to Go Deeper?

Check out these Scriptures this week:

  • Genesis 1:26–27
  • Psalm 139:13–16
  • Ephesians 2:10
  • Matthew 22:37–40

Subscribe to the blog for more reflections and encouragement as we learn to live fully in the image of the One who made us.

Small Bites, Big Changes: How Daily Choices Shape Your Soul

Sin doesn’t always come crashing into our lives like a lightning bolt. More often, it creeps in quietly—through small choices, subtle indulgences, and seemingly harmless habits. We tend to think of sin as the big things—the obvious moral failures or shocking betrayals. But in reality, sin often starts with little bites of something we think will satisfy us.

Each time we take a “small bite” of something outside God’s will, we train our minds and hearts to crave it. Over time, these patterns can rewire our brains. What once felt like a small compromise can become the default setting of our thoughts, words, and actions. That’s why Scripture warns that desire, when it takes root, grows into sin—and sin, when fully grown, brings forth death (James 1:14–15).

But here’s the life-changing truth: the same principle works in reverse when we pursue God.

Psalm 34:8 invites us to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” This isn’t just a poetic phrase—it’s a spiritual strategy. When we take even small, intentional moments to experience God’s goodness, we’re training our souls to desire Him more than the fleeting pleasures of sin.

Think of it like this: every time you read a verse, whisper a prayer, offer gratitude, or extend kindness, you’re taking a small bite of God’s goodness. And each of those moments rewires your spiritual appetite, drawing you toward eternal joy instead of temporary satisfaction.

Just as sin reshapes us in destructive ways, daily “tastes” of God’s truth reshape us into people who hunger for what lasts forever.

What if you replaced every small indulgence that dulled your soul with a small bite of God’s goodness?

  • Instead of mindlessly scrolling through gossip, read a Psalm.
  • Instead of replaying an offense in your mind, thank God for one blessing today.
  • Instead of filling your thoughts with worry, meditate on a promise from Scripture.

Small bites make big changes—whether for good or for harm. And what we feed our hearts will eventually feed our lives.

So today, choose to taste and see that the Lord is good. Do it daily, even hourly. Over time, those small, faithful moments will transform your mind, renew your heart, and shape your soul for eternity.

Worship Over Worry: Finding Peace in Troubling Times

Trouble has a way of showing up unannounced.

A medical report.

A broken relationship.

A financial blow.

An unexpected tragedy.

In those moments, something in us reacts instantly. The question is: Do we run to worry—or run to worship?

For many of us, the default is fear. We overthink, panic, lose sleep, and try to control the outcome. But Scripture offers us another way—a higher way: worship over worry. Faith over fear.

1. Worry Is Natural—But It’s Not Neutral

Worry may feel like a natural reaction, but it’s not harmless. Jesus knew how easily our hearts drift toward anxiety, which is why He said:

“Do not worry about your life…” (Matthew 6:25).

Worry doesn’t change your circumstances. It only changes your focus—pulling you away from the God who holds all things together.

It drains our peace. It shrinks our perspective. It steals our joy.

And often, it reveals what we’ve placed our trust in.

2. Worship Changes the Atmosphere

Worship is more than singing songs at church. It’s a posture of the heart—a declaration that even when life is falling apart, God is still worthy.

When Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, their response wasn’t fear—it was praise (Acts 16:25). In the midnight hour, behind locked doors and iron chains, they chose to worship. And something powerful happened: God showed up.

Their worship became the catalyst for their breakthrough.

3. Faith Isn’t Denial—It’s Direction

Choosing worship over worry doesn’t mean pretending everything is okay. It means acknowledging the storm while anchoring your soul in the One who calms it.

Psalm 121:1-2 says:

“I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Worship lifts our eyes off the problem and fixes them on the Provider.

4. When Fear Comes Knocking

We can’t always control what happens to us, but we can control how we respond. The next time fear comes knocking, ask yourself:

  • Am I reacting or responding?
  • Am I obsessing over what I can’t fix—or handing it over to the One who can?
  • Am I feeding my fear—or fueling my faith?

Psalm 56:3 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

Notice—it doesn’t say “if.” Fear will come. But it doesn’t have to rule you.

5. Let Worship Be Your Weapon

Worship is a weapon in the battle for your heart and mind. It reminds your soul of who God is:

  • He is faithful.
  • He is present.
  • He is stronger than whatever you’re facing.

When you feel like giving up, lift your hands instead. When fear rises, raise a hallelujah. When you don’t have the answers, worship the One who does.

Final Challenge:

What’s your default reaction when trouble comes?

Worry may feel easier. But worship brings peace. It shifts the focus from the storm to the Savior.

Today, make the choice to trade fear for faith—and let worship lead the way.

Back-to-School: Trusting God in New Seasons

There’s something sacred about new beginnings. Whether you’re a kindergartner nervously clinging to your parent’s hand, a college freshman stepping into a dorm room for the first time, or an adult returning to school to chase a long-held dream — a new school year marks the start of something hopeful, scary, and full of promise.

With sharpened pencils, blank notebooks, and clean schedules comes the chance to learn, grow, and become more of who God has created us to be. But let’s be honest: new beginnings are also filled with uncertainty. What if I don’t make friends? What if I fail? What if I don’t fit in?

In the middle of all the “what ifs,” we find a powerful truth in Isaiah 43:19:

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

God is not only present at the start of your journey—He goes ahead of you into every classroom, every hallway, every exam, every challenge. He is the source of courage when we feel afraid and the provider of peace when we feel overwhelmed.

New Beginnings Are Holy Ground

Starting something new is more than a calendar date or a fresh supply list—it’s a spiritual invitation. It’s a call to step forward in faith, trusting that the God who created you has also prepared good things for you.

Maybe you’re starting school for the first time. Maybe you’re returning to finish what you started years ago. Or maybe you’re the parent, grandparent, teacher, or support system behind someone who is stepping into a new season. Whoever you are, know this:

God delights in your beginning. And He will walk with you all the way through.

A Back-to-School Prayer of Encouragement

Gracious God,

As this new school year begins, I lift up every student, teacher, and family preparing for what’s ahead. For the ones starting for the very first time—bring peace to their hearts. For those returning—renew their strength. And for those stepping into unfamiliar places—surround them with courage and grace.

Lord, calm anxious minds. Protect young hearts. Open eyes and ears to learn not just facts, but wisdom. Let this year be more than academics—let it be full of growth, kindness, purpose, and joy.

Bless every hallway, every classroom, every conversation, and every test.

Be the steady rock beneath their feet and the light that leads them forward.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

You Are Not Alone

The first day is just the beginning. Whether you’re heading back with confidence or trembling with fear, trust that God is already working through this chapter of your life. With Him, every new beginning becomes a testimony of grace, growth, and unshakable hope.

So go ahead. Take the step.

Open the door.

Walk into that classroom.

Start again—because God goes with you.