Today, we live in an era of individualism, self-promotion, and angry rhetoric. Where “self-care” often becomes a substitute for self-absorption, Christians are called to a radically different way of living. The Apostle Paul puts it plainly: Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too” – Philippians 2:3-4. The most Christ-like expressions of faith are not wrapped…
For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of” – Matthew 12:34. When Jesus spoke these words, He told us something simple but powerful: what’s inside us comes out in our words. Listening to the Heart: Embracing Godly Speech. Think about your favorite coffee mug. What spills if it’s filled with coffee, and someone bumps your elbow? Coffee, of course! In the same way, when life “bumps” into us – through stress, anger, or hurt – whatever fills our hearts…
For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him” – John 3:16-17. These verses from the Gospel of John are perhaps the most well-known in all Scripture. They summarize the heart of the Christian message – a message not of condemnation…
In Mark 7:24-37, Jesus travels to the region of Tyre and encounters a Gentile woman who seeks healing for her daughter. Despite initially testing her faith with a parable about children’s bread and dogs, Jesus is moved by her humble and persistent faith, ultimately healing her daughter. As Jesus continues His travels in Gentile territory, He heals a deaf and mute man, showcasing His compassion and miraculous power. These stories emphasize that Jesus’ love and miracles extend beyond the Jewish…
In Mark 7:9-23, Jesus challenges the religious leaders’ emphasis on human traditions over God’s commandments. He teaches that what truly defiles a person comes not from external impurities but from the evil intentions within one’s heart. Jesus lists examples of sins such as theft, greed, deceit, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness, indicating these are the real issues that separate people from God. This passage emphasizes the importance of focusing on internal purity and spiritual integrity rather than outward religious appearances.
This podcast episode challenges believers to reflect deeply on the authenticity of their faith, emphasizing that true devotion to God transcends superficial religious practices. This passage highlights Jesus’ critique of the Pharisees, who were more concerned with outward rituals than their hearts’ condition. It serves as a potent reminder that our relationship with God should be rooted in sincere love, humility, and an inward transformation that aligns with His teachings. This scripture calls Christians to ensure their external expressions of…