"I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. 9 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope. 10 For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption." Psalms 16:8-10 ; "Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— 23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; 24 whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it. 25 For David says concerning Him: 'I FORESAW THE LORD ALWAYS BEFORE MY FACE, FOR HE IS AT MY RIGHT HAND, THAT I MAY NOT BE SHAKEN. 26 THEREFORE MY HEART REJOICED, AND MY TONGUE WAS GLAD; MOREOVER MY FLESH ALSO WILL REST IN HOPE. 27 FOR YOU WILL NOT LEAVE MY SOUL IN HADES, NOR WILL YOU ALLOW YOUR HOLY ONE TO SEE CORRUPTION. 28 YOU HAVE MADE KNOWN TO ME THE WAYS OF LIFE; YOU WILL MAKE ME FULL OF JOY IN YOUR PRESENCE.' 29 "Men and brethren, let me speak freely to you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that of the fruit of his body, according to the flesh, He would raise up the Christ to sit on his throne, 31 he, foreseeing this, spoke concerning the resurrection of the Christ, that His soul was not left in Hades, nor did His flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God has raised up, of which we are all witnesses. 33 Therefore being exalted to the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, He poured out this which you now see and hear." Acts 2:22-32

King David wrote these words generations before the empty tomb shook the foundations of death. At first glance, Psalm 16 reads like a personal prayer of trust -- a yearning for security and closeness with God. But beneath the surface, the Spirit was revealing something deeper, something eternal: a promise not just for David, but for all of us. David dared to hope for more than just a long life; he looked beyond the grave and glimpsed the eternal. He trusted that God would not leave him in Sheol -- the realm of the dead -- and would not let His “Holy One” see corruption. Yet David did die. His tomb, Peter boldly proclaimed at Pentecost, was still present and known to all. So, how could David sing such a song of confidence? David was a prophet. He saw the resurrection -- not merely of himself, but of the One who would come from his lineage. The phrase, "You will not let Your Holy One see corruption," was not about David, but a Messianic Psalm about Jesus, who broke the power of death by rising on the third day. And because Jesus rose, so shall David -- and so shall we. What David saw in part, we now see in full. His hope has become our anchor: resurrection is not a wishful dream, it is a guaranteed reality through the Risen One. Jesus is the firstfruits of the resurrection, the forerunner of a new creation where death holds no power. Because He lives, we will live also. This is not just a future promise -- it is a present power. Death no longer has the final word. Brothers & Sisters, let this awaken your soul and ignite your spirit: long before Calvary, God whispered the promise of resurrection through a shepherd king -- but in Jesus, that whisper became a thunderous cry that shattered the silence of the tomb. The grave is broken, death defeated, and the pit stripped of its power. This is not mere theology -- it is the cornerstone of our faith. As Paul declared, if Messiah had not been raised, our faith would be in vain --but He has been raised! (1 Cor. 15:12-17) And because the apostles grasped this truth, they were transformed from fearful men into bold witnesses who faced death without flinching. Let that same resurrection power burn in you today. Proclaim the truth with fire -- for the tomb is empty, death has lost its sting, and Jesus is alive — Amen! THE HOPE BEYOND THE GRAVE!

"For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this." Isaiah 9:6-7 ; "There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. 10 For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His." Hebrews 4:9-10

The majestic Messianic prophecy of Isaiah 9 culminates in a powerful declaration: “The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” Not might. Not maybe. Not if we work hard enough. It will be done -- because God Himself is passionate to see it through. The Hebrew word for “zeal” here is קִנְאָה (kin’ah), which also means jealousy or burning passion. This is not passive interest -- it’s the fiery determination of the LORD of Hosts to establish His Kingdom. The same fiery zeal that struck Egypt with plagues—shattering the power of false gods, that parted the Red Sea and made a way where there was none, that birthed a nation from the womb of slavery, and that drove the Son of God to the cross at Calvary -- is the very zeal that will fulfill every promise declared in Isaiah 9. This kingdom of justice, righteousness, and peace is not the result of human effort or religious striving. It is divinely initiated, sustained, and completed. That’s why the passage ends not with a command to act, but with an invitation to rest -- an echo of Shabbat, the seventh-day rest established at creation and later given as a covenant sign to Israel. And yet, that weekly rest was always pointing to something greater: a future, eternal rest in the Messiah, our Prince of Peace. The Book of Hebrews tells us there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God (Hebrews 4:9-10). This isn’t merely about a day off -- it’s a prophetic promise that in Jesus, we cease from striving, just as God did from His works. In Messiah, the striving to earn your salvation is finished. The striving to prove, to fix, to control is silenced by the finished work of the cross. Jesus didn’t just observe Shabbat -- He embodies it. He is our rest. Our stillness. Our restoration. He is the Lord of Shabbat! Every Shabbat you observe becomes more than a tradition -- it becomes a prophetic rehearsal of what is to come: a world restored, a people redeemed, a King enthroned, and a kingdom at peace. In a world of exhaustion, He offers rest. In a world filled with confusion, He offers divine wisdom. In the midst of chaos, He reigns peace. Brothers & Sisters, so lay down your burdens, beloved. The Kingdom will not rise by your striving -- but by the zeal of the Lord of hosts. Rest in Him. Worship Him. Trust in Him. Let Shabbat be more than a ritual -- let it be your weekly return to the heart of heaven. For your King has come, and His zeal is accomplishing what no man can. He is your Shabbat. He is your Peace. He is your eternal Rest. And in Him, every storm will cease and every striving soul will find peace. Our Prince of Peace is coming on the clouds of heaven! THE ZEAL OF THE LORD!

"Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David…" Isaiah 9:7a

Hebrews 12:27-28 Now this, "YET ONCE MORE," indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. In a world weary from political upheaval, moral confusion, and fleeting peace, Isaiah offers us a vision of something profoundly different—an ever-increasing kingdom ruled by a King whose justice is not compromised, whose peace is not fleeting, and whose throne is eternally secure. The phrase "of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end" speaks not just of duration, but of expansion—a kingdom that doesn’t plateau, doesn’t weaken, and doesn’t shrink back in the face of darkness. Instead, it advances, multiplies, and transforms. The reference to the throne of David anchors this kingdom in covenant promise. In 2 Samuel 7, God swore that David's lineage would produce a ruler whose reign would be everlasting. This wasn’t fulfilled in Solomon or any earthly king. It pointed forward to Messiah, the Son of David, who would reign not only over Israel, but over all creation. His authority is both royal and redemptive—restoring the fractured order of the world, not through force, but through righteousness. The word shalom—often translated “peace”—goes far beyond the absence of war. Its Hebrew root (שׁ־ל־ם) implies wholeness, completeness, and restoration. Under Messiah's reign, broken things are made whole, relationships are healed, and creation itself is brought into harmony. His kingdom doesn’t just address surface problems; it restores the human heart, society, and even time itself. Every injustice that history could not fix, every wound left unattended, every cry for truth—finds its answer in His unending rule. When the kingdoms of this world shake—and they are shaking—this verse becomes an anchor for our souls. Presidents, empires, and movements come and go, but you belong to a kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28). You are not at the mercy of headlines or elections. The government of your life rests on the shoulders of the King whose dominion grows even in dark days. And the peace He brings is not escapism—it is victory rooted in eternity. Brothers & Sisters, so lift your eyes above the crumbling thrones of this world and fix them on the King whose name is Faithful and True. His justice will not fail. His peace will not fade. His government will not end. The increase is already happening—in hearts awakened, in nations stirred, in broken places healed by His Word. Let every fear flee. Let every doubt yield. Let every broken place be restored under the weight of His glory. For the government is His, the peace is His, and the throne is His forever—and most importantly, you are His. HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED .....

“And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6c

In the Hebraic understanding, a name isn’t just a label—it reveals essence, identity, and destiny. Isaiah doesn’t say these are merely descriptions of the Messiah; he says His Name shall be called -- meaning this is who He is. When we declare these names, we are not offering poetic praise -- we are calling upon real attributes of the living King. In just one verse, the prophet unveils the depth of Messiah’s personhood, showing us that this child is no ordinary child. He is the fulfillment of heaven’s promise and the revelation of God’s nature. Wonderful (פֶּלֶא / Peleh): This is the word used by the Angel of the LORD when He appeared to Samson’s parents in Judges 13. When Manoah asked His name, He replied, “Why do you ask My name, seeing it is wonderful (פֶּלִאי / pele’i)?” -- a title linked to divinity and mystery. This wasn’t just any angel—it was a pre-incarnate appearance of Messiah. “Peleh” is used elsewhere in Scripture to describe the miraculous acts of God. Messiah isn’t just amazing—He is a supernatural wonder, beyond comprehension, worthy of awe and reverence. Counselor (יוֹעֵץ / Yo’etz): In a world flooded with opinions and confusion, Jesus is the eternal voice of wisdom. This is not human strategy, but divine counsel that flows from perfect understanding. He doesn't merely advise—He leads with truth that pierces through every lie and brings clarity to chaos. Isaiah later says in 11:2 that “the Spirit of counsel and might” will rest upon Him. When you don’t know what to do, He is wisdom made manifest. (Colossians 2:2-3) Mighty God (אֵל גִּבּוֹר / El Gibbor): This title leaves no room for ambiguity. “El Gibbor” appears again in Isaiah 10:21—used exclusively of GOD Himself. It literally means “God the Warrior.” This child born to us is not a godly man, but God made flesh. He is the conquering King, the defender of Israel, and the One before whom every knee will bow. His name here directly affirms the deity of Messiah, silencing those who try to reduce Him to mere prophet or teacher. Everlasting Father (אֲבִי עַד / Avi-Ad) is a title that does not blur the distinction between Messiah and God the Father within the Triune nature of God, but rather reveals Messiah’s eternal essence and fatherly role. In Hebrew thought, to be called the "father" of something means to be its source or originator. Thus, Avi-Ad identifies the Messiah as the Father of Eternity—the one from whom time itself proceeds. He is not merely one who lives forever; He is the source, author, and sustainer of eternity itself. His nature is unbound by time, and His care knows no expiration. As Avi-Ad, He nurtures, sustains, and never abandons. He is the One who was, who is, and who is to come—the eternal foundation behind all existence. This title powerfully affirms Messiah’s deity. No mere human could ever be called the "Father of Eternity"—that is a designation belonging to God alone. Isaiah is proclaiming that the Child who is born is none other than the One through whom all things came into being. This truth is echoed across Scripture: Micah 5:2 declares that His goings forth are “from everlasting”; John 1:1–3 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word... all things were made through Him”; and Colossians 1:17 reveals, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” Messiah is not a created being—He is the preexistent King, the One who steps into time yet exists beyond it, the eternal source of life who holds all things together by the power of His Word. Prince of Peace (שַׂר שָׁלוֹם / Sar Shalom): “Shalom” is more than peace in the absence of war—it means wholeness, harmony, restoration, and right order. And Jesus is not just a messenger of peace; He is the ruler who brings it. He is the One who speaks, and storms cease. He reconciles man to God, breaks down dividing walls, and makes the broken whole. His peace is active, reigning, and redemptive. So when life feels fragmented—when your heart is restless, your path uncertain, or your world shaking—run to His Name. Call upon each title, not as a distant truth, but as a personal promise. He is your Wonder, your Counsel, your God, your Father, your Peace. Let these names become part of your prayer life. Invite Him to be all these things to you—personally, powerfully, daily. Brothers & Sisters, every one of His names shatters the limits of what you thought possible. In Him, the mystery of heaven meets the mess of earth. So lift up His Name in faith, not as ritual but as revelation. Declare it over your mind, your household, and your future. He is Wonderful when you’re overwhelmed. Counselor when you’re confused. Mighty God when you feel weak. Everlasting Father when you feel alone. Prince of Peace when the war won’t stop. His Name is not just what He’s called -- it’s what He does. Call on Him. Trust in Him. For He is the One whose Name that is above all names! (Philippians 2:9-11) HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED .....

“And the government shall be upon His shoulder…” Isaiah 9:6b; "And you shall put the two stones on the shoulders of the ephod as memorial stones for the sons of Israel. So Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD on his two shoulders as a memorial." Exodus 28:12

In a world wearied by the failures of men, Isaiah 9:6 offers a startling promise of hope and strength: “The government shall be upon His shoulder.” This is not the language of politics as we know it -- it’s the language of divine dominion. The Hebrew word for “government” here is misrah (מִשְׂרָה), a word so unique it appears only in these two verses—Isaiah 9:6 and 9:7. Unlike more common Hebrew words for government -- mamlachah or memshalah, misrah speaks of a rare and elevated rule—divinely ordained, gentle in character, and eternal in scope. This is a government not imposed, but carried. Not tyrannical, but righteous and restorative. The phrase “upon His shoulder” evokes the ancient image of Israel’s high priest, who bore the names of the twelve tribes on his shoulders as he ministered before the Lord (Exodus 28:12). This is no coincidence. The Messiah comes not only as a King but as a Priest—one who bears His people with intercession and mercy. Isaiah gives us a glimpse of the King-Priest, a role foreshadowed by Melchizedek, the mysterious figure in Genesis 14 who was both King of Salem and Priest of God Most High. Psalm 110 confirms this lineage: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” Jesus’s rule is not political maneuvering—it is a holy reign, rooted in righteousness and mercy. As Priest, He carries our names into the Holy Place. As King, He establishes justice and peace. Unlike earthly rulers who rise by force and fall by scandal, His authority is unshakable. His shoulders bore the weight of the cross before they bore the scepter of the Kingdom. And now, risen and exalted, He bears the rule of the cosmos with nail-scarred hands. His misrah government is personal, global, and eternal. His leadership does not control—it restores. His throne is not built on manipulation—it is upheld by the zeal of the LORD of hosts (Isaiah 9:7). So what does this mean for you today? It means the burdens you're carrying—your anxieties, your unknowns, your attempts to control outcomes—were never meant to rest on your shoulders. There are meant to be upon His. The One who upholds all things by the word of His power (Hebrews 1:3) invites you to surrender control, not out of fear, but in faith. His shoulder is strong enough to carry your world, yet tender enough to carry your heart. Brothers & Sisters, so arise, and fix your eyes on the One whose shoulders carry both the weight of heaven’s authority and the burden of earth’s redemption. The crown belongs to Him. The cross was endured by Him. And now, the government rests securely upon Him. Surrender to His reign, and find your rest beneath His righteous rule. Cast every anxious care upon His capable shoulders—the very shoulders that bore the crushing beam of the cross and now bear the keys of the kingdom. Our King is coming! And until He does, let His shoulders carry you. THE GOVERNMENT ON HIS SHOULDERS!

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given..." Isaiah 9:6a

The prophet Isaiah begins with language so familiar that it's often read too quickly. Yet within this brief phrase lies a depth of mystery and majesty that anchors the entire gospel. "For unto us a Child is born" speaks of an earthly event--Messiah's humanity. He was born as all men are born, taking on flesh, entering a specific culture, time, and lineage. The Hebrew word for "born" (yalad) reinforces His full identification with us. This is the miracle of the incarnation: God wrapped in the vulnerability of a newborn child. But Isaiah doesn't stop there. He continues, "unto us a Son is given." This second phrase doesn't repeat the first--it deepens it. The Child is born, but the Son is given, not created. The eternal Son of God--the second person of the Godhead--was not born in Bethlehem in the way His humanity was. He was given a gift from heaven. The Hebrew word natan (נָתַן) is used throughout Scripture to denote intentional, covenantal giving — often in the context of offerings and sacrifices. This is the divine generosity that would later be unveiled entirely at the cross. The dual nature of Messiah--fully God, fully man--is not abstract theology; it's the foundation of your salvation. Only a perfect man could die in the place of mankind, and only God could bear the infinite weight of humanity's sin. Jesus didn't come to Earth as a religious symbol. He came as the ultimate expression of God's love--clothed in flesh, destined to bleed, and determined to redeem. He is heaven's answer to earth's need. This changes how we approach Him. He didn't arrive with royal demand but with divine mercy. He didn't come to take from us -- but to give Himself for us. In a world where value is so often based on performance, this truth lifts the burden: your worth is not found in your striving, but in His giving. You don't work your way to Jesus; He came to you. So understand this--not with cold intellect, but with trembling wonder: a Son was given for you. Not loaned, not bargained, not reluctantly offered--but freely, fully, and forever given. Heaven's most precious treasure was not withheld. The One through whom all things were made stepped out of eternity and into a womb--for you. The radiance of God's glory wrapped Himself in the frailty of flesh--for you. The eternal Son, co-equal with the Father, laid aside His majesty and embraced mortality--for you. He was given not merely to inspire you, but to redeem you. Given not to judge, but to justify. Given not to add to your burdens, but to break them. The weight of your sin, your shame, your story--He took it all upon Himself. This is not abstract theology; this is a divine intervention. Heaven bent low and placed its finest jewel into a broken world--for you. Brothers & Sisters, so fall to your knees in awe, and let this reality pierce through every layer of doubt and weariness: You were worth the giving of the Son. Not because of who you are, but because of who He is. And He is love in its purest form, gift in its highest expression, and grace in its fullest measure. Be still--and receive the wonder of His love and let it fully transform your life! A CHILD IS BORN, A SON IS GIVEN!

"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Cor. 5:20-21

What gives an ambassador boldness, confidence, and urgency? It's not simply the message — it’s the position from which they speak. Paul tells us we are ambassadors for Christ, sent with Heaven’s authority, carrying a message that pulses with eternal weight: “Be reconciled to God!” But this cry doesn’t rise from striving or performance—it flows from rest. Why? Because we stand not in our own strength, but in the righteousness of God in Him. Verse 21 is the foundation: “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us...” Let that sink in. Jesus, perfect in holiness, absorbed the totality of our sin. Why? So we could become what we could never earn: the righteousness of God. Not just forgiven—made right. Not just cleansed—commissioned. And from that place of right-standing, we speak—not with shame or hesitation, but with Holy Spirit fire. We are not pleading with the world as broken beggars—we are pleading as those who know the power of reconciliation, because we’ve experienced it. Our message is urgent because we know the cost. Our passion is real because the transformation is real. And our rest fuels our effectiveness—because we’re not trying to prove anything. We’re simply living out what He already accomplished. This is the paradox of divine ambassadorship: you speak with fire because you rest in grace. You carry a burden for the lost, yet walk in the ease of being fully accepted. You are bold, because your identity is unshakable. You are passionate, because the cross is personal. Brothers & Sisters, when you speak for Him, you don't speak to prove--you speak because the work is already finished. You don't strive to be heard--you stand, because you've been sent. You speak not from insecurity, but from identity--not because you're flawless, but because grace has marked you. So proclaim His truth with fire, but let that fire burn from a place of rest. Let your voice carry Heaven, anchored in His righteousness. You are His ambassador--not because you've arrived, but because you've been redeemed. The world doesn't need your performance; it needs your anointed presence. Speak as one who knows the King--because you do. And Heaven will back every word that flows from a surrendered life. RESTING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS, SPEAKING WITH FIRE!

"in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you." Titus 2:7–8" ; "having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation." 1 Peter 2:12

When the Lord called us to be His ambassadors, He didn’t merely give us a message --- He gave us a lifestyle to embody it. An ambassador is not just a messenger, but a living representation of the Kingdom they serve. That means our behavior, words, and example all matter deeply. Paul tells Titus to “show yourself to be a pattern of good works.” Not just a voice of truth, but a living pattern, a mold others can look to. This pattern is shaped by integrity, reverence, and incorruptibility—traits that are increasingly rare in a world of compromise. Our doctrine must not only be sound; it must be anchored in character. This is how an ambassador earns trust -- not by title, but by testimony. Peter echoes the same heart. Even when the world speaks evil against you, they're watching. And when your conduct is consistently honorable—even under pressure—your actions speak louder than any accusation. You silence critics not with argument, but with observable righteousness. And ultimately, it leads to something greater: they may glorify God. We don’t defend the Kingdom by force -- we reveal it by how we live. In a cynical culture, our lifestyle becomes radical. In a world obsessed with spin, our sound speech and integrity become prophetic. You were not chosen to merely echo Kingdom words -- you were commissioned to embody Kingdom reality. In a world drowning in deception, compromise, and shallow influence, God is raising up ambassadors whose lives thunder louder than their lips. When your conduct reflects Heaven, when your integrity holds under fire, and when your speech remains seasoned with grace—you preach a Gospel that cannot be silenced. This is not the hour for half-hearted witness. The world doesn’t need more noise; it needs living proof. When they see you walk in purity, honor, and unwavering truth -- they see a glimpse of the King you represent. That is the integrity of an ambassador: one whose life makes it impossible to ignore the glory of God. Brothers & Sisters, so stand tall. Live clean. Speak wisely. Let your life expose the counterfeit by being unmistakably real. Because when the day of visitation comes—and it will—may those who once scoffed say, “I saw the Lord in them... and now I believe.” THE INTEGRITY OF AN AMBASSADOR!

"Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one." Colossians 4:5-6

As ambassadors of Christ, we don't just represent His Kingdom--we reflect His heart. Paul's words in Colossians 4:5-6 are not just good advice; they're a commissioning. We are called to walk wisely among those who do not yet know Christ, recognizing that every interaction is a divine opportunity. To "walk in wisdom" means we approach others with discernment and humility, especially those outside the household of faith. Cultural intelligence is not just about knowing customs — it's about understanding people. It's about listening more than speaking, learning before correcting, and seeing through the lens of compassion instead of criticism. Paul emphasizes timing and tone: making the most of every opportunity and letting our words be gracious, full of life, not judgment. "Seasoned with salt" doesn't mean bland; it means flavorful and preserving. Salt adds value. It heals. It provokes thirst. In the same way, our words should point to something deeper--something eternal. In a world quick to cancel, offend, and divide, the ambassador of Christ is one who builds bridges. We don't compromise truth, but we carry it in a vessel of grace. This is how hearts are softened. This is how lives are changed. Brothers & Sisters, so today, as you enter conversations, scroll through timelines, or cross paths with those who think, live, or believe differently--don't just speak--represent. You are not merely commenting--you are carrying the authority of Heaven. Ask the Holy Spirit for divine insight before you open your mouth. Let your words be more than opinions--let them be weapons of light, truth wrapped in grace, bearing the fragrance of Christ in a world suffocating on bitterness and division. Be the voice that turns hearts, not just heads. Speak as one sent. GRACE - SEASONED TRUTH!

"So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God." James 1:19-20

In the age of social media, where hot takes go viral, outrage spreads in seconds, and comment sections become battlegrounds, James offers a divine pattern that stands in stark contrast to the digital frenzy. His instruction is timeless but urgently needed today: be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. These three commands — revolutionary yet straightforward — cut through the noise of our reaction-driven culture and call us to a Spirit-led posture in a screen-lit world. In a world where replies are faster than reflection, being quick to hear means more than scrolling—it’s the posture of a disciple: humble, teachable, and tuned to the Spirit. There’s power in pausing to listen before we speak. When we seek to understand, not just react, we reflect God’s heart. True listening leads to grace, not assumptions, compassion, rather than conflict. In a world quick to comment, let’s be quick to care. Listening isn’t weakness—it’s Christlike wisdom. In the digital age, words are no longer just spoken—they’re posted, tweeted, commented, and shared in seconds. But if we truly understood what it means to be slow to speak, our timelines would look very different. Words have weight, even online. A careless comment can ignite division, damage reputations, or deepen wounds. But words chosen with wisdom—seasoned with grace and truth—can heal, guide, and point people to Jesus. Being slow to speak doesn't mean staying silent — it means surrendering our words to the Holy Spirit. It's the choice to pause, pray, and check our hearts before we speak or post. We're not called to prove points or win arguments, but to speak truth with grace. Proverbs 25:11 says, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver." That's more than poetic--it's prophetic. God calls us to speak only after we've listened, sought His wisdom, and aligned our hearts with His. In a world of instant opinions and viral outrage, Spirit-led silence is not weakness—it’s wisdom. And when we finally do speak, our words carry the weight of heaven. Anger is not always sinful, but unrestrained, reactive anger is destructive. James will go on to say in the next verse that "the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God" (James 1:20). That means our outbursts, our need to defend ourselves, our bitterness—none of it builds God’s Kingdom. But patience, reflection, and forgiveness do. To be slow to anger is to trust that God is our defender, that justice belongs to Him, and that grace is more powerful than retaliation. Ultimately, this passage is not just about behavior modification—it’s about spiritual transformation. James isn’t calling for politeness; he’s calling for holiness. This is what it means to walk in the Spirit—to reflect the character of Christ, who listened to the Father, spoke with purpose, and bore with our sins in patient love. Brothers & Sisters, so in a world overflowing with anger and offense, let us rise higher. When we learn to hear from God, speak with Spirit-led wisdom, and refuse to be easily offended, we reveal the character of Jesus within us. This is maturity—not reacting in the flesh, but responding in love. It’s not weakness; it’s strength under the rule of the Spirit. Let’s reject the culture of outrage and pursue our high calling in Him with humility, grace, and power. Let every word, every response, every post reflect the One we follow -- for our voice should reflect heaven! BE A VOICE THAT REFLECTS HEAVEN!

"All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." 2 Cor 5:18-21

“All this is from God...” These words usher us into the breathtaking reality that salvation is not born of human effort, wisdom, or willpower -- it is entirely the work of God. From beginning to end, it is His plan, His initiative, His unrelenting grace. Through Jesus, God stepped into our brokenness and reconciled us to Himself, repairing the relationship that sin had shattered. Reconciliation is not merely a theological concept -- it is the restoration of intimacy with the Father. We did not ascend to Him in holiness; He descended to us in mercy. The Creator did not wait for us to find our way back. No, He came down through Jesus, arms stretched wide in love, calling us home. “…and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” These words shift the focus from what God has done for us to what He now desires to do through us. Reconciliation is not the end of the story—it is the beginning of a new calling. Those whom the love of God has restored are now commissioned to carry that same love to others. We are not passive recipients of grace; we are active participants in God's redemptive mission. The healing we’ve received becomes the message we proclaim. Every believer, regardless of title or platform, is entrusted with this ministry—to be a bridge, a voice of hope, a vessel of truth and mercy to a world aching for peace. Reconciled people become reconcilers -- it is both our identity and our sacred responsibility. “…God was reconciling the world to Himself in Messiah, not counting their trespasses against them…” What staggering mercy this is—that the holy and righteous God, who has every right to judge, instead chooses to forgive. Through Jesus, our debt has not just been reduced—it has been completely erased. The weight of guilt, the record of wrongs, the shame of our past—wiped clean by the blood of the Lamb. This is not a theory; it’s a liberating reality. And now, we carry this message like fire in our bones: your sins are no longer counted against you. This is the heartbeat of the gospel—a glorious invitation to come home to a God who has already made the way. "... We are ambassadors for Messiah." You are not just a believer—you are an ambassador. An official representative of the King of Kings. God makes His appeal through us. When we speak the message of reconciliation, it is as if Messiah Himself is calling out through our voice: "Be reconciled to God!" Let this truth humble and embolden you. You are not alone in your witness—God speaks through your life. "He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us..." This is the heart of the gospel. Jesus, utterly without sin, took on the entire weight and curse of our sin, not a fraction, but all of it. In exchange, we are given not merely forgiveness, but the righteousness of God Himself. This is not something we strive to earn—it is a new identity, received by faith. In Messiah, we are declared righteous. Brothers & Sisters, so now, as one whose blood Jesus has reconciled, rise and take up your calling. The world is desperate for peace, for truth, for the hope that only comes through the Messiah. You are His voice, His hands, His ambassador. Don’t remain silent—plead with the lost, shine with His righteousness, and carry the message of reconciliation everywhere you go. Be bold. Be faithful. Be His Ambassador of Reconciliation! BE HIS AMBASSADOR!

"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away." Matthew 24:35

In Matthew 21, Jesus approached a fig tree full of leaves but found no fruit. He cursed it, and it withered. This dramatic act was not about the tree—it was about Israel. The fig tree had the appearance of life, but it lacked the substance of transformation. It was a warning to a nation full of religion but void of repentance. The tree became a symbol of spiritual barrenness, of form without fruit. But a few chapters later, in Matthew 24:32, the fig tree appears again -- not cursed, but budding with new life. This time, it signals hope and restoration. The same fig tree that once symbolized judgment now speaks of redemption. Its tender branches and fresh leaves are a prophetic picture of Israel’s return to life, just as Ezekiel foretold: “But you, O mountains of Israel, shall shoot forth your branches and yield your fruit to My people Israel, for they are about to come” (Ezekiel 36:8). This restoration is not only national--it is deeply spiritual. Romans 11:25-27 reveals the mystery that a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles comes in, but "all Israel will be saved." The budding fig tree points to that promise. And it doesn't stand alone--Jesus said, "When you see all these things," including deception, war, apostasy, and Israel's rebirth, "know that it is near, even at the doors." We are witnessing prophetic convergence, with the fig tree at the center. Yet in the midst of it all, He gives us an anchor: His Word will not pass away. In Hebrew, davar means both "word" and "thing" -- because when God speaks, things happen. Creation responds. History bends. That’s why the fig tree parable ends not with fear, but with certainty. Though everything else may shake, His Word stands forever (Isaiah 40:8). Here lies the mystery within the parable: the fig tree that blossoms is more than a sign of new life—it not only points to restoration and revival -- but toward God's appointed rest. Shabbat is not merely a pause from labor; it is a prophetic window into the Messianic Age—the seventh day in God’s redemptive week—when He will dwell with His people and make all things new. “There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God” (Hebrews 4:9), and the fig tree is quietly declaring that final rest is near. Brothers & Sisters, so as the fig tree buds, awaken your heart--this is not the time to sleep. As the signs converge, don't be shaken--be sharpened. This is not a moment for fear, but for preparation and confident rest. The same God who declared the end from the beginning has appointed you to live in this hour. The fig tree is a prophetic promise: the harvest is ready, restoration has begun, and God's final rest is near. So rise up, stay sharp, and step boldly into your calling! THE BUDDING FIG TREE, THE UNSHAKEABLE WORD, AND THE COMING SHABBAT!

"So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors!" Mathew 24:33

The parable of the fig tree is not just a message to observers -- it’s a summons to the faithful. The fig tree puts out its leaves first, then comes the fruit. Spiritually, that’s a call to live in readiness even before the final harvest arrives. Jesus tells His disciples, "Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Matthew 24:44). In Hebraic thought, readiness is active, not passive. The Hebrew word for “wait” (קוָה – kaw-vah) carries the meaning of hopeful tension, like a watchman on the wall. It’s not merely waiting -- it’s preparing, expecting, anticipating with purposeful action. As the fig tree moves from dormant to fruitful, we too are called to shift into alignment with the coming Kingdom. Botanically, a fig tree must be pruned and cultivated to yield good fruit. Without care, it can overgrow and produce inedible figs. This mirrors the parable Jesus told in Luke 13:6–9, where a fig tree had no fruit for three years. The vinedresser asked for one more year to dig and fertilize. Jesus is the vinedresser, calling for repentance and fruit-bearing readiness in His people. The wise virgins in Matthew 25 kept oil in their lamps as they waited for the bridegroom. This oil is a picture of the Holy Spirit and ongoing intimacy with God. Readiness is not about storing canned goods—it’s about keeping your heart in a state of holiness, filled with the Spirit, and aligned with God's Word. Brothers & Sisters, let the fig tree awaken your spirit. These signs are not meant to debate -- they were given to give us a call to action. Stop watching the clock and start preparing your heart. Live as if the King could step through the door at any moment. Be clothed in righteousness. Keep your lamp full. Stay on watch. The hour is late, and the King is not far--He is at the door. LIVING LIKE THE KING IS AT THE DOOR!

"The fig tree puts forth her green figs, And the vines with the tender grapes Give a good smell. Rise up, my love, my fair one, And come away!" Song of Solomon 2:13

Among all fruit-bearing trees, the fig tree is uniquely prophetic--because it is one of the few that produces two harvests in a single growing season. First comes the early crop in spring, known in Scripture as the "first ripe fig" (Isaiah 28:4), and then a second, more abundant harvest in late summer or early fall. This uncommon pattern is a living picture of prophecy woven into the fabric of creation. Of all the trees in creation, only a few bear fruit twice in a single year--and God chose one of them, the fig tree, to reflect the prophetic rhythm of redemption. Through it, He reveals a double harvest: first in Messiah's coming for the remnant of Israel, and again in the final ingathering when "all Israel will be saved." The fig tree--deeply tied to the Jewish people--stands as a living sign of both restoration and the coming harvest of the world. This twofold harvest speaks deeply to the first and soon to be second coming of the Messiah. The early crop points to Jesus's first coming: His death and resurrection, the firstfruits of salvation (1 Corinthians 15:20). The later harvest mirrors His return in glory — to judge the nations, restore Israel, and bring in the final ingathering. But neither harvest happens in isolation. For the fig tree to produce both crops, multiple environmental factors must converge--sunlight, temperature, soil, and timing must align. Just as the fig tree responds to a perfect set of conditions, the signs of our day are falling into place with striking unity. Israel has returned to her land. The gospel is reaching the nations. Lawlessness is increasing. The Church is being purified. Apostasy abounds. These aren't random events — they are a prophetic convergence, signaling that the appointed time is drawing near. Just as the fig tree sends out all its leaves together in one season, the simultaneous unfolding of these signs declares with certainty: the season is now. Yeshua said, "When you see all these things"--every branch budding at once--"know that it is near, even at the doors" (Matthew 24:33). Even the Biblical calendar echoes this divine rhythm. The early harvest aligns with the Lord’s feasts (moedim) of Passover and Firstfruits, fulfilled in Messiah’s first coming through His death and resurrection. The later harvest corresponds to Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles--also called the Feast of Ingathering--a prophetic picture of God dwelling with His people and gathering the nations at the end of the age. The word moedim—translated as “feasts”—literally means appointed times, signaling that what we are witnessing is not random or seasonal, but divinely timed. The prophetic calendar is not winding down—it is ripening toward its final fulfillment. This is not just the close of an age--it is the unfolding of a final and glorious harvest. Scripture reveals the Son of Man with a sickle in His hand, reaping the earth at the appointed time (Revelation 14:14-20). Soon, as promised, "all Israel will be saved" (Romans 11:26). Brothers & Sisters, as the signs converge, rise with purpose. Stay fixed on your assignment: step into the harvest, proclaim the gospel, awaken the sleeping, and keep your heart burning with joyful expectation. The fig tree is not just a warning—it’s a summons from heaven. It declares with urgency and certainty: the harvest is ripe, and the King is on His way. So go—gather, labor, watch, and rejoice. For soon, the Lord of the harvest will appear, and He will gather His own. TWO COMINGS, ONE TREE: THE MYSTERY OF THE DOUBLE HARVEST!

"Now learn the parable of the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors." Matthew 24:32-33

Jesus used the fig tree—a familiar symbol in Israel’s botanical and prophetic world—as a teaching tool to awaken spiritual discernment. The fig tree, known for losing all its leaves in winter and budding again in spring, became a natural signpost to mark the changing seasons. In the same way, Jesus gave His disciples prophetic markers to discern a coming shift: wars, famines, false messiahs, persecution, lawlessness, and the global preaching of the gospel (Matthew 24:4–14). But notice Jesus's exact words: “When you see all these things, know that it is near.” The fig tree doesn’t represent just one sign—it represents the convergence. It is not a single event that signals the nearness of His coming, but the culmination of many signs happening together, like leaves sprouting in unison on the same tree. In Hebraic thought, when multiple prophetic signs align, it indicates that the “appointed time” (moed, מוֹעֵד) is drawing near. The fig tree here becomes a picture of prophetic convergence—when multiple branches of God’s plan begin to bud at once. Just as spring doesn’t arrive with only one leaf, so the end of the age doesn’t come with only one sign; it is the collection of “all these things” that confirms the season. Botanically, fig trees must respond to environmental conditions in unison—temperature, light, and soil moisture trigger a synchronized leafing and fruiting. Likewise, global events—geopolitical tension, moral collapse, spiritual deception, and the restoration of Israel—are spiritual signals to the Church. When we see these things together, Jesus says, “Know that it is near.” So the fig tree is more than a metaphor—it’s a prophetic mirror. When its branches are tender and the signs are many, summer is at hand. Lift your eyes. Don’t dismiss the convergence of signs as coincidence—Jesus said when you see all these things, the door of redemption is about to open. Brothers & Sisters, so rise up—shake off distraction and complacency. The fig tree is speaking, and the signs are converging with precision. This is your hour to watch, to warn, and to walk in holiness. Refuse to be dull in a prophetic moment. Let faith replace fear, clarity replace confusion, and urgency replace apathy -- for you were born for such a time as this. DISCERN THE SEASON!

"From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near." Matthew 24:32

Jesus didn't merely offer a suggestion--He issued a command: "Learn the parable." In Greek, the word manthano implies disciplined learning, not casual observation. In Hebraic thought, to "learn" a parable means to press into its hidden meaning until it transforms how you live. The fig tree is not just a poetic image--it's a prophetic mandate. And Jesus expected His disciples, including us, to understand it deeply. The fig tree often symbolizes Israel throughout Scripture (Hosea 9:10; Jeremiah 24; Joel 1:7). When Jesus told this parable just days before His crucifixion, He had already cursed a fig tree that bore no fruit (Matthew 21:19), symbolizing Israel's spiritual barrenness at the time. But in this parable, the fig tree is coming back to life. Its tender branches and new leaves are signs of renewal and return. What is the most visible sign that this fig tree is budding? The miraculous rebirth of the nation of Israel in 1948, after nearly 2,000 years of dispersion. This event marked the start of a prophetic countdown--Israel is now the major signpost in the convergence of end-time events. Just as a budding fig tree tells you summer is near, the rebirth of Israel tells you the end-time season has begun. Jesus said, "When you see all these things"--not just Israel's rebirth, but deception, wars, lawlessness, global shaking, and the gospel going to all nations--"know that it is near, at the doors" (Matthew 24:33). Like a fig tree responding to the sun, soil, and rain all at once, the prophetic signs are responding to a divine convergence. Israel is the centerpiece, but not the only branch. So Jesus's call to "learn the parable" is not just about agriculture--it's about prophetic awakening. To learn is to perceive the time, understand the signs, and prepare our hearts for the return of the King. Israel's restoration is not a coincidence — it's a trumpet blast to the nations (Isaiah 11:11-12). The fig tree has budded. Now we must ask: are we watching, learning, and responding as we were commanded to? Brothers & Sisters, the ancient promises are sprouting before your eyes. The Lord of the harvest calls you--not to slumber, but to learn the parable, discern the season, and awaken the sleeping. This is no time for apathy. It is the hour of prophetic clarity. You are commissioned to perceive the signs, hear the sound of convergence, and prepare the way of the Lord with boldness and truth. For the One who spoke of the fig tree is near--even at the door. "Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning... for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." (Luke 12:35-40) Blessed is that servant whom the Master finds watching when He comes. Amen. So be it. Sound the trumpet. A PROPHETIC MANDATE: LEARN THE PARABLE!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13

In a world full of uncertainty, this verse from Romans stands like a lighthouse in the storm: "The God of hope..." Not just the God who gives hope, but the very source of it. When everything around us seems shaken -- economies falter, nations rage, relationships strain -- it is the God of hope who remains unshaken and unchanging. The apostle Paul is writing this as both a blessing and a prayer. His desire is that believers wouldn't just scrape by emotionally, but be filled -- overflowing with joy and peace. But there's a condition: "in believing." Joy and peace are not produced by circumstances going right, but by faith -- by believing that God is good, God is near, and God is working all things together for good. And here's the beautiful secret: it's not up to us to manufacture this hope. Paul says it is "by the power of the Holy Spirit" that we abound in hope. That means when you feel empty, weak, or discouraged, you can cry out to the Spirit of God, and He will fill you. This is not wishful thinking; this is supernatural empowerment. But it doesn't end with you. The hope God gives is not meant to be bottled up. If you're not centered in His hope, you'll have nothing of substance to give to a hopeless world. But when you are filled -- when your life is anchored in His peace and joy through faith -- you become a vessel that overflows. You begin to spread abounding hope to those around you: in your family, in your workplace, in your community, and even across nations. Hope becomes contagious. And in these last days, a hope-filled believer becomes a blazing signpost pointing to a living Savior. So rise up, child of God. The world is drowning in fear, division, and despair—but you carry the answer. Let the God of hope fill you so completely that hopelessness has no room to linger. Let joy silence anxiety. Let peace disarm chaos. And let the blazing hope of the Holy Spirit within you pierce the darkness like a sword of light. This is your calling -- not just to survive in these days, but to abound. To be a walking embassy of heaven’s hope. To lift the weary. To speak life into the broken. To shine with a supernatural confidence that the world cannot explain -- because your hope isn’t rooted in headlines, but in the unshakable promises of God. Brothers & Sisters, you were not meant to carry a dim candle. You were meant to burn bright with holy fire. So stay centered in His hope—and then go and spread it with boldness, until the whole world knows: there is a God of hope, and His name is Jesus. ABOUNDING IN HOPE!

"And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 3 Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves." Luke 10:2-3

When Jesus spoke these words not only to the seventy He sent ahead of Him, but to every disciple who follows Him into the world, it’s a striking picture: fields overflowing with a harvest, ready to be gathered. The problem isn’t the readiness of the harvest -- it's the shortage of workers willing to go. “The harvest is plentiful…” These words should ignite faith within us. They remind us that Abba has already been at work—preparing hearts, breaking up the hard ground, and causing seeds of truth to grow. Our role is not to make the harvest happen but to join Him in reaping what He has already made ready. But Jesus doesn't stop there. He says, "Pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest…" The first step is not action—it is intercession. Before we go, we must seek His face. When we pray for laborers, something happens in us: our hearts align with His, and we often become part of the answer to our own prayer. Then comes the sobering truth: "Go your way… I am sending you out as lambs among wolves." This mission will not be without cost. The world may oppose the message of the Kingdom. But our confidence doesn’t rest in our strength -- it rests in the Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep. We go not in fear, but in faith. Not with force, but with love. Not as predators, but as peacemakers—carrying the message of redemption and the power of the Holy Spirit. The time is now. The fields are not just ready -- they are bursting with opportunity. Jesus did not speak these words to inspire passivity, but to ignite purpose. You were not saved to sit -- you were saved to be sent. The same Spirit that empowered the early disciples burns within you. The same voice that called them still calls today: "Go." Yes, the wolves are real. The resistance is real. But so is the power, the protection, and the presence of Jesus, who walks with you. You are not going alone -- you are being sent by the King of Kings, commissioned by the Lord of the Harvest, and carried by the strength of the Holy Spirit. Brothers & Sisters, so rise up, laborer. Shake off fear. Step into the harvest fields with boldness and compassion. Speak truth. Show mercy. Proclaim the Kingdom. You were made for this moment. Now go—and reap. THE HARVEST IS PAINFUL!

"if the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?” 4 The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD's throne is in heaven; his eyes see, his eyelids test the children of man. 5 The LORD tests the righteous, but his soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence [Hamas]. 6 Let him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup. 7 For the LORD is righteous; he loves righteous deeds; the upright shall behold his face." Psalms 11:3-7

This piercing question opens Psalm 11 like a cry from the heart in troubled times. It’s a question we ask when law and order collapse, when truth is ridiculed, and when those who do evil seem to triumph. The foundations -- the principles of righteousness, justice, and truth that uphold society -- are under siege. And it begs the question: What can God's people do when everything righteous seems to be crumbling? The answer comes immediately: "The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD’s throne is in heaven." God has not abdicated His throne. He is not shaken by the shaking of this world. While evil rises and darkness spreads, God remains sovereign, seated above it all. He sees. He knows. "His eyes behold, His eyelids test the children of man." He is not blind to what is happening. He is testing the hearts of all people -- especially the righteous. The Hebrew word for violence in Psalm 11:5 is hamas -- the very same word that names the modern terrorist organization Hamas. This is no linguistic coincidence. In Scripture, hamas describes more than just aggression; it embodies a spirit of brutal injustice, lawlessness, oppression, and bloodshed. It’s the same violent corruption that filled the earth in the days of Noah (Genesis 6:11), provoking God to cleanse the world with judgment. The spirit of hamas is ancient, and it remains active in our day -- cloaked in modern ideology but rooted in the same rebellion against God's order. God is not passive toward such evil -- He hates hamas. Whether it manifests as personal cruelty or coordinated terror, He detests those who love violence. Psalm 11:6 makes the verdict clear: "Let Him rain coals on the wicked; fire and sulfur and a scorching wind shall be the portion of their cup." This isn't poetic metaphor -- it's prophetic reality. The rise of hamas may be celebrated in the streets of men, but it stands condemned by the throne of heaven. God’s justice is sure. Evil may have its moment, but it will not have the final word. But even as judgment falls, a promise shines for the faithful: "The LORD is righteous… the upright shall behold His face." God delights in righteousness. He takes pleasure in those who remain upright, even when the world collapses around them. For those who endure, the reward is more than rescue -- it’s relationship. They will see His face. Take heart, righteous one. Though the foundations shake, hamas—violence and lawlessness—floods the earth, and the wicked rise with boldness, do not be moved. God is still on His throne. He sees, He tests, He judges—and He remembers the faithful. Brothers & Sisters, embrace the testing. It’s not to break you, but to prepare you. Each trial draws you closer, deepens your dependence, and refines your walk. And in the end, the promise remains: the upright will behold His face. THE UPRIGHT SHALL SEE HIS FACE!

"Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, "So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow." 3 Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. 4 But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, "It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers." 5 And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, "Arise and eat." 1 Kings 19:1-5

After one of the greatest spiritual victories in all of Scripture--calling down fire from heaven on Mount Carmel and turning the hearts of Israel back to God--Elijah finds himself blindsided by fear. Jezebel's threat, a single message promising his death within twenty-four hours, sends him running for his life. The same man who boldly faced hundreds of false prophets now flees into the wilderness, collapsing under a broom tree, physically exhausted and emotionally shattered. In that lonely place, Elijah utters one of the most raw and human prayers recorded in Scripture: "It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life." How does a prophet fall so far, so fast? Because even the strongest among us are not immune to burnout, to despair, or the crushing weight of unmet expectations. Elijah had hoped that revival would take root, that Jezebel's reign of terror would come to an end. But evil still held the throne, and Elijah felt utterly alone. His cry wasn't rebellion--it was fatigue, disappointment, and the pain of believing he had failed. We've all had broom tree moments--times when we've poured ourselves out in obedience, only to be met with resistance or silence. We've felt the sting of rejection, the fear that nothing we've done has mattered, and the quiet whisper of defeat. And yet, the beauty of Elijah's story is not only in his honesty but in God's response. The Lord doesn't scold Elijah for running. He doesn't reject his weakness. Instead, He sends an angel with food, gives him rest, and later speaks in a gentle whisper--not a rebuke, but a reassurance. Brothers & Sisters, God's heart toward the weary is full of compassion. He knows the limits of our humanity and meets us right in the middle of our brokenness. If you find yourself under your own broom tree today--overwhelmed, tired, or afraid--know this: God sees you. He's not finished with you. The wilderness is not your final destination. It's often the place where God begins to write the next chapter of your story, with fresh strength and renewed purpose. Let Him meet you there. MEET GOD UNDER BROOM TREE!

"And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink, for there is a sound of the rushing of rain.” 42 So Ahab went up to eat and to drink. And Elijah went up to the top of Mount Carmel. And he bowed himself down on the earth and put his face between his knees. 43 And he said to his servant, “Go up now, look toward the sea.” And he went up and looked and said, “There is nothing.” And he said, “Go again,” seven times. 44 And at the seventh time he said, “Behold, a little cloud like a man's hand is rising from the sea.” And he said, “Go up, say to Ahab, ‘Prepare your chariot and go down, lest the rain stop you.’” 45 And in a little while the heavens grew black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain." 1 Kings 18:41-45

Elijah heard what no one else did -- a storm was coming. Though the sky was still blue and the ground still cracked from years of drought, Elijah discerned the sound of abundance. It was a prophetic knowing, a spiritual sensitivity that saw past what was visible into what God was about to do. But Elijah didn’t just declare it -- he prayed it through. He climbed Mount Carmel and bowed low, face between his knees, entering into deep intercession. This was the posture of travail. He sent his servant to look toward the sea seven times. Even when the report was "nothing," he persisted -- because faith doesn’t quit when the sky is clear. Faith presses in until the cloud appears. We are in a similar moment now. God is preparing to pour out His Spirit again, in power and glory, in ways we have yet to see. There is a latter rain coming -- an outpouring for the final harvest. But like Elijah, we must learn to see it before we see it, to pray into the promise, and to position ourselves for it. Elijah tells Ahab to eat and drink -- to rest in what’s coming. This is the spirit of Shabbat -- a holy invitation to cease striving and trust that God is moving. In our own lives, we are called not just to work for revival but to rest in the God who brings it. Shabbat is not spiritual passivity; it’s confidence in God’s timing. And here’s a crucial reminder: Some people get so focused on the tares that they miss the wheat. Yes, Scripture tells us a great apostasy is coming -- but it also speaks of a great harvest. These two realities are not in conflict. The wheat grows right in the midst of the weeds (Matthew 13:30). The presence of darkness does not cancel the promise of light. In fact, the harvest at the end of the age comes while the weeds are still present. The farmer does not panic -- he waits patiently for the latter rain to ripen the crop (James 5:7). With prophetic vision, we can see that God is preparing to do something new—a fresh move, a divine shaking, a call to gather the harvest while it is still day. The clouds are forming. The rain is near. Brothers & Sisters, can we slow down -- truly rest—and allow the Spirit to revitalize us for the mission we’re called to? Can we lay aside distraction and despair long enough to see the wheat, to hear the whisper of rain, and to recapture a vision of God’s plan for our lives? Let this be a time of sacred rest and prophetic realignment. You were made for this moment -- for His harvest! THE CLOUDS ARE FORMING!

"So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen in front of him, and he was with the twelfth. Elijah passed by him and cast his cloak upon him. 20 And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, “Let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you?” 21 And he returned from following him and took the yoke of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the yokes of the oxen and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him." 1 Kings 19:19-21 ; "Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62

When Elijah cast his cloak over Elisha in the field, it wasn’t just a symbolic act -- it was a divine call. Elisha understood this and responded not with delay or excuse, but with decisive action. After asking to say goodbye to his parents, he returned, slaughtered his oxen, and used the wooden yokes as fuel for the sacrifice. Then he gave the meal to the people and walked away from everything familiar to follow the prophet Elijah. Elisha didn’t just leave his past -- he burned it. The plow, the oxen, the life he once knew -- all of it became a sacrifice. He didn't just say yes to God's call; he made sure there was nothing to go back to. Now consider the words of Jesus in Luke 9:62: "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." Jesus wasn’t speaking to farmers. He was speaking to His followers. To those who say "yes" but keep glancing in the rearview mirror. Elisha didn’t just put his hand to the plow -- he let it go entirely. Jesus warns that any heart still attached to the old life, any disciple still wondering "what if," is not truly fit for the work of the Kingdom. There’s a high cost to discipleship. It requires a clean break from the past and full focus on the future God is calling us into. Looking back implies regret, reservation, or second thoughts. But the Kingdom of God advances through those who have burned their plows and never looked back. Brothers & Sisters, the call to follow the Lord isn’t partial—it demands everything. It’s not just about saying "yes" with our lips, but showing it with our lives -- cutting ties with comfort, releasing control, and refusing to look over our shoulder. If there’s still a plow in your grip, it’s time to let go. Burn it. Walk away fully. Fix your eyes on the One who calls, and follow Him without regret, without delay, and without looking back -- for only then will we be truly fit for the Kingdom. For the Bridegroom is calling to His bride: Get ready -- I'm coming soon! BURN THE PLOW AND DON'T LOOK BACK!

"And the LORD said to him, “Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus. And when you arrive, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria." 1 Kings 19:15

Elijah had just come through one of the most intense seasons of his life. He had called down fire from heaven on Mount Carmel, seen the prophets of Baal defeated, and yet found himself running in fear from Jezebel, exhausted and discouraged. In the cave at Horeb, he cried out, believing he was alone and that all was lost. But it was there—in the still small voice—that God revealed His presence and His plan. And then came a surprising command: "Go, return." Elijah was to leave the place of hiding, the place of despair, and return to the world, back into the midst of God’s unfolding plan. There was still work to do. Elijah was called not just to prophesy, but also to anoint, to prepare the way for new leaders, and to participate in God’s sovereign purposes that extended far beyond his lifetime or understanding. The instruction to anoint Hazael as king over Syria reminds us that God is at work in ways that cross borders, kingdoms, and expectations. Even in foreign lands, even through leaders who did not know Him, God was orchestrating His justice and mercy. Elijah’s mission was part of a greater tapestry—a plan that God was weaving through history. Even in the Old Testament, God was at work creating the paths for the greater work of the Kingdom. His dealings with kings and nations, as well as His raising up and tearing down of rulers, were never random or isolated events—they were all threads in the unfolding story of redemption. His plan works to bring forth the salvation that would ultimately come through Jesus, redeeming people from every nation, tribe, and tongue. Elijah’s task, though it seemed small or even puzzling at the time, was part of preparing the world for God’s greater purposes. So let us lift our eyes beyond our immediate circumstances. Grab hold of the grand plan and understand the grand framework of His workings. Trust that your obedience, like Elijah’s, fits into a design that is far bigger than you can imagine -- a design that leads to His glory and the redemption of the world. However, we can sometimes feel, like Elijah, defeated or isolated. We may think our role is finished or our strength is gone. But God says: Return. Get up. Keep going. I still have a purpose for you. His plans stretch beyond our sight, and our obedience -- no matter how weary we feel -- places us back in the flow of His divine will. Brothers & Sisters, is there a place where God is calling you to return -- to reengage with His purpose despite discouragement, weariness, or fear? Like Elijah, you may feel alone or that your work has no lasting impact. But the same God who spoke through the still small voice calls you now: Go, return. His plan is far greater than your understanding, weaving your obedience into the tapestry of His Kingdom purposes. What you do today may set in motion blessings and victories that you will never fully see on this side of eternity. So trust Him, step forward, and embrace your part in His unfolding story of redemption! GOD'S PURPOSES ARE BEYOND BORDERS!

"And at the time of the offering of the oblation, Elijah the prophet came near and said, “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. 37 Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back.” 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, “The LORD, he is God; the LORD, he is God.” 1 Kings 18:36-39

Every true move of revival begins where few look for it—at the hidden brook, in the quiet place of God’s pruning. Cherith (נַחַל כְּרִית) means to cut off, to separate, to covenant. Before Elijah could stand on Mount Carmel and call down fire, he had to be separated, set apart for God’s purposes. Cherith was the place where God stripped away distractions, where Elijah learned to depend not on crowds or acclaim, but on the Lord’s daily provision. Like Elijah, God brings us to Cherith to prepare our hearts, to cut away what hinders His power, and to renew our covenant loyalty. Revival begins when God’s people allow Him to do this hidden work making us ready for His fire. But Cherith is not the end of the journey. God calls His servants from the brook to Mount Carmel (הַר הַכַּרְמֶל)—the mount of decision, where revival breaks forth. Carmel, once a fruitful place, had become barren through compromise and Baal worship. Yet God chose that very place to send His fire. On Carmel, Elijah called for the fire -- and God answered. The fire fell, not just for spectacle, but to burn away idolatry, to awaken a nation, and to turn hearts back to Himself: “Answer me, O Lord, answer me, so these people will know that You, O Lord, are God, and that You have turned their hearts back again.” (1 Kings 18:37). The fire of revival always falls where hearts are ready to return to God. And the fire was not the end. Revival fire makes way for the rain. After the fire came the Geshem (גֶּשֶׁם)—the rain of restoration, the outpouring that brings life to dry ground. Elijah’s prayer brought the rain that broke the drought and healed the land. This is God’s pattern: first He sends the fire to purify; then comes the rain to restore. It is the same pattern we see in Jesus — the judgment for sin at the Cross, then the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:16-19; Joel 2:28) to bring life, power, and true fruitfulness. Revival is the fire that prepares the way for God’s rain of blessing on a thirsty world. Brothers & Sisters, so rise up, beloved! Don’t shrink back from Cherith’s pruning, don’t hesitate on Carmel’s heights, and don’t stop watching the skies for God’s rain. Now is the time to yield your heart fully—to be the one through whom His fire can fall and His rain can pour. Let your life be the spark that ignites a generation, the vessel God uses to awaken the dry bones of a nation. The God who answered Elijah with fire and rain is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He is ready to move again—are you ready to be part of His revival? Surrender now. Cry out now. The hour is at hand! FROM CHERITH TO CARMEL: GOD'S PATHWAY TO REVIVAL!

"And the word of the LORD came to him: 3 "Depart from here and turn eastward and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan. 4 You shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there." 5 So he went and did according to the word of the LORD. He went and lived by the brook Cherith that is east of the Jordan. 6 And the ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning, and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook." 1 Kings 17:2-6

Before God's servants can stand in high places before men, they must first bow low before Him. Elijah, fresh from proclaiming God's judgment to Ahab, might have felt indispensable to God's plan. Yet the following command was unexpected: "Hide yourself." The brook Cherith became Elijah's place of humbling, where pride was stripped away, self-reliance was broken, and his soul learned the sweetness of depending on God alone. So it is with us. We are often too eager, too confident in our own strength, too certain of our usefulness. But in His wisdom, God leads us to our own Cheriths--hidden places where we learn to trust Him afresh. Shabbat is our Cherith, week after week--not just a pause from labor, but a posture of the soul that says, "I trust You." It is God's invitation: "Cease striving. Rest by the brook. Let Me supply your need." Like Elijah, we cannot stand on Carmel in victory until we have first knelt at Cherith in surrender. Even at Cherith, the brook dried up. Day after day, Elijah watched the stream diminish until the final drop was gone. But God had not forsaken him. The drying brook taught Elijah to trust--not in the gift, but in the Giver. It revealed a more profound truth: when one source runs dry, God opens another. So it is with us. We, too, find ourselves beside drying brooks--when health fades, resources run low, friendships waver, or doors of opportunity close. In those moments, God invites us into deeper rest, into stillness of soul, into unwavering trust. "My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my hope is from Him" (Psalm 62:5). His living water never fails. His grace flows, undiminished by the thirst of generations, unwearied through the ages. The promises of Jesus remain true, especially in our Cherith moments: "Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst." (John 4:14). If you find yourself beside a drying brook—take heart! God has not forgotten you. This is not the end. Beyond Cherith lies Zarephath. Beyond this wilderness, fresh provision, new purpose, and greater power await. Hear His voice above the silence: Rest in Me. Trust in Me. Shabbat is His gift—a holy invitation to be renewed, strengthened, and refreshed. Like Elijah at Cherith, hide yourself in Him. Trust His miraculous provision, even when it comes in ways you never expected—as when ravens fed the prophet in his secret refuge. The God who sustained Elijah will sustain you. His grace still flows. His living water has not run dry. Brothers & Sisters, now is the time to be refreshed and renewed—for Cherith and Zarephath were God’s training ground for triumph on Carmel, where the prophets of Baal were crushed and a nation was turned back to God. But it all began with Elijah first learning the lessons of surrender and trust at Cherith! BEFORE THE TRIUMP COMES THE TRAINING!

"Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying, 3 Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. 4 And it will be that you shall drink from the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to feed you there." 1 Kings 17:2-4

God's servants must learn to walk by faith--one step at a time. This is a simple lesson, yet one that challenges even the most faithful. Consider Elijah: before he left his quiet home in Thisbe to stand before King Ahab with the word of the Lord, how many questions must have stirred his heart! What would happen after he delivered his message? How would Jezebel, known for slaying God's prophets, respond? Where could he go to be safe? If Elijah had waited for answers to all these questions, he would never have begun the journey. But this is not how our loving Father leads His children. He does not show us the entire path at once. He reveals only the next step and invites us to take it in faith. And if we ask, "Lord, what will happen next? Won't this path lead to difficulty?" He often gives no other reply than this: "Take the step, and trust Me." And so it was with Elijah. After he obeyed and delivered God's word to Ahab, then the next direction came: "Get thee hence...hide thyself by the brook Cherith." Later, only after the brook ran dry, did the Lord speak again: "Arise, get thee to Zarephath." Each instruction came at the right time, no sooner, no later. Notice this: Elijah did not need to search for God's word; it came to him. And so it will come to you. Whether through Scripture, the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit, or the unfolding of circumstances -- God's direction will find you. Like Saul on the road to Damascus, we must simply ask, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" and trust that He will reveal it. Perhaps you have long sensed God urging you toward a particular act of obedience, but you have hesitated because the next step is unclear. Do not delay. Step forward in faith. What appears to be mud will become solid ground beneath your feet. With each step, God will provide a firm place to stand, a new word, a fresh supply. The bread is given daily. The manna comes each morning. The strength arrives at the moment of need. Brothers & Sisters, God gives no more than we can bear at once. He teaches us, little by little, to walk in the peace of obedience and the joy of trust. So take the step before you today. He is faithful. The next stepping stone will appear just when you need it. ONE STEP AT A TIME: THE PATH OF TRUST!

"Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months." James 5:17

As we continue our journey through the life of Elijah, let us take heart in this: Elijah was a man just like us. He was not born with heroic strength or unshakable resolve. He knew weakness, fear, and moments of failure—the same struggles we face. And yet, this one man, by faith, stood alone against a tide of sin and idolatry. By faith, he turned a nation back to God. This is what makes Elijah’s story so captivating. He did not rely on some hidden, mystical power that is beyond our reach. Nor was he made of stronger stuff than the rest of us. If that were true, his story would discourage us -- a model we could never follow, an ideal forever beyond our grasp. But no! Elijah was, in himself, a man just like us. It was faith in God that made him a pillar of strength, a torch that burned brightly for truth. And the same faith is available to you and me today. All power belongs to God, and He longs to pour His Resurrection power in and through us. The Holy Spirit channels that power into our lives in proportion to our faith and our readiness to receive it. Oh, that we would have hearts as open as Elijah’s—willing to be filled, willing to believe, willing to act! But know this: before Elijah stood in boldness on Mount Carmel, he first had to be shaped by God at Cherith and refined at Zarephath. So it will be for us. God invites us into His school of faith -- a place where our trust is deepened, our self-reliance is broken, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. Only then can we be ready to do great exploits for God and truth. Brothers & Sisters, let Elijah’s life remind us that God is not looking for heroes made of stronger clay -- He is seeking men and women who simply believe. The same power that turned a nation back to God through Elijah is available to us today. We do not need greater strength; we need greater faith. We do not need more ability; we need more surrender. The God who worked through Elijah stands ready to work through you. Will you let Him? Let this be our prayer: “Lord, take my weakness and fill it with Your power. Shape me, teach me, and use me, that I may stand for You in this generation as Elijah did in his.” ELIJAH: A MAN LIKE US!

"Then he took the mantle of Elijah that had fallen from him, and struck the water, and said, "Where is the LORD God of Elijah?" And when he also had struck the water, it was divided this way and that; and Elisha crossed over." 2 Kings 2:14

Over the past few years, some leaders who once inspired many have fallen into scandals that have brought harm and confusion to the body of Christ. In moments like these, it's easy to feel disillusioned or lost, as if the work of God depends on human vessels who have failed us. But I'm reminded of how Elisha responded when Elijah was taken from him. His eyes were not on the departing servant but on the living God. "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?" he cried -- not, "Where is Elijah?" That cry holds a lesson for us today: our hope and strength are not in human leaders, but in the God who works through them—and who remains faithful even when men falter. Elisha's heart longed for the God who had empowered Elijah--the God who shuts the heavens, calls down fire, feeds the hungry through ravens, and defends His name before kings and nations. Mighty acts of faith marked Elijah's life because his confidence rested in the Almighty, not in himself. And when his race was run, God's power was no less present, no less ready to act, no less able to raise up a new servant and continue His work. The God of Elijah is the God of life and death, of judgment and mercy, of fire and rain, of heaven and earth -- and He is unchanged today. When Elisha stepped forward, he met his first obstacle -- the swollen Jordan, barring his way. But he did not shrink back. He lifted Elijah's mantle, struck the water, and cried out, "Where is the Lord God of Elijah?" And the God of Elijah answered. The river parted. The path opened. And Elisha stepped into his calling. So it will be for us. When our Jordans rise up, when leaders disappoint, when challenges seem insurmountable, let our hearts cry not for men, but for the God who never fails. The God of Elisha revealed Himself not just in mighty acts, but in tender mercies -- healing poisoned waters (2 Kings 2:19-22), multiplying a widow's oil (2 Kings 4:1-7), feeding a multitude (2 Kings 4:42-44), restoring the dead to life (2 Kings 4:18-37), making iron float (2 Kings 6:1-7). This is the God who steps into our kitchens and workshops, our debts and needs, our hidden battles and silent cries. He is as present in the ordinary as in the extraordinary, as near in our weakness as in our victories. Brothers & Sisters, beloved, today God calls us to lift our eyes from men to Himself. Leaders may fall, heroes may stumble, but the Lord God of Elijah and Elisha remains. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He waits for us to trust Him afresh, to cry out for His presence, to believe in His power -- not in our strength, not in human vessels, but in Him alone. WHERE IS THE LORD GOD OF ELIJAH?

"Look, a people rises like a lioness, And lifts itself up like a lion; It shall not lie down until it devours the prey, And drinks the blood of the slain." Numbers 23:24

Numbers 23:24—a verse that declares a timeless truth: God calls Israel and His people everywhere to rise with strength, purpose, and courage, regardless of the challenges they face. The image of the lioness rising and the lion standing tall is a heavenly call to action: to stay alert, be courageous, and lead with boldness. God’s people are not meant to shrink back in fear, but to stand in faith. And here’s the greater truth: the Lion of Judah lives inside you. His Spirit empowers you not to cower or stay silent, but to roar—proclaiming salvation through Jesus, the coming Kingdom, and the soon return of the King. Just as Israel rose in Operation Rising Lion, so must we—not in our strength, but in His. Now is the time to wake up, shake off spiritual slumber, and stand firm for truth in a world drowning in confusion. Brothers & Sisters, this is not just a word for a nation—it’s God’s call to you. In every trial and moment of uncertainty, rise with the courage and the strength of the lion—alert, bold, and ready in God’s power, knowing the Lion of Judah goes before you as your Defender, Deliverer, and King. Now is the time to rise and roar! RISE LIKE A LION!

"Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5; "Come to Me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mat 11:29 Take My yoke on you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest to your souls. Mat 11:30 For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

When we read the Beatitudes, we catch a glimpse of Jesus’s heart and the values that define His Kingdom. His words unveil the kind of life that God calls blessed—marked by humility, mercy, purity of heart, a hunger for righteousness, peacemaking, and faithful endurance in the face of suffering. But to fully grasp the contrast between heaven and earth, we must also look at the flip side. Only by considering the opposites of the Beatitudes can we truly see how far humanity has fallen from God’s design. Pride replaces the poor in spirit. Arrogance takes the place of meekness. The world chases pleasure rather than weeping over sin. Instead of hungering for righteousness, the self-satisfied boast they need nothing. And rather than rejoicing when persecuted for truth's sake, the world strikes back -- demanding justice for behaviors once rightly called sin. The very air we breathe is thick with self-interest, and our culture doesn't merely tolerate it -- it celebrates it and even sanctifies it as virtue. Yet into this broken and upside-down world, Jesus speaks a better word—so pure, so radically different, it sounds like it comes from another realm altogether. And that’s because it does. His words are not shaped by opinion or cultural wisdom; they flow from divine authority. When He declares, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth," He isn’t offering a poetic ideal—He is proclaiming eternal truth. In a world that prizes power, pride, and self-promotion, Jesus exalts meekness as the path to blessing and lasting inheritance. Among His most powerful invitations are these words: "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke on you and learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest to your souls. 30 For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." The One who blesses the meek does not stand far off—He embodies meekness Himself. And in calling us to walk in it, He offers us what the world can never give: true rest. Jesus offers more than a break from activity — He provides rest for the soul. He doesn't invite us to strive harder, climb higher, or perform better. He invites us to take His yoke--gentle, humble, and anchored in meekness. Meekness is not weakness — it is power restrained and strength brought under the authority of God. The truly meek may walk with confidence and courage, yet they have surrendered the relentless need to defend themselves or seek recognition. They are no longer striving for the world’s applause, but have found peace in God’s presence alone: in themselves, they are nothing; in Him, they have everything. Jesus offers freedom from the relentless weight of ego—the constant pressure to be seen, admired, and validated. But when we take on His meekness, we step into a new kind of freedom: the freedom to stop comparing, competing, or pretending. The meek, like little children, live with simplicity and sincerity, unbothered by status or recognition, and fully content to walk in truth. This is the path to soul rest. Peace will never be found in climbing higher, shining brighter, or striving harder. True rest isn't found in exalting yourself--it's found in surrendering before the Lord. When you lay down your pride, release your need to be seen, and lose yourself in the greatness of Jesus, you'll discover the rest your soul has craved all along. Brothers & Sisters, so come. Let go of the pressure to perform, the fear of being overlooked, the weight of comparison, and image. Embrace His yoke--the yoke of meekness, quiet strength, and full surrender. Walk with Jesus, the One who is meek and lowly in heart, and find the rest that no success, status, or applause can offer. Not just momentary relief, but deep, soul-satisfying rest--rooted in His presence, anchored in His peace, and carried by His strength. This is His promise. This is His invitation. Choose it--and embrace it. MEEKNESS: A KINGDOM PRINCIPLE THAT BRINGS TRUE PEACE!

"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out into a place which he was afterward going to receive for an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he went." Hebrews 11:8

We often celebrate beginnings—new chapters, breakthroughs, divine appointments. But in God’s economy, every true beginning requires a holy crossing. Before the Hebrews could enter the Promised Land, they had to leave Egypt. Before they entered the Promised Land, they had to cross over the Red Sea. And before Abraham could receive God’s promises, he had to obey a single command: “Leave.” Abraham stood at that threshold. When he obeyed God’s call to walk away from his homeland, his security, and all that was familiar, he became the first Hebrew—the first Ivri, literally one who crosses over. He stepped across the invisible boundary between the known and the unknown, the natural and the supernatural, the seen and that which was promised. The identity of God’s people is rooted in crossing: from unbelief to faith, from bondage to freedom, from death to life. God didn’t just call Abraham to a destination—He called him to a transformation. And transformation begins when we say goodbye to what’s behind. Leaving is not just an act of trust—it is a declaration of faith in the unseen. It’s Abraham turning his back on everything familiar—his land, his family, his future plans—to follow a voice, a promise, a God he could not see. It’s the Hebrews standing at the edge of the Red Sea, with Pharaoh’s army closing in behind them and nothing but water before them—yet stepping forward, believing that the God who delivered them once would make a way again. Leaving is the willingness to let go before you see what’s coming next. It’s choosing to release your grip on the known in exchange for the eternal. It’s not a loss—it’s a surrender that leads to something greater. Think about the disciples. Their journey with Jesus didn’t begin with great sermons or miracles. It began when they dropped their nets. They left their boats, their routines, their comfort zones—and followed Him. Without leaving, there would have been no following. Without the exit, no entrance. It’s not just a principle of geography. It’s a paradox of the Kingdom. How often do we pray for a breakthrough while clinging to what God is asking us to release? We want resurrection, but resist the cross. We want the Promised Land, but won’t leave our Egypt. Yet, the exodus is not punishment—it’s preparation. God doesn’t just take things away—He delivers us from what no longer fits our future, so He can place in our hands what was always meant to be ours. He strips away what cannot stay, to make room for what cannot be shaken. What He asks you to release is never greater than what He’s preparing to give. Brothers & Sisters, perhaps for you, it’s a mindset that needs to be left behind, a fear that has kept you stuck, or a comfort zone that has become a cage. "Crossing over" means trusting that what God is leading you toward is greater than what He’s asking you to leave behind. What lies ahead with Him always outweighs what’s left behind. It’s believing the Promised Land ahead is worth every Egypt that's left behind. It’s choosing, like Abraham, to become one who crosses over. YOU'RE CROSSING OVER!

"In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, so that where I am, you may be also." John 14:2-3; "For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." 2 Corinthians 5:1

When the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness for forty years, they traversed a rugged, unpredictable landscape — mile after mile of mountains, valleys, rocks, and desert sands — as they journeyed from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land. They didn't build homes or cities along the way. They lived in tents, always ready to move when God gave the word. Their lives were shaped by transition — constant change, daily dependence, and unwavering trust in the Lord's leading. And that, friends, holds a powerful truth for us today: this life is a journey, not a final stop. We are not home yet. We are travelers, passing through on our way to the place Jesus Himself has gone ahead to prepare. Paul echoes this hope in 2 Corinthians 5:1: "For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." Everything in this life--each season, trial, joy, or sorrow--is temporary. It's part of the wilderness we pass through as we move toward something better, something eternal. Like the Israelites, we move from one phase of life to another. Childhood, youth, adulthood, and old age--each is like a tent we live in for a time. Our moments of success and seasons of struggle, the highs and lows--they all come and go. Even our bodies, Scripture reminds us, are like tents--fragile, temporary, not meant to last forever. So what does this mean for us? It means we should not get too comfortable with this world. This isn't where we settle. We are pilgrims, called to walk by faith, not by what we see, but by what we know is coming--"the things which are not seen... for the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Whatever season you're in right now--whether joyful or painful--remember, it's not forever. One day, every tent will be taken down. And for those who belong to Him, there is a permanent home waiting -- a mansion built by God, not with human hands, but eternal in the heavens. So I urge you today: live like a traveler, not a settler. Don't anchor your heart to what won't last -- whether possessions, status, or fleeting seasons of life. Hold loosely to this world and tightly to your calling. Fix your eyes on the eternal. Travel light. Walk with purpose. Stay ready. Brothers & Sisters, because this world is not your home--you're only passing through. And soon--sooner than we think--the One who went ahead to prepare a place for you will return again to bring you home. YOU'RE JUST PASSING THROUGH!

"Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!" Psalms 34:8

For many, God remains a theory—an idea borrowed from tradition, deduced from the cosmos, or tucked quietly into the corners of a creed. He is believed in from afar, but is rarely encountered. Even among believers, it’s not uncommon to live with a distant reverence for God while lacking a vibrant, personal communion with Him. But Scripture offers something radically more intimate. God is not an abstract concept or a distant force. He is a Person—a loving Father who walks with His children, speaks to them, and invites them into His presence. The invitation is not to believe in a shadow or serve a principle, but to know Him. To experience Him. To taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). This is not a poetic metaphor—it is the reality of the spiritual life. Just as we use our physical senses to engage the world around us, so we are equipped with spiritual faculties—quickened by the Holy Spirit—to perceive, respond to, and delight in God. His presence is not imaginary or symbolic. It is real—closer than the ground beneath our feet. Have you settled for knowing about God without truly knowing Him? Is your faith limited to forms and facts instead of fellowship? The door to His presence stands open—not just in the life to come, but right here, right now. Today, don’t settle for simply thinking about God. Taste and see that He is good. Reckon upon His reality—draw near in quiet trust and let your spiritual senses awaken. You were made for this: to encounter, enjoy, and walk with the living God. Brothers & Sisters, this is the kind of vibrant faith that births revival—not manufactured in crowds, but ignited in hearts that have truly tasted His goodness and seen His glory. When even one soul is set ablaze by the presence of the Living God, the spark can become a wildfire. May that flame rise in you today. May revival be fresh and new within you, rooted in a firsthand taste of the One who is altogether good. O TASTE AND SEE!

"Therefore, brothers, having boldness to enter into the Holy of Holies by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way which He has consecrated for us through the veil, that is to say, His flesh; 21 and having a High Priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies having been washed with pure water." Hebrews 10:19-22

God has always longed for intimacy with us. He formed us for Himself--to walk with Him, to know Him, to delight in His Presence. This is the very heartbeat of creation: relationship, not religion. Yet sin drove a wedge between us. A veil was drawn, shutting out the light of His face and placing distance where there was once communion. But now, the veil has been torn. When Jesus died, the veil in the Temple that once separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies was ripped from top to bottom--heaven's own declaration that the way into God's intimate Presence had been opened. The blood of Jesus didn't merely forgive us; it opened a door. Not just to salvation, but to intimacy. We are not invited to stand in the outer courts, content with distance and ritual. We are summoned into the very heart of the throne room. Into the Holiest. Into the place where God dwells in glory. Into a communion deeper than words, where His love fills every crevice of our being and His whisper becomes our life. This is not a metaphor. It is a reality. The torn veil is not just a symbol--it is a passage. A blood-stained trail that leads into the very arms of the Father. And it calls for boldness. Not arrogance, but a confidence grounded in Jesus' finished work. His blood has made the way. There is nothing left to earn. Nothing left to prove. Only one thing is required: come. Yet many remain outside--not because God holds us back, but because we have not yet surrendered our inner veils. Pride, fear, shame, self--these are type of veils that must be torn. But the Spirit is ready to do the tearing. He waits for our surrender. For the heart that says, "Whatever it takes, I want to know Him." And when that veil is removed, the soul enters a realm not of theory but of encounter. Brothers & Sisters, intimacy with God is not a privilege for the spiritual elite—it is the birthright of every soul redeemed by the blood of Jesus. To draw near is not striving for favor, but surrendering to love. The veil is no more. The way is open. And the Father waits -- not with judgment, but with joy -- to welcome you into the fullness of His embrace. ENTER IN, THE VEIL IS TORN!

"A Psalm of David, when he fled from Absalom his son. O LORD, how many are my foes! Many are rising against me; 2 many are saying of my soul, “There is no salvation for him in God.” Selah 3 But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. 4 I cried aloud to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy hill. Selah 5 I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the LORD sustained me. 6 I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around. 7 Arise, O LORD! Save me, O my God! For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked. 8 Salvation belongs to the LORD; your blessing be on your people! Selah" Psalms 3:1-8

David wrote Psalm 3 while running for his life -- betrayed, heartbroken, and hunted by his own son, Absalom. The weight of rebellion wasn’t just political; it was personal. His household had turned against him. Friends became foes. Loyal hearts grew cold. The throne he once held was now surrounded by enemies, and the whispers grew louder: “There is no salvation for him in God.” (Psalm 3:2) But David didn’t answer his enemies -- he answered with worship. “But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.” (Psalm 3:3) In the midst of collapse, David turned his eyes upward. When everything else was falling apart, he clung to the truth that God had not. The Lord was his shield -- not just ahead of him, but around him, covering the blind spots, the unseen threats. When others stripped away his dignity, God became his glory. When grief bowed his head low, God lifted it again. David didn’t just endure—he rested. “I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the LORD sustained me.” (Psalm 3:5) That single verse speaks volumes. David didn’t sleep because the danger was gone—he slept because his trust was anchored in the God who never sleeps. Surrounded by betrayal and hunted in the dark, he laid his head down in faith, not fear. And when morning came, breath still in his lungs, it was proof: God was still writing his story. And because of that, he faced the day unshaken. “I will not be afraid of many thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.” (Psalms 3:6) The odds didn’t matter anymore. God was with him. The same voice that silenced storms now steadied his heart. “Arise, O LORD! Save me, O my God!” (Psalm 3:7) David called out -- not in panic, but in confidence. He had seen what God could do. He knew the One who breaks the power of the wicked and silences every mocking mouth. And then he makes a bold declaration that echoes across generations: “Salvation belongs to the LORD; Your blessing be on Your people.” (Psalm 3:8) This isn’t just David’s testimony -- it’s the battle cry of every believer who’s ever stood in the fire and refused to bow. When betrayal breaks your heart, when fear grips your chest, when the enemy hisses, "You’re finished" -- lift your eyes. The same God who shielded David surrounds you now. He is your defender. He is your honor when shame tries to stain you. He is the hand that lifts your head when the weight of life pulls it down. Brothers & Sisters, your rescue doesn’t come from strategy or strength, from plans or performance. Salvation is God’s alone -- and He’s never lost a battle. His blessing isn’t fragile. It doesn’t vanish in the storm. It rests still -- on those who trust Him. Let that truth thunder through your soul while the battle rages on! LIFT YOUR HEAD -- THE BATTLE ISN'T OVER!

"Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 2 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against his Anointed [Meshiach], saying, 7 I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you. 8 Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. 11 Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him." Psalms 2:1-2,7-8,11-12

Psalm 2 is a divine announcement -- a heavenly decree that demands the world’s attention. It begins with a question: “Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot in vain?” (Ps. 2:1). The nations rise up, not against injustice or tyranny, but against the rule of God’s Messiah. That Anointed is Jesus -- the Son whom the Father has set on His holy hill in Zion (Ps. 2:6). The psalm strips away all pretense and exposes the heart of human rebellion: it is a refusal to be ruled by His Messiah. In this psalm, the Father proclaims that Jesus has been given the nations as His inheritance and the ends of the earth as His possession (Ps. 2:8). This is not poetic symbolism -- it is a declaration of destiny. Jesus is not merely Savior -- He is King. He will not rule by diplomacy but with a rod of iron (Ps. 2:9). His authority is final, His dominion unstoppable. Though the kings of the earth conspire, their defiance is met with divine derision—God laughs from heaven (Ps. 2:4), because no scheme can overturn His decree. And when grace is ignored, wrath is awakened. Yet even in the face of judgment, Psalm 2 is laced with mercy. The Father offers a clear warning: “Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O judges of the earth” (Ps. 2:10). This is not the cold judgment of a distant God -- it is the loving rebuke of a holy God who desires repentance. The call is urgent: "Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling" (Ps. 2:11). There is joy in submission, but only when it is coupled with reverence. Then comes the command that pierces every heart: “Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way” (Ps. 2:12). To kiss the Son is to surrender, to lay down arms, to recognize that Jesus is Lord. The picture is one of homage and honor. This is not the kiss of affection but of allegiance. It is the line in the sand. We either bend the knee to Jesus willingly, or we face His righteous anger. This psalm reminds us that God’s love and wrath are not opposites -- they are expressions of the same holy nature. He is patient, but He is not passive. He warns not because He enjoys judgment, but because He longs to show mercy. But mercy must be received. The alternative is to "perish in the way," because the way of rebellion always leads to ruin. Brothers & Sisters, blessed are all who take refuge in Him (Ps. 2:12). That is the final word of Psalm 2, and it is the heartbeat of the gospel. Refuge is available -- not in defiance, but in surrender. Jesus is the Son whom the Father has exalted. He is the rightful King. The question is not whether He will reign -- the question is will we bow, or be broken? Kiss the Son while there's still time. Surrender in faith, and find life, joy, and mercy in Him -- for the Kingdom of God is at hand. THE KING IS COMING: WILL YOU BOW OR BE BROKEN?

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; 6 for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." Psalms 1:1-6

Psalm 1 opens with a sobering warning about the quiet, deadly slide into sin. The man without God doesn’t become a scorner overnight -- he drifts there gradually. First, he walks in ungodly counsel, entertaining worldly thoughts. Then, he stands in the path of sinners, embracing their way of life. Finally, he sits in the seat of the scornful, hardened in heart and mocking what is sacred. This progression -- from a man without God to scorner -- reveals how small compromises grow into full rebellion, dulling the conscience and deadening the soul. In contrast, the righteous man doesn’t merely avoid sin, rather he delights in His Word. God's Word isn’t a burden to him, but a feast for his soul. It renews his mind, directs his steps, and transforms his desires. He doesn’t follow God out of duty, but out of joy. His obedience is not performance-based -- it’s affection. He is like a tree, planted by rivers of water -- strong, steady, and nourished by the Spirit. His roots go deep, and his fruit appears in season, feeding others and glorifying God. He is not shaken by droughts or storms, because his source is divine. His secret is not willpower, but the indwelling presence of the Lord. Like an artesian spring, the Holy Spirit flows from within -- wisdom, love, joy, power. He doesn’t merely try to live like Jesus -- it's deeper ... he lives through Yeshua. The life of a believer is not just imitation, it’s impartation. It is Christ in us -- the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27) This man is truly blessed. Not because life is easy, but because God is with him. His prosperity is measured not in wealth, but in fruitfulness and eternal purpose. The Lord knows his way -- approves of it, delights in it, and watches over it. While the wicked seem to flourish for a time, they are like chaff -- weightless, rootless, and blown away. But the righteous man, grounded in truth and filled with grace, will stand forever. Brothers & Sisters, in the end, Psalm 1 is not just poetry -- it’s a choice of lifestyles. We are either descending in sin or being deeply rooted in Him. One life ends in emptiness, the other in everlasting joy. And the secret is not striving harder, but receiving deeper. Jesus alone can make you a fruitful tree by rivers of water -- thriving now and flourishing forever. Blessed is the man whose roots run deep in Him. BLESSED IS THE MAN PLANTED BY THE RIVERS OF WATER!