Devotional life includes our prayer time, meditation, and Bible reading. Every committed Christ’s follower must be rooted in his or her personal devotion. Event such as fellowship, prayer/Bible conferences, and seminars are essential but our personal daily devotion are also important to our spiritual growth.

In Mark 1:35, it says, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” Similarly, in Luke 5:16, says,  “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” These two passages about Jesus can teach us principles to apply, as we become devoted and rooted in our devotional life.

What makes us become rooted in our devotional life?

1. Discipline

This phrase “very early in the morning” in Mark 1:35, implies discipline. A disciplined life refers to a lifestyle characterized by a strong commitment. Cultivating regular habits and practices that nourish spiritual growth. Jesus is very disciplined as He portrays the habit of waking up early in the morning to pray.

Tom Barnett’s The Power of a Half Hour, mentioned his discipline and daily intention, “Each day is a gift from God, and I am intentional in how I spend a good deal of my half hour blocks of time. I deliberately awaken each morning before sunrise to ensure that I am able to start each day with thirty minutes of worship, thirty minutes reading the Scriptures, and thirty minutes of prayer.”

Robin Sharma’s  The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life emphasizes the need for a discipline morning routine. The main concept of the book deals primarily on  a time management code, where you wake up at 5 AM to execute a twenty-minutes exercise, twenty-minutes planning and twenty-minutes study morning routine to start your day.

Related Post: Being Less to Acquire More

2. Consistency

Consistency generally refers to the quality of being consistent, dependable, and reliable in behavior, actions, or performance over time. As stated, “Jesus often withdrew from the crowd, going to a certain place and pray.” This implies a regular and consistent habit of praying.

What happens to the brain when we are consistent? It changes. Neuroplasticity is the term used. It is the brain’s ability to flex or change. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. It allows the brain to adapt and change in response to learning, experience, injury, or environmental factors. This phenomenon enables us to acquire new skills, recover from brain injuries, and adapt to changing circumstances by rewiring neural pathways and modifying synaptic connections. Neuroplasticity is a fundamental concept in understanding how the brain can change and adapt over time.

It has been proven that there is an effects on our brain when we consistently pray. It helps quiets parts of the brain that react to pain (physical and emotional). It also lights up part of the brain that support happiness.

In an article “The Renewal of the mind” in a website The Mindful Christian, an interesting finding has been revealed. Amazingly, research has been revealing neurological changes that occur in the brain when we practice mindfulness on a regular basis. Mindfulness meditation quiets parts of the brain that react to pain (physical and emotional) and lights up parts of the brain that support happiness. God has created an amazing relationship between our minds and our bodies, so that the “renewal of the mind” (Romans 12:2) not only strengths our relationship with God and improves our emotional sense of well-being, but it also strengthens our brains and bodies for his service. And the more we practice healthy thinking through mindfulness meditation, the easier it becomes for our brains to continue this pattern.

Robert Zatorre and his colleagues at the Montreal Neurological Institute showed that when people listened to music that gave them a strong emotional and physiological response, the brain showed significant changes in the areas involved in reward, motivation, and emotion: the amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex (the bottom part of the prefrontal cortex), ventral medial prefrontal cortex, ventral striatum, and midbrain were all activated. Healthy Brain Happy Life

In order for us to become more rooted with our devotional life, our habits of praying and communicating with the Lord should be consistent.

3. Focus

Focus illustrates what Jesus used to do. It says, “Jesus went off to a solitary place” (Mark 1:35).  Tony Robins says, “Where focus goes, energy flows. And where energy flows, whatever you’re focusing on grows. In other words, your life is controlled by what you focus on.”

To focus on meditation and prayer is to go to a solitary place in order to avoid any distraction. Solitary does not necessarily mean, secluded or in a far away place. It is a mode where distraction is eliminated. Can you still go to a solitary place this time and not be distracted? Robin Sharma points out that, “Addiction to distraction is the death of creative production.”

In a news article by NBC News, a great benefit for the brain is explained when one focuses in prayer and meditation. When we sit down and engage in prayer or meditation, we are able to shift away from this frightened and stressed survival mode into “an intentional state,” says Dr. Hokemeyer, and ultimately “reengage our prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that rules our executive functioning and enables us to make intelligent mindful decisions.”

If we do a routine thing, our brain can form new pathways; which are also strengthened if we practice new habits. Furthermore, old pathways, which are not used regularly anymore weaken. The way your brain gets wired is based on the things that you repeatedly do.

There are two distinctive works of the Holy Spirit in the lives of every believer: soteriological and charismatic. In layman’s terms, the Spirit transforms and empowers. When the Spirit changes (neuroplasticity) our brain and put godly pathways, our whole life changes. When the Spirit creates new “mission” pathways in our brain, we will be on fire for missions. That’s why Paul said several times in his letters, “Always be filled with the Spirit.” As we become rooted in our personal devotional life, we are also allowing the Holy Spirit to rewire our brain, making godly neural connections.

Developing a deeper devotional life must be our goal. Let’s be discipline, be consistent, and always have focus.

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Creating or giving value is a fundamental concept that permeates various aspects of our lives, from business and economics to personal relationships, societal contributions, and our involvement to church ministries. At its core, the idea of creating or giving value revolves around the notion of making a positive and meaningful impact.

Mark 10:43-44

“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

This passage is a part of a larger narrative in which Jesus is teaching his disciples about the nature of leadership and greatness in the kingdom of God. In this passage, Jesus offers a profound and counter-cultural perspective on leadership that challenges the norms of his time.

At the beginning of Mark 10, James and John, two of Jesus’ disciples, approach him with a request. They ask Jesus to grant them positions of honor and authority in his coming kingdom. This request prompts a discussion among the disciples about who among them will be the greatest.

Based from the Scripture passage above, there are ways in which we can impact the lives of others:

Service

In Mark 10:43, Jesus makes the statement, “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” This statement reflects one of the central teachings of Jesus throughout the New Testament, emphasizing the value of humility and service.

In this context, Jesus is addressing his disciples, who were discussing among themselves who among them would be the greatest in the kingdom of God. Jesus uses this opportunity to teach them a fundamental lesson about leadership and greatness.

Jesus is teaching that true greatness in the kingdom of God is not achieved through seeking power, authority, or recognition over others. Instead, it is attained through humility. To be “a servant” means to place the needs and well-being of others above one’s own desires for prominence or status.

Jesus is emphasizing the importance of serving others. In his ministry, he often demonstrated servanthood by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and caring for the marginalized. He is encouraging his followers to adopt a similar attitude of selflessness and compassion in their interactions with others.

This statement challenges the conventional values of society, where greatness is often associated with power, wealth, and status. Jesus is turning these values upside down, suggesting that true greatness is found in serving and lifting others up rather than seeking to be served or exalted.

Jesus himself exemplified this servant leadership throughout his life, culminating in his sacrificial death on the cross for the salvation of humanity. He is essentially instructing his disciples to follow his example and serve others with love and humility.

Greatness is service. It encapsulates the idea that true greatness is achieved not through the accumulation of power, wealth, or status, but through a commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on their lives. Always serve. Always give value.

Related Post: The Habit of Making an Impact

Sacrifice

The statement “give his life as a ransom for many” in Mark 10:45 is a key theological concept that relates to the purpose and significance of Jesus’ life and mission. It reflects the idea of Jesus’ sacrificial death for the salvation of humanity. Jesus’ statement conveys the idea that his life serves as a ransom or payment to secure the release of humanity from the bondage of sin and its consequences. Sin creates a separation between humans and God, and the concept of ransom suggests that Jesus’ death on the cross pays the price required to reconcile humanity with God. It is a substitutionary sacrifice, where Jesus takes upon himself the penalty that humanity deserved because of sin.

The term “ransom” implies that humanity was enslaved to sin, and Jesus’ sacrificial death provides a means of redemption or liberation. Through his death, Jesus offers a way for people to be set free from the power of sin and its eternal consequences. This concept is often tied to the idea of salvation and the forgiveness of sins.

Jesus willingly offers his life as the ransom. His voluntary sacrifice on the cross is seen as the ultimate act of love and obedience to God’s will. It is through this act of selflessness and self-sacrifice that he accomplishes the divine plan of salvation for humanity.

Jesus’ death on the cross was a redemptive act that paid the price for humanity’s sins, reconciled humanity with God, and provided a way for people to be freed from the bondage of sin and death. It emphasizes the profound love, sacrifice, and grace demonstrated by Jesus in his mission to offer salvation to all who believe in him.

In order to generate something valuable or meaningful, one often needs to make sacrifices or trade-offs. It implies that achieving significant or worthwhile outcomes may require giving up certain resources, time, effort, or comfort in the process. Whether in personal goals, business endeavors, or other aspects of life, the idea is that by making these sacrifices, you can create something valuable or contribute positively to a situation. It underscores the notion that success and value often come at a cost.

Solution

“…give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:44

The greatest problem in the world is often understood to be humanity’s sinful nature and separation from God. Sin is a moral and spiritual failing that separates people from a holy and righteous God. The consequence of sin is eternal separation from God in a state commonly referred to as eternal punishment. Going to hell for eternity refers to the belief that those who die in a state of sin and unbelief face eternal separation from God and the possibility of experiencing suffering or torment in the afterlife.

Jesus Christ, as the Son of God, came into the world to offer salvation and reconciliation to humanity. His life, teachings, and, most importantly, his sacrificial death on the cross are seen as the means by which people can be forgiven of their sins, reconciled with God, and spared from the consequences of eternal separation from God.

Jesus’ death on the cross serves as an atonement for the sins of humanity. Atonement means that Jesus’ sacrifice pays the penalty for human sin, reconciling people with God and making forgiveness and salvation possible. Jesus Christ is the solution to humanity’s perceived greatest problem: the separation from God and the consequences of sin.

To provide or give value is to be the solution or become part of the solution to a problem, challenge, or obstacle. It emphasizes the idea that by actively addressing and solving problems or challenges, you can provide value to others or contribute positively to a situation. Instead of merely offering something tangible or material, you contribute value by offering your expertise, skills, innovative thinking, or resources to help others overcome obstacles or achieve their goals.

Create or give value: serve, make sacrifices, and be the solution.

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Touching the lives of others is an inspirational message taken from the life of Joseph. His life story is found in Genesis Chapters 37-50.

Do you know the story of the Midas touch? It is a legendary ability attributed to King Midas in Greek mythology. According to the myth, King Midas was granted a wish by the god Dionysus, and he asked that everything he touched would turn to gold. Initially, he was thrilled with his newfound power and turned various objects into gold, including food and drink.

However, King Midas soon realized that the gift was a curse. His greed and desire for wealth caused unintended consequences, as even his beloved daughter turned to gold when he touched her. Distraught by the tragedy, he sought a way to reverse the gift, and Dionysus instructed him to bathe in the river Pactolus to cleanse himself of the power.

The Midas touch has become a popular phrase and metaphor in modern times, representing the desire for wealth and material possessions and the potential negative consequences that may arise from excessive greed and avarice. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of balance and the dangers of unchecked desires.

On a positive note, the Midas touch can also be used as an illustration of doing good, for instance, helping others. By extending our hearts and hands, we can touch lives.

Using the acronym R.I.C.H., we can learn principles on how we can “touch” the lives of others.

R – Relationship

Joseph has a high level of relationship with God. The relationship between Joseph and the God of Israel is portrayed as one of favor and divine intervention. Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob (also known as Israel) and was favored by his father, which created jealousy and animosity among his brothers.

Throughout his life, Joseph experienced several trials, including being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers (Genesis 37:26), falsely accused and imprisoned in Egypt (Genesis 39:13-23), and facing various hardships. However, through these challenges, it is emphasized that God was with Joseph and provided him with special favor and wisdom.

Joseph’s life took a pivotal turn when he accurately interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. Impressed by Joseph’s insight, Pharaoh appointed him as second-in-command in Egypt, responsible for managing the food supply during the years of plenty and famine.

The Bible repeatedly highlights that God was with Joseph, guiding him and blessing his efforts. This divine guidance and favor were instrumental in Joseph’s rise to power and his ability to save not only Egypt but also his own family during the time of famine. Joseph’s brothers, who had once betrayed him, came to Egypt seeking food, and he forgave them, reconciling with them and bringing the whole family to settle in Egypt.

Related post: The Benefits of Abiding in the Lord

I – Intelligence

The story of Joseph does not explicitly focus on financial intelligence, as the concept of financial intelligence as we understand it today was not explicitly explored in those ancient texts. However, Joseph’s actions and decisions throughout his life do display elements of financial wisdom and prudence.

In the story of Joseph, his financial intelligence is evident in a few key aspects:

1. Interpreting Pharaoh’s Dreams: Joseph’s ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams accurately showcased his wisdom and foresight regarding economic matters. By predicting the upcoming years of plenty and famine, Joseph advised Pharaoh on how to manage the nation’s resources effectively during these times, thus ensuring Egypt’s economic stability.

2. Managing the Famine: During the years of plenty, Joseph implemented a system of storing surplus food to prepare for the impending famine. His strategic planning and resource management during the bountiful years demonstrated his understanding of the importance of saving and investing for future needs.

3. Overseeing the Grain Distribution: As the overseer of Egypt’s food supply, Joseph implemented a well-organized system for distributing food during the famine. This system not only ensured that Egypt’s citizens were fed, but it also allowed Joseph to accumulate vast wealth and resources for the kingdom.

4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Though not directly tied to financial intelligence, Joseph’s forgiveness and reconciliation with his brothers after they came to Egypt seeking food highlight the importance of healthy relationships in financial matters. Joseph’s generosity and willingness to assist his family during a time of crisis demonstrate sound financial stewardship and compassion.

While the story of Joseph in the Old Testament primarily emphasizes themes of faith, divine providence, and personal character, one can draw lessons of financial wisdom and prudent decision-making from his actions and experiences. These qualities reflect the principles of financial intelligence, such as strategic planning, resource management, and understanding the significance of relationships in financial matters.

C – Character

Joseph consistently demonstrated integrity and righteousness in his actions and decisions. When he was sold as a slave to Egypt by his jealous brothers, he remained faithful to God and did not compromise his principles, even when faced with difficult circumstances.

Despite being far from his homeland and facing various trials, Joseph remained faithful to God and trusted in His plan for his life. This faithfulness is evident during his time as a slave in Potiphar’s house and later when he was imprisoned unjustly.

God gifted Joseph with the ability to interpret dreams, which played a significant role in his rise to prominence in Egypt. He interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, which ultimately led to his appointment as a powerful ruler in the kingdom.

One of the most striking examples of Joseph’s godly character is his forgiveness and reconciliation with his brothers who had betrayed him. When he finally revealed his identity to them, he reassured them, saying, “Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:5).

As a high-ranking official in Egypt, Joseph showed compassion and generosity, especially toward his family. He provided for his brothers and father during a severe famine and welcomed them to settle in Egypt.

As the governor of Egypt, Joseph demonstrated excellent stewardship and leadership skills, guiding the nation through a period of prosperity and protecting it from the effects of famine.

Overall, Joseph’s godly character shines through in his unwavering faith, moral uprightness, forgiveness, and love for others. His story serves as a powerful example of how God can use individuals with godly character to bring about His purposes and bless others.

H – Human Ability

Joseph possessed a unique gift of interpreting dreams, which played a crucial role in his life. At a young age, he had two significant dreams of his own, indicating his future prominence over his family. However, his brothers became jealous of these dreams, as they suggested Joseph’s eventual authority over them.

Later on, while he was imprisoned in Egypt, Joseph interpreted dreams for Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker, predicting the cupbearer’s restoration to his former position and the baker’s execution. These interpretations eventually led to Joseph being summoned to interpret Pharaoh’s perplexing dreams, foretelling seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Joseph’s ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams impressed the ruler greatly. As a result, he was appointed as the second-in-command over all of Egypt, overseeing the management and distribution of resources during the seven years of plenty to prepare for the upcoming seven years of famine.

Joseph’s wise leadership and administrative skills helped Egypt survive the severe famine, and he became instrumental in saving not only Egypt but also his own family from starvation.

Joseph’s ability as a dream interpreter and his talent as a wise and capable administrator made him one of the most prominent figures in the Old Testament, playing a crucial role in the fulfillment of God’s plan for the preservation of the people of Israel.

Like Joseph, we can also touch the lives of others. Be a blessing to the people around us. Get deeper in our relationship with the Lord, grow in our character, and develop the abilities and skills God has given us.

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Increasing our faith can be a rewarding and transformative journey that allows us to find greater meaning and purpose in our lives. It can also help us to develop greater resilience and inner strength, enabling us to navigate the challenges and uncertainties.

Matthew 6:9-13, says, “This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”

In this model prayer taught by Jesus, there are principles that can turn into habits and can also increase our faith if we practice them consistently.

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of GLORIFYING GOD

The phrase “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name” implies a statement of worship directly address to God. It is giving all glory to God. Glorifying God refers to acknowledging and magnifying the greatness, goodness, and holiness of God. It can involve praising God for His attributes and actions, giving thanks for His blessings, and recognizing His sovereignty over all creation. Glorifying God can also involve living a life that reflects His values and character.

In order for our faith to grow and increase, we must practice the habit of worshiping and glorifying God. Worshiping God for who He is refers to acknowledging and honoring His divine nature and character, rather than just for what He has done for us or what we hope to receive from Him. It involves recognizing that God is the creator and sustainer of all things and that He is worthy of our reverence and adoration simply because of who He is.

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of SUBMITTING TO HIS RULERSHIP

Another way to increase our faith is to submit to God’s rulership. We can also learn a portion from the model prayer taught by Jesus that says, “Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

Submitting to God’s rulership means acknowledging God as the ultimate authority in our lives and making a conscious choice to follow His will and guidance. It involves recognizing that God has a plan and purpose for our lives and that He knows what is best for us.

Submitting to God’s rulership requires us to let go of our own desires, plans, and ambitions, and to surrender our will to His. It means trusting that God’s ways are higher than our ways and that He has our best interests at heart.

In practical terms, submitting to God’s rulership involves living in accordance with His values and teachings, and seeking to honor Him in all that we do. It means prioritizing our relationship with God above all else and striving to serve Him through acts of love, kindness, and compassion toward others.

While submitting to God’s rulership may require us to make sacrifices and face challenges, it can also bring a sense of peace, purpose, and fulfillment to our lives. By placing our trust in God and seeking to live in alignment with His will, we can experience a deeper sense of connection and intimacy with Him.

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of TRUSTING FOR HIS PROVISION

Jesus also taught His followers to ask. It is called a petition. It says in Matthew 6:11, “Give us this day our daily bread.”

Trusting God for His provision means having faith that God will provide for our needs, both material and spiritual, according to His will and timing. It involves recognizing that God is the source of all good things and that He cares for us deeply.

Trusting God for His provision requires us to let go of our worries and anxieties, and to rely on God’s faithfulness and goodness. It means acknowledging that we are not in control of our lives and circumstances and that God has a plan and purpose for us that is greater than our own understanding. In practical terms, trusting God for His provision involves living with a sense of gratitude and contentment, and being wise stewards of the resources that God has entrusted to us.

The word “daily” indicates that God wants us to trust in Him and for His provision every moment of our life.

Related Post: Achieving Both Spiritual and Material Abundance

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of CONFESSING OUR SINS

Jesus continued teaching the model prayer and said, “And forgive us our debts…” The word “debts” is also translated as trespass.

There are two kinds of confession: confessing for repentance and confessing for restoration. When we accepted the Lord as our personal Lord and Savior, we also ask for forgiveness. It is the repentance from being a sinner. Confessing for restoration is the prayer for the believer after committing a sin. Learn the habit of confessing our sins every time we commit mistakes and trespasses.

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of FORGIVING OTHERS

Jesus also taught us that we should forgive our debtors. It means we need to forgive those who sinned against us. The way to increase our faith is to develop the habit of forgiving others.

Forgiving others involves extending grace and compassion to those who have wronged us. Forgiveness is rooted in the belief that we are all imperfect and in need of God’s mercy and forgiveness and that extending forgiveness to others is an act of love and humility.

Forgiveness involves choosing to let go of our feelings of anger, resentment, and bitterness toward those who have hurt us. It means choosing to release the other person from their debt to us, and to no longer hold their actions against them.

Forgiveness is viewed as an essential component of our own spiritual growth and well-being. By choosing to forgive others, we are able to experience a sense of freedom and release from the burdens of anger and bitterness. We are also able to cultivate a spirit of compassion and empathy towards others and to live in greater harmony with those around us.

To Increase our Faith, learn the habit of FIGHTING THE RIGHT BATTLE

This part of the model prayer, “And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one” indicates that we are in a battle. Another way to increase our faith is the readiness to fight the right battle. We are at war every day because there is an enemy, the evil one – Satan. We must fight the right battle.

Another way to increase our faith is to rely on God, as He helps us fight the battle against the enemy. We are victorious because Jesus already won the battle.

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Passing through Tough Times is a message from James  1:2-8.

James 1:2-5

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

In life, we go through trials, suffering, and pain. These are inevitable. Others may try to escape tough times and difficult circumstances. But that is not the way life works. We need to face these tough circumstances. We go through them.

What are the essential principles that we should consistently do as we pass through tough times?

1. In Tough Times, Practice Gratitude

“Consider it pure joy my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (James 1:2). The Living Bible used the term “Be happy.” In a similar situation, Paul also wrote the statement,  “…in everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Both James and Paul taught the importance of being grateful in the midst of difficult situations. James says, “consider it pure joy” while Paul states, “in everything give thanks.”

Fonder upon this Persian Proverb, “I had no shoes and complained until I met a man who had no feet.” There is always a way to look into the good side of life that will help us to be grateful. Gratitude is a muscle. If you are thankful every day, it grows and develops until it becomes natural within you.

Related Post: The Power of Gratitude

2. In Tough Times, Visualize Growth

A helpful practice during tough times is to visualize growth. In verses 3 and 4, “…because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Instead of thinking all the negative thoughts, visualize growth, and all the good results. James is clear when he said, “the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” It means there is growth after the trial. A good character is developed.

After the tough times, how do you see yourself? Can you come out a better person? A better Christ’s follower? A better disciple? A better person in your industry?

3. In Tough Times, Be Filled with Wisdom

James also wrote, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you” (James 1:5).

It is not a coincidence that the word “trials” and “wisdom” are both in the passage. One thing is for sure, James, the author connects them. It means when trials come, one way to overcome them is to ask God for wisdom. We need to ask God for wisdom every day.

When trials come, the Lord might be telling you something or teaching you a lesson. We might be able to grasp and understand when He gives us wisdom. Why older people are full of wisdom? Because they have gone through a lot of experiences, good or bad.

Robin Sharma says “Adversity is an opportunity for mastery.” Let me borrow that quote and revise it a little bit and goes like this, “Adversity or trial is an opportunity to grow in wisdom.”

We can go through difficult and tough times. We will overcome. Apply these practical and biblical principles: (1) Practice Gratitude; (2) Visualize Growth; and (3) Be Filled with Wisdom.

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Do you want to know how love works? Love in 4 directions is a message that can help you grasp the meaning of love better. It can also help you to understand what not to love. The Bible teaches that love is not always in the positive sense. In fact, it can creates harm rather than good. It can destroy rather than build. But what are these kinds of love? In what sense that it can destroy or harm us? But there is also a way to understand love positively. We should go in that better direction.

Downward Love

The direction of this kind of love is “downward” because it is all about the love of sin or the love to the world. It says in 1 John 2:15-16, “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”

The “world,” in this passage is defined in terms of the sinful acts. The world offers a negative sense of love. These are the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. When we succomb to these, we sinned. The conequence will be harm and distruction.

Inward Love

Inward love is all about loving “yourself,” the wrong way. The Bible is clear when it says in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 – But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!

Just like the “downward” love, inward love also create problems. It is a love the harms and destroys. Take not of the phrase in verse 1, “People will be lovers of themselves,” obviously speaks in an inward direction geared to selfishness.

Upward Love

The “upward” direction speaks about the love for God. A familiar passage that talks about the love for God is found in Matthew 22:37-38 – Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.”

This kind of love must be the goal of everybody. Upward love is the Greatest Commandment. If downward and inward love can create problems, upward love can solve problems. It is because loving God sumarizes many of the laws in the Old Testament and in the New Testament.

Sideward Love

“Sideward love” is all about loving others. It says in Matthew 22:39, “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ “Loving others” is also part of the Greatest Commandment. This direction of love can be called horizontal love – loving your neighbor. It also summarizes every law in relation to other people.

Follow the two directions: upward and sideward love, and disregard the other two: downward and inward. Life will be better if we love the right way.

The post Love in 4 Directions appeared first on Relevant Sermons.

The title of of the message is Living as Citizens of Heaven and it is based from the letter of Paul to the Philippian believers. Philippians 3:17-21, says, “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.”

The key verse in this passage is found in verse 20, “For our citizenship is in heaven…” Paul wrote this statement, telling the believers that their true citizenship is in heaven. If a person believed Jesus Christ and accepted Him as savior and Lord, he is bound to heaven and enjoys his heavenly citizenship. After our life here on earth, we will be able to experience our true citizenship. Since we are still on earth, it is expected that our way of life must be in accordance to our true citizenship.

How to live as citizens of heaven while still living here on earth?

As Citizens of Heaven, Understand the Difference between Earthly and Heavenly

It is stated in Philippians 3:18-19, “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.  Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.”

Paul clearly defined those who are not citizens of heaven, according to these two verses above. According to ESV Study Bible, “The enemies of the cross could be the Judaizers of v. 2 or ‘wordly’ people in general. Their destiny is final judgement (destruction), they worship themselves (their belly), and they consumed with earthly things.”

Life is identified in terms of a priority. Are you consumed by earthly things or heavenly things? If you are truly a citizen of heaven, what is your priority? Those who are not bound to heaven, focus their lives, primarily on earthly things. On the contratry, those who are citizens of heaven can also be identified as people who set their minds to the things above or heavenly. Their practices and habits are in line with their devotion to God.

The famous evangelist Billy Graham once said, “My home is heaven. I’m just traveling through this world.” All of us are just travelling or passing through this world. Life on earth is temporary and earthly things do not last. But heaven is eternal. Now, we know the difference between the earthly and the heavenly.

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As Citizens of Heaven, Jesus must be the Center of our Lives

Philippians 3:20-21, says, “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.”

When we set our minds to the things above, Jesus must become the center of everything. We fell good when we hear inspirational messages that talk about blessings, joy, happiness, and material abundance. But when persecutions and trials come, it is also easier to give up. Why? It is because Jesus is not the center. Eathly things can consume our time and energy. Specially when we put our comfort and happiness at the center of our lives. We should put Jesus Christ at the center of our lives and it will be easier to deal with our problems on this earth.

Let us ponder of what Israel Houghton has said, “Many times we say Jesus is first in our life, and I get that, but Jesus should not be the first, He should be center of everything.”

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Life is a journey. We are traveling in two lanes. The lanes of impossibility and possibility. Staying on the possibility lane should be our goal. But we need to be aware that we can’t travel in that two lanes at the same time. It is our choice, which one to take. How often we exchange lanes? How long we are staying on the impossibility lane as compared to the possibility? These questions force us to think and evaluate our life’s journey.

How often you hear the word “impossible”? How about the phrase, “it is possible.” Consider what Nelson Mandela said, “It all seems impossible until it’s done.” We always heard phrases related to doubts and impossibilities. But take note, the word impossible is not really a fact, it is just an idea!

The statements of Jesus found in different Scripture passages show contrast on impossibility and possibility. In Luke 18:27 – But He said, “The things that are impossible with people are possible with God.” A similar passage is in Mark 9:23 – And Jesus said to him, “‘If You can?’ All things are possible to him who believes.”

Let’s use the story of the 12 spies sent by Moses to spy the land of Canaan, as we dig deeper on this topic “Staying on the Possibility Lane.” It is found in Numbers chapters 13 and 14. The journey of the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan began when God promised them a “land flowing with milk and honey.” Before entering the land, Moses sent 12 spies. Their job is to explore the land. They have done their job and reported back to Moses and to the whole assembly of what they saw and experienced.

How to keep staying on the possibility lane?

There are essential ways to stay on the possibility lane and not on the other side of the lane:

Focus on the Good Report

One way to stay on the possibility lane is to focus on the good report and not on the negative ones. There are two parts of the report of the spies to Moses, the good and the bad. In Numbers 13:27-28, They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit. But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. This is the portion where the good and the negative reports are mentioned. The land is flowing with milk and honey but the people there are powerful.

The additional report regarding the bad or negative side is in Numbers 13:31-33 But the men who had gone up with him said, “We can’t attack those people; they are stronger than we are.” And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”

The people clearly know the two sides of the story. They are aware of the good and the bad report. The challenge is, which side do you focus on, the good or the bad? Is it the positive or the negative? Focus on the good report and stay on the possibility lane.

Instead of saying, “just do nothing, it is impossible,” it is better to say, “just do it, nothing is impossible. Oftentimes, it is just a matter of perspective, just like the picture and illustration below. The words are the same but can be understood in two different ways.

Exercise Faith over Fear

Another way to stay on the possibility lane is to exercise faith over fear. Instead of entertaining fear and worry, trust in the Lord and have faith. in Numbers 14:8-9, it says, “If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.”

Take note of the statement “Do not be afraid of the people of the land.” It is a bold declaration of faith. It is a positive vision that overcomes fear. The people were fearful because they believe more in the spies who emphasized the bad and negative reports.

To stay on the possibility lane, we need to exercise faith instead of living in fear. Joel Osteen said, “God has brought you through before and He will bring you through again. Make a decision each day to choose faith over fear.”

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Believe in Signs and Miracles

We can keep staying on the possibility lane if we believe in signs and miracles. Numbers 14:11 says,  “The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the signs I have performed among them?

There are many miracles done by the Lord, even just looking back at the beginning of the Exodus story. The plagues in Egypt, the crossing of the red sea, the provision of food, and many more. These are the signs and miracles witnessed by the people before and on the journey in the wilderness. Unfortunately, the people are still stubborn and refuse to believe in the power of the Lord.

God is powerful. He performed miracles before and can still perform miracles today. If you want to live a life full of possibilities, believe that God is a miracle-working God. Claim it.

What are the ways in order to stay on the possibility lane on a consistent basis? (1) Focus on the Good Report, (2) Exercise Faith over Fear, (3) Believe in Signs and Miracles. Apply and live with these principles.

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1 Corinthians 13 is about spiritual gifts and love. Paul’s intention is clear when he wrote this particular chapter. In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (NIV), Paul said “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”

If we are going to continue reading the whole chapter, Paul mentioned the meaning of love several times. The chapter started with the concept of gifts and then goes on defining love. Therefore, love and gift are related to each other.

In relation to spiritual gifts, Paul mentioned two negative related phrases, “I am nothing” and “I gain nothing.” He declares that even though he has various spiritual gifts but do not have love, all of these gifts are “nothing.” Paul wants his readers to understand that using or exercising their spiritual gifts, should be practiced or exercised with love.

How to exercise our spiritual gift with love? How to use our God-given gifts to make an impact? If we are going to serve the Lord through the exercise of our spiritual gifts, we must understand and apply these principles:

Connect the “Heart” with the “Head”

The “heart” represents love and the “head” is the intellect or the brain. To connect the heart with the head is the same as simply saying, use our brain or intellect with love. In verse 2, it says, “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge…” Here, let’s use “all knowledge” to emphasize the concept of the head or intellect.

In the passage above, Paul claims to have spiritual gifts such as knowledge, prophecy, and etc. However, he is also clear that these are nothing if done without love. Therefore, it is really necessary to connect our knowledge and abilities to our hearts.

This principle, “connect the heart and the head” is unique as compared to business principles. Maybe you have heard the sayings in business such as “give value,” “solve problems,” and then, “you have a business.” Giving value and solving problems can also be done without love. In comparison, we should use our gifts and talents, give value, minister to others with genuine love that comes from the heart.

Many of us have the gift of knowledge and the gift of teaching. We have acquired knowledge through our studies and from all the learning experiences inside or outside of the church. Let’s do it with love. Love for the Lord and love for others. Let’s connect the heart with the head.

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Connect the “Heart” with the “Hand”

Paul says in 1 Corinthians 13:3, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” The “hand” represents action. It also refers to giving to the needy or to the poor.

Connect the heart with the hand means, the work of our hands, and the love in our hearts should be inseparable. Can you give something and yet there is hatred in your heart? We should give with love. Giving to the needy, exercising your spiritual gifts, and doing various ministries must always be done with love that comes from God.

Now, Paul gave us a formula to follow, based on the passage above. First, we must have love. We love the Lord and we love others. Second, we need to recognize that we have an intellect. God has given us knowledge and intelligence. Third, God has given us hands and the ability to take action. We combine all of these three and we can exercise our spiritual gifts effectively.

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The Habit of Making an Impact is the title of the message based on Acts 3:1-10. The story is about the healing of the lame man through the ministry of Peter and John. By helping others get healed is one way to make an impact on their lives.

What are the action steps we should do so that to “make an impact” can become our habit?

Recognize Every Opportunity

While Peter and John were going to the Temple for prayer, they met a beggar lame man at the entrance. The man asked them for money. But instead of giving him what he asked for, Peter and John did differently. Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (v.6).

In this story, there are opportunists: those who can get something from somebody (the beggar) and those who are ready to help others (Peter and John). To be a blessing and to make an impact, we must have the habit of recognizing every opportunity that comes our way. Let us train our eyes to see every opportunity to help others who are in need.

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Exercise a given Authority

The highlight of the story is the healing of the lame man and he was able to walk. That happened not because Peter and John are powerful, but because Peter used the powerful name of Jesus. Jesus gives authority to the disciples to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness (Matthew 10:1).

The healing of the lame man is the outcome of the authority given to the disciples to heal the sick. The disciples exercise that given power. Jesus said to his followers concerning those who would believe in him: “In my name… they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well” (Mark 16:17-18). To heal in the name of Jesus was to involve his power and presence. There is power in the name of Jesus. As Christ’s followers, we should exercise that authority – in the name of Jesus.

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Always Give God the Glory

Peter and John were just instruments, a channel of blessing. At that moment, they are God’s hands to perform a miracle. It is also interesting to note that after the healing of the lame man, he went inside the temple praising and worshiping God.

Whatever you have accomplished, always give God the glory. In the story, when the man got healed, Peter and John did not parade their accomplishment but took another opportunity to preach about Jesus. When you are full of accomplishment and help more people, always be humble. Give God all the glory.

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