
Fishers of Men: Life of Jesus
The world doesn’t hold biblical wisdom in high regard. Sometimes neither do we. But when we obediently follow Christ’s instructions we discover a life-enriching truth.
The world doesn’t hold biblical wisdom in high regard. Sometimes neither do we. But when we obediently follow Christ’s instructions we discover a life-enriching truth.
The ending starts at the beginning. At birth, the body, always vulnerable to a disease or tragic demise, begins the process of aging, which culminates in a worn-out, weakened fight for the last breath. Death is the feared and final enemy (1 Corinthians 15:26).
In his song “Identity,” Lecrae raps, “I’m not the shoes I wear. I’m not the clothes I buy. I’m not the house I live in. I’m not the cars I drive, no. I’m not the job I work. You can’t define my worth by nothing on God’s green earth. My identity is found in Christ, is found in Christ.” You may or may not appreciate Christian rap, but you can’t deny the biblical truth found in this song.
Certainly an “excessive and unhealthy interest” in the demonic realm is dangerous, but, as Lewis reminds us, so is disbelieving or ignoring their existence. Satan is real. He prowls around like a roaring lion. He desires that we fail. Satan also desires that we are afraid of failing.
Just as water is essential to life our thirsty souls require living water. It wells up into essential purpose and eternal life. And it’s often found in the most unexpected settings.
Jesus’ special invitation is for all who are carrying heavy loads. The weight wears a person down mentally, physically, and spiritually. There is only one remedy for body and soul exhaustion—rest. And that’s exactly what Jesus promises.
Everything changes. Money comes and goes. Investments are up and down. Spring becomes summer becomes fall becomes winter. Kids mature. Adults age. There are changes in jobs, homes, cities, and lifestyles. Everything changes.
Jesus began his ministry with a miracle rich in depth and meaning. And because we too often miss that richness we’re, sadly, less intimate with our Lord.
Ron Moore with guest host Jill Kowalski on seven cardinal virtues and four essential values to prayerfully consider in picking a leader.
Whatever you are going through today, God is on your side. We are always held by the embrace of his presence, strength, and love. Today’s verse, tucked away in the Old Testament, is a great reminder of who God is and how he works in our lives. Let’s consider the truths of this passage one at a time.
What does it mean that Jesus is called the Lamb of God? What does it matter?
Strength is not found in material possessions or our abilities. In fact, there are times when those things are stripped away. Inadequacy may be the reality, but fear doesn’t have to be the result.
Sometimes temptation seduces you. Its attractive exterior appears to be the thing you’re looking for. It may even seem the way to a Godly goal. And once you’ve seen it you struggle to pass it up.
The Lord is good. God always has our best interests at heart. He never wastes our time. He is working in you today to prepare you for tomorrow. His assignments are not always easy. In fact, sometimes they are very hard, but he never leaves nor forsakes us. He has great plans for our future.
Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, Daniel was in the group taken captive to Babylon. When a decree went out that for thirty days everyone was required to pray only to King Darius, Daniel ignored the command. He went home and prayed to God before open windows. He would not deny his Lord.
The Babylonian king, Nebuchadnezzar, overthrew Judah and took the best and brightest back to Babylon. Among the young men he took as prisoners were Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When the captives were ordered to bow down and worship an image of gold, these three Israelites refused and were sentenced to die in a blazing furnace; but they lived without fear.
It was a humble start for the Son of God’s earthly ministry. Baptism…in a muddy river at a remote location. But that small beginning holds great significance for you and me.
God is all-powerful. He is able to do anything and everything consistent with his will. Nothing is too hard for him. God specializes in the impossible.
How closely are you following Jesus the Nazarene? Are you near enough to see the calloused hands that held a hammer and nails? Can you hear his voice both kind and commanding? Can you see the determination on his face to do the Father’s will?