This past week, I had the incredible joy and blessing of welcoming my second grandson into the world while continuing to spend time with my 2-year-old grandson. Observing the stark contrast between the complete helplessness of a newborn and the growing, yet still limited, independence of a toddler has offered me profound insights into our own relationship with God.
The Helplessness of a Newborn
My newborn grandson is utterly dependent on his parents for everything. He needs them for nourishment, comfort, warmth, and protection. He can’t do anything on his own. He can’t even hold up his head or focus his eyes. His vulnerability is a poignant reminder of the initial stage of life where survival is entirely dependent on the care and provision of others.
Nothing to Deserve This Love and Protection
It’s also worth noting that this newborn has done nothing to deserve or earn the love and protection his parents give him. But they give it to him anyway, because they love him. Does that sound familiar?
The Small Steps of Independence
Anyway, back to the narrative about both my grandsons. In contrast to the newborn, my 2-year-old grandson is starting to explore the world with a bit of independence. He can walk, communicate his basic needs, and even play on his own and with his doggy friends for short periods. Yet, despite these small steps toward autonomy, he remains profoundly dependent on his parents. He needs their guidance, support, and care. He can’t yet navigate life’s complexities or dangers on his own.
Our Illusion of Independence
As adults, we often pride ourselves on our independence. We like to think we’ve got it all under control. We’re the Marlboro Man or Wonder Woman—self-sufficient and ruggedly independent. This cultural ideal can lead us to believe that we only need God in times of crisis, when things get really bad. However, the truth is far from this illusion. We are more like my infant grandson, or at best, my 2-year-old grandson, in our dependence on God. We wouldn’t last a day without Him.
Biblical Perspective on Dependence
The Bible reminds us of our need to approach God with the humility and dependence of a child. Jesus Himself emphasized this when He said:
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 18:3 (NIV)
This verse highlights the importance of recognizing our dependence on God. Like children, we are to trust in His provision, guidance, and care, acknowledging that we cannot navigate life’s complexities on our own.
Every Breath a Gift
We don’t think of it every time we breathe, but our very existence is sustained by God. Each breath we take is a gift from Him, as Luke, the author of the Book of Acts points out:
“For in him we live and move and have our being.”
Acts 17:28 (NIV)
This verse reminds us that our lives are intricately connected to God. Without His sustaining power, we wouldn’t be able to draw our next breath, let alone handle the challenges and responsibilities of life.
Embracing Our Dependence
Recognizing our dependence on God is not a sign of weakness but an acknowledgment of reality. It is in this acknowledgment that we find true strength and peace. When we rely on God, we tap into His infinite wisdom, strength, power, and love. Paul the Apostle encourages us with these words:
“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
This verse reassures us that with God’s help, we can face any situation, no matter how daunting it may seem.
Conclusion: Living in Dependence
As I reflect on the growth and dependence of my grandsons, I am reminded of our own need for God. We may achieve small steps of independence in our lives, but in reality, we are wholly dependent on our Creator. Let us embrace this dependence, not as a limitation, but as a source of strength and peace. After all, as Paul reminds us:
May we, like children, trust in God’s provision, guidance, and care. Let us remember that every breath we take is a gift from Him and that we can do all things through Him who gives us strength. In acknowledging our dependence on God, we find the true freedom to live fully and confidently in His grace and love.
In today’s “always connected” world, ironically, we seem to be drifting farther and farther away from one another, and sometimes even from God. There are moments when it’s easy to feel isolated, forgotten, or insignificant. Yet, in those very moments, Scripture offers us profound assurances of God’s unwavering love and constant presence. One such assurance is found in Isaiah 49:16, where God declares His enduring commitment to His people with a powerful image:
“I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”
Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)
The Permanence of Being Engraved
The imagery here is powerful and deeply comforting. To be engraved is to be permanently marked. Have you ever written an important phone number on you hand, then washed your hands, forgetting it was there? That’s not going to happen here. Engraving our names means they can’t be washed away or easily removed. This speaks to the permanence of God’s commitment to us. Unlike a temporary mark that fades with time, engraving lasts. It signifies that our relationship with God is enduring and unbreakable.
A Love Beyond Compare
In the same passage of scripture, God also paints another picture to show us how much He loves us:
“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!”
Isaiah 49:15 (NIV)
In these words, God compares His love for us to a mother’s love for her child, probably one of the strongest forms of human affection. Even in the rare instance that a mother might forget her nursing child, God assures us that He will never forget us. His love is even more profound, more reliable, and more enduring.
Constant Remembrance and Care
The palms of the hands are one of the most visible and sensitive parts of the body. By saying that we are engraved on His palms, God is telling us that we are always before Him. Every time He “looks at His hands,” He sees us. This indicates a continuous, intimate awareness and care for our well-being. We are never out of His sight or mind. In our moments of doubt or despair, when we feel alone or forgotten, we can hold onto this truth: we are constantly remembered and cared for by our Creator.
A Symbol of Sacrifice and Love
For followers of Christ, this imagery takes on even deeper significance when we consider the account of Jesus’ crucifixion. His hands were pierced by nails as He was crucified—a supreme act of love and sacrifice. This act forever marked His hands–etching our names on the palms of His hands–symbolizing the depth of His love and the lengths He would go to redeem us. There is no greater love than this.
Ever Before Him
The verse continues, “your walls are ever before me” (Isaiah 49:16, NIV). In the context of Isaiah, this likely referred to the walls of Jerusalem, representing the city and its people. For us, it means that God is always mindful of our circumstances and needs. He is aware of our struggles, our hopes, and our prayers. He knows when we feel forgotten, alone, insignificant. He longs for us to remember that His watchful eye and caring heart are always upon us.
Finding Comfort in God’s Assurance
Understanding what it means to be engraved on the palms of God’s should give us great comfort. It reassures us that we are never forgotten or abandoned. God’s love for us is steadfast and eternal. When we feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges or when our prayers seem unanswered, we can remember this powerful image. We are permanently etched into His hands, held close, and cherished deeply.
Conclusion: Embrace the Assurance of God’s Love
As we reflect on the significance of being engraved on the palms of God’s hands, let it fill us with peace and confidence. Our value and worth are not determined by our circumstances or how others perceive us, by our jobs or the size of our bank accounts, but by God’s everlasting love. We are cherished, remembered, and protected by the One who created the heavens and the earth.
In times of uncertainty, let this truth anchor our hearts. Let it remind us that we are always in God’s thoughts and under His care. His love for us is permanent, intimate, and sacrificial. As we go about our daily lives, may we hold onto this assurance, finding strength and comfort in the knowledge that we are etched into the very palms of God’s hands.
Spending time with my 2-year-old grandson (and his mommy and daddy) has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Watching him grow and learn is a privilege, and it constantly reminds me of life’s simplest yet deepest lessons. Lately, we’ve been teaching him a crucial skill: asking for help. When he gets frustrated, he often squeals and screeches, not knowing how to express his need for assistance. Our goal is to teach him to use his words and ask for help when needed.
The Challenge of Asking for Help
This got me thinking about how, as adults—especially men—we often struggle with asking for help. We might not squeal and screech like a toddler, but our frustration can manifest in other, often unhealthy, ways. We might lash out in anger, withdraw into silence, or turn to harmful habits to cope. It’s a universal challenge: the fear of appearing weak or incompetent keeps us from reaching out when we need it most.
Finding the Courage to Ask
Just as my grandson is learning to ask for help, we too must cultivate the courage to do the same. Life’s challenges are too great to face alone, and we were never meant to bear our burdens in isolation. The Bible reminds us of the importance of community and the strength that comes from shared struggles. In the Old Testament, King Solomon reminds us:
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
We all need people in our lives we can turn to for support. If you don’t have such people, it’s crucial to make an effort to find them and cultivate those relationships. Join a community based around similar interests or hobbies (i.e., Bible study group, hiking club, etc.), make new friends, or seek out a support group. Sometimes, professional help from a counselor or therapist is necessary and incredibly beneficial. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of wisdom and strength.
Reaching Out to God
In addition to seeking help from those around us, we should continually reach out to God. Jesus encourages us to do this:
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Jesus invites us to ask, seek, and knock—to actively reach out to God for help.
Further, the Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 to “pray continually.” This means maintaining an ongoing conversation with God throughout our day, bringing our needs, frustrations, and thanks to Him. God is always available, always listening, and always ready to provide the help we need. All we need to do is ask Him.
Embracing the Power of Prayer
Prayer is a powerful tool, not just for asking for what we need but for aligning our hearts with God’s will and finding peace in His presence. When we pray, we acknowledge our dependence on God and open ourselves up to His guidance and strength. Paul encourages us:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
As we teach my grandson to ask for help, I’ll benefit from remembering to apply this lesson to my own life. I’ll bet the same is true for you. Whether we need support from friends, family, or professionals, or we need divine assistance through prayer, asking for help is a crucial step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Let’s embrace the wisdom in seeking help, knowing that it brings us closer to each other and to God. May we find the courage to ask, the humility to receive, and the grace to support others in their times of need. And in doing so, may we all experience the strength and peace that comes from being part of a loving, supportive community, and from being held in the strong arms of our loving Father.
In a world that often feels tumultuous and uncertain, finding a source of true peace and enduring comfort can seem elusive. In church this morning, though, I was reminded of a blessing in Scripture that has been spoken over God’s people for thousands of years—the Aaronic Blessing (called that because God told Moses that this is the blessing Aaron is to speak over God’s people) from Numbers 6:24-26:
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
What got me pondering these verses is the song “The Blessing“, which we sang as one of the praise songs at church. This blessing not only offers comfort but also provides a deep insight into the character of God and how He relates to us, His beloved children. I’d like to explore these verses and consider how we may carry this blessing with us throughout this week and beyond.
A Divine Embrace
“The Lord bless you and keep you.” These opening words of the blessing are a promise of God’s comprehensive care. To be kept by the Lord suggests a protective embrace, safeguarding us from the ills and dangers lurking in the shadows of our daily struggles. It’s not merely a passive watchfulness; it’s an active maintenance of our well-being, a declaration that you and I are worth protecting.
The Radiance of God’s Favor
“The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.” I find such comfort and hope in the imagery of God’s face shining upon me, upon you. Don’t you? In ancient cultures, a king’s favorable glance was a sign of approval and benevolence, often leading to prosperity and protection for the recipient. When we imagine the Creator of the universe turning His countenance towards us, it suggests a personal attention and care that is both humbling and uplifting.
The request for God’s face to shine on us is a prayer for His grace. Grace, that unmerited favor, is central to our understanding of God’s character. It’s a reminder that despite our flaws and failures, God looks upon us with kindness and a desire to bless and enrich our lives.
The Gift of Divine Peace
“The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” In this final part of the blessing, the repeated mention of God’s face emphasizes a relational God, actively engaged and present in our lives. It reassures us that we are never beyond His notice or care.
Peace—the deep, abiding peace that comes from God—is perhaps one of the most precious gifts He offers. It’s not simply the absence of conflict but a profound sense of wholeness and well-being—shalom—that sustains us even in the midst of turmoil. This peace guards our hearts and minds, anchoring us securely in God’s perfect will.
The more I turn to God and remind myself that He is turning toward me, the better I can deal with the daily stresses and ongoing challenges in my life. I know so many people who could benefit from this same peace, but sadly their mental and spiritual state is such that they are rejecting the gift they need more than anything else in their lives.
Reflecting God’s Light
As recipients of such a blessing, we are called to reflect the light that God shines upon us. Just as the moon reflects the light of the sun, we too are to reflect God’s grace and peace to others. In doing so, we become beacons of hope and comfort in a world desperately in need of both. We become lights in the darkness of this world, just as Jesus was and is the Light that the darkness cannot overcome (John 1:5).
Conclusion: A Blessing for All Seasons
“The Lord bless you and keep you” is not just a benediction for the end of a church service or a prayer meeting; it’s a daily reality for those who walk in relationship with God. Each phrase of this blessing carries deep implications for our lives, offering reassurance and a reminder of God’s eternal commitment to our welfare.
As we continue on our journeys, may we always be aware of God’s shining face turned towards us, His grace that covers our failures, and His peace that transcends understanding. Let this blessing be a cornerstone of our faith, a declaration we not only receive but also share generously with those around us.
In embracing and distributing this blessing, we participate in a divine exchange that enriches our community and world, strengthens our faith, and glorifies our Father in heaven. These verses would be a good token for each of us to carry with us throughout this week and beyond. Our minds can stroke the token’s smooth surface whenever we need a reminder of God’s blessings or a dose of His peace. We can also hand them out to others, too, with kind words or actions.
We need not worry about running out of these tokens. Our loving God has an endless supply.
Last year, my wife, father-in-law, and I moved from Colorado to Florida, the flattest state in the US. I love Florida, so I’m glad we made the move, but I miss my friends and family still living in Colorado, and I miss the mountains. Thankfully, God has blessed us with the ability to come back and visit for a good chunk of time this summer, so that’s where we are now.
On this visit, I’ve been struck by a profound sense of nostalgia and a deep appreciation for the majestic mountains that once framed my everyday life. There’s something undeniably comforting about the towering Pikes Peak and its surrounding watchers, which once served as daily reminders of God’s presence and strength. It was here, amidst these silent sentinels, that I often found solace in the words of Psalm 121, a passage that speaks powerfully about God’s protection and care.
The Psalm and the Mountains
This psalm was written by King David. As you may know, in the early part of his adulthood, his life was clearly blessed by God, perhaps due in part to the fact that he relied on God daily for his strength and sustenance. In fact, in one of his sermons, the Apostle Paul pointed out that God referred to David as a man after His own heart (Acts 13:22). David rose from obscurity to become the great uniter and king of Israel in a relatively short time.
However, sadly, as often happens to so many of us, David’s success led to an overblown sense of self-sufficiency, replacing the utter dependence on God that had gotten him to his position of prominence. This is Satan’s handiwork, and we let him play this same trick on us time and again. Not surprisingly for David, that’s when the wheels started to fall off his “greatness-mobile”. For a while, the previous king, Saul, was trying to kill him. At another stage of his life, his son, Absolom, was trying to take the crown from David, and was willing to take David’s head as part of the deal.
Bottom line: David knew more than his share of challenges and hardships.
Fortunately for him, though, he had maintained enough of a relationship with God that he would periodically recognize that he had turned away from his Source of Strength. He would repent and return to God.
This brings me to Psalms 121, one of my favorites. Perhaps in a period of reflection about why his life had fallen apart, David must have turned his gaze to the mountains and felt these words infuse his mind:
These verses have always resonated with me, especially during my years in Colorado. The mountains were not just a backdrop for life; they were a visible cue to lift my gaze upward and remember the omnipotence of God. They prompted me to consider the vastness of God’s creation and His incomprehensible ability to oversee every detail within it.
I recall once near the end of a particularly moving church service, it was one of the many times God has dragged me out of my comfort zone. A couple sitting in the row in front of me seemed to be struggling mightily with something during a time of dedicated prayer. God placed it on my heart to quote these verses to them, which I did (explaining that God had nudged me to mention this to them). It resonated with them, they seemed to take comfort from the message, and I eventually got over my sweaty palms.
The Psalm Continues
The rest of the Psalm reads as follows:
He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
These words—knowing that God is always watching over me—have comforted me many times.
The Struggle with Unanswered Prayers
Yet, despite the comfort found in these verses, they can sometimes abruptly bring us face-to-face with the harsh realities of life. How do we reconcile the assurance of God’s watchful care with the pain and suffering we sometimes endure? This question becomes particularly poignant when prayers seem unanswered, when the help we seek appears delayed or absent. Why couldn’t my mom, my mother-in-law, or my friend be healed? Why is the world still so broken?
During my time in Florida, far from the mountains and the comfort they offered, these questions have become more pressing. The flat landscapes mirror the stark reality of life’s unanswered prayers. Yet, it is here, away from my mountainous comfort zone, that Psalm 121 speaks with even greater clarity. The psalm does not promise that we will be spared from trouble, but rather that the Lord who created the mountains is continually with us, guarding our lives.
Learning from the Mountains
The mountains taught me that the majesty of God is not confined to the high places of the earth. His majesty extends to the plains, the valleys, and yes, even to the coastal stretches and waterways of Florida. God’s presence is not tethered to a specific geography but is as omnipresent as the air we breathe. Whether we gaze upon the heights or stare across the Gulf of Mexico, our help comes from the Maker of heaven and earth.
This realization brings deep comfort. God’s strong arms are wrapped around me, around you.
This is even true when facing the complexities of unanswered prayers. It reminds us that our perspective is limited, our understanding finite. Just as a child may not understand a parent’s decisions, we too may not grasp the full scope of God’s plans from our vantage point.
Sharing the Comfort
As I return to visit Colorado and once again find myself enveloped by the familiarity of the mountains, I am reminded of the importance of sharing this comfort. Psalm 121 does not just speak to me; it speaks to all who are weary, to all who feel lost or forsaken. It is a reminder that we are never alone, that our help comes from the Lord, who is both the Maker of the mountains and the Calmer of the seas. Florida’s palm trees know His name.
Conclusion: A Call to Trust and Remember
So, as I reflect on the enduring truth of Psalm 121, I invite you, wherever you are, to find your “mountains”—those reminders of God’s immense power and unfailing love. Let them comfort you, let them challenge you, and above all, let them draw you closer to the One who watches over your coming and going, both now and forevermore.
As we navigate the terrain of life, with its peaks and valleys and rivers and swamps, may we always remember that the same God who created the vast mountains watches over us with an even greater vigilance. And in this awareness, may we find the ultimate comfort and an unshakeable peace that come from knowing God, and that our help comes from Him.
As Father’s Day winds down, I’ve been thinking about fathers’ pivotal role in our lives—providing, protecting, guiding, and loving us. This reflection invited me to consider our Heavenly Father’s role in our lives and His deep desire to give us good things. In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus highlights the nature of God’s goodness as a Father:
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”
Jesus, in Matthew 7:9-11 (NIV)
The Challenge of Unanswered Prayers
For many, the idea of God as a good Father becomes challenging when prayers seem unanswered. If I ask my dad for bread, he’ll probably give me bread shortly after I ask him. I’m confident about that. But if I ask God for bread, He might give me bread right now, or He might give me a pickle. Or He may give me bread three weeks from now. Or, worse, He may not give me bread at all, seeming to ignore my prayer.
This is the challenge of faith, of prayer.
When we pray for something and it’s not granted, doubts creep in about whether God truly cares. Or whether God truly exists. Suddenly, there are questions about the goodness of God, or even the existence of God, because how could a good God allow so many prayers to go unanswered?
Although my children (hopefully) never doubted my existence, there may have been times when they questioned whether I really loved them because I wouldn’t let them get a pet emu, or other such unhealthy or unusual requests.
A Father’s Perspective
But here’s the thing: as a father, I’ve faced countless moments when my children asked for things that weren’t in their best interest (like the pet emu example). Every “no” was not a refusal of love but an expression of it, grounded in a desire to protect them from harm or to prepare something better for them (“How about if we get a dog instead of an emu?”).
Granted, when I told them “no”, they could hear me say that. It was an answer, even if they didn’t like it.
With God, though, if we do not get what we pray for, it can be challenging to discern whether He’s saying “no” or “not yet”. Further, if we ask for bread but get a pickle, we may not recognize it as God’s answer to our prayer.
This is where faith comes in. Faith, wisdom, and more prayer.
I should note that if you or someone you know can’t get past this challenge and can’t bring yourself to believe that God exists, a few years ago, I wrote a series of posts under the heading “Beyond Belief“, which addresses the most common questions about God’s existence. You may want to check it out or recommend it to your non-believing friend.
Anyway, back to faith and prayer and the wisdom to discern God’s answers to our pleas.
God’s Better Plans
Scripture reminds us that God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:9). He sees the end from the beginning and knows the full implications of our desires and prayers. Just as a father might withhold something harmful from a child or delay a gift until it can be truly appreciated or beneficial, God orchestrates our lives with the wisdom of eternity in mind. Sometimes, this means not receiving what we ask for, because He has something greater in store or because it might lead us away from His best for us.
We can and should keep praying for what we earnestly desire, but we should also ask God to help us understand how He is answering our prayers. Further, we can ask God to help us remember that our relationship with Him and the assurance of our eternity in heaven are ultimately more important than whatever we are begging Him for.
Faith in Our Heavenly Father
This is about developing trust in God’s fatherly goodness. It’s about believing that He knows us better than we know ourselves, and that His love for us is unfailing—even when it’s hard to see in the moment. Embracing this trust means understanding that “no” from God is not a denial of love but a profound expression of it. It means believing that not getting the answer we want when we want it is not the same as God ignoring us or God’s apathy or God’s non-existence. It means realizing that God loves us more than we love ourselves, and more than we can understand.
Conclusion: Celebrating Our Divine Father
So, even as we have honored and appreciated the earthly fathers in our lives this Father’s Day, let’s also deepen our appreciation for our Heavenly Father. Let us celebrate His infinite wisdom, His enduring patience, and His unconditional love. Let’s remember that His every decision regarding our lives is made from a place of divine love and foresight. Whether we’re facing times of joy or challenge, let’s hold firm to the belief that our Heavenly Father is always working for our good, teaching us, guiding us, and above all, loving us—just as the best father would.
As we reflect on God’s role as our Father, may we find peace in His divine wisdom and reassurance in His promise to give good gifts to His children. Let this understanding transform our relationship with Him, strengthening our faith and our trust in His perfect fatherly care.
In the eighth chapter of John’s Gospel, we encounter a deep and unsettling scene: a woman caught in the act of adultery is brought before Jesus by the religious leaders of the day (the first hint of hypocrisy: where’s the man she was committing adultery with?). By now, they know there’s something different about Jesus, and many of them do not like it, so they’re trying to find ways to snare Jesus in a religious trap so they can arrest and kill Him. This story, while exposing the accusers’ hypocrisy, beautifully illustrates the depth of Jesus’ grace and challenges us to reflect on how we extend that grace to others.
The Scene of Grace
The narrative begins with the scribes and Pharisees presenting the woman to Jesus, attempting to trap Him with a question of law versus mercy. They ask, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” (John 8:4-5). The law was clear, but so was Jesus’ mission of grace.
Jesus’ response is both brilliant and profound. He bends down and writes on the ground, as if to emphasize the weight of the judgment they demand. After a moment, He stands and delivers a challenge that cuts to the heart of the matter:
“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her”.
Jesus, in John 8:7 (NIV)
One by one, convicted by their own consciences, the accusers leave until only Jesus and the woman remain.
Grace Extended
Jesus turns to the woman and asks, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” (John 8:10). When she replies that no one has, Jesus speaks words of liberation and grace:
“Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more”.
Jesus, in John 8:11 (NIV)
In this moment, Jesus does not merely dismiss her sin; He extends grace that both forgives and calls for transformation—a second chance at life defined not by failure but by the possibility of renewal.
The Challenge of Sharing Grace
This encounter not only highlights Jesus’ mercy but also poses a question to each of us: how do we handle the gift of grace Jesus has given to us? Do we hoard it, trying to keep it all to ourselves? Do we act like the Pharisees, like we somehow deserve grace because we’re such good people? Do we hold others to standards that we cannot meet ourselves?
Or do we recognize that at one point or another in our lives—and probably many times in our lives—we have been that woman, standing before Jesus covered in the filth of our sin, hoping He will show us mercy and grace?
We revel in the grace we receive from Jesus, cherishing our own forgiveness and the fresh starts we are granted. However, the true test of understanding this grace comes in our willingness to extend it to others—especially those who we think least deserve it.
Practicing What We Preach
Grace is not just a gift to be received; it’s a commission to be enacted. When we claim grace from Christ, we must also be prepared to share it. This means offering forgiveness instead of judgment, seeking restoration over retribution, and showing love where there is disdain. The Apostle Paul puts this beautifully in his letter to the Ephesians:
The story of the woman caught in adultery ends with her walking away uncondemned, tasked with living a transformed life. Likewise, we are called to transform our interactions with others based on the grace we have received. Each day provides us with opportunities to reflect Jesus’ grace in our words, actions, and interactions with others.
For each day forward, let’s challenge ourselves to not only claim grace but to actively share it. In doing so, we not only become conduits of Christ’s love but also genuine representatives of His kingdom here on earth. Let this story remind us that grace is not just a doctrine to appreciate but a dynamic gift to be lived out and given away freely—as freely as it was given to us.
In the Daily Audio Bible’s annual journey through the Bible, this week we reached the end of the book of John, the last of the gospels. In John 21, we find a poignant scene that speaks volumes about human nature and the spiritual pitfalls of comparison. After His resurrection, Jesus takes a moment to reinstate Peter, who had previously denied Him three times. This should have been a moment of profound relief and gratitude for Peter. Instead, he turns around, sees John following them, and asks, “Lord, what about him?” (John 21:21). This seemingly harmless question reveals a deep-seated struggle many of us face: the urge to compare our journey with others.
The Pitfall of Comparison
Peter’s question to Jesus highlights a common human tendency—to look at others and measure our own life against theirs. This moment of comparison detracts from the profound personal interaction Peter was having with Jesus. Instead of focusing on the grace being extended to him, Peter looked at John and sought to measure his own destiny against that of his friend and fellow disciple.
We can’t blame Peter, though, since we all do this. It gives us another opportunity to appreciate the raw humanness of one of Jesus’s closest friends and followers. He’s one of us–always doing and saying dumb things, and yet Jesus uses him as the foundation upon which to build His church.
But why does Peter try to compare himself and his blessings to John’s? Why do we?
It’s the same idea behind the curated views we see of our friends’ “perfect” family or meal that we see them post on Facebook, or their “perfect” career recounted on LinkedIn. I might have been thrilled about my vacation until I saw my friend take a better one.
Jesus’ response to Peter is telling:
“If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me”.
John 21:22 (NIV, emphasis added)
Here, Jesus redirects Peter’s focus back to what truly matters—not John’s path but his own. Jesus emphasizes that each disciple has a unique journey, shaped by God’s specific calling and timeline for them.
The Thief of Joy
The saying goes that comparison is the thief of joy, and scripture supports this notion extensively. In Galatians 6:4, Paul advises, “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.” This wisdom from Paul aligns with Jesus’ instruction to Peter, teaching us to focus on our own spiritual responsibilities and growth rather than looking over at the path of others.
Satan’s Strategy: Steal, Kill, and Destroy
When we engage in comparisons, we play into a strategy that Satan often uses to distract and derail us. Jesus described Satan’s motives in John 10:10, stating, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” When we compare, we allow the enemy to steal our joy, kill our sense of gratitude, and destroy our spiritual contentment. Each of us has our own blessings, challenges, and divine path, and when we focus excessively on others, we miss the beauty and opportunities and blessings in our own lives.
Cultivating Contentment
To combat the urge to compare, we can cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude. Philippians 4:11-12 shows Paul speaking about learning to be content in any situation, relying on the strength provided by Christ. By focusing on what God is doing in our lives and recognizing His blessings, we can maintain a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. We can keep the enemy from stealing them.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Unique Journey
As we move forward in our faith, let us take to heart the lesson that Jesus imparted to Peter beside the Sea of Galilee. Our focus should not be on how God is working in the lives of others, but rather on how He is working in our own. Each path is uniquely crafted by God, and when we trust in His plan for us, we find that our journey is exactly where we need to be. Whenever we are tempted to compare our journey to someone else’s, Jesus’s words to Peter should echo through our minds: “You must follow me.”
This week, let’s challenge ourselves to look inward and upward, thanking God for our personal journey, and resisting the temptation to compare it with that of others. By doing so, we affirm God’s sovereignty and grace in our lives, and we keep our hearts aligned with His purposes, filled with peace and joy, overflowing with gratitude for the blessings he showers upon us.
As we approach Memorial Day, a poignant moment arises in our collective consciousness—a time to remember and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. This day is set aside not just as a holiday from work, but as a sacred time to reflect on the cost of our freedoms. In a similar spirit of remembrance, this occasion also invites us to reflect on the supreme sacrifice made by Jesus Christ, whose death on the cross granted us freedom from the bondage of sin and death. In both cases, these acts of sacrifice demand our deepest gratitude and reflection.
The Sacrifice of Service
Memorial Day is dedicated to the brave men and women who laid down their lives in the service of our country. Their sacrifice is a stark reminder of the price paid for the liberties we often take for granted. As Scripture says:
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends”.
Jesus, in John 15:13 (NIV)
This verse powerfully encapsulates the spirit of Memorial Day, urging us to consider the depth of love and commitment demonstrated by those who have served.
The Sacrifice of the Savior
In parallel, the sacrifice of Jesus Christ stands as the cornerstone of our faith, offering us spiritual freedom and the promise of eternal life. His death and resurrection are pivotal events that we must continually bring to our hearts and minds. The Apostle Paul reflects on this sacrifice saying:
“For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures”.
1 Corinthians 15:3 (NIV)
Just as we remember the soldiers who fought for our earthly freedom, we should also remember Christ, who conquered death to set us free from eternal bondage.
The Power of Remembrance
Here’s something to keep in mind, though: remembering is for gratitude, not regrets or dwelling on past mistakes. Life, like a river, flows in one direction—forward. While the past is laden with lessons, it is not a place of permanent residence but a wellspring of wisdom for the future. The act of remembering, especially in the context of sacrifice, should elevate our appreciation for the present and inspire us to live better, fuller lives in the freedom we’ve been granted.
Finding a Space for Reflection
Sometimes, finding the right mindset for remembrance requires stepping away from our daily routines. Nature, in its vast beauty and tranquility, provides a perfect backdrop for contemplation. Whether it’s a quiet park, a serene beach, a bench by a lake, or a lush garden, natural settings have a unique way of stirring reflection and enhancing our sense of gratitude. As we immerse ourselves in these peaceful surroundings, let us open our hearts to the profound truths these sacrifices represent.
Conclusion: A Call to Gratitude
This Memorial Day, let’s take time to remember—not just in passing, but with intentional moments of silence and reflection. Let’s honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our nation and remember the One who gave His life for our ultimate freedom. May this day be a reminder of the precious freedoms we enjoy and the high cost at which they were purchased. Let these acts of immense sacrifice inspire us to live with gratitude and to extend love and kindness in our own spheres of influence, just as Christ has taught us.
As we pause and reflect on these sacrifices, let us renew our commitment to living in the freedom they have secured for us, embracing each day with gratitude and purpose. We are not just beneficiaries of these sacrifices—we are bearers of their legacy. Remember this.
In my journey with the Daily Audio Bible through the Bible in one year, we’ve slogged through the miserable period of the Judges of Israel (where we’re reminded repeatedly that everyone did what was right in their own eyes–does that sound familiar?) and reached the strange story of the first two kings of Israel: Saul and then David. One odd thing about this story is that Saul seemed to be an unlikely choice to be the first king. He was from the smallest of the tribes of Isreal, and the reason it was small was because it had been almost completely annihilated by the other tribes several hundred years earlier due to awful, aberrant behavior by some of its men. This part of the odd story is actually somewhat inspiring, a reminder that God uses unlikely people to accomplish His purposes.
Anyway, God gives Saul the unexpected blessing of being selected as the first king of Israel. At first, it sounds like the stuff fairy tales are made of, but it quickly turns into a tragic saga of how anxiety can unravel even the most promising of beginnings. Saul was anointed by God and was given every opportunity to succeed. Yet, his reign was marred by fear and insecurity, leading him to make disastrous decisions that ultimately cost him his kingship before it could even get going.
Saul’s Anxious Downfall
Saul’s journey begins with great promise. In 1 Samuel 10:1, we see Samuel anointing Saul, declaring, “Has not the Lord anointed you ruler over His inheritance?” But despite this divine affirmation, Saul’s kingship is plagued by anxiety and self-doubt. One of the most telling examples of Saul’s anxiety is found in 1 Samuel 13:8-14. Facing an impending battle with the Philistines and feeling the pressure of his people scattering, Saul takes matters into his own hands. In other words, he does what was right in his own eyes. Instead of waiting for Samuel to offer the burnt offering, Saul performs the sacrifice himself. This act of disobedience reveals Saul’s lack of trust in God’s timing and his desperation to maintain control on his own.
Samuel’s rebuke is stern: “You have done a foolish thing…now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart” (1 Samuel 13:13-14). Saul’s anxiety drove him to act rashly, undermining his role as king and his relationship with God.
Another poignant instance is Saul’s reaction to David’s growing popularity. After David defeats Goliath, the women of Israel sing, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands” (1 Samuel 18:7). Saul’s insecurity morphs into jealousy and paranoia, leading him to pursue David relentlessly, seeing him as a threat rather than an ally.
Saul tries to kill David on many occasions, which is another reason I find this story strange. In one visit, Saul throws a spear at David twice–I’m pretty sure I would leave the first time someone threw a spear at me in their house. Also, David becomes the greatest military leader in Israel, winning one victory after another for Saul, and Saul tries to kill him. David becomes Saul’s son-in-law and his personal musician, whose job it is to try to soothe the worrying king, but still Saul tries to kill him. This is a very strange relationship, and it’s mainly because of Saul’s anxiety and resulting paranoia.
The bottom line: God gave Saul a blessing, but rather than continue to trust God with that blessing, he constantly wrestles it away from God and tries to manage it himself. So, it ultimately gets taken away from him.
David’s Trust in God
Here’s another weird thing about this story: it’s about 15 years between the time David gets anointed to replace Saul and when he actually becomes king (in 1 Samuel 16, we see that David is still a young shepherd when he gets anointed, be we later learn in 2 Samuel 5:4-5 that David was about 30 years old when he finally became king of Judah (and even later before he also became king of Israel)). Meanwhile, Saul stays in place as king. During this time, I can’t help but wonder how many times David pointed out to God that He has a strange way of showing David that he was the one God chose to become the new king.
But, I digress. Back to the point, in stark contrast to Saul’s anxiety-ridden reign, David exemplifies trust and reliance on God, even in the face of immense challenges. David’s life was far from easy; he faced numerous battles, personal failures, and betrayal. Oh yeah, and his leader/father-in-law was trying to kill him. Yet, David’s response to these trials was markedly different from Saul’s.
David’s deep trust in God is beautifully captured in Psalm 23, where he declares:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul”.
Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV)
David acknowledges God as his guide and provider, trusting Him to lead and restore him through every valley. He recognizes that God is the giver of blessings.
When David is pursued by Saul and finds himself in desperate situations, he repeatedly turns to God. In 1 Samuel 24, David has the perfect opportunity to kill Saul and end his own suffering. Yet, he refrains, saying, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed” (1 Samuel 24:6). David’s restraint and trust in God’s justice stand in sharp contrast to Saul’s impulsive actions.
As a result of David’s trust in God, he came to be known as “the man after God’s own heart”, and with God’s help, he built Israel into the greatest world power at the time. He led them to one of the shining moments in Israel’s history.
Lessons for Us Today
The stories of Saul and David offer profound lessons for us today. Saul’s anxiety and resultant actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trying to control situations out of fear. His inability to wait on God and trust His plan led to his downfall. David, on the other hand, shows us the power of relying on God, even when circumstances are dire. His life was not free of trouble, but his trust in God provided him with the strength and guidance to navigate through every challenge.
As we reflect on these contrasting narratives, we have an opportunity to think about God’s blessings in our own lives. Are we, like Saul, allowing anxiety to drive our decisions? Are we grateful for God’s blessings one minute, but then in the next moment are we impatiently snatching them back from God because He’s not doing it right?
Or are we, like David, trusting in God’s timing and His provision?
Pastor Jason Starrett delivered a great sermon at church this morning (The Chapel.cc). It was probably the best message I’ve heard about Communion and why we remember Jesus’s sacrifice for us. One of his key points was that we need to remember that God provides for us. Yes, we are all born into sin and continue to sin throughout our lives, even after accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. But contrary to the lies Satan has woven into this culture (to the point where most people regard them as fact), God does not sit there rubbing His hands together, laughing maniacally, excited about the chance to punish us for all our wrongdoing. Instead, He offered up His only begotten Son to take the punishment in my place, in your place. In place of all who accept the Offer.
God provides what we need. His provision pours out of His love for us.
Here’s an example of why that matters for me. During the message at church and the subsequent Communion time, God pointed to a place of concern in my life: my job and career. I want to be able to provide for my wife and me, and for our family as long as I can, hopefully until I am ready to retire (at least from my “day job”). My job is going fine right now, but things are unstable in the technology industry, and ageism is rampant. So occasionally I get concerned that I may not be able to keep working in this sort of job for another few years (my targeted timeframe for retirement). What will happen, I sometimes wonder, if I get laid off from this job before then? What if I can’t find another one?
From a human perspective, I think these are valid questions. Even though I don’t feel like they are causing me daily anxiety, they are nonetheless questions that pop up in my mind regularly.
But here’s what I must remember when they float into my consciousness: God provides what we need.
In moments of uncertainty and fear, our minds should immediately pivot away from those thoughts, turning instead to David’s words in Psalm 23, where he trusts God for restoration and guidance. We too should choose to trust in God’s plan, knowing that He is our shepherd, leading us beside quiet waters and restoring our souls. Knowing that He provides what we need.
Conclusion
Saul’s story is a reminder that anxiety and fear can destroy even the most promising blessings and opportunities. But David’s life demonstrates that trust in God can lead to restoration and triumph, even in the midst of great trials. Let us learn from these two kings and strive to place our faith in God, allowing His wisdom and timing to guide our steps.
In doing so, we can overcome our anxieties and experience the fullness of life that God intends for us, remembering that God is the giver of all good things.
Master's Canvas - Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter 