MUCH BETTER

PHILIPPIANS 1:12–26 A siren rang outside a boy’s house, warning of a dangerous storm. His mother explained that if people did not take cover, they might die. The boy, unacquainted with the sound, questioned why it was bad, arguing that if we die, we might meet Jesus. Paul expressed his desire to depart and be with … [Read more…]

A FIRM POINT TO STAND

PSALM 40:1–5 Savannah, Georgia’s historic riverwalk area, is adorned with mismatched cobblestones, which were once used as ballast for ships crossing the Atlantic Ocean. After cargo was loaded, the stones were used to ensure the ship’s stability through dangerous waters. Life can be turbulent, and stability is essential for navigating through life’s storms. David, who faced … [Read more…]

ROME IN ALL ITS GLORY

JOHN 17:1–5 The Roman Empire’s glory provided a grand backdrop for Jesus’ birth, as Emperor Caesar Augustus ended 200 years of civil war in 27 BC and replaced rundown neighbourhoods with beautiful monuments, temples, arenas, and government complexes. According to Roman historian Pliny the Elder, they were “the most beautiful buildings the world has ever seen.” … [Read more…]

SHOCKING SINCERITY

1 PETER 3:7–12 A minister asked an elder to lead the congregation in prayer, but the man, miserable due to a quarrel with his wife, refused. The minister prayed, and the service continued. Later, the pastor vowed to never ask someone to pray publicly without asking privately. The man’s honesty in a difficult situation demonstrates the importance … [Read more…]

YOU HAVE A PURPOSE

1 PETER 4:7–11 I observed a woman holding a sign while waiting at a stoplight on a hot day. I tried to read the sign as I got closer, believing she was asking for food or cash. I was shocked to find these three words: “You have a purpose.” God created each of us with a specific purpose … [Read more…]

NO DRIFTING

HEBREWS 2:1–4 My wife and I stopped at a beach resort for snacks and observed the boats at the seashore, which are usually anchored to prevent drifting away. However, we noticed one boat drifting unhindered, slowly and steadily out to sea. The book of Hebrews warns believers to pay close attention to their faith, stating that … [Read more…]

NOT AN EASY STORY

2 CHRONICLES 16:7–14 The Old Testament’s laws of obedience and disobedience seem straightforward, but their simplicity raises questions about the nature of life. King Asa’s story demonstrates a pattern of leading his people away from false gods, leading to a flourishing kingdom. However, in his late reign, he shifted to self-reliance, leading to war and illness throughout … [Read more…]

CALLED BY NAME

JOHN 10:1–11 In a college composition class, the teacher made the effort to familiarise himself with the names and faces of his students. He understood the importance of being addressed by name. This approach ensured a positive learning experience. In John 10, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, demonstrates the warmth and care He has for us. Beyond … [Read more…]

IS HE GOOD?

GENESIS 3:1-8 My friend expressed doubt about God’s goodness after years of prayer, citing persistent pain and a lack of interest. Despite his deep-rooted belief in God’s goodness, his anger and bitterness over God’s silence led him to doubt. He found it easier to express anger than to bear sadness. Doubting God’s goodness is as old … [Read more…]

THE SATISFYING BREAD

LUKE 10:38-11:4 As a boy, I learned to recite the Lord’s Prayer in primary school. The phrase, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11), reminded me of the bread we only had occasionally at home. Asking God to provide our daily bread was a meaningful prayer for me. I was intrigued when I later came … [Read more…]