The Lost Fruit of Kindness

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law” Galatians 5:22-23

A Historical Foundation of Character

According to the Mount Vernon website, he wrote a copy of the 110 Rules of Civility in his schoolbook when he was about 14 years old. These maxims originated in late 16th-century France and were widely circulated during Washington’s time. This exercise, now regarded as a formative influence in the development of his character, included guidelines for behavior in pleasant company, appropriate actions in formal situations, and general courtesies.

Kindness as a Defining Christian Trait

Kindness, once a defining mark of Christian character both before and after George Washington’s lifetime, seems to be fading in many corners of modern society. In a world increasingly shaped by speed, division, and self-interest, the spiritual fruit of kindness is often overlooked or dismissed as weakness. Yet Scripture presents kindness not as optional, but as a vital expression of a transformed heart—evidence of God’s Spirit at work within us.

Kindness as the Fruit of the Spirit

The Bible clearly identifies kindness as part of the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22–23). This means it is not something manufactured by sheer willpower, but something that grows naturally when a person abides in Christ. Kindness reflects God’s own nature. Throughout Scripture, we see a God who is patient, compassionate, and rich in mercy. His kindness leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4), showing its power to soften hearts and restore what is broken.

Why Kindness Is Diminishing

The Normalization of Harshness

So why does kindness seem to be diminishing? One reason is the normalization of harshness. Public discourse, especially in digital spaces, often rewards outrage more than gentleness. People are quick to criticize, slow to listen, and reluctant to extend grace, but James 1:19 teaches us to “be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” When kindness is no longer practiced, it becomes unfamiliar—and eventually, undervalued.

The Rise of Individualism

Another factor is the growing emphasis on individualism. Society often encourages people to prioritize personal success, comfort, and recognition above all else. In such an environment, kindness can feel inconvenient. It requires time, attention, and sometimes sacrifice. It asks us to notice others, to care, and to act—even when there is nothing to gain in return. Sadly, some people are happy to receive kindness but are hesitant to give kindness.

Why Kindness Matters for Christians

For Christians, the loss of kindness should be a serious concern. Jesus taught that love for others would be the defining mark of His followers (John 13:35). Kindness is one of the clearest ways that love is made visible. Without it, our witness becomes hollow. Words about faith carry little weight if they are not accompanied by actions that reflect Christ’s heart.

Restoring Kindness in Daily Life

The good news is that kindness can be restored, beginning with individuals who choose to live differently. It does not require grand gestures. Often, the most powerful acts of kindness are small and consistent. A gentle response instead of a sharp one. A willingness to listen rather than interrupt. A moment taken to encourage someone who is struggling. These choices, though simple, can have a profound impact. Even a smile is kind.

Rooted in Relationship with God

To cultivate kindness, a person must first remain rooted in their relationship with God. Prayer, Scripture, and quiet reflection help align the heart with His character. As we become more aware of the kindness God has shown us, we are more inclined to extend that same grace to others. Gratitude fuels generosity and kindness of spirit.

Living with Intention

It is also important to be intentional. Kindness rarely happens by accident in a busy life. Setting aside moments to serve, to check on others, or to offer help makes a difference. Even in difficult situations—when faced with rudeness or hostility—a commitment to respond with kindness can break cycles of negativity. Scripture tells us that a gentle answer turns away wrath, and there is a lot of wrath out there.

Strengthened Through Community

Finally, kindness grows stronger when it is practiced within a community. I find myself behaving more kindly when I spend more time in prayer, Scripture, and fellowship with kind Christian friends.

The Value of Time as Kindness

The kindest gift someone can give me is their time because it is the most precious commodity we all have. Time spent actively listening and genuinely being present is the ultimate kindness for me.

A Final Reflection

In a world that often feels cold and divided, kindness is not a small thing—it is a powerful testimony. It reflects the heart of God and can bring light to dark places. By choosing kindness daily, individuals can help restore something deeply needed, not only in society but in the soul of humanity itself.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the spiritual gift of kindness and for all of those who have shown kindness to us. Help us to show kindness to all that we meet, including those who are unkind to us. Amen.

Meet the Author

Todd Shupe is a Certified Lay Minister and Men’s Ministry Specialist through Francis Asbury Methodist Church in Baton Rouge, LA. He is a Board Member for Gulf South Men, an Action Team member for The Kingdom Group, and a Board Member for the Lagniappe Country Walk to Emmaus. Todd is a contributor to Project XII and Baton Rouge Parents Magazine. He is a Past President of the Baton Rouge District of United Methodist Men and remains active in this and many other local, regional, and international ministries. Additionally, he’s the author of the inspiring book “Fathering A Special Needs Child.” Todd also enjoys filling the pulpit to share the Good News of our Lord and Savior. Todd is the proud father of Emma and Kyle and resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

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Saved From or Saved For?

“But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through Him” (Romans 5:8-9 NIV)!

I was recently speaking to a dear friend about salvation, and she shared with me that years ago she had a deep conversation with her pastor regarding this important subject. The pastor explained to her that as Christians we are not saved from anything but rather are saved for something. That something is our own unique ministry within the Body of Christ. I have thought about this for several days and have a few thoughts to share on this.

From a biblical perspective, salvation is not limited to being rescued from death; it also involves being called into a transformed life and a greater purpose within the body of Christ. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ accomplish both dimensions simultaneously: deliverance from sin and death, and entrance into a renewed identity and mission.

For some, this new identify may also come with a new name. Name changes in the Bible, such as Abram to Abraham, Sarai to Sarah, and Jacob to Israel, signify a profound transformation, a new covenant, or a change in mission ordained by God. These changes often marked a turning point in the individual’s life, reflecting a new identity or purpose, such as when Jesus renamed Simon to Peter (Rock) or when Saul became Paul

Scripture emphasizes that believers are saved from sin and its consequences through the sacrificial death of Christ. In Romans 5:8–9, Paul writes, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” This passage highlights the idea that Christ’s “blood” represents His atoning sacrifice, which satisfies the penalty of sin and restores humanity’s standing before God. Similarly, Ephesians 1:7 declares, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” These verses make clear that salvation includes forgiveness, justification, and rescue from divine judgment. Without this foundation, no further relationship with God would be possible.

However, the Bible does not present salvation as merely an escape from punishment. It also teaches that believers are saved for a purpose. Ephesians 2:8–10 captures this balance: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Here, salvation is described as a gift of grace, yet it results in a transformed life characterized by meaningful action. Good works are not the cause of salvation, but they are its fruits.

This purpose is further explained through the concept of the “Body of Christ.” In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul writes, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” Believers are not saved in isolation; they are incorporated into a spiritual community where each person has a unique role. Verses 4–6 of the same chapter add, “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them… there are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.” This imagery emphasizes unity, diversity, and shared mission. Salvation, therefore, includes being placed into a living, functioning body with responsibilities and contributions that matter.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is what makes this new life and purpose possible. Romans 6:4 states, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too may live a new life.” The resurrection is not only proof of victory over death but also the source of spiritual renewal for believers. It signifies that salvation is not just about a future hope in heaven, but about present transformation. Likewise, 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This reinforces the idea that salvation brings about a fundamental change in identity and direction.

The Bible presents salvation as both rescue and calling. Through the death of Christ, believers are saved from sin, judgment, and death. Through His resurrection, they are brought into new life, equipped with purpose, and united within the Body of Christ. These two aspects cannot be separated; to be saved by Christ is to be both delivered and anointed.

Prayer: Dear God, We thank you for the precious gift of life on earth but more importantly we thank you for the everlasting life that we have by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior. His blood provides a pathway for us to you. Thank you for blessing us with spiritual gifts so that we may yoke up with Your Holy Spirit to advance Your kingdom on earth.

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Two Thieves, Two Options, Eternal Results

“Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43 NIV).

Easter has come and gone but that does not mean that we do not continue to live each day as Easter people. Easter is the heart of the Christian calendar, and Jesus’ victory over death provides us a pathway for victory over sin and death. The blood of Jesus covers our sins throughout the year, not just on Easter.

Many Christians made their bi-annual trip to church on Easter and will go again on Christmas. And they will hopefully continue to do good deeds (works) throughout the year. We all rightfully rejoice at baptisms and solemnly enjoy the Lord’s Supper at church.

Easter is special because it reminds us that the blood of Jesus provides a pathway for us to (1) receive forgiveness for our sins and consequently (2) be presented as clean and without fault on the day of our physical death so we may enter paradise (heaven). The word pathway is important because not all of us will choose the correct pathway. Matthew 7:13-14 warns, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”

The two thieves next to Jesus on the cross were likely equal distance from Him. They both heard Him ask the Father for forgiveness for the people that day. They both were criminals and had been sentenced to death by crucifixion. There is symbolism in the scene at Calvary – Jesus is/was in the middle of humanity.

One thief listened to the Words of Jesus on the Cross, and even though he likely did not know Scripture, he applied it! 1 Thessalonians 5:21 teaches us to “test everything; hold fast what is good.” So, the one criminal said perhaps the original sinner’s prayer by saying, “Lord, remember me when you come into your kingdom (Luke 23:42). His prayer was not long-winded. Nor did he ask Jesus to change his circumstances. He believed Jesus was Lord in his mind and confessed it with his mouth. Period. He did not do any good works, did not get baptized, and did not attend church or tithe – all of which are good and important for a closer walk with our Lord and Savior.

However, on that day at that moment, salvation came to this man due his choice of accepting Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Salvation did not come to other thief due to his choice.

On that faithful day, only one person identified Jesus as Lord – not the Jewish leaders, the disciples of Christ, or the crowd but rather it was a man whose name is not stated in Scripture. Salvation came to that man because He believed in Jesus.

Jesus is still speaking to us today. He is still the pathway to the Father. We are all still criminals and sinners without Him. We all still have a choice, a pathway, a narrow gate to seek. Choose wisely.

Prayer: Thank you for sending Your Son so that through our belief in Him we may see You in Paradise. Amen.

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Zachar

“…But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead” (Philippians 3:13 (NIV).

At the end of a trip, relationship, interaction, etc., often all we have are memories. Of course, the memory of the person or situation can vary based on circumstances – real or perceived. The memory can even vary between two people that experienced the same situation due to the “lens” by which each saw the experience and then the subsequent internal processing of each person.

Scripture is rich regarding the importance of remembering God’s deeds and faithfulness. We know from 2 Timothy 3:16 that, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” Therefore, remembering is also important for perspective and learning. This is the “teaching” component from 2 Timothy.

There is also a time to forget the past and a selection of that Scripture is also featured above. Isaiah 43:18-19 teaches, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

Zachar is the Hebrew verb for “to remember.” The Bible teaches that it is important for us to remember the goodness of God in our own past as we navigate in our current adversity. The depth of our current valley of adversity is vastly increased if the lens by which we remember our past adversity is one of bitterness or selectively choosing to focus on the past adversity itself rather than the goodness of God that helped us through the adversity.

But when should we remember the past and when should we forget it? As for me, I try to forget my many failures of the past (as I pray for guidance and wisdom in the present and future).

I was recently talking to a dear friend, a Proverbs 31 woman, about a trip that we had several years ago. Up to that time, my memory of the trip was joyful. My friend reminded me of a failure of mine on the trip, and my memory shifted to a familiar place – self-disappointment.

As for me, I appreciate learning of my failure on my past trip as it will certainly help me improve and grow as a person. Going forward, my lens of the trip will eventually return to joy as I lean into Philippians 3:13 and chose to forget my past failures and look ahead with joyful anticipation toward what is ahead – a Proverbs 31 woman.

I suspect that many of us have unpleasant memories of others and ourselves. If somebody deliberately hurt us in the past, then we would gain more by avoiding the person rather than reliving the memory. My focus on the past is to not to remember the “thorns” of various people and situations but rather recall whatever goodness they brought to my life. If there was truly no goodness and kindness, then I truly will have no memory.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the blessing of memories. Help us to wisely use our memory. Most importantly, may we always recall the many times You have carried us through our past troubles and may that knowledge equip us as we enter future adversity. Amen.

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What Can Job Teach Us About New Year’s Resolutions?

“Yet if you devote your heart to Him and stretch out your hands to Him, if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent,then, free of fault, you will lift up your face; you will stand firm and without fear. You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by (Job 11:13-16 NIV).

The Book of Job is a 42-chapter book in the Bible that explores the theme of unmerited suffering and how to trust in God during difficult times. The book is named after its main character, Job, who is the subject of a wager between God and Satan about how much he can suffer while remaining loyal to God.

I can imagine that some are approaching this new year with concerns for their health and their family, maybe fear about the economy while on a fixed income, or political unrest both at home and abroad, or any number of topics.

Job’s Suffering and the Role of His Friends

During Job’s continuing suffering, his friends….. (after falsely accusing him of committing some sort of evil) eventually tell him how to get rid of painful memories and move on with his life.

Job’s friends said to him, “Put your heart right, Job. Reach out to God . . . Then face the world again, firm and courageous. Then all your troubles will fade from your memory, like floods that are past and remembered no more.”

The Power of a Resolution

A resolution is really an intentional decision to take action. Job was facing tremendous adversity in his life ….. the loss of his family and fortune, but he made a resolution to remain faithful to God. And God honored that resolution. All of our resolutions would benefit from such faith.

I think it is important to note that God is offering us a different way of thinking in how we view our adversity and how we make resolutions to address it. God is teaching us to (1) put our heart right, (2) He is also giving us a plan on how to do this, and finally….. (3) He is telling us the blessing that awaits on the other side.

“Put Your Heart Right”

What Does This Mean?

A key phrase of our reading today from Job is to “put your heart right.” So, what does that mean and what does that actually look like in practice?

The Pathway to a Right Heart

The pathway to get OUR heart right, is to reach out to God and invite Jesus into every room in the house of our heart. Psalm 51:10 reads, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”

When our hearts are clean, they are aligned with God’s Heart and we both are seeking the same things for my life. This is important because the best resolutions are made when we have a clean heart and a right spirit.

When to Make a Resolution

A resolution can be made at any time of the year but should be done AFTER “getting our heart right” and with our eyes on a promised future of glory and not by a past history of hurt and anger.

A good resolution is a faith-based prayer. We use the prophetic perfect tense in which we thank God in advance for answering our prayer and knowing that the answer will come at His perfect time and in His perfect way.

A resolution is a manifestation of the things that we hold dear in our hearts. The Word of God teaches us in Matthew 6:21, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” One way to examine our heart is to ask ourselves …….. where am I storing my treasure?

A Call to Self-Assessment

I believe that the best resolutions begin with an honest self-assessment that begins with prayer and an invitation to the Holy Spirit to help us in our discernment process of what is God calling each of us to do.

So, with that in mind, as we consider any resolution for the new year, I encourage you to join me in doing your own honest self-assessment of what is God calling you to do. Do so privately, prayerfully, and honestly. This is my call to action today for all of us.

Confession, Repentance, and Grace

Our self-assessment needs to include asking the Holy Spirit to reveal to us our sin so that we can confess, repent and receive His grace. God will not hear the resolutions of our mouths if unrepentant sin is present in our hearts. Isaiah 59:2 teaches, “Your wrongs have separated you from your God, and your sins have made him hide his face so that he doesn’t hear you.”

Don’t Confuse Santa and God

Christmas is over and Santa has gone home to watch football. So, let’s don’t confuse Santa and God. We ask Santa for the things we want, but we prayerfully listen for the Spirit to tell us what God is calling us to do. If God is calling us to do it, then He will equip us and even part the sea for us to get there.

My Daily Resolution

As for me, my resolution on each new year is the same resolution on each day of the year. It has remained the same since I was a pilgrim on the Walk to Emmaus many years ago. My daily resolution is …. I want to see more of Jesus in me and less of me in me.

God’s Promise for Our Resolutions

Whatever your resolution is today or any day, I pray that it allows you to claim God’s promise to Job and also to each of us today – “all your troubles will fade from your memory, like floods that are past and remembered no more.”

Be blessed as you bless others. Happy New Year to all!

Prayer

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for the blessing of a new year. Pour out Your Holy Spirit upon us to lead us in making resolutions that bring honor and glory to You. Amen.

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Truth

What is truth?” retorted Pilate. (John 18:38 NIV).

One of my favorite Bible studies was about the questions that Jesus asked while He walked the earth. But when it comes to questions one that is especially contemporary is the one from the Roman governor Pontius Pilate in an effort to understand “the truth.” John 18:28-40 details the complete encounter of Jesus with Pilate. Jesus states, “I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” Pilot responded,“What is truth?” (John 18: 37-38).

I find it particularly noteworthy that this whole discussion of truth is subsequent to an arrest of Jesus by the Jewish leaders based on false allegations.

One problem with truth is that it can be weaponized if spoken absent of love. Somebody could truthfully tell me that I am old, computer illiterate, and very naive. Yes, all of this is true, but there is not much love or kindness in that previous sentence.

I was advised once that before I speak the truth, I should ask myself three questions. Is this truthful? Is this kind? Is this necessary? If the answer is no, to any question, then the statement needs to be rephrased or just let it remain as a thought. Also, not every thought needs to be given voice. On my better days, I follow this advice.

Satan is a crafty adversary. He devises clever, cunning, convincing ideas to draw us away from God’s truth. The enemy tempted Jesus after He had fasted for 40 days in the desert. After each of three temptations. Jesus told a conniving devil, “It is written” before stating relevant Scripture. He modelled for us today how to confront the deceiver and divider with The Sword from the Armor of God (Holy Scripture). We should spend time in the Word so we can refute the enemy with The Sword. This particularly includes thoughts that we have that are not God’s truth.

Scripture is not just intended to be read, but we must pay close attention to it. I invite the Holy Spirit to be present and teach me and I anticipate a new message from God even though I am likely reading something that I have read numerous times before. Remember, Hebrews 4:12 teaches us that the Word of God is active and alive. If we pay close attention to Scripture, we will be better equipped when faced with man’s truth.

Scripture tells us that God is love. Therefore, we know the presence of the Holy Spirit when we see His love, which is so beautifully defined in 1 Corinthians 4-8.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease.”

Pilate’s question is simple but so very profound. He was not a Jew. He did not know the truth that Jesus was the Messiah. However, the Jewish leaders were intimately familiar with the scroll of the prophet Isaiah. They had heard Jesus read the scroll and declare, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21). The Jewish leaders had long waited for the Mesiah and when they finally met Him, they failed to recognize Him. So, even the Jewish leaders when the Truth was revealed to them could not accept the Truth. We have the benefit of the New Testament, and we know the Truth. Let’s act like it.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for revealing yourself to us through Your Son and Your Word. We are confronted with many “truths” on a daily basis. Help us to seek You first, Your righteousness, and Your truth. Amen.

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Can I Show Christ In My Anger?

Can I Show Christ In My Anger?

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,and do not give the devil a foothold” (Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV).

We typically associate anger as a “bad thing.” We know that senseless, stupid anger and wrath are “works of the flesh.” We are drawn in to the TV news when they show clips of somebody expressing their anger, particularly if we have never seen the person express such an emotion. It generates a raw rubber necking response like an accident on the side of the road.

Anger is not necessarily a negative emotion but can be the appropriate, healthy, and even the Christian response. We can show Jesus and even model Him to others in our anger. Jesus certainly showed appropriate anger in response to various situations. Let’s take a look at a few of the times when Jesus got angry.

Christ got angry at the lack of true fruit of righteousness (Mark 11:12-14).

“Then he said to the tree, ‘May no one ever eat fruit from you again.’”

Jesus cursed the fig tree as a symbolic act, demonstrating the consequences of spiritual barrenness and the impending judgment on Israel for its lack of genuine faith and good works. The tree, which appeared to be fruitful with leaves, was actually barren, representing the religious leaders and the nation of Israel who outwardly showed their religion but inwardly lacked the true fruits of righteousness.

Christ got angry at unbelief (Mark 3:5).

“And he looked around them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart…”

Christ wanted to heal a man on the Sabbath. The religious leaders were adamantly opposed to Sabbath healings, deeming them “work.” Thankfully our emergency rooms and first responders work on the Sabbath today! The Work of our Lord continues today and is never ending.

Christ got angry at the merchandising of the Gospel (Matthew 21:13).

“It is written,” He said to them, ‘My House will be called a House of prayer, but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’”

Nobody should pay a fee to enter the House of the Lord. The Pharisees, however, were marketing animals and doing dishonest money exchanges throughout the temple. Christ called them a “den of thieves” and started turning over their tables with a whip in hand! His anger was a righteous indignation. This House was His house and they dishonored Him and His House.

The Gospel is not intended to be sold. The price has already been paid.

Christ got angry at sickness (Mark 1:41).

“And becoming angry, He stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be made clean.”

Some translations use the term “compassion,” while others use “anger.” Why would Jesus be angry at leprosy? Leprosy was usually a terrible nine-year disease that gradually destroyed your entire body. This disease, as all others, was introduced by the serpent in Genesis 3.

The leper asked Jesus “Are you willing to make me whole?” Jesus’ anger was at the terrible effects of disease upon those He loved. He touched the man (making Himself ceremonially unclean) and said, “I am willing, be made clean.”

Faith for healing may begin when we get furious at the disease and the enemy who brought sin and sickness upon mankind.

Christ got angry at religious hypocrisy (Matthew 23).

“Woe to you…blind guides…blind fools…blind men…hypocrites…serpents…brood of vipers!”

The Lord was angry at Jewish leaders who harshly enforced rules on the Sabbath but showed no fruits of the Spirit. We were unable to keep the 613 laws of the Torah. Jesus gave us two laws: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39).

So, let’s go ahead and get angry at the injustice and cruelty in this fallen world! We just need to be sure we do not sin and give the enemy a foothold.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for giving us the emotion of anger. Help us to show this anger in ways that bring honor and glory to You and not in ways that lead to sin. We love you and need you and thank you for Your presence in our lives. Amen.

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Who Do You Say That I am?

Who Do You Say I Am?

“In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will” (Ephesians 1:11 (NIV).

The first part of this blog series began by focusing on the first question posed by Jesus in Matthew 16:13-17 (below). If you missed it, please click HERE.

“Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus said to Him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.”

The second question in this Scripture is critical – “Who do you say I am?” How we answer this question will profoundly shape our Christian walk, inform our sense of self, and ultimately determines if we pass by the Father with the goats on His left or the sheep on His right.

Jesus disciples witnessed His many miracles but yet after He calmed the seas in Luke 8, they still struggled to understand the true identify of our Lord. In fear and amazement, they asked each other, “Who is this?” We have the benefit of having the Old and New Testament so we all should be able to answer this question.

Pop psychology is wrong when it tells you to look inside yourself to find your value.

Scripture teaches that you are good simply because God made you in His image as stated in Romans 8:29. “For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.”

You were made so He could love you. 1 John 4:19 reads, “We love before He first loved us.” 1 John 4:9-10 reads goes a little bit deeper by reading, “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” The sacrifice allows us to be presented pure and without blame to the Father. Moreover, the blood of Jesus ensures that nothing can come between us and God (Romans 8:39). The love of the Father and the sacrifice of the Son is fundamental in understanding ourselves and God. Note that the sacrifice “allows us to be presented pure and without blame,” but this applies to those that “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it (Matthew 7:13). Sheep find the narrow gate.

Once we begin to realize how much God loves us, then we are better equipped to “consider it all joy” (James 1:2), “be content in any and every circumstance” (Philippians 4:12), and “be content with weaknesses, with insults, with troubles, with persecutions and difficulties for the sake of Christ” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

So, once we understand who God is, then it helps us to understand who we are and gives us a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment in life in all circumstances. True satisfaction happens when you engage in your role as an image bearer of God. Such was the view of King David. “As for me,” he wrote, “I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness” (Psalm 17:15). David was on a journey to have more of Christ in him. He knew that God was working in him to burn away the impurities just as a refiner of silver as described in Malachi 3:3. The refinement is done when the Refiner can see His face in the silver. The Holy Spirit resides in you, but can a stranger look at you and see God?

God wants us to learn to think, act, and treasure the things that Jesus did. We all need to be more Christ-like and less flesh-like. Jesus was perfect and we grow in Christian perfection as we grow toward Him. An outward manifestation of this growth is we begin to show more of His traits known as the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Once we begin to seek the same things that Jesus sought, then at the perfect time and manner we will receive whatever we ask of God, often even better than our wildest dreams. The Psalmist put it like this – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Ephesians Chapter 1 is our basis for understanding who we are and our relationship with God. We (1) were chosen, (2) are holy and blameless, (3) have been adopted, (4) have redemption, (5) were granted forgiveness, and (6) were sealed with the Holy Spirit.

I pray that your answer to the question, “Who do you same I am” is that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Also, do not let yourself be defined by society or unhappy people on social media but instead commit yourself to living and knowing you are a child of God that was made in His image so He could love you. Let’s commit ourselves to the pursuit of righteous living with very frequent stops to invite the Spirit to search us of the sin (and unrighteousness) that clings so tightly. Then, we can repent from the sin, turn to God, and return on our journey.

There is joy and freedom when we understand why God loves us so much. The Bible speaks to this in 2 Corinthians 3:17, “wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” I have freedom in my heart because I daily invite the Spirit into my heart to search and reveal to me the many, many areas where I have missed and continue to miss the mark.

When I encounter bitter and unhappy people, I realize that they do not know the truth about God nor themselves. That is the sad result of a poor choice. You are free to choose bitterness and hate, but as for me and my house, we choose faith, hope, and love. The choice is yours. Choose wisely. Choose very wisely.

Prayer: Dear God, There is so much hatred and bitterness in this fallen world. Forgive me for my role when I have added to the hatred and bitterness, and for the times I have failed to subtract from the hatred and bitterness. Help me to live out your Teaching: “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.” Forgive us for failing to forgive and love others as You have loved us and free us for joyful obedience to You. Help us to make wise choices, to live in covenant with You, and when finally Healed from this fallen world to pass with the sheep on Your right side. Amen.

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Who Do People Say That the Son of Man is?

“Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus said to Him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 16:13-17 NIV, emphasis added).

The issue of self-identity is not only a key question in Christianity but also the secular world, philosophy, and metaphysics. In 1978, the rock band The Who debuted a song entitled, “Who Are You.” The song was one of the band’s biggest hits in North America, peaking at number 7 in Canada and at number 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and has become one of the band’s signature tunes at their live shows. The starting lyrics are below.

Who are you?
Who, who, who, who?
Who are you?
Who, who, who, who?
Who are you?
Who, who, who, who?
Who are you?
Who, who, who, who?

The song did not offer any answer to the question it repeatedly posed. However, perhaps I had the song in my subconscious when years later, I did a Bible study based on the 307 questions in the Bible that Jesus asked. Each one offers us the opportunity for self-reflection and growth. I think these questions are particularly profound because they provide us the opportunity to prayerfully gain a greater insight into both Jesus and ourselves. As one who has endured many, many depositions as an expert witness, the deponent is not the only person revealing information about themselves. The individual posing the questions reveals their priorities in the form of questions.

As I think about all of the questions asked by Jesus, my mind is drawn Matthew 16:13-17 (emphasis added). “Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He was asking His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus said to Him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.”

I think the first question is important because it reminds us that others may have an incorrect understanding of Jesus. If somebody has an incorrect understanding of Jesus, they will not be able to have a proper understanding of themselves or others and all their relationships will be hindered because of this.

It is somewhat common for those going through a divorce to cite 2 Corinthians 6:14 as the primary cause for the rift. It warns, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” The questions contained herein are important. Indeed, righteousness cannot be partnered with lawlessness. Perhaps a deeper question to ask both parties is that of Jesus, “But who do you say I am?” It is possible that both parties are unable to answer this question or are truly equally yoked but yoked in varying degrees of unrighteousness? Although the enemy was the first to suffer from false righteousness, he was certainly not the last.

Our relationship with Jesus is personal and should not be based on the opinions of people that don’t truly know Him. Yes, we are called to love others and be in community with others but our relationship with God is one on one and is strengthened, see Proverbs 27:17, by others in the Body of Christ, not those with knowledge of Christ but chose to remain outside the Body. Sadly, they have foolishly exercised their freewill to choose death over life. Proverbs 14:12 warns, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Some people today, even Christian leaders, fail miserably to answer the question – “Who do people say that the Son of Man is? In contemporary Christian circles, the answer can range from a good role model, an important part of the Bible, or one of several pathways to Heaven. The Scripture “No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6) signifies that Jesus is the only way to God and that salvation and eternal life are found through Him. This is not a reductionist, conservative, or a literal interpretation of Scripture but in fact is the Word of God. The only reliable method to interpret Scripture is with Scripture, and I would suggest starting with Hebrews 4:12-13.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for speaking to us through Scripture. Send your Spirit to teach us as we read much like You taught the travelers on the road to Emmaus. Help us to understand the significance of Your questions and grant us the wisdom to meditate on these questions to learn more about You and our identify in You. In life we are faced with many questions and many choices. Help us to make decisions that bring honor and glory to You and us closer to You. Amen.

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The Warning Signs of Pride

“So then, Your Majesty, follow my advice. Stop sinning, do what is right, and be merciful to the poor. Then you will continue to be prosperous” (Daniel 4:27 GNT).

Pride is often the unintended and inevitable consequence of success. Far too often when life is going well, we become prideful. Many of us have heard it said, “pride goes before the fall, which is true. As Proverbs 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall.” Pride blinds us and makes it so easy to miss the warning signs of an impending fall.

We can make some simple choices that will help keep us humble and help us spot the warning signs of a coming fall before it’s too late. If we find ourselves in a position of influence or wealth, for example, we might simply need to go home, mow our own lawn, wash our own dishes, and personally take care of the people around you.

But no matter who you are or what your life is like, you also need to be on the lookout for messages from God that you’re headed down the wrong prideful path and need to be humble enough to turn around.

Nebuchadnezzar’s life is a clear picture of this. God cared enough about this pagan king to warn him about what was coming his way in Daniel 4. God could have just removed Nebuchadnezzar from power but instead He warned him and gave him a chance to change his ways. God gave him a dream and brought Daniel to interpret the dream. Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar what was going to happen and how to avoid it. You can’t get much clearer than that!

Daniel told the king, “So then, Your Majesty, follow my advice. Stop sinning, do what is right, and be merciful to the poor. Then you will continue to be prosperous” (Daniel 4:27 GNT).

Through Daniel, God gave Nebuchadnezzar three things to do and said success would follow. But the king chose to ignore this warning.

Is it possible we are ignoring or missing God’s warning signs too? Maybe you are having conflict in a relationship. You’re just passing it off as the other person’s problem, but God wants to use it as a warning sign—to show you that you’re off track in some area of your life and trouble is on the horizon.

It could be a temptation you’re battling because you’re continually putting yourself in a bad situation. Or maybe it’s chaos and confusion in your life. These all are signs that you’re not trusting God—that you’re trying to do life on your own terms.

God’s trying to tell us through these warning signs: “Stop sinning! Come back to me!”

If you’re heading down the wrong path, God loves you enough to give you a warning. Listen to His warning, repent of your pride, and return to him in humility.

Just as the prodigal son humbled himself and returned to his father, so can we do likewise and return to our Father.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for love, grace, and mercy. Thank you for the warning signs you give us when we become prideful. Send Your Holy Spirit to help us discern your warnings and grant us the courage to take appropriate action that honors and glorifies You. Help us to remember that humility is a fruit of Your Spirit, and pride is a sin of the flesh. Amen.

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