Tag: Faith

The Throne Is Not in Rome

Posted on by pastordarryl68

New Pope Elected

The world watches with reverence. Cameras flash. Robes are pressed. A name is announced. Applause erupts. The balcony doors open. And the smoke has barely cleared before the title is proclaimed: “Holy Father.”

But Heaven does not hold elections. The throne of Christ was not handed down, voted on, or inherited. It was secured through blood, a cross, and an empty tomb.

Psalm 2:6 says, “I have set my King on Zion.” That is final. No debate. No successor.

Men may wear titles, but none can carry the glory that belongs to Christ alone. Isaiah 42:8 declares, “I am the Lord. That is my name. My glory I give to no other.” Not even to a man in a white robe.

The Church does not need a new shepherd. She already has one. His name is Jesus. He was not selected in a secret room. He was raised in power before the eyes of angels, kings, and demons alike.

This is not about mocking a man, but magnifying the One who is truly holy.

Popes die. Priests sin. Systems fail. But Jesus? He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. No white smoke needed. The tomb is empty. The seat is taken.

Honestly, I have no reverence for the moment. I am not deceived by the pageantry. No man holds the keys of eternity. Revelation 1:18 tells us who does: “I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”

Pope Leo XIV may lead a billion people. But only one King leads the redeemed.

And His throne is not in Rome.

It is in Heaven.

—Mark Spence

A Confused World, A Clear King

In the past two weeks, we have seen both a pope elected within the Catholic Church and, perhaps more surprisingly, an individual from within Islam publicly claiming the title of “true pope.” These events have made global headlines and stirred debate. But beneath the ornate garments and global attention lies a deeper, more pressing issue: spiritual confusion, and the human desire to replicate divine authority.

The clarity of Christ’s throne demands more than intellectual assent—it demands full allegiance. The throne of Jesus is not symbolic or ceremonial; it is the immovable seat of cosmic authority, eternal justice, and unshakable mercy. Any attempt to replicate, replace, or redefine that authority—regardless of tradition or sincerity—is not just misguided. It is an affront to the exclusive supremacy of Christ.

A Throne that will Not be Shared

In every generation, men have sought to sit where only God belongs. Titles such as “Holy Father,” no matter how ancient or respected, approach dangerous ground. Jesus Himself draws a theological line in Matthew 23:9: “Call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven.” These are not merely cultural commands—they are divinely instituted boundaries meant to preserve the distinction between God and man.

While human institutions celebrate succession, Scripture proclaims permanence. The Church is not built on the shifting sands of elections or ecclesiastical politics. It is built upon the Rock—Christ Himself. Colossians 1:18 makes it clear: He is the head of the body, the Church. Not a council. Not a college of cardinals. Not a clerical hierarchy.

Smoke and Glory

Let us not stand in awe of ceremonies Heaven does not recognize. No robe, no chant, no white smoke can rival the majesty of the risen King. The resurrection was His coronation. The ascension, His enthronement. The indwelling Spirit is our daily assurance that Christ reigns now and forever.

The Church must lift her gaze—not to the Vatican balcony, but to the right hand of the Father, where Christ intercedes for His people.

He does not need to be chosen. He cannot be replaced. He will not be dethroned.

Christ alone is worthy. Christ alone is holy. Christ alone is King.

And His throne is not in Rome. It is in Heaven.

A Wake-Up Call to the Church

Let these headlines serve as a call to the Church, not just a curiosity for the world. These events do not merely reveal the fragmentation of man-made religion—they underscore the unchanging truth of the gospel. The King is not elected. The King is not debated. The King does not share His throne.

The tomb is still empty. The throne is still occupied. The name above every name remains unchanged.

His name is Jesus!

Why Partial Obedience Can Cost You Everything

Posted on by pastordarryl68

Obedience is not optional in the Kingdom of God—it is the very currency that moves us forward in His purpose. When God gives an instruction, He expects action, not hesitation. Yet, so often, we treat obedience as something we can schedule at our convenience. We delay, we analyze, we wait for a “better” moment—but the truth remains: delayed obedience is still disobedience.

Saul’s Half-Obedience Led to His Downfall

Look at Saul. God gave him clear instructions: destroy the Amalekites completely—leave nothing and no one behind (1 Samuel 15:3). But Saul, in his own reasoning, chose partial obedience. He spared King Agag and the best of the livestock, intending to deal with them later. On the surface, it might have seemed like a wise, strategic move. Maybe Saul thought, I’ll take care of it later or This seems like a better way to handle it.

But God wasn’t looking for strategy. He was looking for obedience.

When confronted, Saul justified his delay. He even tried to frame his disobedience as an act of worship: “The people took of the spoil, sheep, and oxen, the best of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the Lord your God in Gilgal” (1 Samuel 15:21). But Samuel’s response was clear and convicting:

“Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.” (1 Samuel 15:22)

Because of Saul’s delay—his decision to partially obey on his own terms rather than fully obey in God’s timing—he lost his kingdom. His future was directly tied to his willingness to follow God’s command completely and immediately.

What is God Asking You to Do?

Obedience is the key that unlocks the next step in our journey with God. Every moment we delay, we risk forfeiting the blessings and purpose He has set before us. The longer we hesitate, the more we step out of alignment with His will.

Maybe God has given you a clear instruction—to step out in faith, to forgive, to change your habits, to let go of something He has told you to release. Are you waiting for a more convenient time? Are you rationalizing your delay?

Too often, we think of disobedience as outright rebellion, but disobedience isn’t always a loud rejection of God’s will. More often than not, it’s a quiet deferral—a not yet, a maybe later. But just like Saul, we must recognize that when we delay, we are still resisting God’s command.

Saul thought he had time. He thought he could obey later. But partial and delayed obedience cost him everything.

The Cost of Hesitation

When we hesitate, we are not only delaying obedience—we are opening ourselves up to distractions, doubts, and alternative paths that will pull us further from God’s plan. The longer we wait, the more room we give the enemy to plant fear and excuses in our minds.

Consider this: when Peter saw Jesus walking on water, he was able to step out of the boat only because he obeyed immediately (Matthew 14:29). If he had hesitated, questioning the logic of walking on water, fear would have taken hold before faith had a chance to lead him forward. Obedience in that moment was a split-second decision—one that required trust first, understanding later.

How many times have we missed out on what God wanted to do because we wanted full understanding before taking the first step? If we insist on seeing the whole picture before we move, we may never move at all.

It’s Time to Move

God doesn’t give us commands to negotiate or modify. He calls us to immediate and complete obedience. If you’ve been holding back, today is the day to move forward.

There is something powerful about immediate obedience. When God called Abraham to leave his home, he went without knowing where he was going (Hebrews 11:8). When Jesus told His disciples to follow Him, they left everything immediately (Matthew 4:19-20). They didn’t wait for conditions to be perfect or for every detail to be explained. They moved in faith, trusting that obedience itself would unlock the next step.

We must do the same.

Obedience is the currency of the Kingdom—your next step is tied to your ability to follow God’s instruction. The question is, will you move now, or will you wait until it’s too late?

A Final Warning and Encouragement

We must understand that delayed obedience doesn’t just slow us down—it alters the course of our lives. Saul’s hesitation cost him the throne. The Israelites’ fear kept them wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. Jesus Himself warned in Luke 9:62, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

So what are you waiting for? What step of faith have you been avoiding? What has God called you to do that you’ve been postponing?

Delayed obedience is still disobedience. Don’t wait. Do it now.

A Bold Faith in a World That Prefers Silence

Posted on by pastordarryl68

“The world tolerates Christianity as long as it stays tame. A private faith, a quiet gospel, a kneeling church. But speak with authority, stand with conviction, and they will come with torches.” — Michael Foster

The world has no issue with Christianity as long as it remains private, passive, and powerless. A faith confined to quiet prayers, polite conversations, and personal reflection poses no threat to the systems of this age. But the moment the church finds its voice—when believers stand firm in truth and proclaim the gospel with conviction—the world reacts. And that reaction is often hostile.

This is nothing new. Jesus Himself warned us: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.” (John 15:18) The gospel is not designed to blend in or be comfortable; it is a declaration of the authority of Christ over all things. The moment we live as though Jesus is not just our personal Savior but the reigning King, we are bound to meet resistance.

A Gospel That Disrupts

Ephesians 6:10-13 reminds us that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. The enemy does not fear a Christianity that remains silent, but he trembles at one that is unashamed and unafraid. A faith that is spoken boldly, lived unapologetically, and proclaimed without fear shakes the very foundations of worldly powers.

Consider the early church. The apostles were not hunted down because they prayed quietly in their homes—they were arrested, beaten, and martyred because they preached Christ as Lord, refusing to bow to Caesar. They understood that faith in Jesus was not just a private matter; it was a call to stand firm in a world that demands compromise.

Paul himself wrote from prison, not because he was merely religious, but because he was a threat to the order of the day. He would not stop proclaiming Christ crucified, even when it cost him everything. The same world that rejected Jesus will reject those who follow Him wholeheartedly.

The Cost of Speaking Truth

We live in a time where the loudest voices often demand conformity. The world tolerates faith until it challenges its idols. The moment Christianity speaks against sin, calls for repentance, and declares Jesus as the only way, the opposition begins. The modern church is often tempted to soften its message—to make it more palatable, less offensive, and more socially acceptable. But truth is not meant to be reshaped to fit culture; culture is meant to be transformed by truth.

The question we must ask ourselves is this: Are we living a faith that the world can comfortably ignore, or are we standing with boldness in the authority of Christ? The gospel does not ask for permission to be spoken—it commands us to proclaim it.

Standing in the Full Armor of God

Paul tells us in Ephesians 6:13-17 to take up the full armor of God, not so that we can quietly blend in, but so that we may stand firm in the evil day. The belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, and the sword of the Spirit are not the attire of passive believers—they are the armor of warriors in a spiritual battle.

Being a Christian is not about being liked. It is about being faithful. The church is not called to silence; it is called to proclaim the gospel in season and out of season, whether it is welcomed or opposed.

Let the Light Shine

Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Light does not ask darkness for permission to shine—it simply shines. And when light appears, darkness reacts.

We do not need to seek controversy, but we must never shrink back from truth. The gospel is offensive to a world that loves darkness, but it is also the only message that brings life. Our calling is to preach Christ crucified, to stand firm when the world demands silence, and to trust that God is with us when opposition comes.

So let them come with torches. Let them accuse, mock, and reject. The world did the same to Christ, and yet He overcame. And because He overcame, so will we.

Will we be a silent church that the world can ignore? Or will we stand with boldness, refusing to compromise, proclaiming the truth no matter the cost?

The time for passive faith is over. It is time to stand.

Embracing God’s Goodness Through Grace

Posted on by pastordarryl68

The Humility of Grace: Recognizing God as the Source of All Good

“O Lord, everything good in me is due to You. The rest is my fault.” — Augustine

There is something deeply humbling about coming to terms with our own frailty and brokenness. We like to believe that we are good people, that our wisdom, kindness, and accomplishments are the results of our own efforts. But the reality is far different. Augustine’s words cut through the illusion of self-sufficiency, reminding us that every virtue, every noble thought, every good deed we perform is not ultimately of our own making—it is God working within us. And the rest? The failures, the selfishness, the sin? That is entirely our own.

This truth is both humbling and freeing. It humbles us because it dismantles our pride, forcing us to acknowledge that apart from God, we bring nothing of eternal value to the table. It frees us because it shifts our focus from striving in our own strength to resting in the grace of God. When we recognize that the good in us is from Him, we stop trying to prove our worth and instead live in gratitude and dependence on His power.

Owning Our Sin, Embracing His Grace

We live in a world where blame-shifting is the norm. It’s always someone else’s fault—our upbringing, our circumstances, the pressures of life. And while external factors do shape us, they do not determine our character. The Bible is clear: “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight.” (Psalm 51:3-4) David, in his moment of deep conviction, does not make excuses. He does not justify or rationalize. He owns his sin before God, fully acknowledging that his failures are his alone.

But the beauty of the gospel is that we do not remain in guilt. Just as we acknowledge our sin, we also receive God’s grace. He does not leave us in our failure but lifts us from it. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9) God does not require us to be good enough; He simply asks us to surrender so that He can do His work in us. The more we rely on Him, the more His goodness is manifested in our lives, transforming our hearts and actions in ways we could never achieve on our own.

This tension between our own responsibility for sin and God’s work in us should keep us from both extremes—neither wallowing in despair nor arrogantly claiming credit for any progress. The Christian life is one of constant surrender, a daily recognition that we desperately need God’s renewing grace to shape us into who He has called us to be.

A Call to Humility and Gratitude

Recognizing that all goodness comes from God leaves no room for pride. If everything good in us is from Him, then what do we have to boast about? “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9) The right response is not self-congratulation but deep, overwhelming gratitude. We do not become holy by our own willpower; we are shaped by the hands of a gracious God who refines us through His Spirit.

This gratitude should transform how we live. If the goodness in us is God’s work, then we must ask ourselves: Are we allowing Him to shape us? Are we cooperating with His refining process, or are we resisting, clinging to our own ways? True humility does not just acknowledge God’s grace—it actively surrenders to it, allowing Him to make us more like Christ.

Such surrender is not passive; it requires intentionality. It means turning away from habits and thoughts that feed pride and self-sufficiency, replacing them with a posture of worship and reliance on Him. It means recognizing that every good choice we make, every kind word we speak, every step we take toward righteousness is ultimately the result of His Spirit working in us. And because of that, our response should be one of continuous thanksgiving and praise.

Living as a Reflection of His Goodness

A life surrendered to God’s grace does not seek to claim credit for what He has done. It reflects His goodness to the world. Paul writes, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) This means that every act of kindness, every moment of wisdom, every victory over sin is an opportunity to point back to Him, not ourselves.

When we truly grasp Augustine’s words, we stop striving for self-glory and start living for God’s glory. We no longer measure ourselves by worldly standards but by our nearness to Christ. And in that surrender, we find true joy—not in our own achievements, but in the unfailing grace of the One who is at work in us.

This should radically reshape how we view our own spiritual growth. Rather than seeing holiness as something we must manufacture, we recognize that our role is simply to abide in Christ. “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (John 15:4) Our job is not to force goodness but to stay close to the source of all goodness.

A person who truly understands this does not see the pursuit of godliness as a burden, but as a joy. Rather than striving anxiously to be better, they rest in the transforming power of Christ. They live with an awareness that every blessing, every bit of growth, every ounce of goodness in them is the work of a gracious and loving God.

A Prayer for Dependence on God’s Goodness

As we reflect on Augustine’s words, let us daily come before God with a spirit of humility, acknowledging both our need for Him and His faithfulness to sustain us. Let our hearts echo this prayer:

Father, I confess that apart from You, I have nothing of true worth. Every good thing in me is from Your hand, and every sin and shortcoming is my own. Forgive me for the moments I take credit for Your work, and remind me that my righteousness is found only in Christ. Shape me, refine me, and use my life to reflect Your goodness to the world. May I rest in the truth that You are always at work within me, making me more like Jesus. Amen.

May we be a people who echo this truth daily: Everything good in me is from You, Lord. The rest is my fault. And still, You love me. Still, You work in me. Let my life reflect only You.

Echoes of Truth: Guarding the Integrity of Biblical Theology

Posted on by pastordarryl68

Echoes of Truth Over Voices of Falsehood

Charles Spurgeon’s words echo with a deep sense of responsibility that every follower of Christ should feel: “I had rather be an echo of truth than the voice of falsehood. Rest assured that there is nothing new in biblical theology except that which is false.” This profound statement is not merely about preferring truth over lies; it is about anchoring ourselves to the eternal, unchanging Word of God, especially in a world where new interpretations and ideologies constantly attempt to reshape biblical truths.

In an age where originality is often celebrated over authenticity, there’s a temptation to seek fresh takes on Scripture—new revelations, hidden meanings, and reimagined doctrines. Yet, Spurgeon’s reminder cuts through this noise with piercing clarity: biblical truth is timeless. The core of God’s revelation to humanity has not changed, nor will it. Any teaching that claims to offer a “new” biblical truth is, by its very nature, a distortion.

The Danger of “New” Theology

Throughout history, the Church has witnessed countless waves of new theological trends—many of which veer from the core teachings of Scripture. From the rise of gnosticism in the early church to modern prosperity gospel movements, the pursuit of novelty often leads believers astray. Spurgeon’s warning is clear: when someone claims to have uncovered a “new truth” within biblical theology, we should approach with discernment. Scripture itself affirms this in Ecclesiastes 1:9: “What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun.”

True biblical theology is not about innovation—it’s about preservation. It’s about echoing what has already been perfectly revealed through Scripture. It’s about being a faithful steward of the Word, not an innovator.

The Call to Echo Truth

Echoing truth is not passive repetition; it is an active, intentional alignment with the heart of God’s Word. When Spurgeon speaks of being an “echo of truth,” he’s calling us to deeply internalize biblical teaching so that it naturally reverberates through our lives, our speech, and our actions. This kind of echo doesn’t dilute or distort—it amplifies the original message.

In 2 Timothy 4:2-4, Paul charges Timothy: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.” This warning feels especially relevant today. Many seek teachings that align with personal desires rather than biblical truth. But the call remains: preach the Word—pure, unfiltered, and unchanged.

Resisting the Pull of Cultural Influence

Cultural trends often seep into theology, subtly reshaping core doctrines under the guise of relevance or inclusivity. While the gospel is for all people, it is not shaped by the ever-shifting sands of cultural opinion. The Word of God stands as an immovable foundation. Isaiah 40:8 reminds us, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”

Echoing truth means standing firm, even when biblical convictions clash with popular opinion. It means prioritizing faithfulness over acceptance, integrity over applause. In an era where cancel culture and social backlash can silence voices of conviction, the Church needs believers who are willing to be echoes of truth, even when it costs them something.

The Role of the Church: Guardians of Doctrine

The Church has a sacred responsibility to guard the truth. This isn’t about gatekeeping but safeguarding. Leaders, teachers, and everyday believers must approach Scripture with humility, reverence, and a commitment to its original intent. Jude 1:3 urges believers to “contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” Notice the phrase “once for all”—the faith has already been delivered. It does not need modern enhancements or cultural upgrades.

Churches that chase theological trends risk losing their grounding in the Word. Instead, the focus should be on faithfully teaching Scripture, equipping believers to discern truth from falsehood, and fostering spiritual maturity rooted in the timeless gospel.

Final Thoughts: Why Echoes Matter

Being an echo of truth in today’s world is not always glamorous. It may not garner large followings or social media virality. But it is the faithful path. It honors the God who has revealed Himself through His Word and preserves the life-giving message of the gospel for future generations.

Let us be a people who echo Scripture with clarity and conviction. Let us reject the allure of theological novelty and stand firm in the timeless truths of God’s Word. And when faced with the choice between cultural relevance and biblical faithfulness, may we always choose to be echoes of truth—no matter the cost.

In the end, it is better to echo the eternal than to shout the temporary.

The Joyful Surrender of a Redeemed Life

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Salvation by grace is not merely a transaction—it is a transformation. When a person truly encounters the grace of God, something profound happens within them. They are no longer motivated by external rules or solemn obligations to serve Christ. Instead, their new life in Him compels them to joyful obedience.

Charles Spurgeon captures this truth beautifully: “A person who is really saved by Grace does not need to be told that he is under solemn obligations to serve Christ. The new life within him tells him that. Instead of regarding it as a burden, he gladly surrenders himself, body, soul, and spirit, to the Lord.”

Too often, Christian service is viewed as a weight—something we must do to prove our faithfulness. But the one who has truly been redeemed does not serve out of duty, but out of delight. The heart that has been changed by Christ wants to follow Him. The soul that has been set free longs to walk in obedience. The transformed believer does not view surrender to God as a loss, but as the highest privilege.

Surrender Rooted in Grace, Not Obligation

There is a stark difference between serving Christ out of obligation and serving Him out of love. The first is rooted in religious performance, an effort to meet some perceived requirement to earn God’s favor. The second flows from the realization that we have already received God’s favor through Jesus. When we grasp the depth of His love and grace, our response is not reluctant compliance but willing devotion.

Paul affirms this in 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” This transformation is not just theoretical—it is practical. A heart filled with gratitude and love for God no longer asks, “What must I do?” but instead, “How can I offer my life fully to the One who saved me?”

This kind of surrender is not merely about actions; it’s about identity. The believer who understands grace recognizes that their very existence now belongs to Christ. This is why Paul also writes in Romans 12:1, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Our lives are not our own—they are His, and offering them back in joyful surrender is our natural response to His mercy.

The Burden of Self vs. The Freedom of Surrender

The world often frames surrender as weakness, but in God’s Kingdom, surrender is where true strength and freedom are found. Holding on to control, insisting on our own way, and striving in our own power leads to exhaustion, frustration, and ultimately spiritual stagnation. We were not created to be our own masters. The more we grasp for control, the more burdensome life becomes. But when we release our grip and trust in God’s perfect will, we find rest for our souls.

Jesus Himself calls us into this freedom: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

The paradox of surrender is that it does not bring restriction, but liberation. We are freed from the weight of self-reliance and ushered into a life of divine dependence, where God carries what we cannot. When we cease striving and rest in Him, we discover that His grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Living in Surrender Daily

Surrendering to Christ is not a one-time decision; it is a daily posture of the heart. Every day, we must choose whether we will live for ourselves or for Him. The enemy would have us believe that surrendering to God means giving up something precious. But in reality, it is only through surrender that we receive what is truly precious—eternal joy, peace that surpasses understanding, and a life that bears fruit for His Kingdom.

Surrender is practical. It means letting go of our pride and allowing God to shape us. It means releasing our plans and trusting in His. It means forgiving when we would rather hold on to bitterness. It means loving sacrificially, even when it’s inconvenient. It means obeying His voice, even when we don’t fully understand where He’s leading. And through all of this, it means remembering that we do not surrender alone—God’s Spirit empowers us to live this life of joyful submission.

The Joy of a Life Fully Given to Christ

A surrendered life is a joyful life. Not because it is easy, but because it is anchored in Christ’s sufficiency. When we let go of our illusions of control and allow Him to take the lead, we walk in step with His perfect will. We experience the deep, abiding joy of knowing that our lives are being used for something greater than ourselves. And in that, we find true fulfillment.

May we live not as those burdened by obligation, but as those compelled by love. May our surrender be not reluctant, but joyful. May we echo the words of the psalmist: “I delight to do Your will, O my God; Your law is within my heart.” (Psalm 40:8)

True grace produces true surrender, and in that surrender, we find the greatest joy. Let us live in that joy today.

Blessed to Be a Blessing

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I’m living a life I can’t take a bit of credit for! Only a loving God could write this story. I am blessed way beyond what I deserve, thanks to God’s abounding grace and mercy. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, Creator, and Savior of my soul. #SoliDeoGloria

What do I do with this blessing?

When faced with the abundance of God’s grace and mercy in my life, I am presented with three potential responses. Each reflects a different perspective on the gifts God has given me and the way I choose to steward them.

Do I claim it for myself? I can tell myself that I deserve these blessings—and more. With this mindset, I adopt an attitude of entitlement, refusing to sacrifice anything for my occupation, employer, community, church, or family. The reasoning becomes simple: no one else is doing these things for me, so why should I extend myself for others? This perspective leads to self-centeredness, a narrowing of vision where God’s blessings become confined to my personal benefit, rather than being used to bless others. It’s a path that ultimately disconnects me from the broader mission of God’s kingdom.

Do I hoard it for my own benefit? I can choose to bank the blessings I receive, using them strategically for my own advantage. In this approach, I give back or reciprocate only what is required, visible, or sure to gain me recognition. This transactional mindset treats God’s generosity as a limited resource, something to be rationed and carefully allocated for maximum personal gain. By operating in this way, I reduce the transformative nature of grace to mere currency, losing sight of its true purpose and power.

Can I act as a conduit of God’s blessing. I can view myself as a vessel for God’s blessings, letting what flows to me flow through me to others. This perspective recognizes that I am not the ultimate recipient of these gifts, but rather a steward called to extend them outward. When I see myself as a conduit, I no longer keep score. I’m not concerned with who notices or what credit I receive, because the only One keeping track is the source of all blessings—God Himself. This response aligns my life with the character and mission of Jesus, allowing His grace and love to flow freely through my actions.

The third response is the only choice for those who truly desire to be WITH Jesus, be LIKE Jesus, and DO what Jesus did. To live as a conduit of God’s blessings is to embrace the transformative power of grace, allowing it to overflow into the lives of others. It shifts the focus from self-preservation to selfless giving, mirroring the life and ministry of Christ. Jesus did not hold back His love, mercy, or generosity; instead, He poured it out abundantly, even at great personal cost.

When I consider the blessings in my life, I am reminded of the responsibility they carry. These blessings are not mine to hoard or claim as my own; they are opportunities to reflect God’s love and character to the world. To live as a conduit of blessings means adopting a posture of humility, recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from above (James 1:17). It means understanding that my purpose is not to accumulate, but to distribute—to let God’s grace flow through me in ways that uplift, encourage, and transform those around me.

This perspective challenges me to reevaluate how I approach generosity and service. Am I giving freely, or am I calculating my actions to ensure they benefit me? Am I reflecting Christ’s selflessness, or am I holding back, afraid of what I might lose? Living as a conduit requires trust—trust that God’s provision is sufficient, and that as I give, He will continue to supply all my needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

Let us daily ask ourselves: How can the blessings in my life serve as a testimony to God’s grace and an instrument of His kingdom? Am I using these gifts to further my own interests, or am I allowing them to flow outward, reflecting the generosity of the One who gave them? The call to be a conduit of blessings is not always easy—it requires sacrifice, vulnerability, and a willingness to put others before ourselves. But it is also deeply rewarding, as it brings us closer to the heart of God and allows us to participate in His redemptive work in the world.

May we choose to live as conduits, not containers, of the abounding grace that flows from the heart of God. In doing so, we reflect the love, mercy, and generosity of our Creator, living out our calling to be His hands and feet in a world desperately in need of His blessings.

The Secret to Overcoming Sin: Love God Deeply

Posted on by pastordarryl68

“When you finally realize it isn’t about cutting off sin, it’s about loving God so much that your desire to sin no longer exists.”

This profound realization compels a paradigm shift in how we understand sanctification. The pursuit of holiness is often misinterpreted as a checklist—a relentless effort to eliminate behaviors deemed sinful. However, true transformation in Christ transcends mere behavioral modification. It originates in an all-consuming love for God, a love that reorders our desires, recalibrates our priorities, and ultimately reshapes the core of who we are.

An exclusive focus on eradicating sin can easily devolve into an exhausting exercise in self-reliance. While we may succeed in momentarily altering our outward behaviors, such efforts often neglect the deeper roots of sinful desire. Without addressing these underlying inclinations, we are doomed to an endless cycle of relapse and frustration. True transformation is not about exerting greater effort; it is about experiencing a profound and genuine encounter with the love of God—so transformative that it redefines our innermost desires.

When our love for God becomes the focal point of our existence, sin gradually loses its allure. Instead of striving to resist sin out of fear of divine judgment or societal expectations, we find ourselves captivated by the magnificence of God’s goodness, beauty, and holiness. Our motivations shift fundamentally—from fear and obligation to a genuine longing to honor and draw nearer to God. This shift transforms the spiritual journey from a burdensome exercise in willpower to a joyful pursuit of divine intimacy.

Jesus emphasized that the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). This implies that every aspect of our being—our emotions, intellect, physical energy, and spiritual essence—should be directed toward a wholehearted love for God. As we pursue this divine love, our lives begin to mirror His character. The more deeply we grasp His boundless love for us, the more we are drawn to reciprocate, and the more the allure of sin diminishes. This transformation is not a product of sheer willpower but a consequence of the Holy Spirit’s transformative work, which refashions our desires from within.

The journey of transformation is not an instantaneous event; it is a lifelong pilgrimage marked by both progress and setbacks. There will be moments when we falter, when old temptations resurface, and when discouragement threatens to overtake us. In those moments, it is essential to maintain our focus on cultivating our relationship with God. As our love for Him deepens, we witness the reshaping of our desires. The temptations that once captivated us begin to lose their significance, supplanted by a more profound yearning for God’s presence, His peace, and His purposes.

It is crucial to remember that this journey is not one we undertake in isolation. The Holy Spirit is our guide, comforter, and source of strength. It is through His power that we are enabled to love God more deeply and release the attachments that hinder our spiritual growth. The path to transformation is not about trying harder; it is about surrendering more fully—allowing God’s love to permeate our hearts and empower the change that only He can effect.

Our primary focus should not be on merely cutting off sin, but on nurturing a deeper relationship with God—loving Him so completely that our hearts are transformed, and our lives become an expression of His grace and love. Embracing the journey of transformation means recognizing it as a process guided by divine love and sustained by the Spirit’s power. In doing so, we discover that true freedom is not found in our ability to resist sin through sheer effort but in a growing love for God that naturally displaces our desire for anything contrary to His nature.

The objective is not human perfection achieved through our own strength, but rather an ever-deepening intimacy with God. As we draw nearer to Him, our hearts undergo transformation, and the grip of sin gradually weakens. The more we focus on loving God, the less power sin holds over us. True transformation occurs when we shift our attention from the sins we are trying to avoid and instead fix our gaze upon the God we love—allowing His love to renew our hearts and direct our steps.

This journey is not without challenges, but it is precisely in these challenges that we grow in our dependence on God. The trials and temptations we face become opportunities to lean further into His grace, to allow His strength to perfect our weaknesses, and to experience the profound truth that His love is sufficient for all our needs. Transformation, therefore, is not about the elimination of struggle but the reorientation of our desires such that God’s love becomes the compelling force in our lives. As we pursue this love, the superficial allure of sin fades, replaced by an abiding joy that comes from communion with the Divine.

Let us continually strive for a faith that prioritizes loving God above all else. Let us embrace transformation not as an act of self-denial in isolation, but as a response to the immeasurable love of God that draws us nearer, reshapes our desires, and liberates us from the bondage of sin. In this love, we find our true purpose and the freedom to live a life that reflects His glory and grace.

Rethinking the Prosperity Gospel: A Christ-Centered Perspective

Posted on by pastordarryl68

God’s love for His children is undeniable. He is a benevolent Father who delights in blessing, prospering, and providing good gifts to His people. These truths form the core of our understanding of God’s nature. However, significant theological distortions arise when concepts such as “blessing,” “prosperity,” and “good gifts” are redefined to align primarily with material desires and worldly comforts. This reductionist interpretation often leads to the misguided belief that divine favor is equivalent to the accumulation of wealth and physical comfort.

It is essential to interrogate whether the possession of wealth and material goods genuinely constitutes God’s blessing. Is prosperity truly about the accumulation of earthly possessions, or is it something more profound?

The prosperity gospel’s fallacy lies in the redefinition of prosperity as the acquisition of “the stuff I want.” This perspective reduces the Creator to a mere means to an end—a divine dispenser of material rewards—placing human desires at the center of the divine-human relationship. The real theological danger here is the subtle yet profound inversion of divine order; it is the enthronement of the self above God, making personal desire the ultimate authority. Such an approach not only undermines the sovereignty of God but also corrupts the nature of prayer, transforming it into an exercise in self-gratification rather than communion with the Almighty. When the self becomes the focal point, the essence of faith is lost, for true worship is always God-centered. It is not about me—it is entirely about Him.

In Colossians 1:18, we find a powerful corrective to the self-centered tendencies of the prosperity gospel: “And He is the head of the body, the church; Who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” This verse underscores the preeminence of Christ, positioning Him as the ultimate authority over all creation and reminding us that our lives, including our aspirations and definitions of prosperity, must be centered on Him.

The blessings that God bestows are far more nuanced and profound than the acquisition of wealth or physical comfort. True blessing involves aligning oneself with God’s will, submitting to His lordship, and recognizing that genuine prosperity lies in the knowledge of God and conformity to His character. Divine favor is ultimately about transformation—about becoming more Christ-like in our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.

John 3:30-31 further illuminates this idea: “He must increase, but I must decrease. He who comes from above is above all, he who is of the earth is from the earth and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.” This passage calls us to diminish our focus on self and elevate Christ’s role in every aspect of our lives. The journey of faith requires a consistent movement away from self-centeredness toward God-centeredness, recognizing that His sovereignty and His purposes are infinitely greater than our temporal desires.

The true blessings that God desires to impart are of far greater value than any material wealth. They are the blessings of inner peace, enduring joy, spiritual maturity, and a deep, abiding relationship with Him. These are gifts that foster true fulfillment and lasting transformation. To seek His will above our own is to open ourselves to the depth of God’s grace and to the richness of a life lived in harmony with His divine purposes.

The prosperity gospel’s error is not in acknowledging that God desires to bless His children, but in misidentifying the nature of those blessings. God’s ultimate concern is not the gratification of our earthly desires but the salvation of our souls and the cultivation of a deep relationship with Him. The best gifts from God are those that draw us nearer to Him, that strip away our illusions of self-sufficiency, and that allow us to experience the fullness of His grace and love.

As believers, our aim should be to seek a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly blessed by God. Let us move away from equating blessing with wealth and instead recognize that the most profound gifts are those that bring us closer to the heart of God. Let us strive for a faith that places God at the center, where He rightly belongs, and let us trust that in His wisdom, He provides us with all that we need—not necessarily all that we want, but all that will shape us into the image of His Son.

Faith in Action: Is Voting a Christian Responsibility?

Posted on by pastordarryl68

“As a citizen of the Kingdom of God, I worship a King and Savior who actively reigns from His throne of heaven. He is sovereign and is in constant care for and has absolute rule over all HIS creation, for HIS glory and the good of HIS people. As a citizen of a constitutional republic whose government is of the people, by the people, and for the people, I MUST vote. I can not/will not vote for one of the candidates whose platform is being built on everything that God hates. I do not want to vote for the other candidate – one whose personality and behaviors exemplify everything that God hates. It seriously pains me to do so. Both are broken people for whom I pray every time I hear their names mentioned. I am only one, but I will not throw my vote away for a third party or write-in that has no chance of even entering the race with the other two. For more than 12 years, I have expressed my grief that in a country of 340 million people, these are our only options. I will vote for the policies that can best stem the tide of evil in our nation. That is a clear and straightforward choice. Not an easy one. My faith is not in the one for whom I cast a vote, but a vote I must cast. We the people are the authority that God has established in this nation and I must render unto God the things that are God’s. My faith is in the God of the Universe, the promises and precepts of His Word, and the expression of my trust is to live in obedience to and uphold His commands.” – Darryl Jones

Faith and Voting: A Reflection on Christian Civic Engagement

These words encapsulate the profound tension that many believers experience when engaging in the electoral process: How do we reconcile our ultimate loyalty to the Kingdom of God with our responsibilities as citizens of an earthly nation? How do we cast a vote when the options before us fall so far short of the ideals we hold as followers of Christ?

The dual citizenship that Christians hold—as members of God’s eternal Kingdom and as citizens of a constitutional republic—presents a unique and ongoing challenge. This tension is not new; it has confronted believers across history. While our primary allegiance is to our King who reigns from heaven, we are simultaneously called to engage meaningfully with the world around us. We are tasked with being salt and light of the Earth, and this includes participating in civic duties such as voting, advocating for justice, and contributing to the common good.

Distinguishing Personal Faith from Political Action

A crucial aspect of Christian civic engagement is understanding the distinction between personal faith and political action. While our spiritual beliefs form the foundation of our identity and worldview, political action is the means by which we apply those beliefs within the broader social and civic context. Personal faith is an intimate relationship with God that shapes our morals, values, and daily decisions. Political action, on the other hand, is the broader expression of those values within society.

It is essential to recognize that political engagement is not synonymous with spiritual faithfulness. Rather, it is one of the many ways we live out the principles of our faith. Spiritual beliefs guide our decisions regarding which policies to support and which candidates align most closely with biblical values of justice, compassion, and righteousness. Yet political outcomes can not and should not be the ultimate measure of our faith. Our loyalty is to God, whose sovereignty transcends all earthly systems. We are called to be faithful witnesses, trusting in God’s providence while taking responsibility for the influence we wield in the political realm.

Navigating a Flawed Political Landscape

One of the most challenging truths we must accept is that no political party or candidate can perfectly embody the values of the Kingdom of God. Human governance, by nature, is deeply flawed and marked by imperfection. The doctrine of human depravity reminds us that all individuals are inherently broken, including those who seek public office. This reality makes voting a process of choosing between imperfect options, requiring discernment about which policies align most closely with biblical principles.

Politics inevitably involves compromise. When we approach the voting booth, we are not choosing between an ideal good and a clear evil but making complex decisions in a fallen world. This process necessitates humility, wisdom, and a clear understanding of our priorities as followers of Christ. We must evaluate candidates and platforms based on their policies and their alignment with the teachings of Scripture, recognizing that none will fully measure up to our ideals.

The conviction that we must vote, even when neither candidate fully embodies Christian values, reflects a nuanced understanding of both our civic duty and spiritual responsibility. Scripture instructs us to pray for our leaders and seek the welfare of the place where we live (Jeremiah 29:7; 1 Timothy 2:1-2). Voting, though fraught with compromise, is one way in which we contribute to the welfare of our community. It provides an opportunity to influence societal direction in alignment with God’s justice, even if the choices are far from ideal.

The Role of Intercessory Prayer in Civic Life

Prayer is foundational to Christian civic engagement. We should pray for candidates whenever we hear their names. This practice serves as a reminder that our hope does not rest in human leaders or political outcomes but in the sovereign God who reigns over all. Intercessory prayer helps reorient our perspective, reminding us that God is in control, even when political circumstances are uncertain or disheartening. By praying for those in authority, we acknowledge that they, like us, are in need of God’s wisdom, guidance, and grace.

Prayer also allows us to approach the voting process with humility and trust. It guards us against cynicism and despair, helping us maintain our focus on God’s ultimate authority. In an era of deep political polarization, prayer enables us to engage with others—both those we agree with and those we do not—in a manner that reflects Christ’s love and grace. Prayer transforms our civic engagement from a purely political exercise into an act of worship, one in which we entrust our decisions and their outcomes to God.

Moreover, prayer reminds us that our identity is not defined by political affiliations or national loyalties but by our citizenship in God’s Kingdom. It is easy to become embittered or disillusioned by the political climate, but prayer calls us back to the truth that our ultimate allegiance is to Christ. Our engagement in politics must flow from this allegiance, grounded in the hope and assurance that God’s purposes will ultimately prevail.

Voting as an Expression of Stewardship

Casting a vote for policies that help stem the tide of evil underscores an important aspect of Christian involvement in politics: stewardship. As citizens of a constitutional republic, we have the privilege of participating in governance. To abstain from voting or cast a vote without practical impact can be seen as neglecting this responsibility. Stewardship in this context means using our influence to advance policies that protect the vulnerable, promote justice, and uphold moral values that reflect God’s character.

Christian civic engagement is not about endorsing a candidate as a savior; it is about exercising the influence we have in a fallen world. Voting is an act of stewardship—a recognition that while we cannot achieve perfection in our political choices, we can work toward a more just and righteous society. This perspective encourages us to remain engaged, even when the process is filled with compromise and complexity.

Stewardship extends beyond voting itself. It involves an ongoing commitment to advocate for justice, serve our communities, and hold our leaders accountable. Voting is just one aspect of our broader responsibility to be agents of change. It is an opportunity to contribute to the common good, but it must be paired with a willingness to act in other ways that embody the love and justice of Christ.

Specific Examples of Faith and Civic Engagement

Consider the example of William Wilberforce, a member of the British Parliament during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Wilberforce was a committed Christian who used his political career as a platform for advancing God’s justice. He dedicated his life to the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade, driven by the conviction that his faith compelled him to fight against such a grave violation of human dignity. Wilberforce’s advocacy was rooted in his understanding that all people are made in the image of God, and his political work was an expression of his personal faith. Despite his flaws, which included a tendency towards self-doubt and an ongoing struggle with poor health, William Wilberforce’s persistence and dedication led to the abolition of the slave trade in the British Empire, demonstrating how personal faith can drive meaningful political change. Wilberforce’s moral campaigns sometimes came across as imposing his views on others rather than embodying grace, which garnered criticism. Additionally, his gradual approach to emancipation could be critiqued as lacking the urgency that true Christian compassion might demand, reflecting the complexities and imperfections in his advocacy. His challenges remind us that even those who are deeply committed to their faith can struggle personally, yet still make significant contributions to society.

Similarly, the Civil Rights Movement in the United States offers a powerful example of faith informing civic action. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a Baptist minister, drew deeply from his Christian faith in his pursuit of racial justice. King was known to struggle with periods of depression, and he faced significant ethical scrutiny over allegations of infidelity. Additionally, his association with socialist ideas brought further criticism from those who viewed his stance as controversial or outside mainstream American values. Despite his imperfections, King’s leadership in nonviolent protests, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, played a pivotal role in challenging and transforming unjust laws and practices. His life exemplifies how spiritual convictions can and should inform civic engagement, particularly in the face of systemic injustice.

Maintaining Our Focus on God’s Sovereignty

In a political climate that often leaves us disillusioned, it is crucial to remember that our faith is not in any candidate or party. Our hope rests in the God of the universe, whose sovereignty transcends all human systems. We do not vote because we believe any candidate can fully embody the righteousness of God’s Kingdom; rather, we vote because we trust that God can work through even flawed individuals to accomplish His purposes.

As citizens of both the Kingdom of God and this earthly nation, we must engage in the political process without losing sight of our ultimate allegiance. Our calling is to live in obedience to God’s commands, to love our neighbors, and to seek His justice and righteousness in every aspect of life—including our role as voters. Our engagement in politics should be marked by humility, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the values of God’s Kingdom.

It is also important to recognize that our political engagement is ultimately an act of faith. We are called to trust that God is at work, even in the midst of imperfect systems and broken leaders. This trust does not absolve us of the responsibility to act, but it does remind us that the outcomes are in God’s hands. Our role is to be faithful, to do what we can with what we have been given, and to trust God with the rest.

Final Reflections on Faithful Civic Engagement

The act of voting is inherently complex, particularly when it feels as though we are choosing between two deeply flawed candidates. Yet it is a choice we are called to make. Our participation in the political process is an expression of our faithfulness—not in human leaders, but in God’s overarching sovereignty. As we navigate these decisions, let us be guided by our allegiance to the King of Kings. May our votes be cast with discernment, humility, and a deep trust in God’s providence.

Ultimately, Christian civic engagement is about embodying the values of the Kingdom of God in every sphere of life. While our choices may be imperfect, our responsibility is clear: to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). As we cast our votes, let us do so with a heart of prayer, a spirit of stewardship, and a firm reliance on the God who reigns over all.

Our engagement does not end at the ballot box.