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Jesus continues to describe the Beatitudes: sayings about who is blessed and why, especially as it relates to the coming kingdom of heaven. Now Jesus declares those who are meek to be blessed because they will inherit the earth. The word meek does not mean "weak," though that's how many misinterpret it. The word is best understood as "gentleness," or a refusal to take control by brute force or manipulation. Meekness, from a Christian perspective, is about faith. It is about trusting God to win the battle in the end instead of going to extremes to win the battle on our own terms. The concept is often referred to as "strength under control," rather than "strength seeking control."

This is exactly backwards from the world's common understanding. Most believe the world to be controlled by those strong and ambitious enough to take what they want. The world belongs to the rich, the dominant, and the bold. Jesus flips that around. He declares that the true inheritors of the earth are the meek.

Once again, Jesus' meaning here is in connection to those who have faith in Him. If we belong to the Lord, and if the Lord becomes king of the earth, as the Messiah will, then all those who are His will inherit the earth with Him. "Meekness" is not a requirement for becoming a true Christian, but meekness is something which naturally comes from having a saving knowledge of Christ.

It should be said that true meekness takes courage; we must fight with ourselves to trust God's plan and His character. It's hard to be humble and patient when we cannot fully understand how good will win in the end.

Meekness Isn’t Weakness

Everything around us—the world, the culture, the people—tends to applaud power and strength, independence and intelligence, boldness and superiority.

But in the third beatitude, a series of promises Jesus made about God’s Kingdom, Jesus highlighted something different, saying: 

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5 ESV

The English word "meek" comes from the Greek word "praeis." It means gentle, humble, or submissive; modest, mild, or unpretentious. In fact, when Paul describes the “fruits of the Spirit” (traits developed in His people by His Spirit), the words "meekness" and "gentleness" are often used interchangeably. 

But, let’s be clear: If such descriptions paint a frail and feeble picture in your mind, you can be certain that meekness isn’t weakness.

Meekness is strength under control. It's power submitted to God’s authority.

Now, if “meek” isn’t a word that you’d use to currently describe yourself, that’s okay. Jesus wasn’t speaking to those who had it all together—and He isn’t expecting a perfect version of us, either. Instead, He’s extending a blessing on who His people were (and are) becoming. 

God is continually developing these beatitude traits inside of His followers. He's refining, sanctifying, and transforming us to be more and more like Him.

In Scripture, Jesus Himself is called “meek.” But as you probably know, He was far from passive, apathetic, or a pushover. Instead of relying on His own power—like summoning legions of angels to avoid hanging on that cross—He leaned into God’s strength and restrained His limitless power.

Jesus’ upside-down kingdom will be packed with those who harness their strength for God’s glory and who humble themselves at His feet.

Let's Pray: God, thank You for welcoming me into Your kingdom. Thank You for accepting me, even though I don't have it all together. Your power is sufficient for my needs, so help me lean on Your strength today. Please help me walk gently and humbly with those around me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

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At the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is teaching a series of statements often referred to as the Beatitudes. Each starts with the words "blessed are." Blessing, in this sense, refers to a declaration of what is good and why. It does not mean that the blessed person will feel happy, necessarily.

The difference between happiness and being "blessed" is especially obvious in this verse. This beatitude states that those who mourn are blessed. Those who mourn, by definition, are not happy. Jesus wants His followers to understand that those who experience mourning are not hopeless.

Within the context of Jesus' teaching about the coming kingdom of heaven, those who mourn may do so because of their own sin or because of the sin of Israel. The Jewish people experience a state of mourning under the harsh oppression and occupation of Rome. Those faithful to God and Scripture understood this to be a result of Israel's sin and unfaithfulness, since God had promised to prosper them when they were faithful and to judge them when they were not.

Both John the Baptist and Jesus preached that Israel must repent. Repentance involves sadness as we recognize and confess our sinful selfishness. Those who mourn while repenting of their sin are blessed, however, because the kingdom of heaven will come; they will be rescued. The season of judgment will end.

Not all commentators agree that Jesus is referring only to mourning that comes with repentance from sin. Much sadness in life, of course, is not the result of sin. It comes from living on a planet ruled by death. Of all who mourn, those in Christ are blessed because they will be comforted by God in the here and now (2 Corinthians 1:3–7) and free from mourning for eternity (Revelation 21:4).

The Other Side of Grief

Can anything good come from grief? From mourning a deep loss? From weeping over a profound heartache? Even from grappling with your own sin?

While grief is an unavoidable part of life, no one likes to grieve. But in the second beatitude—a series of promises Jesus made about God’s Kingdom—Jesus said this:

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 ESV

No one can appreciate rain more than someone who’s lived in the desert. No one can value food more than someone who’s truly been starving. And no one can know God as their Comforter like someone who’s desperately needed comfort.

Unfortunately, death, decay, and disappointment are a part of this world. But even in our sorrow, suffering, and shortcomings, God stands ready to comfort us—in unique and meaningful ways that only He can.

The Holy Spirit is often called the “Comforter,” as well as “Helper,” “Counselor,” or “Advocate.” But regardless of what He’s called, it’s always who He is. Even in our grief, He’s always a God who has our best in mind.

And so, how does God comfort us? He does this through His Spirit, through His Word, and by working in and through His people. 

Do you have the eyes to see how He’s pursuing you? Have you opened your heart to His comfort?

If you are a follower of Christ who is mourning today, remember: Jesus Himself promised that you will be comforted. He’s always good, He’s always faithful, and He’s right here—ready to help.

Let's Pray: God, You see those who mourn, and You promise to comfort them. Please bring healing to our hearts when we grieve. Give hope to those feeling hopeless, and strength to anyone feeling overwhelmed. Show us how close You are in the midst of our mourning. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Jesus began his sermon with words that seem to contradict each other. But God’s way of living usually contradicts the world’s. Jesus’ life certainly contradicted the status quo and normal way of living in the first century. If you want to live for God, you must be ready to say and do what seems strange to the world, what other people may not understand or accept. You must be willing to give when others take, to love when others hate, to help when others abuse. By setting aside your own rights in order to serve others, you will one day receive everything God has in store for you.

Hope for the Poor in Spirit

Jesus began His famous Sermon on the Mount with an upside-down perspective and eight counter-cultural blessings—commonly known as the beatitudes. 

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”Matthew 5:3 ESV

To be physically poor is to lack resources or material possessions. The word "poor" might trigger a mental image of someone who can’t pay their bills, can’t break free from the cycle of poverty, or can’t afford food, clothing, or shelter.

So what does it mean to be spiritually poor, and why does Jesus think that’s a good thing? 

Those who realize their own spiritual poverty know that, without God, they are spiritually bankrupt. Those who are poor in spirit understand the desperation of their situation—that they can have nothing, do nothing, and be nothing without Him. Those who are poor in spirit recognize that it’s humility, not pride or self-reliance, that’s a common characteristic in the kingdom of heaven.

Those who are poor in spirit know that they can’t, but they trust that God can.

If we’re honest, most of us would prefer to be rich, comfortable, and self-dependent. We would rather lack nothing. But even if we happen to be financially stable or wealthy, we cannot save our own souls.

We were created to need God.

So if you’re feeling weak, weary, or worn out, it’s okay. If you feel like you have nothing to offer, Jesus actually says that you are blessed. 

When you have a need, He can meet it. When you’re not enough, He already is. And when you feel poor in spirit, you are in the perfect position to be saved and filled by God.

Let's Pray: God, help me. Here I am—I need You. I have nothing without You. You are the giver of every good and perfect gift, and You are all I need. Please restore my hope and joy, and draw me closer to You. Make me aware of how You are at work in my life, and teach me how to rejoice in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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We often worry about position and status, hoping to get proper recognition for what we do. But Peter advises us to remember that God’s recognition counts more than human praise. God is able and willing to bless us according to his timing. Humbly obey God regardless of your present circumstances, and in his good time—either in this life or in the next—he will honor you.

True Humility

When you think of humility, what comes to mind? 

In our world, humility is often seen as a self-degrading concept that reveals our insecurities and keeps us from becoming our best selves. But true humility never leads to insecurity, because insecurity is a form of pride.

Pride either puffs us up or tears us down. Pride is self-sufficient, but also self-destructive. If we’re doing great, pride makes our confidence soar. But if we’re going through a rough season, pride makes us sensitive to our failures. Pride links our worth to our accomplishments and prevents us from seeing who we truly are. 

Pride makes us think that if we try hard enough we can be good enough. Humility helps us realize that we are not enough—but God is enough for us. 

Humility will often ask us to risk something. It might mean laying down our social standing, our reputation, our financial security, our sense of authority, or our expertise. 

But surrendering our self-sufficiency lets us embrace God’s authority. God did miracles through Moses, established David as king of Israel, worked through Isaiah in the midst of chaos, publicly honored Mary, abundantly provided for Peter, and glorified Jesus by raising Him from the dead. 

When we surrender ourselves to God, we allow Him to be glorified through us. Humility might cost us something—but it leads to abundant life. 

So today, how can you humble yourself before God? Take a few moments and process what you need to lay down in order to draw closer to God within the upcoming weeks.

Let's Pray: God, I need You. I can’t pretend that I have my life together, because I don’t. You alone are able to help and sustain me. You alone are able to give me the strength I need to get through each day. Today, please show me that You are in control—and that You are enough for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Memories of God’s miracles and faithfulness sustained the people of Israel through their difficulties. Often they recalled and recited them as part of worship and special ceremonies. They knew that God was capable and trustworthy. What has God done in your life, your church, or among your friends? When you meet new trials, review how good God has been to you in the past, and this will strengthen your faith now.

Remembering God

Have you ever been awestruck by a sunset? Or left speechless by the meticulous details of the living cell, the human eye, the mysterious ocean, or the vast universe? How often do you think about what God has made, or the ways that He has worked?

The psalmist Asaph, wrote:

“I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds. Your way, O God, is holy, What god is great like our God?" Psalm 77:12-13 ESV

One of the best things we can do is remember God—how He gives good gifts, writes the best stories, and is constantly making beauty from ashes. He created us, pursued us, and even gave His own life for us.

But remembering God takes intentionality. 

Remembering God doesn't happen on accident, which is why we have to intentionally commit to reflecting on Him each day. Purposefully remembering God’s bigness helps us recognize our smallness. Deliberately recalling His goodness helps us understand our deep need for Him. 

Pondering God’s work and meditating on His deeds compels us to worship.

That’s why Asaph also said, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” Psalm 77:11 ESV

When we remember what God has done, we will want to celebrate who He is.

So think about it: How have you seen God’s handiwork in nature? How have you seen His faithfulness in history? Where have you seen His fingerprints over the course of your life?

Take some time today, and remember God.

Let's Pray: God, thank You for showing Yourself faithful and true. You always keep Your promises. So today, I will remember all that You’ve done and praise You for who You are. You are faithful, You are trustworthy, and You still continue to do wonderful things. There is no one like You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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We often feel that life is a failure unless we’re getting a lot out of it—recognition, fun, money, success. But Paul considered life worth nothing unless he used it to accomplish the work God had assigned to him. That is what he wanted to be known for. What is your identity built upon? Who are you in God’s eyes? Humbly ask him to show you how he sees you.

The Mission of God

All of our lives are spent on something. Most people spend their days focused on growing a family, building their career, or amassing possessions.

While none of those things are necessarily wrong, they can become distractions from our ultimate goal in life.

In the book of Acts, we see Paul’s transformation in Christ. As a result of meeting Jesus and being changed by His grace, Paul spends the rest of his life preaching the good news of Jesus.

For Paul, God’s grace and salvation are so great that nothing on this earth is as important as God’s work.

Paul says that nothing in His life matters as much as telling others about God’s grace. His goal in life was to finish his own race well by faithfully accomplishing as much of the mission of God as possible:

"But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:24 NKJV

The mission of God is not opposed to growing families or building careers. In fact, God desires for us to use those opportunities to faithfully accomplish the mission of God. We can raise families in the way of God, and we can tell our coworkers about God’s grace. Any place we find ourselves can be an opportunity to accomplish the mission of God.

Take a moment to consider your own life and where you spend your time. Are you using every opportunity you have to spread the good news of Jesus? Does your life, like Paul’s, point toward God?

Consider a few ways that you can begin to change your perspective and live your life on mission for God.

Let's Pray: God, I want my life to testify to Your goodness and grace. Refocus my heart on You. Help me pursue You first, above all else. Nothing in life matters more than bringing glory to You. Show me who I need to share You with and give me boldness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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After taunting death for its coming defeat in verse 55, Paul declared the "sting" or source of death to be sin and the power of sin to be the law. The law does not create sin, but it does reveal that every human being is sinful. Each of us disobeys the commands of God. The result of sin is always death, and not just physical death. Sin is responsible for the death that separates us from God forever.

Paul jumps in, much as he does in the book of Romans (Romans 7:24–25) to say this is not the end of the story. He declares his thanks to God, who gives human beings victory over death through Jesus. That is, God forgives the sin of all who trust in Christ's death, offered in their place on the cross, those who believe in His resurrection from the dead as the first defeat of death (John 3:16–18; Romans 10:9–10).

Our inescapable sin-debt meant unavoidable death and eternal separation from God. Christ's sinless life and substitutionary death made our sin escapable through faith in Him and by God's grace (2 Corinthians 5:21). That changes the meaning of physical death in this life for the born-again Christian. Instead of death being the beginning of an eternity apart from the Father (John 3:36; Revelation 20:15), it is just another step before our resurrection as glorified beings who will spend eternity with the Father (1 John 3:2; 1 Corinthians 15:51–55). Thanks be to God, indeed!

A Powerful Statement

Have you ever watched someone’s poor decisions—even your own—wreak havoc? Have you ever known the heart-wrenching sting of death? Have you ever paused long enough to notice …

This world is beautiful, but also brutal.

It is full of life, but also loss.

The apostle Paul once wrote a letter to the believers in Corinth, Greece, reminding them that it’s because of sin (falling short of God’s standards) that death has ravished the world. But Paul didn’t stop at death and decay. He went on to say:

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 NKJV

To say we can have victory over sin and death—two of our greatest enemies? That’s a powerful statement. It almost sounds too good to be true … except it’s not.

The foundation of Christianity is not only that Jesus died for the sins of the world, but that He was raised to life for the sake of the world. Because of Jesus, death won’t get the final say. Because of Jesus, this isn’t the actual end. Because of Jesus, victory has already been granted to those who trust in Him!

People in Corinth were preaching that there was no life after death—no resurrection from the dead. Yet Paul had the courage to refute their lies with truth.

In the same chapter, Paul points out that everything about the Christian faith hinges on Jesus’ resurrection. If Christ had not been raised, faith is useless and there is no hope. But because Jesus had been raised from the dead, and hundreds of people witnessed His post-resurrected self, everything was different.

Scripture tells us that Jesus is the first of many who will be raised to life again. Imagine the future reunion with other believers! Can you fathom swapping stories with the disciples and other heroes of our faith?

Jesus has already conquered death. And, at the appointed time, death will die forever and every tear will be wiped away. For those of us who believe in Him, there is so much more to come. 

Today, we can live from a place of victory!

Let's Pray: God, today, help me to remember that I can live from a place of victory because You have given me victory over all things—through Jesus. You have given me victory over my past mistakes and current difficulties. You fight for me, and with me. So when I come up against trouble of any kind, help me to remember that You are enough for me—I can trust in You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Jesus experienced great agony as he prepared to face death (Luke 22:41-44). Although he cried out to God, asking to be delivered, he was prepared to suffer humiliation, separation from his Father, and death in order to do God’s will. At times we will undergo trials, not because we want to suffer, but because we want to submit to God’s will. Let Jesus’ example of obedience sustain and encourage you in times of trial. You will be able to face anything if you know that Jesus Christ stands with you.

He's Been There

In the book of Hebrews, the writer paints a vivid portrait of Jesus' humanity:

“In the days of His flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to Him who was able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His reverence” (Hebrews 5:7 ESV). 

“In the days of His flesh …”

Picture it: Jesus, fully God and fully human in the flesh, intimately connected with human emotion and experience.

Jesus wasn’t a distant deity untouched by the struggles of human existence while on earth. He lived it. He experienced the deepest joys and sorrows of life.

Maybe today, you find yourself in the depths of sadness or in the middle of a difficult trial. Remember, Jesus has been there, too. The writer of Hebrews wrote this to remind you that Christ wept then the same as you do today and to remind you that you are not alone in your pain, sorrow, and suffering.

Your Savior, who walked the same path you do, yet without sin and with great hope, stands ready to carry your burdens.

So today, what if you allow God to hear your raw emotions, doubts, and fears that you’ve been carrying? What if you bring it all to Him? What if, like Jesus, you trust God to save your soul and tell others how to find salvation?

Let's Pray: God, thank You for being a relatable God. You can bear my pain and understand my emotions. You know what’s on my heart. Hear my request as I specifically lift up ________. Help me trust Your plan. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Many think that when God comforts us, our troubles should go away. But if that were always so, people would turn to God only out of a desire to be relieved of pain and not out of love for him. We must understand that being comforted can also mean receiving strength, encouragement, and hope from God and others to deal with our troubles. The more we suffer for the cause of Christ, the more comfort God gives us. If you are feeling overwhelmed by ridicule, rejection, or abuse for following Christ, allow God to comfort you. Remember that every trial you endure will help you comfort other people who are suffering from similar troubles.

Our Source of Comfort

When you find yourself in pain, it’s natural to seek comfort. Everyone wants the agony of injury, illness, or heartbreak to disappear as quickly as possible.

If you touch a hot stove, you might grab ice for your burn. If you get caught in a rainstorm, you might immediately look for shelter. If you experience the loss of someone you love, you might do whatever you can to distract yourself from grief. 

We can also seek things like food, shopping, work, drugs, alcohol, technology, or entertainment as mind-numbing agents to attempt to ease our suffering.

But only one God can truly bring us comfort:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV

When Paul and Timothy use the word “comfort,” they’re describing a God who comforts, consoles, encourages, helps, strengthens, instructs, and refreshes. That’s the God He was to Paul and Timothy, and that’s the God He is today.

No matter how bad things get, God can comfort you in a way that no one else can. You can lean on Him.

And because God’s Spirit is within His people, His people can also comfort others. He works in them and through them to offer a hope that’s beyond any present or future pain.

Are you hurting physically, mentally, or emotionally? There’s a God who cares. There are people who want to help. So cry out to the source of all comfort. You can trust Him with your pain.

Let's Pray: God, You are my comforter. You offer me mercy and bring me back into a relationship with You. Please help me to be a comforter to others, too. Give me the strength to offer mercy as You have done for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Timothy was a young pastor. It would have been easy for older Christians to look down on him because of his youth. He had to earn the respect of his elders by setting an example in his speech, life, love, faith, and purity. Regardless of your age, God can use you. Whether you are young or old, don’t think of your age as a handicap. Live so others can see Christ in you.

Be the Example

Have you ever felt too young—or too old—to do something important? Too small for a big job? Too inexperienced to contribute something meaningful? Too underqualified to make a real difference?

In the book of 1 Timothy, which is a God-inspired letter from Paul to his “son in the faith,” Timothy, Paul equips and encourages Timothy in things like doctrine, leadership, and living out the ways of God. He writes: 

“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV

If you’ve ever felt too young, remember that God has purposefully put you here, at this specific time in history. He wants to use your passion, drive, vision, energy, and ideas to magnify His glory. You see things from a unique vantage point, and that's a great thing.

If you’ve ever felt too old, remember that God has purposefully put you here, at this specific time in history. He wants to use your learned wisdom, grit, leadership, discernment, and life experience to point others to Him. You see things from a unique vantage point, and that's a great thing.

You are never too young or too old to be used by God.

No matter your age, God has empowered you to love Him and to love others, and to live a life that points people to Him. How can you do that? You can set an example—in the way you talk, in the way you act, in the way you love, in the way you live out your faith, and in your purity.

You can be the example.

You can represent Him.

Let's Pray: God, use me to be an example for You. I want to amplify Your glory wherever I go. Thank You for choosing me, no matter my age or ability. I am not too broken or messed up for You to use me. Empower me as I seek to love, lead, and live like You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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God works in everything—not just isolated incidents—for our good. This does not mean that all that happens to us will be pleasant, and we do not have to call pain good. Even though evil pervades our fallen world, God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long-range benefit. Note that God does not work only to make us happy but to fulfill his purposes. Note also that this promise is not for everybody. It can be claimed only by those who love God and are called by him—that is, those the Holy Spirit convinces and enables to receive Christ. Such people have a new perspective, a new mind-set. They trust in God, not in life’s treasures; they find their security in heavenly priorities, not earthly ones. Their faith in God does not waver in pain and persecution because they know God is with them.

He Makes it Work

Have your plans ever been derailed? Have your dreams experienced a detour? Has your life taken an unforeseen turn?

It’s been said that God works in mysterious ways, which is absolutely true. How His sovereignty (His supreme power and authority) interplays with human choices is equally laced with mystery.

In his letter to the Romans, Paul acknowledges the unexpected hardships, suffering, and corruption the believers in Rome were dealing with at that time. But he also encourages them with these words:

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NKJV

Maybe you lost a loved one.

Maybe someone you respect disappointed you. 

Maybe someone in your family received a hard diagnosis. 

Maybe your job title shifted, which has shaken your identity.

Maybe reality doesn't match what you see on social media.

Maybe you made a decision you regret.

Maybe you’ve found yourself questioning God.

Maybe someone you love walked away.

Maybe you put your whole heart into something or someone, but it didn’t go how you hoped.

Though it might feel hard to believe, God can use it all.

The good and the bad.

The polished and the messy.

The planned and the unsettled.

The clear and the misunderstood.

The encouraging and the hurtful.

God can work everything together—for your good and His glory.

This doesn't mean that everything will BE good, or that everything will work out the way we want or expect. After all, we live in a broken, messy world. But—we can rest in the confident assurance that the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives, interceding, advocating, celebrating, and grieving with us. And one day, we will see the complete picture He is painting in our lives. Nothing we go through will be wasted.

And how does He do it? That’s where we have to lean into the mystery, because we cannot fully comprehend an infinite God.

If you think back on your own life, there were probably things that didn’t make sense and maybe even seemed impossible, but now you see how God somehow worked everything out.

God can use it all—including the things you can’t comprehend—in ways you cannot begin to fathom. Even when you can’t see Him at work in your life. Even when hope seems lost. Even when things don’t seem to be going your way. Even long after you’re gone.

In everything, you can trust in Him.

Let's Pray: God, here I am. I need You. I want You. I am weary, and I need Your rest. I know that You are good, but right now, what I’m experiencing isn’t good. Please help me. Grieve with me, and remind me that You are near. Even though what I’m experiencing isn’t good—please redeem every part of my life for my good and Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Fear of people can hamper everything we try to do. In extreme forms, it can make us afraid to leave home. By contrast, fear of God—respect, reverence, and trust in him—is liberating. Why fear people who can do no eternal harm? Instead, fear and trust God, who can turn the harm intended by others into good (see Genesis 50:20, Joseph’s response to his brothers; Matthew 10:28, Jesus' teaching on the fear of God).

What Does It Mean To Fear God?

The Bible tells us often to "fear" God; that means more than simply to reverence Him, but it does not imply terror or panic. The fear of God is a virtue, and it leads to truth (Proverbs 1:7; 8:32–36; 15:33). However, the Hebrew root word used here in relation to fearing man refers specifically to physical "trembling" which comes through fright or despair (Genesis 27:33; Judges 7:3). Being afraid of people, or giving men the respect and obedience we owe God, leads to deceit, entanglements, and ruin (Proverbs 1:32–33; 29:5). Instead, we should remember that man's power is nothing compared to that of the Lord (Psalm 56:11).

Having more terror about other people than trust in God traps us in various ways. Fearing men, Abraham lied—twice—about his relationship with Sarah (Genesis 12:11–13; 20:2, 11). Peter famously lied and denied Jesus out of fear of being captured (Matthew 26:69–75). Countless Israeli soldiers were more afraid of Goliath than they were reliant on God, until a young shepherd stepped forward (1 Samuel 17:10–11, 45–49). Israel resisted God's call to conquer the Promised Land because they were afraid of its inhabitants (Numbers 13:31–33). Jesus' critics feared popular backlash, so they were afraid to give honest answers (Mark 11:32). Many of the Jewish leaders believed Jesus but were afraid of the Pharisees putting them out of the synagogue, meaning they would lose their social standing, so they did not express their beliefs (John 12:42–43).

Jesus instructed His disciples: "Do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell" (Matthew 10:28). Paul writes to Timothy: "God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control" (2 Timothy 1:7). Hebrews 13:5 reminds us that the Lord will never leave us or forsake us. Verse 6 concludes, "So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'"

Let's Pray: God, I am not always sure what the future will bring. But I know that You have a plan and purpose for my life. Thank You for guiding and protecting me. As I continue to follow You, I will not be afraid—instead, I will trust in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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If you look back to Colossians 1:12-14 Paul lists five benefits God gives all believers through Christ: (1) He has enabled us to share in his inheritance (also see 2 Corinthians 5:21); (2) he has rescued us from Satan’s kingdom of darkness and made us his children (also see Colossians 2:15); (3) he has brought us into his eternal Kingdom (also see Ephesians 1:5-6); (4) he has purchased our freedom from sin and judgment with his blood (also see Hebrews 9:12); and (5) he has forgiven all our sins (also see Ephesians 1:7). Thank God for what you have received in Christ.

In 1:13 Darkness stands for evil, the dominion of Satan, and all those who reject God. Jesus commissioned Paul to go to the Gentiles and show them the light (Acts 26:17-18). The Colossians feared the unseen forces of darkness, but Paul says that true believers have been transferred from darkness to light, from slavery to freedom, from guilt to forgiveness, and from the power of Satan to the power of God. We have been rescued from a rebel kingdom to serve the rightful King. With our new allegiance, we can live freely in God’s light, not in the dark. When you are afraid, ask God to fill all your darkness with his light.

Between Two Kingdoms

Did you know we are living between two kingdoms?

The kingdom of God is anywhere God has rule and reign over His people. Prior to having a relationship with Jesus, all of us lived within the darkness, or as Colossians 1:13 says, “the dominion of darkness.” We all were captive to our previous way of life—a life marked by wrongdoing.

When Jesus came to earth, He brought a new kingdom which included a new way of life. This means that rather than being held captive to darkness, we can walk in the light. We are made new by the power of Jesus within our lives. Paul says that this new reality comes through believing in Jesus and the forgiveness of sins.

Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, He has opened up a way for us to have a relationship with Him, and experience this new life. Having been forgiven, we are now part of the kingdom of God—and this is something Colossians 1:13 confirms. But even though we are part of Jesus’ kingdom, we are still awaiting Jesus’ return when He will make all things new. This means we are living between two kingdoms: We are made new in the kingdom of God, and yet we are still living in an imperfect world.

In the meantime, our job is to expand the kingdom of God by telling others about Jesus. This is the mission that Jesus gave to His disciples in Matthew 28:18-20. As we tell others about the love of Jesus and point others toward a relationship with Jesus, we bring more people into the kingdom of Jesus and away from the kingdom of this world. 

As members of God’s kingdom, we should always be thinking about the ways God wants to work within us. Have you considered your own role within God’s plan to bring the message of hope to those around you? You play an important role in God’s Kingdom. Think about how you can be bold in sharing that message with others.

Let's Pray: God, thank You for rescuing me from darkness and evil. I am so grateful You have made me a citizen of Your kingdom. Help me to remember the freedom I have with You when I face hard situations. I believe You have the ability to change circumstances for the better. Through every challenge I face, I ask that You will free me from worry and fear and bring me Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Like a shot given by a medical professional, the discomfort of God’s anger lasts only a moment, but the good effects go on for a long time. Let God’s anger be a sharp pain that warns you to turn from sin.

When Grief Comes, Is God Still Good?

By Anne Wilson

Weeping may endure for a night,

But joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5 NKJV

Some say grief is horror at loss…at not being able to touch them, laugh with them, or make new memories with them. Others may say it is soul-crushing…excruciating…and it makes eternity feel instantaneously close… yet so far away. For me, it is all of this on top of the what-ifs and what-could-have-beens rolled into one.

In the "Seventh of June" song, I wanted to be transparent about the process of grief…how it comes in waves and on anniversaries…how it spills out in tears. We are all in the trenches at times - “praying and trying to make sense of what don’t make sense in this life.” We are all put on notice, waiting for the impossible moment that we never want to face. But we all face loss. We are not getting off of this earth without it.

Grieving people ask themselves: Did they know how much I loved them? What should I have done differently? It can be heavy and full of despair, yet empty of adding up to make sense. How could this have happened? Why did this happen? And the ones no one likes to talk about: Is God still good? And where is God in the midst of our grief?

Jesus says in the Sermon on the Mount: Blessed are the broken-hearted for they shall be comforted…but ask a new mother holding her stillborn baby if she feels blessed. Ask anyone at the edge of a hospice bed if they feel blessed.

I have learned that the blessing is having Jesus to weep with you. To hold you. To give you supernatural peace that only He can give. At my lowest times and my darkest days, the Prince of Peace is there to encourage me and to catch my tears. I want to remind you that He is good and promises us that weeping endures for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

Here are some questions to ponder as you process your grief with the Lord:

Is God responsible for our loss?

There must be a reason we have a period on earth to experience truth, beauty, and goodness but also deception, ugliness, and evil. What could God’s purposes be?

Let's Pray: God, even though I am faced with some darkness, I hold tight to Your promises. You are true to Your Word. And Your Word says that You will turn my tears into joy. I trust in You, God, and in Your timing. I may not see the light yet, but I hope in what's to come. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Paul uses military terminology to describe this warfare against sin and Satan. God must be the commander in chief—even our thoughts must be submitted to his control if we want to survive the spiritual warfare all around us. Spirit-empowered believers must capture every thought and yield it to Christ. When exposed to ideas or opportunities that might lead to wrong desires or harmful beliefs, we have a choice: We can recognize the danger and turn away, or we can allow unhealthy thoughts to take us captive. We capture our fantasies and desires when we honestly admit them to the Lord and ask him to redirect our thinking. Ask God to give you the discernment to keep your thoughts focused on his truth.

Hold On to What’s True

Reading Scripture is vital to our intimacy with God. God’s Word is our weapon. It’s alive, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). And when we hide Scripture in our heart, it helps us battle with the forces of evil. We have an enemy, and the last thing he wants us to do is trust God and His Word. 

Our spiritual enemy wants to keep us in a place of doubt and insecurity. But when we know who we are, we can confidently demolish every lie that distracts us. Just like Jesus did, we can use Scripture to remind ourselves of the truth and fight back against the devil’s schemes. 

Think through some of the lies you’ve believed. Maybe it's "I'm a failure, I'll never do anything right," or "God doesn't care about me, it's why these bad things happen." It’s easier to entertain lies when we allow them to become a part of us.

But once you recognize the lies you’ve internalized, you’re halfway to victory. God gave us His Word so that we could know the truth, and it’s His truth that sets us free.

Let's Pray: God, You know everything about me. You know what I’m going to say before I speak it. You know all of my thoughts, desires, and intentions. All that I am, I give to You. Please remove any idea, behavior, or lie that will keep me from becoming the person You created me to be. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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The New Heaven and Jerusalem

Have you ever wondered what eternity will be like? The “holy city, the new Jerusalem” (21:2) will be the place where God will “wipe every tear from their eyes.” Forevermore, there will be no death, sorrow, crying, or pain. What a wonderful truth! No matter what you are going through now, it’s not the last word—God has written the final chapter, and it is about true fulfillment and eternal joy for those who love him. We do not know as much as we would like, but we know enough to believe that eternity with God will be more wonderful than we could ever imagine.

Mature Christians know life brings tribulation and trouble as well as blessings and comfort. Pain and sorrow are inevitable in this life. Even Job, a righteous man in God's sight, experienced personal pain and sorrow. Nevertheless, he retained faith in the Lord and the assurance that he would ultimately be resurrected and would see his Redeemer on the earth (Job 19:25–27). Christians, too, look beyond suffering and sorrow to the eternal day, when "what is mortal may be swallowed up by life" (2 Corinthians 5:4).

Noticeably absent from the New Jerusalem are tears, death, mourning, crying and pain (Revelation 21:4). Pain, sorrow, mourning, the passing of friends and loved ones, and dying are all harsh realities of this life, but they will be over once and for all when we take up residence in the New Jerusalem. No wonder the apostle Paul regarded his death as gain (Philippians 1:21).

Revelation 20 described the total and complete defeat of all sin and evil. This verse describes the reality which comes about when God has enacted His judgment. All wrongs are made right, all sin is separated, and all suffering of all kinds are gone.

Let's Pray: Father God, thank You for deeply caring about who I am. I’m so grateful that one day, You will take away all the pain and hardship I’ve experienced. But until that day comes, I will trust You and cling to You. I will place my hope in You. I will bring You my pain, and allow You to comfort me. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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In Luke 18:11-14 The Pharisee went to the Temple not to pray to God but to announce to all within earshot how good he was. The tax collector went recognizing his sin and begging for mercy. Self-righteousness is dangerous. It leads to pride, causes a person to despise others, and prevents that person from learning anything from God. The tax collector’s prayer should be our prayer because we all need God’s mercy every day. Don’t let pride in your achievements cut you off from God.

The Upside-Down Way

In Luke 18, Jesus tells a parable about two men who go to the temple to pray. One is a Pharisee, proud of his religious achievements, listing them off as proof of his righteousness. The other is a tax collector, a man despised by society, who simply beats his chest and cries out, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”

Jesus shocks His listeners by saying that it’s the tax collector—not the Pharisee—who goes home justified before God. Why? Because God doesn’t measure righteousness by outward actions alone, but by the posture of our hearts.

Pride tells us we can earn our way to God. Humility recognizes that we can’t. The Pharisee was focused on himself—his good works, his superiority over others—while the tax collector was focused on God’s mercy.

Jesus reminds us in today’s verse that “all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” The Kingdom of God turns human expectations upside down. Those who rely on their own goodness will miss it. Those who recognize their need for grace will find it.

True righteousness begins with humility—acknowledging our dependence on God. When we approach Him with a heart like the tax collector’s, we don’t just find mercy—we find true exaltation in His presence.

Let's Pray: Father, I come before You with a humble heart, knowing that I need Your grace. Keep me from pride, from thinking I can earn Your love. Help me to trust in Your mercy and rest in Your righteousness. Thank You for exalting the humble and drawing near to the lowly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.