October 16, 2025

The Great Commission PT2

Previously,  we started talking about The Great Commission, so what is it?

The Great Commission is the instruction of the resurrected Jesus Christ to his disciples to spread the gospel to all the nations of the world.

"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

Key Elements of the Great Commission:

It is given under the absolute authority of Jesus.

It calls believers to go out into the world.  The central mandate is to make disciples.  The mission is global, intended for people of all ethnic, cultural, and geographic backgrounds.  It involves baptizing new believers and teaching them to obey all of Christ's commands.

Jesus gives the promise of his continuous presence.

Similar commissions are also recorded in other parts of the New Testament, such as Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47, and Acts 1:8. It is considered a foundational directive for all believers, across time and place.

To explain further, when Jesus instructs his followers to teach new disciples "to observe all that I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20), he is referring to the entirety of his teaching and moral instruction given during his earthly ministry.

This encompasses far more than just a few isolated verses; it refers to the whole body of his ethical, theological, and practical commands, which are largely recorded in the four Gospels.

Here are the main categories of commands he is be referring to:

At the heart of all of Jesus's teaching are the two commandments he identified as the greatest, which summarize the entire Law and the Prophets:

Love God: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." (Matthew 22:37)

Love Your Neighbor: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:39)

Ethical and Moral Teachings

These include all the teachings that define the way a disciple is to live, especially those that contrast the outward obedience of the Old Law with the internal attitude of the Kingdom:

The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7): This is a primary source for his ethical commands, including the Beatitudes, instructions on prayer (like the Lord's Prayer), and teachings on attitudes like forgiveness, humility, honesty, and lust.

 Emphasis on Mercy and Justice: Commands to care for the poor, the sick, and those in need (Matthew 25:31-46).

Discipleship and Community Commands

These are commands related to the life and practice of the Christian community:

 The "New Commandment": "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." (John 13:34)

The fundamental starting point of his ministry: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17)

In essence, "all that I have commanded you" means to teach a new disciple the whole way of Christ—not just what to believe, but how to live a life in full obedience to his lordship, motivated by love for God and others.

Meditate and ask yourself, am I meeting the command of the Great Commission? Is my church fulfilling The Great Commission by making disciples, or just tiggling their ears?

Time is short.  LETS GO!

October 12, 2025

Saints

A 15-year-old Italian boy, Carlo Acutis, has been made the first millennial Catholic saint. Acutis, who died in 2006, was known for using the internet to spread the Catholic faith. His canonization is being celebrated by many as a way for the Catholic Church to connect with younger generations.

In my B/C days, when I unknowingly worshipped demons instead of the Supreme God of heaven and earth, I loved saints and their stories.

Can we take a moment to read the word of God and what it says about saints?   

1 Corinthians 1:2: "To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours."

Romans 1:7: "To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."

Philippians 1:1: "Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons."

Ephesians 1:1: "Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful in Christ Jesus."

Ephesians 4:12: "...for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."

Ephesians 5:3: "But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints."

Colossians 1:12: "...giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light."

In summary, the biblical understanding of a "saint" is a person who has been set apart by God and dedicated to Him through faith in Jesus Christ. This identity is given to every believer, and they are called to live a life that reflects this holy status.

In the Bible, the term "saint" (from the Greek word hagios) fundamentally means "holy one" or "set apart." It is a term used to refer to all believers in Jesus Christ, not just a select few who have been officially recognized by a church. The Bible teaches that all who have been sanctified (made holy) in Christ are considered saints.

So, if this young man Carlos Acuti was born again, and believed in Jesus as his Lord and Savior, he is indeed a saint!  He does not need to be canonized by any church.

This is an example of why we need to read our Bibles, and stand on the truth of God, so that we can understand the world around us!

My encouragement today is for you Saints of the Most High God to stay in the Word and be free from religious strongholds.  Go Read your Bible.

October 8, 2025

Spiritual warfare. Part-1

Below is a list of the most used Bible verses when discussing Spiritual Warfare.  In future Thoughts,  I will address each one.  But, for now let's address how we as believers know we are in the midst of the fight!

On a personal level, I don't know anyone whose family is not in the midst of a battle; health problems, psychological issues like depression, serious financial issues, and the list goes on.  While, since Eve ate of the apple (fruit), humanity has been carrying the cross of sin the weight of it seems heavier than ever.

As we take a more broader view, the world is a mess; wars and rumors of war; deception so deep you dont know what true and what's AI anymore; teachers raping children; parents torturing their kids.

My point is that if you haven't realized we are in a full blown spiritual war, you are truly not of this world.

Ephesians 6:10-12: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."

2 Corinthians 10:3-5: "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

1 Peter 5:8-9: "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings."

James 4:7: "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Luke 10:19: "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you."

Matthew 4:1-4: "Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, ‘If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.’ Jesus answered, ‘It is written: “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

1 John 4:4: "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."

Revelation 12:7-9: "Then war broke out in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back. But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven. The great dragon was hurled down—that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him."

These verses highlight the spiritual battle, the need for divine strength, and the authority believers have through God. 

Read these verses.  Reread them again and Fight Fight Fight.

John 16:33:  I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But, take heart I have overcome the world.

October 3, 2025

The Great Commission - Part 1

I want to reflect on what has been happening the last few weeks. More than a thought it's a rambling and a personal call to pray, to stand, to have courage.

"Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Charlie Kirk was assassinated.  I really don"t want to get into the facts and details as I am sure you have heard them already.  Personally, I found it interesting that if you reread my thoughts you will note that Charlie Kirk is the only person I have named.  I am sure this was prophetic in some way, but I missed it.

I never met Charlie Kirk, and didn't know anything about his personal life and didnt even know he had a podcast.  I did watch his videos and his preachings when he visited churches around the country.  And yet, the moment I found out he had been shot, I knew he would go to be with Jesus, and a terrible sense of mourning came over me.  I didn't cry that much when I lost my dad four years ago or when my mom passed two years ago.  I cried for three days non-stop.  I felt it was a spiritual mourning, it wasn't natural or normal for me.  I wasn't crying for Charlie because I know he is perfectly happy in the presence of Jesus. "We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." 2 Corinthians 5:8.

I think I was crying over the loss of such an impactful voice in this dark, confused world in need of truth.  You see, I didn't see Charlie as a conservative activist, I thought of Charlie as a Christian apologist, bringing truth and standing for the salvation of a generation of young people, and in so doing, our Nation.

Since that day, we have seen what I pray is an awakening and revival not only in the US, but around the world.  Bibles are being sold.  People are returning to church, many going for the first time.  My social media is full of young people proclaiming the Gospel.  Hallelujah. 

I am excited and overjoyed to see what the Lord is doing..  

"One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate."  Psalm 145:4-5

And yet, in the midst of all these wonderful things happening, the conspiracies, theories and lies try to take our attention away to drag us down a dark path, because that's what the enemy does.

"Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil." 2 Timothy 2:23-24.

Also, as Charlie Kirk's work continues I have noticed several of the new people involved are not born again Christian apologists but only conservatives joining a movement, not answering the call and command from Jesus to go onto the World and make disciples. Matthew 28:19

I ask you today, please get involved.  Fast and pray that as Charlie Kirk loved Jesus, so will all the people involved now in his ministry, that they will be radically saved, born again, and called to follow the Great commission.

September 29, 2025

Dry Spell

What to do during a dry spell, a season when we don't hear God's voice, when praying is hard, and reading the Word is even harder!?? 

Personally my dry spells come during hard times, when I should be crying out to the Lord.  I believe that is the opposite of what most people do.  Many believers come to the Lord during dark times when they realize, they have no control and need supernatural help. I have a type A personality and I am so focused on solving the problem in the natural that I have to force myself to surrender the situation to the Lord.  As I write this Thought it serves as a much needed reminder to myself!

What does the Word instruct us to do?

During spiritual or emotional dryness, the Bible encourages believers to persist in seeking God through prayer, even when it feels challenging. Psalm 42:1-2 says, “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” The psalmist expresses longing for God despite feeling distant.

Pour out your heart to God, even if you feel disconnected. Philippians 4:6-7 advises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Regular, honest prayer can restore peace and hope.  David often faced dry spells Psalm 13:1, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?”. Yet, he continued to cry out to God, trusting in His steadfast love

The Bible is described as a source of life and nourishment, even in barren times. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Engaging with scripture can renew faith and provide guidance.  Isaiah 55:11 assures that God’s word does not return void but accomplishes His purpose. Memorizing or meditating on verses about God’s faithfulness, Lamentations 3:22-23, “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases” can anchor you.

During Israel’s wilderness wandering Exodus 16-17, God provided manna and water to sustain them, showing that His Word and promises sustain His people in desolate times.

Dry spells often test faith, but the Bible calls believers to trust God’s faithfulness. Habakkuk 3:17-18 says, “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord.” This verse reflects trust despite barren circumstances.

Choose to trust that God is working, even when you can’t see it. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Dry spells may be a season of preparation or growth. 

Worship and gratitude can shift focus from dryness to God’s goodness. Psalm 34:1 says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Thanksgiving reorients the heart toward God’s presence.  Offer praise, even when it’s hard. Sing worship songs, recall God’s past faithfulness, or list things you’re thankful for. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.”

Paul and Silas, imprisoned and in a dark moment, sang hymns to God Acts 16:25, and God responded with deliverance, showing the power of worship in hardship.

Part 1 more coming soon.

Isolation can worsen a dry spell, but fellowship with other believers provides encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”   Stay connected to a church or small group, sharing your struggles with trusted believers.  Elijah felt alone and despairing during a low point 1 Kings 19:3-4, but God sent him to Elisha, 1 Kings 19:16-21, showing the importance of companionship in tough times.

Sometimes, spiritual dryness results from unconfessed sin or misplaced priorities. Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me.” Self-examination can reveal barriers to intimacy with God.   Confess and turn back to Him, as 1 John 1:9 promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  The Israelites’ disobedience led to spiritual dryness, but repentance brought renewal, 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Serving others can shift focus from personal struggles to God’s purposes. Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”

Acts of love can rekindle spiritual fire.

Jesus, in His own moments of trial, continued to serve others, such as washing the disciples’ feet John 13:1-5 and praying for them John 17, showing that service reflects God’s heart.

Dry spells often require waiting on God’s renewal. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.” Waiting is an active trust, not passive resignation. Rest in God’s timing, knowing He is present even in the silence. Reflect on Lamentations 3:25-26: “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”  The Israelites waited 40 years in the wilderness before entering the Promised Land Deuteronomy 8:2. God used this time to teach dependence on Him.

During a dry spell, trust God to bring renewal, as promised in Psalm 23:3, “He restores my soul.”  and look up, Maranatha.

September 22, 2025

Psalm 91

Psalm 91 is a profound declaration of God’s protection and faithfulness for those who trust and love Him. It uses vivid imagery to convey safety, victory, and divine companionship, offering hope in any circumstance. While it speaks of physical and spiritual protection, its ultimate message points to God’s eternal salvation for those who dwell in His presence:

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”

Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge;

his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

You will not fear the terror of night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.

A thousand may fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,

but it will not come near you.

You will only observe with your eyes

and see the punishment of the wicked.

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”

and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you,

no disaster will come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands,

so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.  You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;  I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.  He will call on me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him

and show him my salvation.”

Key Themes of Psalm 91:

Trust in God: The psalm repeatedly emphasizes trust and dwelling in God as the foundation for receiving His protection. This is an active choice to rely on Him.

Comprehensive Protection: God’s care covers all kinds of dangers—physical, spiritual, day or night—showing His all-encompassing power.

Relationship with God: The promises are tied to a relationship of love, trust, and acknowledgment of God’s name, highlighting the personal nature of faith.

Hope and Assurance: The psalm offers comfort in times of fear, assuring believers that God is both a shield and a companion through trials.

So next time you are faced with a problem or a difficult situation, stop, read Psalm 91, and feel God's presence, love and protection carrying you through the storm!