Tag: love

Walking Worthy

Carl Pollard

In Ephesians 4:2, the Apostle Paul urges Christians: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” This verse comes as Paul transitions from the profound doctrines of God’s grace in chapters 1–3 to practical living. Having been called into one body through Christ’s redemptive work (Ephesians 4:1), we are to “walk worthy” of that calling. These four virtues, humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearance in love, form the foundation for preserving “the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

Humility means having a low estimation of oneself, not out of self-loathing, but from recognizing our utter dependence on God’s grace. It is the opposite of pride, which destroys relationships. Jesus exemplified this perfectly, saying, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matt. 11:29). Philippians 2:5–8 calls us to have the same mindset as Christ, who emptied Himself and took the form of a servant. Without humility, we cannot serve one another or maintain unity.

Gentleness, often translated as meekness, is strength under control. Aristotle described it as the balance between excessive anger and passivity. It is not weakness but controlled power, as seen in Jesus driving out the money changers yet never sinning in anger. Galatians 5:23 lists gentleness as fruit of the Spirit. In a divided church, gentleness defuses conflict and reflects Christ’s character.

Patience. or longsuffering, means being “slow to anger.” It mirrors God’s character: “The Lord is… patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). Love “is patient” (1 Corinthians 13:4). In relationships, patience endures irritations without retaliation, remembering how much God has patiently borne with us.

Finally, we are to “bear with one another in love.” This means making allowances for others’ faults, forgiving as God forgave us (Colossians 3:13). Agape love motivates this forbearance, seeking others’ good even when it costs us.

These virtues are not optional suggestions but commands for every follower of Christ. In a world defined by division, pride, and impatience, the church must shine as a countercultural community. Imagine families, workplaces, and congregations transformed by this grace. But we cannot manufacture these traits in our strength; they flow from the Spirit as we abide in Christ (Galatians 5:22–23).

So, examine your heart: Where do pride or impatience hinder unity? Repent and yield to God. Walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love, for in doing so, you glorify the One who first loved us and display the beauty of His calling to a watching world!

A Dangerous Lie We All Believe

Neal Pollard

We tell it in different ways. It may be, “Nobody is as bad, broken, or beaten as I am.” Or, “nobody understands what it’s like.” Or, “if anyone knew the ‘real’ me, they wouldn’t want anything to do with me.” Really, there are an infinite combination of ways we say it, but all of them boil down to some equivalent of “I am beyond the reach of God’s acceptance.”

Why is this lie so dangerous? It actually keeps us away from Him and His blessings. Our belief in our unworthiness is so deep that we keep ourselves from trying to get close to Him. Our guilt drives us to darkness, isolation, and despair. In this state, we actually feed sinfulness and encase ourselves in lethal isolation. We cannot be at our best in relationships with others and we put greater focus on self, leading to further misery and emptiness.

Perhaps the common and caustic nature of this lie is why the Bible stresses the transforming and truthful rebuttal to this devilish deception. How does the Bible respond to the idea that I am not good enough for God’s love? Consider these biblical answers.

  • God’s love is unconditional. “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6-8).
  • God IS love. “The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love” (1 John 4:8).
  • God’s love is unconquerable and indomitable by any force or power. “Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).
    • God wants us to overcome. “This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:3-4).
    • God doesn’t want anyone lost. “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
    • God’s forgiveness is faithfully and fully applied. “But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:7-9).
    • God’s love is universal and proven. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

Who is it that wants us to shun these beautiful truths? What do we gain by ignoring and rejecting them? What do we lose? None of us is perfect (Roman 3:10,23; 5:12). All of us struggle, with temptation (James 1:13-15; 1 Corinthians 10:13), with worldliness (1 John 2:15-17), with fear, and with weakness (Psalm 103:14). God has given us the resources we need to combat this terrible lie. We must see our intrinsic value in His eyes, fueled by His nature and proven by His actions. When we reject the lie, we choose the path of purpose and productivity. We can become what He intended for us to be and desires us to be. Our problems and struggles won’t disappear, but our resources to address them will become inexhaustible. Reject the lie!

Immortality

Carl Pollard

Immortality

“the ability to live forever, eternal life.” 

As a Christian, the gospel you believed is not mainly about escaping hell, it’s about entering eternal life. Immortality is the center of our hope. From the beginning, God formed us for eternal life. The Tree of Life stood in Eden as a sign. Humanity was meant to live, and to walk with God without end (Gen 2:9). Sin broke that design and brought the sentence of death (Gen 3:22-24). Death became the doorway through which grace would one day lead us back to life.

And grace has come. Jesus Christ, the Resurrection and the Life, has “abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Tim 1:10). When He rose, He unveiled the firstfruits of a new humanity, bodies raised imperishable, souls made whole, creation set free (1 Cor 15:42-49; Rom 8:21). The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is the down-payment on our own resurrection (Eph 1:13-14; Rom 8:11).

This is why the New Testament writers spoke with triumph. “Death is swallowed up in victory!” (1 Cor 15:54). The last enemy is defeated, not negotiated with.

What will this immortality feel like? Revelation gives us the clearest glimpse: God Himself will wipe away every tear. Death, mourning, crying, and pain will be former things, remembered no more (Rev 21:4). We will see His face (Rev 22:4). We will know as we are known (1 Cor 13:12). Every longing planted in us by the Creator, longings for beauty, for love, for purpose, for home, will be satisfied beyond imagination, yet never exhausted. Eternity will not be monotonous; it will be the ever-fresh discovery of the infinite God! 

The world groans, our bodies weaken, our hearts break, but none of it is the final word. Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again. And when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is (1 John 3:2).

Until that day, let this joy shape everything. Work without despair. Love without fear of loss. Suffer without bitterness. Give without calculation. The clock is broken, the future is secure. We are headed toward a life where sin cannot diminish us, death cannot touch us, and God will be our everlasting light.

This is the joy of immortality: not just that we will live forever, but that we will live forever with Him, fully alive and fully home.

Come, Lord Jesus.

The Tragedy of Judas: When a Heart Hardens Against Grace

Let us search our hearts with ruthless honesty, bringing every hidden sin, every cherished idol, every secret compromise into the light of Christ’s presence. Let us choose Peter’s path of humble repentance over Judas’s path of proud despair.

Brent Pollard

 The Humanity of Christ in the Face of Betrayal

In John 13:21-30, Christ reveals a profound insight into His humanity. Jesus, with a troubled spirit, revealed the identity of His betrayer through an act of fellowship—the sharing of bread. Jesus’ action was not a casual disclosure. The text reveals a Savior who experienced the weight of impending betrayal with genuine human anguish. He had chosen someone He knew to be a devil (John 6.70), and now the hour had arrived for that devil to execute his dark purpose.

Even in this moment of revelation, we witness Christ’s unwavering mercy. His acknowledgment of what Judas was about to do served as a final lifeline extended to the infamous traitor—one last opportunity to turn back from the precipice. This enduring mercy is a beacon of hope for all of us, reminding us that no matter how far we may have strayed, Christ’s grace is always within reach.

The Hardening Power of Unrepentant Sin

Sadly, Judas’s love of money and his own twisted ambitions had calcified his heart against both the deeds and words of Jesus. He had already negotiated his treachery, his mind fixed on the thirty pieces of silver promised by the chief priests (Matthew 26.14-16). Here we see a sobering truth: sustained exposure to Christ does not guarantee transformation. One can walk in the very presence of the Son of God and yet remain unmoved, unchanged, unredeemed.

The text tells us that “Satan entered” Judas (John 13.27). But what does this mean? We must resist the temptation to absolve Judas of responsibility by imagining some irresistible demonic possession. No, Satan did not override the will of a helpless man. Instead, he exploited the foothold Judas had already granted through his unrepentant sin, his corrosive greed, and his fundamental lack of faith. The phrase “Satan entered” signifies Judas’s complete surrender to the evil influence he had been cultivating in his own heart. It marked a decisive point of no return, the final rejection of Jesus’s appeals to repentance.

The Reality of Moral Agency Even in Darkness

Here we encounter a mystery that the shallow mind cannot fathom: even after Satan entered Judas, he retained sufficient moral agency to feel guilt, to return the blood money to the chief priests, and ultimately to take his own life (Matthew 27.3-5). This remorse, though powerful, was not genuine repentance. True repentance would have driven him to God for forgiveness, as Peter’s denial later drove him to weeping restoration. Instead, Judas’s guilt led only to despair—a worldly sorrow that produces death rather than the godly sorrow that leads to salvation.

James illuminates the progression: a person becomes enslaved to sin by yielding to their own lust. When that lust conceives, it gives birth to sin. When sin reaches full maturity, it brings forth death (James 1.13-15). Judas walked this path to its bitter end, each step a choice, each choice hardening the next.

The Contrast of Two Betrayers: Judas and Peter

The story of Judas serves as a stark warning about the human capacity to reject grace, even when confronted with overwhelming love and unmistakable conviction. While God’s offer of salvation extends to everyone, it requires a willing and humble heart to receive it. Judas’s ultimate fate—despair and suicide—stands in sharp contrast to Peter, who, despite his own devastating denial, turned to Jesus in repentance and received complete forgiveness.

Both men betrayed Christ. Both felt crushing guilt. Yet their responses diverged at the crucial point: Peter ran toward mercy; Judas ran from it. Peter believed forgiveness was possible; Judas believed his sin was unforgivable. This stark contrast serves as a powerful reminder of the impact our choices can have on our lives.

Practical Warning: The Danger of Walking with Jesus Without Surrender

Judas serves as a tragic example of someone who allowed his lust for money and power to lead him toward betrayal and destruction. His story reveals an uncomfortable truth: even people who walk closely with Jesus, witness His miracles, hear His teachings, and participate in His ministry can fall prey to the temptations of this world if they do not genuinely surrender their hearts.

What distinguished Judas from the other disciples was not the absence of sin—they all sinned—but the presence of unrepentant, cherished sin that he refused to bring into the light.

Closing: A Call to Self-Examination

The question Judas’s life poses to each of us is searingly personal: Are we cultivating hardness in our hearts through unconfessed sin? Are we, like Judas, close to Jesus in proximity but distant in devotion? Do we serve Him with our hands while withholding our hearts? The grace that could have saved Judas is the same grace offered to us today. But grace must be received, not merely observed. You should embrace it rather than acknowledge it.

Let us search our hearts with ruthless honesty, bringing every hidden sin, every cherished idol, every secret compromise into the light of Christ’s presence. Let us choose Peter’s path of humble repentance over Judas’s path of proud despair. The same Christ who extended mercy to His betrayer still extends it to us—but we must reach out and take hold of it before our hearts grow too hard to feel His touch. The time to respond is now, while the Spirit still speaks, while grace still calls, while the door of repentance remains open. Tomorrow may find us, like Judas, having crossed a point of no return that we never saw coming.

The Debt Of Love

The hymn “Alas and Did My Savior Bleed” captures the heart of the Christian response to Jesus’ sacrifice: “But drops of grief can ne’er repay the debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself away, ’tis all that I can do.” This “debt of love” isn’t like the $18 trillion in financial debt Americans carry…

Carl Pollard

The hymn “Alas and Did My Savior Bleed” captures the heart of the Christian response to Jesus’ sacrifice: “But drops of grief can ne’er repay the debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself away, ’tis all that I can do.” This “debt of love” isn’t like the $18 trillion in financial debt Americans carry, like mortgages, credit cards, or student loans. Unlike monetary debt, the debt of love is a lifelong obligation, as Paul writes in Romans 13:8, “Owe no one anything, except to love one another.” 

In Luke 7:36-50, we see this debt of love unfold in an account of grace and judgment, humility and pride. Jesus dines at the home of Simon, a Pharisee who prides himself on strict adherence to the law. In first-century Jewish culture, dining was an honor, yet Simon’s hospitality is cold. He offers Jesus no water for His feet, no kiss of greeting, no oil for His head. These were customary acts of respect (vv. 44-46). His indifference reveals a heart of pride.

Then enters an uninvited woman, a “sinner” (hamartōlos in Greek), likely notorious in her community, possibly a prostitute. Her presence in a Pharisee’s home is unheard of, yet she brings an alabaster jar of perfume, worth a year’s wages, and pours out her worship. Weeping loudly, she wets Jesus’ feet with her tears, wipes them with her hair, kisses them, and anoints them with perfume (v. 38). While Simon is judging silently the whole time! He questions Jesus’ discernment: “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him” (v. 39). Simon’s pride blinds him, while the woman’s humility drives her to worship.

Jesus responds with a parable: two debtors owe a moneylender, one 500 denarii (two years’ wages), the other 50 (two months’ income). Neither can pay, but both are forgiven. “Which will love him more?” Jesus asks (vv. 41-42). Simon answers, “The one who had the bigger debt forgiven” (v. 43). The woman, aware of her great debt, offers extravagant love; Simon, assuming his debt is small, offers none.

Jesus contrasts their actions: “You gave me no water… but she wet my feet with her tears… You gave me no kiss, but she has not stopped kissing my feet” (vv. 44-45). He says, “Her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown” (v. 47). Her love doesn’t earn forgiveness; it’s evidence of grace received through faith (v. 50). Simon, believing he needs little forgiveness, loves little.

So where do we stand? Like Simon, do we judge others while ignoring our own sin? Romans 3:23 reminds us, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Colossians 2:14 declares Jesus “canceled the record of debt… nailing it to the cross.” If our love for Him has grown cold, perhaps we’ve forgotten the weight of that debt.

Picture this woman, broken at Jesus’ feet, offering her tears and treasure. Now picture yourself. Are you offering pride or worship? Let’s remember the cross, where Jesus paid our unpayable debt. We would do well to pour out our lives like her perfume, through worship, obedience, and love for others.

Crucifying The Flesh

Being a follower of Christ demands constant self-examination. Each day, we wake up asking, “What do I need to work on today?” One persistent battle we face is the flesh, our sinful nature that pulls us off track, like that wobbly Walmart shopping cart wheel that requires constant correction.

Carl Pollard

Being a follower of Christ demands constant self-examination. Each day, we wake up asking, “What do I need to work on today?” One persistent battle we face is the flesh, our sinful nature that pulls us off track, like that wobbly Walmart shopping cart wheel that requires constant correction. Galatians 5:24 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” But what does it mean to crucify the flesh, and how do we live it out in a world brimming with temptation?

In Galatians 5, Paul describes the flesh not as our physical bodies but as our sinful desires that rebel against God. Galatians 5:17 explains, “The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; they are contrary to one another.” The flesh urges us to lash out in anger, indulge in lust, gossip, or hold grudges. Paul lists its acts: sexual immorality, hatred, jealousy, rage, selfish ambition (Galatians 5:19-21). These are symptoms of a heart not fully surrendered to God. The flesh promises satisfaction but delivers emptiness, chaining us to sin. Recognizing this enemy within is the first step to living for Christ.

Crucifixion, in Roman times, was a brutal, final punishment. Paul’s use of this term signals a decisive, no-turning-back commitment to put sinful desires to death. Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily” (Luke 9:23). This daily choice means saying no to pride, bitterness, or greed and yes to humility, forgiveness, and generosity.

The key to crucifying the flesh lies in belonging to Christ. When we surrender to Him, we’re united in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:5-6). His victory over sin becomes ours, and His Spirit empowers us to resist temptation. This is why Paul confidently states we “have crucified” the flesh, a present reality for Christians. Living like we belong to Jesus means choosing the Spirit daily, allowing it to produce love, joy, peace, and other fruits (Galatians 5:22-23) in our lives.

To crucify the flesh, start with confession and repentance, naming and turning from sin (1 John 1:9). Rely on the Spirit through prayer and God’s Word. Choose daily obedience, saying no to temptation and yes to love. Crucifying the flesh isn’t restriction, it’s liberation, freeing us to run the race God has set before us. What needs to be nailed to the cross today? Lay it at Jesus’ feet and live the life He promised.

The Relationship Between Preachers And Elders

There are too many horror stories about dysfunctional relationships between preachers and elders. The church hurts and is hurt when there is friction, disunity, and rivalry between these two vital roles. There may be many reasons for why such exists, instances where there is blame on one side or the other or on both sides.

Neal Pollard

There are too many horror stories about dysfunctional relationships between preachers and elders. The church hurts and is hurt when there is friction, disunity, and rivalry between these two vital roles. There may be many reasons for why such exists, instances where there is blame on one side or the other or on both sides. But, stating the obvious, an adversarial attitude should not exist. To the contrary, there should be great love and unity between them. 

The best New Testament example we have of the elder-preacher relationship is Acts 20:17-38, between Paul and the Ephesian elders. Paul was their local preacher for at least three years (31). Luke records what that relationship looked like. What words describe their relationship together?

  • TIME (18). Paul and these elders were together. Relationships require time. What will happen when elders and preachers never collaborate, work together, and engage in fellowship and social time together? Paul said he was with them “the whole time.” 
  • HUMILITY (18). Pride and ego are damaging, destructive, and devastating qualities. “A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small package.” There is no place for pride in healthy leadership. There must be an ability to admit wrong and an attitude of putting others above self (cf. Phil. 2:3-4). Elders must desire the flock to follow the Chief Shepherd, not themselves (29-30). Preachers must be found “serving the Lord with all humility” (19). 
  • EMOTION (19, 37-38). This is beautiful. Luke notes the tears of the preacher (19) and the elders (37). If there is ever a time when a man should shed tears, it ought to be over spiritual things. Relationships are forged when elders and preachers expend emotion over their mutual work. 
  • HONESTY (20,27-28). Relationships are undermined by dishonesty, aren’t they? Honesty is about more than merely telling the truth. It’s about not withholding, in proper spirit and attitude, what the other really needs to hear. In a healthy relationship, where each is assured of the love and confidence of the other, that honesty can exist. Paul did not “shrink back from declaring to [them] anything that was profitable” (20). He did not shrink back from declaring to them the whole purpose of God (27). There must be an atmosphere of trust, where neither side is afraid to speak with kind frankness. 
  • INTEGRITY (20-21,28,33-35). Akin to honesty is integrity. This speaks to character and principle. It drove Paul to work hard in ministry. It drove the elders to guard and shepherd the flock (28). It drove Paul to avoid covetousness and materialism (33). It drove a desire to prefer giving to receiving (35). Godly leaders are men of character!
  • COURAGE (22-28). Neither shepherding nor preaching is for sissies! Timidity and lack of conviction greatly damages the church. Paul relegated his own life to second position to the gospel (22,24). Faithful shepherding required the same (28). 
  • COMMENDATION (32,38). This is crucial! Balancing with the occasional need to confront each other with care is the need for each to generously, genuinely, and publicly praise and commend one another. Nothing demonstrates unity in a congregation more than elders praising the preachers behind their backs, and preachers praising the elders behind their backs. Certainly, it’s good for each to overhear the other, too. The word “commend” in verse 32 means to place before, give or provide. Paul’s commending them to the grace of God was committing them to it. But, the general tone of the relationship was one of praise for the other’s work. 

Notice how they part company. It’s beautiful and it should typify the elder-preacher relationship today. “When he had said these things, he knelt down and prayed with them all. And they began to weep aloud and embraced Paul, and repeatedly kissed him, grieving especially over the word which he had spoken, that they would not see his face again. And they were accompanying him to the ship” (36-38). They prayed together. They were unashamedly affectionate. They loved one another and liked one another. They hated to part company. Does that seem strange or foreign to you? I hope not! It’s our best New Testament pattern for what that relationship should look like! May it characterize this relationship in every congregation today! 

Standing In The Gap

Prayer is a divine weapon, a sacred act that Satan dreads when wielded by faithful Christians. In the church, prayer is God’s design to weave us into a tight-knit community, binding us closer than proximity ever could. James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Intercessory prayer, lifting others before God’s throne, is a duty and privilege that transforms both the pray-er and the prayed-for.

Carl Pollard

Prayer is a divine weapon, a sacred act that Satan dreads when wielded by faithful Christians. In the church, prayer is God’s design to weave us into a tight-knit community, binding us closer than proximity ever could. James 5:16 says, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Intercessory prayer, lifting others before God’s throne, is a duty and privilege that transforms both the pray-er and the prayed-for.

Why pray for each other? Scripture commands it. Matthew 5:44 urges us to pray even for enemies, fulfilling the call to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). Pray for others the way you’d pray for yourself! Colossians 1:9 Paul models ceaseless prayer for others’ spiritual growth, while Galatians 6:2 frames intercession as bearing one another’s burdens, fulfilling Christ’s law. Hebrews 10:24–25 reminds us that prayer knits the church together, spurring love and good deeds. Yet, how often do our prayers default to vague “bless them” pleas or focus solely on physical needs? Intentional intercession digs deeper, aligning with God’s will.

Biblical heroes show us this. Abraham pleaded for Sodom’s salvation (Genesis 18:22–33), mirroring God’s heart for the wicked to turn and live (Ezekiel 33:11). Moses stood in the gap for idolatrous Israel, offering his life to secure their forgiveness (Exodus 32:11–14, 31–32; Psalm 106:23). Jesus, in His High Priestly Prayer (John 17:1–26), interceded for His disciples’ protection, sanctification, and unity, modeling prayers for eternal impact. Paul’s prayers for the churches (Ephesians 1:15–23; Colossians 1:9–12) prioritized spiritual wisdom and strength over physical circumstances.

To pray intentionally, embrace three keys. First, keep God’s bigger story in mind. While praying for safety or healing is valid, God often uses trials to shape us into Christ’s image (Romans 8:28–29; James 1:2–4). Like Jesus in Luke 22:42, balance requests for relief with surrender to God’s will, praying for faithfulness through suffering. Second, use biblical models to form your prayers. The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13) prioritizes God’s will and provision, while Paul’s prayers (Ephesians 3:16–17) seek spiritual depth. Third, pray specifically and with persistence, as 1 John 5:14–15 assures that prayers aligned with God’s will are heard.

Intercessory prayer is a sacrificial act of love, a call to stand in the gap for others, as Moses did, or to plead for unity, as Jesus did. It’s a rebellion against Satan’s schemes, a bridge to connect our church, and a path to spiritual maturity. So, who are you praying for today? Let’s commit to intentional, fervent intercession, trusting God to work mightily through our prayers.

More Than A Dinner

One of the most endearing, beautiful features of the Lord’s church is the “one another” aspect of it. Have you seen it at work when someone comes forward during the invitation song, pleading for help with something in their life?

Neal Pollard

Florida Gators’ quarterback D.J. Lagway had just endured a terrible game the week before, throwing five interceptions against the LSU Tigers. That included a “pick six,” as safety Dashawn Spears returned his third pick for a touchdown. In a post-game interview, Lagway confessed, “I played horrible football today,. I’ve never had a performance like that in my life, so it’s kind of hard to process it, but at the end of the day, it’s all about how you bounce back’ (alligator.org).

Lagway’s teammates sensed that this was crushing for the young signal caller, so they made a decision. About 40 of them, the following Wednesday, took him to dinner. Head Coach Billy Napier explained that it was to “just to put their arms around him and move past it” (hailfloridahail.com). College Gameday’s Kirk Herbstreit saw this as a positive sign about where the team culture was. While Florida fans, witnessing the Gators’ atrocious 1-3 start, may see the positive culture as little more than a “moral victory,” it is the gesture that merits closer attention.

One of the most endearing, beautiful features of the Lord’s church is the “one another” aspect of it. Have you seen it at work when someone comes forward during the invitation song, pleading for help with something in their life? People will rally on the front pew with them. Scores more will come put their arms around them afterward. Even more will text, send cards, and otherwise make contact to check on them. Here is someone who may have failed or struggled in a way much more significant than a game, who confesses to failure or weakness. They feel defeated, weak, or overwhelmed, and, in vulnerability, they make that known.

What does the rest of the spiritual team do? They put their arms around them and move past it! It is significant that the Bible talks to us about this. James writes, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed” (5:16a). Think back to the proverb which says, “He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, But he who confesses and forsakes them will find compassion” (Prov. 28:13). The parable of the Prodigal Son not only shows how God responds when a sinner “comes home,” but it is the right response of the spiritually healthy to the spiritual struggler (Luke 15:22-32).

Let’s keep our eyes open for those who are limping along the road of life or even sitting there with their head in their hands. They may be ready to give up, but for a boost of encouragement from a brother or sister who cares. Your compassion might make all the difference!

A New Heart From Jesus

Carl Pollard

As fall’s soft breeze turns to unexpected warmth, we feel the stir of change. But pain and loss are felt by many. These tragedies of the past week show our world needs Jesus, badly. Without Him in our homes and families, we see brokenness. Ezekiel 36:26 gives hope: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”

Ezekiel spoke to God’s people in exile, far from home because they turned to idols. Their hard hearts led to trouble (Ezekiel 36:16-20). But God promised mercy, a new heart and His Spirit to help them obey (v. 27). This promise comes true in Jesus and the Holy Spirit (John 3:5-6). Charlie Kirk was a young father and husband, killed at a school event over political disagreement. This shows us what hard hearts can do. Yet, God can soften our hearts, filling them with His love. 

Change starts inside. We give our hearts to Jesus, and He makes them new. John 16:33 says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”That’s our peace, when the world is knee deep in anger and despair, Jesus wins over death. No matter the pain, we can trust Him and stay steady.

Romans 12:21 tells us, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Evil, like the violence that took innocent lives comes from Satan (John 10:10). But we’re called to love, forgive, and share Jesus’ hope. In Luke 19, Zacchaeus met Jesus and changed, giving generously, fixing wrongs. His new heart showed. We’re to shine like that, letting our lives point to God (Matthew 5:16).

Our country needs Jesus. Psalm 127:1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” Without God, we get chaos. But 2 Chronicles 7:14 shows the way: pray, humble ourselves, seek God. Healing starts in our hearts and homes.

Come, Lord Jesus. Let’s let Him change our hearts, rest in His promises, and do good to fight evil. When we put Jesus in our families, we bring His hope to our nation, one new heart at a time

The Power Of Kindness

You don’t have to look any further than Jesus’ life. Kindness is seen in His compassionate interactions with the poor and needy. He showed kindness by healing the leper (Mark 1:40-42) and forgiving the adulterous woman (John 8:1-11).

Carl Pollard

Kindness, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), is a profound expression of God’s character and a cornerstone of Christian living. The Greek word chrēstotēs is best described as goodness, generosity, and a disposition to act with compassion. When we study the idea of kindness in scripture, it is filled with theological depth and practical implications, calling us to embody Christ’s love in a broken world.

Scripture consistently portrays kindness as a reflection of God’s nature. In Titus 3:4, Paul writes of “the kindness and love of God our Savior” appearing through Christ’s redemptive work, emphasizing that divine kindness is the basis for salvation. This is also seen in Ephesians 2:7, where God’s grace is expressed “in his kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” So kindness isn’t just a human virtue but a divine attribute christians are called to imitate! You don’t have to look any further than Jesus’ life. Kindness is seen in His compassionate interactions with the poor and needy. He showed kindness by healing the leper (Mark 1:40-42) and forgiving the adulterous woman (John 8:1-11).

The call to kindness is active and intentional. Colossians 3:12 instructs Christians, as God’s chosen ones, to “put on… kindness,” suggesting a deliberate choice to clothe ourselves in compassionate actions. This is seen with the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), where kindness transcends cultural and social barriers, demonstrating love through sacrificial care. Kindness is not passive; it requires courage to act justly and love mercy (Micah 6:8), even when inconvenient or costly.

In a world marked by division, kindness becomes a powerful tool for the spreading of the gospel. Romans 2:4 says that God’s kindness leads to repentance, suggesting that our acts of kindness can draw others to Christ. A kind word, a generous deed, or a forgiving spirit can soften hearts and reflect God’s love. 

Kindness is a daily calling to mirror Christ’s compassion. It challenges us to extend grace to the undeserving, forgive the offender, and serve the overlooked. As we practice kindness, we participate in God’s redemptive work, softening hearts to His love. 

Let’s live kindly, reflecting the Savior’s heart in every interaction.

Seven Ways To Pursue Joy

Dale Pollard

We’ll keep this really simple. Let’s start with a few facts about joy and then dive into seven ways to find joy when we lack it. 

1. Joy is not a feeling, it’s a godly perspective. 

2. A Christian’s hardships aren’t pointless, they’re productive. 

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

 – James 1.2-3 

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

 —Romans 12:12

Seven Ways To Pursue Joy 

  1. God’s direction brings joy (Ps. 94.19)
  1. The Resurrection brings joy (Matt. 28.8)
  1. Unity of mind and sharing the same love brings joy (Phil. 2.2)
  1. Loving the Lord’s people brings joy (Phil. 1.7)
  1. A mature faith brings joy (I Pt. 1.8)
  1. Fellowship brings joy (2 John 1.12) 
  1. God’s presence brings joy (Jude 24)

The Judas Kiss

t’s a gesture that’s supposed to mean friendship but instead marks Jesus for arrest. It’s an account packed with practical lessons about loyalty, choices, and God’s bigger plan, and it’s worth unpacking for anyone trying to make sense of life’s problems. 

Carl Pollard

The kiss of Judas, described in Matthew 26:47-50, Mark 14:43-45, and Luke 22:47-48, is one of those Bible moments that many are familiar with. Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ inner circle, betrays him with a kiss. It’s a gesture that’s supposed to mean friendship but instead marks Jesus for arrest. It’s an account packed with practical lessons about loyalty, choices, and God’s bigger plan, and it’s worth unpacking for anyone trying to make sense of life’s problems. 

In the time of Jesus, a kiss was like giving a handshake or a hug, something you’d share with someone you cared about. So when Judas uses it to sell Jesus out to the authorities, it makes his betrayal that more messed up. The Bible uses a Greek word, phileo, meaning an affectionate kiss, which makes it sting even more. Judas was close to Jesus, one of the twelve, and he twists that bond into betrayal. It’s like a friend smiling to your face while stabbing you in the back. We’ve all felt versions of that. Someone you trusted letting you down when you needed them most. 

But regardless of what Judas did, and how he did it, this moment fits into God’s plan. Jesus knew it was coming (John 13:26-27), yet Judas still had a choice. In Luke 22:48, Jesus calls him out mid-betrayal: “Judas, you’re betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” This is more than a question, it’s Jesus highlighting the irony and heartbreak. Judas chose greed (30 pieces of silver) over loyalty, but God used that choice to set up the crucifixion and resurrection, the cornerstone of Christianity. It’s a reminder that even our worst moments can be part of something bigger.

The kiss also echoes the Old Testament, like Proverbs 27:6: “The kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Judas’ act is a textbook example, but Jesus doesn’t lash out. He calls Judas “friend” (Matthew 26:50), showing love even in betrayal. What a powerful example. 

For us, the kiss of Judas is a mirror. It asks: Are we honest with the people in our lives? Do our actions match our words? It’s easy to point fingers at Judas, but we’ve all got moments where we’ve let someone down or acted hypocritical. Yet the story also offers hope, God can take our flawed human decisions and weave them into something to His glory. Judas’ kiss led to the cross, where love conquered death. That’s a truth worth holding onto.

Material Blessings

It pays to be a Christian. It will pay eternally (Mat. 6:21; 25:46a), but it will also cause one to reap the dividends thereof in this life. There will be tears to sow, and though joy comes in the morning of eternity (Psa. 126:5) there will be blessings accompanying the righteous life which the unrighteous will not experience.

Neal Pollard

In a time of restoration, Mattaniah and Bakbukiah led Judah in prayers of thanksgiving upon the completion of the wall around Jerusalem (Neh. 11:7). They recognized how much they owed God for His deliverance, guidance, and protection.  They were a blessed remnant, sustained by His providence.  They verbalized their thankfulness.  Could they have done less than that?

Past to present the United States has been blessed with a material abundance that matches or exceeds any known in recorded history. Through war after war, the nation has been spared from its enemies.  We have survived massive depressions, imposing threats to our freedom, periods of intense fear and sweeping doubt, and domestic disasters.  In such an environment and through such providential protection from our Holy Creator, the New Testament church has taken root and spread throughout the nation for over two centuries.  If not now, when has the Lord’s church had better opportunity to express our thanksgiving by righteous living and fervent evangelism? When has there ever been a time more pressing than now to declare the distinct message from heaven to modern man?

However, human nature has proven itself repeatedly to be disinclined toward service, sacrifice, and spirituality when material prosperity abounds.  Perhaps a blessing in the recent economic downturn may be man’s more acute awareness of our need for God.  Time will tell.

What cannot be missed is how faithfully God blesses humanity in a material way.  Truly, God sheds some material blessings upon everyone.  He gives to all life and breath and all things (Acts 17:25).  “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above…” (Jas. 1:17).  Jesus taught in the sermon on the mount that the Father “causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Mat. 5:45).  Repeatedly, scripture reminds the reader that there is no breath, no health, no potential for prosperity apart from the abundant, physical gifts from heaven.  Simply being a human being qualifies one for some basic, material blessings.

God blesses His children in a special way.  That is not a guarantee of wealth and prosperity, even if so many Christians in America may possess that.  I have been to several nations where Christians live in subsistence, having food enough to fill a hungry belly once or twice a day, enjoying some kind of shelter, and owning maybe a change of clothes or two.  Most of these brethren would consider themselves very blessed and have a positive, contented outlook on life.  They view themselves as materially blessed.  These brethren’s examples remind us that the truest treasures do not have a price tag on them, yet children of God have so frequently been the happy recipients of relative prosperity.

Despite the fact that God has richly blessed His children, ingratitude for material blessings has often been a spiritual plague.  At Marah, a couple of day’s journey past the Red Sea whose waters had just been parted, the Israelites complained for lack of water.  Marah literally meant bitter water, and for this reason Israel would not drink there.  The Lord showed Moses a piece of wood which, after he threw it in the water, sweetened it.  Then, Moses writes, “There the Lord made for them a statute and a rule, and there he tested them,  saying, ‘If you will diligently listen to the voice of the Lord your God, and do that which is right in his eyes, and give ear to his commandments and keep all his statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you that I put on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, your healer’” (Exo. 15:25b-26, ESV).  Incidentally, a few miles later they came to a placed called Elim, “where there were twelve wells of water” (Exo. 15:27).  They had seen physical deliverance a mere 72 hours before, but they lost faith in God’s ability to provide so quickly.  Later on in the sermon on the mount, Jesus warned His disciples not to imitate such a display of doubt and distrust.  He shows the foolishness and futility of worrying over material things, urging His disciples to instead seek the kingdom first in the full confidence of divine provision (Mat. 6:25-34).  Therefore, as children of God should more fully and quickly trust God to provide for needs and necessities (cf. 1 Co. 10:10; Phi. 2:14), we should also be quick to recognize and be thankful for the material blessings we regularly receive.

Consider a few material blessings unique to those living the Christian life.

Long Life

Righteous people deliver stillborn children.  Godly teenagers die in tragic accidents.  Some wonderful Christian folks have had their lives dramatically shortened by terminal illness or untimely death.  So, this blessing needs qualification.  Solomon writes, “My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you” (Pro. 3:2).  This rule of thumb certainly has exceptions, like those already noted.  Yet, the healthy lifestyle, management of stress and worry, and attitude that seeks to live and serve so long as God wills leads the righteous to a condition of life that lends itself to longevity.  This is reiterated in Proverbs 3:16 (the companionship of long life and wisdom), Proverbs 9:11 (days multiplied through fear and knowledge), Proverbs 10:27 (the fear of the Lord prolongs days) and Proverbs 28:16 (those who hate unjust gain prolong their days).  

True peace  

There are a great many people in the world today who are disturbed and distressed, and many have not learned that this is very often a lack of true peace available only in Christ (John 14:27; cf. Phi. 4:7).  Again, Solomon repeats the presence of peace in the lives of the righteous (3:17; 16:7).  There is a false, self-deluding peace with which the ungodly numb themselves (cf. Jer. 8:11), but this is tantamount to building on the proverbial sand (cf. Mat. 7:26-27).   Some nervous conditions with physical side-effects are no more than the outgrowth of a mind disturbed by ungodly, self-guided living.  Christians may choose to give in to the sin of worry and sacrifice the peace of Christ, but they are surrendering a blessing that most rightly belongs to them.  Peace is a spiritual blessing, but there are physical aspects to it.

Answered prayer 

  Though the blind man may have been speaking his own theology and not the Lord’s (John 9:31), Peter makes clear the principle that “the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.  But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil” (1 Pe. 3:12). Since the righteous have their desires properly trained (cf. Jas. 4:1-3), the desires they express to God are granted (Pro. 10:24).  He hears the righteous’ prayers (Pro. 15:29).  Literally, He listens with a yearning to grant our requests as it befits His own will.  We pray for many spiritual things, but we also pray concerning physical matters.  Prayers for health, job, the ability to provide for family, safe travel, births, marriages, and the like are bound up in the material as well as the spiritual.  

Deliverance

Deliverance is a broad topic.  David was delivered from the paw of the lion and the bear, and so this was deliverance from natural terrors.  He was delivered from Goliath, Saul, and Absalom, deliverance from human threats and opposition.  He was delivered from blood guiltiness and personal, egregious sin, and so deliverance from spiritual death.  His son, Solomon, must have seen the after-effects of such deliverance in his father’s life.  By righteous living, much trouble can be averted (Pro. 11:8).  The early Christians suffered loss of life in the throes of persecution, but so often God has chosen to deliver His children’s lives.  This is a material blessing each of us should take time to note.

It pays to be a Christian.  It will pay eternally (Mat. 6:21; 25:46a), but it will also cause one to reap the dividends thereof in this life.  There will be tears to sow, and though joy comes in the morning of eternity (Psa. 126:5) there will be blessings accompanying the righteous life which the unrighteous will not experience.  Thank God for the hope and promise tied to the righteous life, a life of material as well as endless spiritual blessings.

“Without You, I Am Empty Inside”

It is written that without the divine, humanity experiences a spiritual emptiness, but through Christ’s grace, a deep fullness is graciously given. Our hearts are like empty vessels—designed to be filled with God’s presence, love, and Spirit. The true and lasting fulfillment we seek can only be found in Him.

Brent Pollard

A Fascinating Motto on a Cardboard Box

My Amazon parcel displayed a curious motto on its outside: “Without you, I am empty inside.” This phrase playfully alludes to the upcoming annual Prime Days in July, but also holds a deeper meaning for me beyond shopping. My father mentioned he might develop the idea into a sermon, and I believed this slogan could inspire an article. So, here we are.

Unpacking the Emotional Significance

Let’s examine this slogan closely, out of its context. The phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” highlights a profound emotional reliance on someone to feel complete or satisfied. At first glance, it clearly expresses deep love, longing, or attachment, implying that the speaker feels incomplete or directionless without the person being addressed. Additionally, it highlights vulnerability and illustrates the profound impact that another person’s presence has on one’s emotional well-being.

When Longing Turns into Dependency

However, it also invites reflection on self-reliance and emotional health. Feeling “empty” without someone might point to dependence on external validation, which can be unhealthy if overdone. It could also mirror genuine affection in a romantic context, but might alternatively highlight vulnerability or a lack of self-identity, depending on the situation.

A Secular Slogan with Sacred Implications

This profound and complex statement conveys a strong sense of emotion and urgency, possibly revealing a search for meaning or harmony. The phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” on a retailer’s box expresses a heartfelt feeling about connection that resonates deeply. While it adds authenticity and uniqueness to the brand, it may lack clarity about the retailer’s offerings or overall tone.

Ultimately, I know Amazon cannot truly fulfill the deeper longings of my soul.

From Emptiness to Fulfillment in Christ

The heartfelt phrase “Without you, I am empty inside” reflects a core spiritual truth: without God, humanity feels a deep emptiness. True fulfillment is only found through connection with the Creator via the Redeemer. This theme runs throughout Scripture—from the chaotic emptiness at the beginning of Genesis to the abundant fulfillment foretold at the end in Revelation.

The Emptiness of Life Without God

Scripture frequently illustrates the desolation that comes with a life separated from God. Ecclesiastes 1.2 states, “Vanity of vanities! All is vanity,” highlighting the emptiness of life without a higher purpose.

Jeremiah 2.13 uses a vivid metaphor: people forsake the “fountain of living waters” in favor of excavating “broken cisterns that can hold no water.” These defective containers symbolize our faulty attempts to find fulfillment apart from the divine.

Proverbs 27:20 observes that “people’s eyes are never satisfied” (HCSB), highlighting the endless human desire for worldly pursuits. Similarly, Genesis 1.2 describes the earth as “formless and void” before God’s presence brought it order and life—symbolizing the soul’s emptiness when separated from Him.

Filled With the Spirit

The New Testament offers a divine solution for human despair through the Holy Spirit residing within us. Ephesians 5.18 urges believers to “be filled with the Spirit,” indicating an ongoing, active pursuit of spiritual growth. In Acts 2.4 and 4.31, we see a striking change in the disciples; empowered by the Spirit, they transitioned from fear to confidence. The Spirit’s presence provides purpose and direction, filling the emptiness with meaning and significance.

This deep sense of fulfillment sharply contrasts with the world’s transient attempts to satisfy the spirit. Acts 4.31 emphasizes that genuine fullness in the Spirit results in bold testimony and divine strength, not futile efforts.

Completeness in Christ

Central to biblical teachings on fullness is Jesus Christ. As Colossians 2.9–10 affirms, “For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete.” Believers, in the divine embrace, discover they lack nothing in their spiritual path.

2 Corinthians 5.17 declares that those in Christ are “a new creature,” while Ephesians 3.19 encourages us to be “filled up to all the fullness of God.” Philippians 4.19 assures believers that God supplies every need “according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Fulfillment is not just a future hope but a current reality in Christ.

Dependence on God for Satisfaction

Humanity isn’t meant to be self-sufficient, as emphasized in John 15.5: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” Our connection with the Savior is as essential as a branch’s link to the vine. As 2 Corinthians 12.9 shows, divine strength is fully revealed through our weakness. Psalm 127.1 reminds us that without the Lord, our efforts are ultimately unsuccessful.

Proverbs 3.5–6 encourages us to trust in God fully and warns against relying solely on our own understanding. Genuine contentment comes from surrendering to God’s guidance, not from self-reliance.

God’s Invitation to Satisfaction

The Psalms express a heartfelt longing for the divine and a strong confidence in God’s ability to meet that need. Psalm 42.1 vividly compares the soul’s desire to a deer’s thirst for water. Isaiah 55.1–2 invites those who are thirsty to come and find nourishment in God, contrasting this with the emptiness of worldly pursuits. Psalm 107.9 affirms, “He has satisfied the thirsty soul,” and Psalm 63.1 vividly equates spiritual thirst with a dry, waterless land.

The Contrast of Emptiness and Fullness

In John 10.10, a clear contrast is evident: “The thief comes only to steal and kill, and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” Christ offers abundance, whereas Satan promotes destruction. Matthew 5.6 assures fulfillment for those who seek righteousness earnestly, while John 6.35 portrays Christ as the eternal sustenance, providing lasting satisfaction.

Revelation 7.16 offers a powerful assurance: “They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore.” Eternal satisfaction awaits the saved.

Made Whole in Him

The New Testament consistently affirms that believers are made complete in Christ (Colossians 2.10). John 17.23 offers a deep depiction of unity with God, while Ephesians 4.13 encourages us to strive for spiritual growth, reflecting Christ’s essence. The passages from Psalm 16.11 and 36.7–9 eloquently express the joy and richness experienced in God’s presence.

Conclusion

It is written that without the divine, humanity experiences a spiritual emptiness, but through Christ’s grace, a deep fullness is graciously given. Our hearts are like empty vessels—designed to be filled with God’s presence, love, and Spirit. The true and lasting fulfillment we seek can only be found in Him.

Thus, “without you,” my God, “I am empty inside.”

Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

The Call To Forgive

Forgiveness is challenging, especially when wounds are deep. Yet Jesus’ words are clear: to experience God’s forgiveness fully, we must extend it to others. Here are three practical ways to live this out…

Carl Pollard

In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This powerful statement, part of the Sermon on the Mount, underscores the centrality of forgiveness in the Christian life. Take a moment with me to explore its meaning and practical implications for today.

These verses follow the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), where Jesus instructs His disciples to pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” The Sermon on the Mount outlines the radical ethics of God’s kingdom, emphasizing heart transformation over mere external actions. Forgiveness, Jesus reveals, is not optional but a defining mark of His followers.

The Greek word for “forgive” (*aphiēmi*) means to release or let go, implying a deliberate choice to relinquish resentment or the demand for retribution. Jesus ties our forgiveness of others to God’s forgiveness of us, not as a condition for salvation but as evidence of a transformed heart. The phrase “your heavenly Father will not forgive” warns that harboring unforgiveness disrupts our fellowship with God, as it contradicts His merciful nature (Ephesians 4:32). In the first-century Jewish context, where grudges and vengeance were common, this teaching was unheard of, calling Christian’s to mirror God’s grace.

Forgiveness is challenging, especially when wounds are deep. Yet Jesus’ words are clear: to experience God’s forgiveness fully, we must extend it to others. Here are three practical ways to live this out:

1. Choose to Forgive Daily

    Forgiveness is often a process, not a one-time act. When memories of hurt resurface, pray that God will soften your heart and give you the strength to overcome. This will shift your focus on Him and align your heart with God’s, breaking the grip of bitterness. Consider writing a letter (not to send) expressing your pain, then destroy it as a way of letting go.

    2. Reflect on God’s Mercy

    Meditate on how much God has forgiven you. Ephesians 2:4-5 reminds us that God’s mercy is unending. When we grasp the depth of His grace, forgiving others becomes less about their worthiness and more about His love flowing through us. Spend time in prayer thanking God for His forgiveness to soften your heart toward others.

    3. Seek Reconciliation Wisely

    Forgiveness doesn’t always mean reconciliation, especially in cases of abuse or unrepentant harm. But where possible, take steps toward peace (Romans 12:18). This might mean a conversation to clear misunderstandings or setting healthy boundaries while still releasing resentment.

    Forgiving others frees us from the prison of bitterness, restores our intimacy with God, and reflects His kingdom to a hurting world. By forgiving, we become conduits of God’s grace, transforming relationships and pointing others to Christ. Let’s embrace this call, trusting God to heal our hearts as we release others to Him.

    The Foreshadowing Of Faith

    The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

    Carl Pollard

    The Bible’s divine nature never ceases to amaze me. The more I study it, the more I’m convinced it’s God’s Word—perfect, infallible, and life-giving. It’s unlike any other book, offering purpose, wisdom, and a unified story of salvation through Christ.

    What proves a book is divinely inspired? It must be free of errors, contain knowledge beyond human reach, and fulfill prophecies with precision. The Bible does all this. It reveals scientific truths unknown until recently, remains consistent from Genesis to Revelation, and fulfills thousands of prophecies. The odds of just 48 prophecies coming true by chance are 1 in 10^157—an impossibility for human authors. Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22, written centuries before Christ, detail His suffering with uncanny accuracy. Archaeological discoveries and identical manuscripts further confirm its reliability.

    For a moment, let’s explore one proof of the Bible’s divine origin: the parallel between Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22 and God’s sacrifice of Jesus. Written 2,000 years before Christ, this account mirrors His sacrifice with stunning precision.

    1. A Father’s Love: God asked Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac (Gen. 22:2). Similarly, God gave His only Son, Jesus, for us (John 3:16). God’s love for humanity surpassed even His love for His Son.

    2. The Son’s Obedience: Isaac, a young man, carried the wood for his sacrifice and didn’t resist (Gen. 22:6, 9). Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha, submitting to God’s will (Luke 22:42). Both show obedient trust we’re called to emulate.

    3. The Journey: Abraham and Isaac traveled three days to Moriah (Gen. 22:4). Jesus’ ministry led to the cross. Both journeys reflect trust in God’s plan.

    4. A Substitute: God stopped Abraham, providing a ram instead of Isaac (Gen. 22:11-13). Jesus, the Lamb of God, became our substitute, bearing our sins (John 1:29).

    5. Resurrection Hope: Abraham believed God could raise Isaac (Heb. 11:19). Jesus rose on the third day (1 Cor. 15:4). Both stories proclaim God’s power over death.

    6. Blessing for All: Through Abraham’s obedience, God promised blessings for all nations (Gen. 22:18), fulfilled in Christ’s salvation (Gal. 3:16).

    Genesis 22 foreshadows God’s sacrifice of Jesus for humanity. Both Isaac and Jesus, only sons, carried the means of their sacrifice. Isaac was spared; Jesus took our place. The Bible points to the One who gives eternal life. Do you know Him?

    When The Clouds Speak

    Reflections on God’s Power and Presence in the Book of Job

    Brent Pollard

    In the book of Job, clouds represent more than just weather patterns; they embody profound metaphors for God’s inscrutable mystery, immense majesty, and sovereign authority. Such imagery offers spiritual insights for individuals seeking to understand the fullness of God’s presence in their lives. These verses combine lyrical elegance with eternal truths for those committed to honoring the authority of Scripture.

    Consider what the clouds reveal about our Creator.

    1. Clouds Reflect God’s Majesty and Grandeur

    “He wraps up the waters in His clouds, and the cloud does not burst under them.” —Job 26.8

    Here, we witness the magnificent tapestry of God’s sovereign design. Clouds transport vast quantities of water without releasing it—a stunning equilibrium that surpasses human understanding and highlights God’s supreme authority over His creation. Although science can clarify the complexities of atmospheric physics, we must not forget that behind every natural law stands the sovereign hand of the divine Lawgiver.

    In this passage, Job contemplates God’s authority over the depths, the heavens, and the essence of life (Job 26.5–13). The clouds testify to His greatness, who upholds all things by His Word (Hebrews 1.3).

    2. Clouds Reveal God’s Mystery and Hiddenness

    “‘Clouds are a hiding place for Him, so that He cannot see; and He walks on the vault of heaven.’” —Job 22.14

    Although Eliphaz’s views on Job’s culpability are mistaken, he reflects a profound biblical truth: God’s ways often remain enigmatic to humanity. Just as the cloud on Sinai obscured Moses (Exodus 19.9) and the tabernacle radiated with God’s glory (Exodus 40.34–38), the cloud in Job stands as a significant symbol of God’s concealed magnificence.

    During periods of uncertainty, it’s crucial to remember that God isn’t far away; instead, He is deeply engaged, even when we can’t perceive His presence. As Paul states, “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5.7). Genuine righteousness is demonstrated through trust in God, even when His intentions are not completely clear.

    3. Clouds Symbolize God’s Sovereignty Over Nature

    “Do you know about the layers of the thick clouds, the wonders of one perfect in knowledge…” —Job 37.16

    Elihu urges Job to contemplate the marvels of the sky. The One who is “perfect in knowledge” has meticulously arranged the clouds. In a realm characterized by change and unpredictability, those with unwavering faith find comfort in knowing God sovereignly governs all creation.

    This profound truth is echoed in Jesus’s words when He rebuked the wind and the sea, showing that the Creator commands authority over the storm (Mark 4.39–41). Job’s description of the cloud powerfully foreshadows Christ’s sovereign control over the wind and the waves.

    4. Clouds Are a Backdrop for Divine Encounter

    Although Job existed before the Mosaic law, clouds as vessels of divine encounters are evident throughout Scripture:

    • In Exodus 13.21, the Lord guided Israel with a pillar of cloud.

    • In Exodus 19.9, He came down to Sinai in a thick cloud to converse with Moses.

    • In Matthew 17.5, a brilliant cloud enveloped the mount of transfiguration, and God’s voice proclaimed, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!”

    The pattern is clear: God often reveals His presence through the cloud. What seems obscure to human eyes is, in fact, the gateway to divine revelation. Much like Moses and Elijah, the faithful are urged to climb the mountain—even when surrounded by fog—to receive the Word from the Lord.

    5. Clouds Teach Us to Wait on God’s Timing

    “Can anyone understand the spreading of the clouds, the thundering of His pavilion?” —Job 36.29

    Elihu draws our focus to the profound mystery of God’s workings. We lack control over the clouds and do not understand their complex paths entirely. They emerge, transform, and bring rain at the right moment. Similarly, God’s answers remain beyond our understanding.

    The clouds teach us patience, reminding us that the Lord is active even when those clouds obscure our clarity. As the psalmist eloquently says, “Clouds and thick darkness surround Him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne.” (Psalm 97.2).

    Conclusion: The Cloud Is Not the End of the Story

    Job might not understand the full extent of his suffering, but he experiences a profound revelation of God’s greatness, which is enough. Although the clouds may obscure, they also reveal the glory above. They announce God’s power, veil His splendor, and sustain creation. One day, those clouds will serve a different purpose.

    “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen.” —Revelation 1.7

    The clouds that once hid God’s glory will eventually reveal the majestic Christ in His fullness. As we walk beneath the expansive sky—occasionally in darkness, often in reverence—we remain assured that above every cloud, the Sovereign Lord reigns.

    Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are taken from the NASB® (New American Standard Bible®, 1995 Updated Edition). Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved

    Every Mother Mentioned In The Bible

    Some moms on this list were far better than others. The mom that loves God more than her own children couldn’t love them any more completely. She understands what biblical love is all about and she shows and showers it on her kids.

    Dale Pollard

    Did you know that there are 36 mothers explicitly named in the Bible? There’s several mentions throughout the canon where a mother is implied but no name is given (i.e., “the mother of Abijah,” 2 Chronicles 13:2). 

    Here’s the list! 

    Mothers in the Bible (In Order of Their First Appearance):

    1. Eve (Genesis 3:20, 4:1-2)
    • Mother of Cain, Abel, Seth, and other children (Genesis 4:25).
    • First woman and mother of all humanity.

    2. Sarah (Genesis 21:1-3)
    • Mother of Isaac (son of Abraham).
    • Key figure in the Abrahamic covenant.

    3. Hagar (Genesis 16:15)
    • Mother of Ishmael (son of Abraham).
    • Egyptian servant of Sarah.

    4. Rebekah (Genesis 25:21-26)
    • Mother of Jacob and Esau (sons of Isaac).

    5. Leah (Genesis 29:31-35)
    • Mother of Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, and Dinah (children of Jacob).

    6. Rachel (Genesis 30:22-24)
    • Mother of Joseph and Benjamin (sons of Jacob).

    7. Bilhah (Genesis 30:4-7)
    • Mother of Dan and Naphtali (sons of Jacob, through Rachel’s servant).

    8. Zilpah (Genesis 30:9-12)
    • Mother of Gad and Asher (sons of Jacob, through Leah’s servant).

    9. Tamar (Genesis 38:18-30)
    • Mother of Perez and Zerah (sons of Judah).

    10. Asenath (Genesis 41:50-52)
    • Mother of Manasseh and Ephraim (sons of Joseph).

    11. Jochebed (Exodus 6:20; Numbers 26:59)
    • Mother of Moses, Aaron, and Miriam (children of Amram).

    12. Zipporah (Exodus 18:2-4)
    • Mother of Gershom and Eliezer (sons of Moses).

    13. Hannah (1 Samuel 1:20)
    • Mother of Samuel (and other children, 1 Samuel 2:21).

    14. Peninnah (1 Samuel 1:2-4)
    • Mother of unnamed children (rival wife of Elkanah, Hannah’s husband).

    15. Naomi (Ruth 1:2-4)
    • Mother of Mahlon and Chilion (mother-in-law of Ruth).

    16. Ruth (Ruth 4:13-17)
    • Mother of Obed (son of Boaz).

    17. Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:24)
    • Mother of Solomon and other sons (wife of David).

    18. Mother of Sisera (Judges 5:28)
    • Unnamed mother of Sisera, mentioned in Deborah’s song.

    19. Samson’s Mother (Judges 13:2-3)
    • Unnamed wife of Manoah, mother of Samson.

    20. Abijah (1 Kings 14:1)
    • Mother of Jeroboam’s son (wife of Jeroboam, “Abishalom” in some texts).

    21. Maacah (1 Kings 15:2)
    • Mother of Asa (king of Judah), though possibly a grandmother in some interpretations.

    22. Jezebel (1 Kings 16:31; 2 Kings 9:22)
    • Mother of Ahaziah and Joram (wife of Ahab).

    23. Athaliah (2 Kings 8:26)
    • Mother of Ahaziah (king of Judah).

    24. Huldah (2 Kings 22:14)
    • Mother of unnamed children (wife of Shallum), noted as a prophetess.

    25. Hamutal (2 Kings 23:31)
    • Mother of Jehoahaz and Zedekiah (kings of Judah).

    26. Zeruiah (1 Chronicles 2:16)
    • Mother of Joab, Abishai, and Asahel (sister of David).

    27. Abigail (1 Chronicles 2:16-17)
    • Mother of Amasa (sister of David, distinct from David’s wife).

    28. Esther’s Mother (Esther 2:7)
    • Unnamed, mother of Esther (deceased, mentioned indirectly).

    29. Job’s Wife (Job 2:9-10)
    • Unnamed, mother of Job’s children (Job 1:2).

    30. Hosea’s Wife (Gomer) (Hosea 1:3)
    • Mother of Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi.

    31. Isaiah’s Wife (Isaiah 8:3)
    • Unnamed, mother of Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz (referred to as “the prophetess”).

    32. Ezekiel’s Wife (Ezekiel 24:18)
    • Unnamed, mother of unnamed children (died during Ezekiel’s ministry).

    33. Elizabeth (Luke 1:13-60)
    • Mother of John the Baptist (wife of Zechariah).

    34. Mary (Matthew 1:18; Luke 2:7)
    • Mother of Jesus (and her other children, Mark 6:3).

    35. Eunice (2 Timothy 1:5)
    • Mother of Timothy (wife of an unnamed Greek man).

    36. Lois (2 Timothy 1:5)
    • Mother of Eunice (grandmother of Timothy).

    Some moms on this list were far better than others. The mom that loves God more than her own children couldn’t love them any more completely. She understands what biblical love is all about and she shows and showers it on her kids. 

    Note: If you’re nerdy/curious, this is based on the NIV & ESV translations, compiled with the aid of Blue Letter’s Key-Word tool. 

    Is God Listening?

    When we look at this psalm, attributed to David, we see a mixture of needs and desires.  He acknowledges his dependency, but he also affirms his devotion. When we’ve been recipients of such generosity, how can we keep from praising and serving Him?

    Neal Pollard

    Psalm 61 is a song with musical instructions, according to its title. I can think of at least two songs whose lyrics seem drawn from thoughts and phrases in this brief psalm. There’s a Gaither song, “Lead Me To The Rock That Is Higher Than I,” and brother Tillit S. Teddlie’s, “Hear Me When I Call” (1962). Thoughts in both songs seem related to the first three verses here.

    When we look at this psalm, attributed to David, we see a mixture of needs and desires.  He acknowledges his dependency, but he also affirms his devotion. It is interesting to note David’s reference to God’s hearing: “Hear my cry” (1), “Give heed” (1), “I call” (2), “You have heard” (5), and “I will sing praise to Your name” (8). This is a beautiful image of God caring and listening as we speak to Him. How often do you visualize the personal nature of that?

    As we break down this psalm, we can see at least three actions from the writer. These should mirror our response to God for all He is and has done for us.

    AN APPEAL (1-2,4,7b)

    David pleads with God to hear his cry and prayer. He feels isolated and detached, low and faint. He longs for safety and refuge. He wants God’s lovingkindness and truth to preserve him.  In short, he acknowledges his needs and God’s ability to supply them. We are in a dangerous place, spiritually, when we fail to see our need of God. It will keep us from appealing to Him and relying on Him. We are never independent, whether we know it or not! 

    AN APPRECIATION (3,5-7a)

    He credits God, acknowledging His generosity. He appreciates God’s refuge, inheritance, preservation, and fellowship. Kathy often says, “Gratitude is the key to contentment.” How true! It can also play a vital role in our faithfulness. When we understand that “Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow” (Jas. 1:17), it can revolutionize our relationship with God. 

    AN ASPIRATION (8)

    Responding to God’s gifts is so important to Him. What shows gratitude to God better than a transformed life. David wants to worship (8) and pay vows (5,8). The writer makes the point that it’s worse to be separated from God’s house than to be far from home. Having been given so much, he wants to reciprocate. As Jesus says later, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required” (Luke 12:48).

    Make no mistake about it! God is to be worshipped because He is God, not for the blessings and gifts He gives. But, when we’ve been recipients of such generosity, how can we keep from praising and serving Him?

    Additional notes:

    –Some believe this psalm to be written by a king, others by a priest, or by an exile. The longing to reconnect is reflected by any of these. 

    –Compare this psalm to Psalm 21. Look for similarities.

    –There are some compelling reasons to reinforce the idea that this is a psalm of David, like “the tent” (4), an expression that would make little sense after the temple is built, and the discussion of the inheritance in verses 5-7 that sounds a lot like 2 Samuel 7.