What You do?

His Divine Design in Our Lives

The Journey Of Faith Together

God gives every person enough knowledge that they should seek Him. Those who respond by seeking God will always find Him. If human beings do not "work out" the basic nature of God from what is seen in creation, they are simply "without excuse". Anyone who truly glorifies God as his maker would consequently submit to God's direction in life.

Beloved disciples, gather around as we explore the deeply significant truths laid bare before us all in the Scriptures. The Apostle Paul, in Romans, speaks to us about the inherent knowledge of God that is woven into the very fabric of our beings. Can you feel the weight of such revelation? For it is said that what may be known of God is manifest within us, as verse 19 reveals. This divine unveiling invites us to reflect deeply on our relationship with the Creator. Have we acknowledged this truth in our daily lives?

Consider the implications of Romans 1 verse 21. It declares that when we come to know God, we often fall into the perilous trap of failing to glorify Him as we ought. We become engrossed in our pursuits and distractions, neglecting the gratitude that should flow from our hearts. How often do we look upon the beauty of creation and fail to give thanks? Ingratitude breeds a sense of entitlement and vanity, leading our hearts down the darkened path of futility. Could it be that we have replaced reverence for God with mundane concerns?

Paul reminds us that our imaginations can lead us astray. When we allow our reasoning to stray from the truth of God’s Word, we invite darkness into our understanding. Futile thinking, as outlined in Ephesians 4, leads us to conceive of ideas that are ultimately fruitless and meaningless. Have we entertained thoughts that diminish the glory of God? In what ways do we allow the world’s philosophies to cloud our judgment about who God truly is? These are challenging questions, dear friends, yet they are essential for our spiritual growth.

Take a moment to ponder the essence of idolatry as described in Romans 1 verse 23. When we exchange the glory of the incorruptible God for images fashioned by our hands and minds, we commit a grave error. We must ask ourselves, what idols have we created in our lives? These may not be physical statues, but rather pursuits or desires that lead us away from the truth of God’s sovereignty. Are we guilty of placing our trust in temporary comforts rather than the eternal promises of our Creator?

Let us not forget that when we suppress the truth of God, we are left “without excuse.” The Scriptures reveal that His eternal power and Godhead are evident in all of creation. As we gaze upon the stars, feel the warmth of the sun, and witness the intricate design of life, are we not compelled to recognize His handiwork? Each day is an opportunity to seek Him, to recognize the divine imprint in our lives, and to respond with hearts full of wonder and gratitude.

As followers of Christ, we are called to pray fervently, as Jesus demonstrated during His earthly ministry. Our prayers are a means of communion with our Heavenly Father. In the quiet moments, we draw near to Him, acknowledging His reign in our lives. Do we take this privilege for granted? Jesus teaches us in John that when we ask in His name, the Father hears us. This truth invites us to ponder our requests. Are we seeking God’s will, or merely our own desires?

Moreover, the teachings found in Romans remind us that our understanding of God’s morality is intrinsically woven into the human experience. We cannot claim ignorance of what is right and wrong, for God has placed eternity in the hearts of men. The moral compass within us points to our Creator, urging us toward righteousness. Thus, our decisions reflect our proximity to Him. Are we living in accordance with this knowledge?

In a world teeming with chaos and distraction, we must challenge ourselves to embrace the truth of God’s Word. Let us not succumb to the futility of worldly thinking. Instead, let us strive to glorify God in every facet of our lives. Each act of kindness, every word of encouragement, and every moment of worship is an offering to our Creator.

As we continue this journey of faith, may we seek to unveil the layers of our hearts that inhibit our understanding of God. In our quest for truth, let us engage in honest discussions with one another, wrestling with the Scriptures, seeking to grow in wisdom and understanding. How can we support one another in this endeavor? What steps can we take to foster a community that uplifts and encourages the glorification of God?

In closing, dear friends, let us commit to live in the light of His glory, to cultivate hearts of gratitude, and to reject the vanity that seeks to ensnare us. Pray earnestly for the grace to honor God with every thought, word, and deed, that we may reflect His love and truth to a world in desperate need of hope. As we embark on this endeavor, remember, we are not alone. Together, we journey toward the fullness of His revelation, confident that when we seek Him, we will indeed find Him.

Awakening to Divine Wonders: Jesus teaches us to pray to the Father, and He prays to the Father throughout His time on Earth (John 16:23 and John 17:1-26). When we are saved, God becomes our Father, too (John 1:12). We can bring any request before Him, and He will hear us (Philippians 4:6).

Beloved disciples, as we walk beside the turquoise waters, let us pause in reverence and reflect on the profound truths of the world around us, and more importantly, on the truth that resides within us. Our Creator, in His boundless wisdom, has left us ample evidence of His existence, yet how often do we walk through this life blind to the divine revelations that surround us? When we gaze upon the heavens, the mountains, and the oceans—have we truly taken a moment to acknowledge that each of these elements proclaims His glory? Psalm 19 declares that “the heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” This is not merely poetic language, but a profound reality. The world around us is not a product of randomness; it is a carefully crafted testimony to a Creator whose majesty cannot be contained.

Yet, how often do we ignore or take for granted these testimonies? In Romans 1, the Apostle Paul writes, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened” (Romans 1:21). This is the stark reality that Paul lays before us—humanity knows God, and yet, they refuse to honor Him. We are not without excuse. The evidence of His presence is clear, yet many choose to suppress it. The question is, why? Why do we, who have been given such clear testimony through creation and the Word, often turn our backs on the very One who made us?

Consider the rich young ruler in Matthew 19. He came to Jesus, seeking answers to the eternal question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” And yet, though he saw the evidence of truth standing before him, he struggled with the simplicity of surrendering his heart fully to Christ. “One thing thou lackest,” Jesus said to him (Mark 10:21). One thing—his heart was too tethered to the things of this world. How often do we find ourselves in similar positions? We are often at a crossroads, not because the truth is elusive, but because we are unwilling to let go of our own understandings, our own attachments, our own pride.

In our journey with Christ, the act of surrender is not merely one-time—it is continual. Look at Nicodemus in John 3. He came to Jesus by night, struggling to understand the concept of being “born again.” Jesus told him, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). Nicodemus, like many of us, wrestled with this reality. The challenge was not in the evidence; the challenge was in the surrender. “How can these things be?” he asked, struggling to grasp the depth of Jesus’ words.

But brothers and sisters, we must ask ourselves the same question—how can these things be? How can we, who have been given the knowledge of God, still resist surrendering to Him? How can we, who know the Gospel, still cling to our old lives, our old ways, and our old thoughts?

Romans 1:20 tells us, “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.” The evidence is clear. The beauty of creation, the intricacies of nature, and the laws of the universe—all testify to the eternal power of God. Yet many continue to reject Him. How is this possible?

It is because, as Paul continues, “they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful.” Instead of acknowledging God as the Creator, they became vain in their imaginations, and their hearts grew dark. The futility of their thinking—this is what Paul speaks of when he warns against the rejection of God. Futility. Fruitless. Worthless. These are the terms used to describe the minds of those who fail to recognize the Creator. When we fail to recognize God in His creation, we fall into a trap of emptiness. Our minds become clouded by worldly wisdom that leads us further away from the truth. We become blind, as if the light of truth is dimmed within us.

But do not be deceived, my beloved disciples. In the midst of this darkness, there is a light. It is Christ. He is the fulfillment of all the law, the full expression of God’s glory. It is through His sacrifice on the cross that we can truly know the Father. The law of Christ, after the cross, is not one of condemnation, but one of grace and invitation. The old has passed away, and behold, all things have become new. We are called to walk in the light of His truth, not in the futility of our own imaginations.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” Here is the invitation to seek the Lord with all of our hearts, to pursue Him with passion and purpose. How often do we neglect this call to ask, seek, and knock? How often do we turn to our own understanding rather than seeking the face of God? Beloved, the door is always open, but we must choose to knock.

I challenge you today to examine your heart. Are you seeking God with the same fervor that a man seeks water in the desert? Or are you content to let the beauty of creation pass by without acknowledgment? Is your heart grateful for the breath of life that He has given you, or do you take it for granted, as though it is your right?

The truth is, the evidence is everywhere. The stars, the trees, the wind, and the waves—all testify to the glory of God. The question is not whether we see it, but whether we are willing to respond. When we gaze upon creation, we must not forget to glorify God for what He has made. When we see the sunrise, we must thank Him for His faithfulness. When we witness the miracle of life, we must honor Him as the Creator. This is the response that He desires from us.

As you walk beside these waters today, let your heart be open to the truths that God is speaking. Let your mind be free from the futility of earthly wisdom, and let your heart be filled with the light of His truth. Remember the words of Romans 1:21: “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful.” Let this not be said of you. Let your heart be filled with gratitude, and let your mind be renewed by the truth of His Word.

Brothers and sisters, do not allow your heart to be darkened by the world’s wisdom. Instead, seek the wisdom of God. Seek Him with all your heart, soul, and mind, for the evidence is all around you. God has revealed Himself through creation, through His Word, and through His Son, Jesus Christ. Will you choose to see? Will you choose to glorify Him and give thanks for all that He has done?

I urge you, in the name of Christ, to choose the light. Reject the vanity of this world. Embrace the truth of God’s Word, and allow His Spirit to guide you into all understanding. The evidence is there. The invitation is given. The choice is yours.

May you walk in His light, beloved. May you seek Him with all your heart, and may you find Him faithful to reveal Himself to you in ways that will transform your life forever. Amen.

Awakening to Divine Wonders

 

Beloved disciples, let us pause for a moment and ponder the profound truth woven into the very fabric of creation. Have you ever gazed upon the heavens and felt a stirring within? The stars, the mountains, the oceans—they all sing of His glory, as Psalm 19 reminds us that the heavens declare the glory of God. Indeed, you find yourself beholding the intricate beauty of the world around you, and in that moment, you cannot help but acknowledge that our Creator’s hand is evident in every detail. Yet, despite this divine artistry, many choose to turn away, refusing to honor or give thanks to the One who made them.

In Romans 1, the Apostle Paul lays bare the hearts of men, showing us how they willingly suppress the truth. They are without excuse for the evidence is plain, yet they remain blind. Just as the rich young ruler approached Jesus, seeking to understand what he must do to inherit eternal life, we see his struggle to grasp the greatness of God. Matthew 19 highlights this critical choice we all face—whether to seek God or to cling to our own understanding.

Consider the heart of Nicodemus, who approached Jesus under cover of night, wrestling with spiritual truths that eluded him. Like him, we often grapple with understanding the fullness of God’s revelation. John 3 teaches us that to see the Kingdom of God, we must be born again, shedding our old selves and embracing a new life in Christ. This act of rebirth is essential, for only then can we perceive the divine reality that surrounds us.

How often do we find ourselves standing at this crossroads? The challenge lies not in the evidence itself, but in our willingness to acknowledge it. Jesus urges us in Matthew 7, to ask, seek, and knock—this is the heart of our relationship with God. The choice to pursue Him is critical; it is an invitation to delve deeper into His mysteries. If we are to recognize Him in creation, we must also seek Him earnestly.

As we contemplate these truths, let us reject the temptation to ignore the undeniable signs of God’s presence in our lives. Is not His majesty revealed in the smallest of creatures, in the vibrant blooms of a flower, in the gentle rustle of leaves? Creation itself is a testimony to His existence, leaving us with no excuse to turn a blind eye. Our response must be one of gratitude, as we honor the One who breathes life into all things.

Brothers and sisters, the call is clear. We have been given ample evidence of God’s existence, yet so many choose to remain in darkness. The challenge is to engage with those around us, to share these truths, to gently remind them of what they may be overlooking. We must encourage one another to seek the Lord, to explore the depths of His love and grace.

As we conclude, I urge you to dwell on these reflections. Are you seeking Him with all your heart? Are you willing to embrace the life-changing truth that lies before you? Remember, the door is always open, the invitation is always extended. The choice remains yours, and the evidence is everywhere around you, waiting for you to see, to understand, and to glorify the One who is worthy of all praise.

Late Night Discussion – Psalm 19-22

Late Night Discussion – Psalm 19-22

The camp is quieting down, the fire now reduced to glowing embers. A few disciples remain seated around the fire, their voices low as they discuss the day’s lessons. The Teacher, sensing the lingering thirst for deeper understanding, quietly approaches them. He listens to their conversation, the warmth of the fire still illuminating their faces.

Teacher’s Voice:

“I hear you speaking of the mercy of God, and yet there is something more we must also reflect upon tonight. For mercy is not the only attribute of God we must ponder. There is also His holiness, His justice, and His righteousness. These are aspects of His character that must shape our understanding of mercy.”

The disciples turn toward the Teacher, their eyes attentive. The Teacher’s voice is calm, but there is an intensity behind his words, urging them to dig deeper into God’s Word.

“Let us turn to Psalm 19. It is a psalm that reveals both the glory of God in creation and the perfection of His law. We will see how these themes intersect with the mercy we’ve discussed.”

Psalm 19 – The Glory of God and His Word

The Teacher opens his scroll and begins reading aloud with clarity and conviction.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.” (Psalm 19:1-4)

“Consider, my friends, the splendor of creation. The heavens declare the glory of God. Everything in creation speaks of His majesty—whether the stars above, the mountains we climb, or the valleys we walk through. Creation is a constant testimony to the Creator.”

He pauses, allowing the disciples to reflect on the magnitude of God’s work in nature.

“Now, why do you think God chose to reveal His glory in creation? What does it teach us about His nature?”

Sarah, who has been quiet until now, speaks up softly.

“Maybe it’s so that we cannot avoid seeing His greatness. No matter where we are, we are surrounded by His work—whether in the vast sky or the smallest flower.”

“Exactly, Sarah. The glory of God is not hidden. It is everywhere, in plain view. It is a constant reminder of His power and majesty. But listen to the psalmist’s next words.”

The Teacher continues to read from Psalm 19.

“In them hath He set a tabernacle for the sun, which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and His circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.” (Psalm 19:5-6)

The Teacher looks up from the scroll and addresses the group.

“Do you see how the psalmist uses the imagery of the sun to describe God’s revelation? The sun does not hide itself; it rises with strength and purpose, filling all creation with its warmth and light. In the same way, God’s revelation in creation is complete and all-encompassing. His glory is not only visible, but it also shines into every corner of the earth.”

Scripture Insight 1: Psalm 19:7-11 – The Perfect Law of the Lord

The Teacher continues reading.

“The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is Thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.” (Psalm 19:7-11)

“Now we move from the grandeur of creation to the perfection of God’s law. Listen carefully: The law of the Lord is perfect. This is a powerful statement. It is not simply good or beneficial—it is perfect. It is the very standard of righteousness. God’s commandments are the measure by which all things must be judged.”

He looks up from the scroll, his voice filled with intensity.

“What does the psalmist mean when he says that the law is perfect? How does that relate to the mercy we’ve spoken of?”

John, who has been listening closely, responds thoughtfully.

“I think it means that the law reveals what is truly good, and it shows us how we fall short. But even in that, it points us to God’s mercy. Without His law, we wouldn’t know how much we need His forgiveness.”

“Yes, John, well said. God’s law is the standard, and yet it also reveals our need for His grace. The law points us to God’s holiness, and His holiness exposes our sinfulness. But His mercy—His mercy—is what bridges the gap between His righteousness and our need. We see this perfectly in the person of Jesus Christ, who came not to abolish the law, but to fulfill it.”

Psalm 22 – The Suffering of the Righteous

The Teacher’s voice softens, as he turns the scroll to Psalm 22, a psalm that speaks of suffering and the deep cries of the righteous.

“My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken me? Why art Thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the day time, but Thou hearest not; and in the night season, and am not silent.” (Psalm 22:1-2)

The Teacher’s voice is filled with reverence as he reflects on the deep agony expressed in these verses.

“These are the words of one who feels abandoned by God. Yet, in the very heart of despair, we find the cry of faith. Jesus, in His darkest moment on the cross, echoed these very words. ‘My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?’ (Matthew 27:46).”

He lets the weight of the connection sink in.

“Why would Jesus cry out these words? And why would the psalmist, thousands of years earlier, speak of such agony? This is the mystery of God’s mercy. It is through suffering that God’s mercy is made most apparent. Jesus took upon Himself the forsakenness that we deserve, so that we might experience the mercy and the forgiveness of God.”

Scripture Insight 2: Psalm 22:22-31 – The Triumph of God’s Mercy

The Teacher continues reading the latter portion of Psalm 22, where the tone shifts from despair to triumph.

“I will declare Thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise Thee. Ye that fear the Lord, praise Him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify Him; and fear Him, all ye the seed of Israel. For He hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath He hid His face from him; but when he cried unto Him, He heard.” (Psalm 22:22-24)

The Teacher speaks with a voice full of hope.

“Despite the suffering, there is ultimate victory in God’s mercy. Jesus, though forsaken, was heard. He overcame the grave. And through His triumph, we too can experience God’s mercy and righteousness.”

Actionable Step 3: Reflecting on God’s Holiness and Mercy

He turns to the disciples with a final question.

“As we reflect on these two psalms—Psalm 19 and Psalm 22—how do they shape our understanding of God’s mercy? What is the relationship between His justice, holiness, and mercy?”

Thomas speaks again, his voice reverent.

“Teacher, I see now that God’s mercy is not passive. It does not ignore His justice or holiness. His mercy is fully realized because it was poured out through Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the law and took on the punishment for our sins.”

“Yes, Thomas. God’s mercy is active, it is costly, and it is perfect. It does not deny His justice or holiness, but rather, it brings them together. As we meditate on His mercy, let us remember that it is not a license to sin, but an invitation to live in His righteousness.”

Teacher’s Challenge for the Night:

“Tonight, as you lay down to rest, reflect on the holiness of God and the depth of His mercy. Let His justice and mercy draw you closer to Him. Take a moment to thank God for His law, which reveals both His holiness and our need for Him. And let the triumph of Psalm 22 remind you that no matter the suffering, God’s mercy will see you through.”

As the disciples quietly depart to their tents, the Teacher’s words echo in their hearts, and they drift to sleep with renewed understanding of God’s perfect mercy.

What truly matters to God?

Do you ever feel like life’s decisions pull you in too many directions? What if you could align everything you do with what truly matters to God?

Selah

Selah indicates a pause in the text. Selah is a synonym of Hebrew words that mean “forever.” Selah is a derivative of the Hebrew root salal (note the s and l), which means to “raise voices in praise” or “make the instruments louder.”