Elf Girl in the City

S. Brenda Elfgirl - I was told I am an elf in a parallel life, and I live in the Arizona desert exploring what this means. I've had this blog for a while and I write about the things that interest me. My spiritual teacher told me that my journey in life is about balancing "the perfect oneness of a sweetness heart and the effulgent soul". My inner and outer lives are like parallel lines that will one day meet, but only when there is a new way of thinking. Read on as I try to find the balance.

Tuesday, September 30, 2025

Day 272 Bible Readings – Zephaniah 3:1-2 (ESV

Zephaniah 1-3, Philippians 1, Psalm 150

Zephaniah 3:1-2 (ESV)

“Woe to her who is rebellious and defiled, the oppressing city! She listens to no voice; she accepts no correction. She does not trust in the Lord; she does not draw near to her God.”

As I read today’s Bible readings, I was struck by verses 1 and 2 from Zephaniah 3. The prophet Zephaniah was prophesying to the people of Judah about the judgment that would come from Father-God for their past disobedience. Zephaniah talks about the coming destruction of Jerusalem because the city was full of corrupt oppressors, who were in rebellion against Father-God’s commands for justice and righteousness. Zephaniah tells us that the city of Jerusalem did not listen to the Lord. When the people of Jerusalem finally heard the Lord’s calls for repentance, they did not accept correction. The people of Jerusalem did not trust in the Lord or draw near to him.

The description of the people of Jerusalem reminded me of my past self. Father-God has always been in my life, but I was often rebellious. I ignored the voice of the Holy Spirit and resisted any corrections from Him regarding my behavior. A friend of mine advised me that my inability to trust Father-God prevented me from drawing near to Him. I knew she was right, but I didn’t know how to begin trusting the Lord. I blamed Father-God for everything that had gone wrong in my life. It wasn’t until I let go of my anger towards Father-God that I was able to develop a relationship with Him. When I was born again, the Holy Spirit helped me process my anger and surrender it to Father-God. Now, I wake up every morning feeling enveloped by His love, and I feel truly blessed.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ, you want to wake up every morning to feel the love of Father-God surrounding you and blessing you, then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Heavenly Father, I want to give you my Life. Forgive me of all of my sins. Wash me in your blood. I believe in my heart You raised Jesus from the dead. I confess with my mouth that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive forgiveness by the blood of Jesus. I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of Father-God! Do yourself a favor and find and join a Holy Spirit-filled, full Gospel, Bible-based church where you can hear the words of Father-God preached and experience signs, wonders, and miracles in your life.

Monday, September 29, 2025

Day 271 Bible Readings – Nahum 1:7 (ESV)

Nahum 1-3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 149

Nahum 1:7 (ESV)

“The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.

In the book of Nahum, the Old Testament prophet Nahum delivered Father-God’s message of judgment against Nineveh, the capital of Assyria. After first describing Father-God in various ways in Nahum 1, Nahum concludes the description in verse 7, telling us that Father-God is good. Father-God is a stronghold for us when we are in trouble, and he knows those who have a relationship with him and who trust him.

Nahum's verse lets us know that if we have a relationship with Father-God, we will find protection because he is our stronghold, which in ancient times meant a fortified place offering refuge from danger. As believers, we need to turn to Father-God first in times of trouble rather than relying only on ourselves or on other people. We also need to develop a relationship with Father-God through our faith in Jesus Christ, so we can trust in him to always have our best interests at heart, even in times or seasons of trouble. We can seek refuge in Father-God because we know he will offer us refuge from danger and from our enemies.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ, you want a Father-God who is your stronghold in times of trouble, then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Heavenly Father, I want to give you my Life. Forgive me of all of my sins. Wash me in your blood. I believe in my heart You raised Jesus from the dead. I confess with my mouth that Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive forgiveness through the blood of Jesus. I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Day 270 Bible Readings – Ephesians 5: 15-16 (ESV)

Isaiah 65: 17-25, Isaiah 66, Ephesians 5, Psalm 148: 7-14

Ephesians 5: 15-16 (ESV)

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”

In verses 5 and 6 from Ephesians 5, Paul writes to the church of Ephesus that believers need to be intentional in their life and live a life that reflects Father-God’s will. We need to read the Bible so we can learn how to make wise choices, because the Bible is replete with how to live wisely. We can learn to live according to Father-God’s principles as laid out in the Bible. Paul tells us we need to also make the best use of our time and become stewards of it. Time is a gift from Father-God, and we need to manage it wisely. We need to make the most of every opportunity that is given to us to do Father-God's will, because the world is full of challenges that are moral and spiritual. We need to make sure our time is spent in daily activities that align with our faith and values.

I like Paul’s concept that since time is a gift from Father-God, we need to be good stewards of it and make sure we are using it to do Father-God’s will on earth. I also like that Paul tells us to be wise, because the concept of wisdom is mentioned so much in the Bible. Lastly, Paul reminds us that the world we live in is characterized by sin and full of things that are in opposition to the principles in the Bible. I am grateful that I have the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit to live an intentional life that is dedicated to doing the will of Father-God for my life.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ, you want to live an intentional life focused on doing the will of Father-God for your life, then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Day 269 Bible Readings for September 27 – Ephesians 4: 31-32 (ESV)

Isaiah 63-64, Isaiah 65: 1-16, Ephesians 4: 17-32, Psalm 148: 1-6

Ephesians 4 31-32 (ESV)

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

In verses 31 and 32, Paul writes to the church at Ephesus that when you are born again and become a new person, your behavior changes. The “new person” who is born again controls their emotions, especially the negative ones, and their subsequent behaviors. We need to let go of bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor or disruptive angry expressions, slander, and malice. And when we do experience these negative emotions, we can ask the Holy Spirit for help in dealing with them. Paul also writes that we treat each other the way Father-God has treated us. We need to be kind to one another and tender-hearted. And most importantly, we need to forgive each other the way Father-God has forgiven us for all our sins. Forgiveness doesn’t mean we forget or justify someone’s behavior, but that we extend to each other the kind of grace and pardon that Father-God showed to us.

I love this explanation of what will happen to a believer when we become born again and become a “new person” in Christ. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can let go of negative emotions and their often-destructive behavior. We can treat people the way Father-God treated us and forgive them with the same grace that Father-God showed towards us.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ, you want to let go of your negative emotions and become a new person, then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Friday, September 26, 2025

Day 268 Bible Readings – Isaiah 61: 1-4 (ESV)

Isaiah 60-62, Ephesians 4: 1-16, Psalm 147: 12-20

Isaiah 61: 1-4 (ESV)

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”

In verses 1 through 4 from Isaiah 61, the prophet Isaiah gives us another prophecy of the mission of Jesus Christ. When I read these verses, I thought of what the disciples of John the Baptist asked Jesus in Luke 7: 20, “And when the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” Jesus told them in Luke 7: 22, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them.”

Jesus’ answer to the disciples of John the Baptist mirrored what Isaiah prophesied that the coming Messiah would bring to the world. It would not be until the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, that we would see the fulfillment of the rest of these verses. Christ died for our sins so we could be transformed by our faith in him, and have beauty instead of ashes, joy instead of mourning, and praise and worship instead of despair. That through our faith in Jesus Christ, we will have strength and righteousness, and our lives will glorify Father-God.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and you want to have the promises that Isaiah prophesied about in the Old Testament that were fulfilled through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ—then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Heavenly Father, I want to give you my Life. Forgive me of all of my sins. Wash me in your blood. I believe in my heart You raised Jesus from the dead. I confess with my mouth Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive forgiveness by the blood of Jesus. I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you prayed this prayer, welcome to the family of Father-God! Do yourself a favor and find and join a Holy Spirit filled, full Gospel, Bible-based church where you can hear the words of Father-God preached and experience signs, wonders, and miracles in your life.

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Day 267 Bible Readings – Ephesians 3: 14-19 (ESV)

Isaiah 57: 14-21, Isaiah 58-59, Ephesians 3, Psalm 147: 1-11

Ephesians 3: 14-19 (ESV)

“For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”

In verses 14 through 19 from Ephesians 3, Paul writes to the church at Ephesus a prayer for them so they can have a personal relationship with Father-God, Jesus, Christ and the Hol Spirit. Paul asks that Father-God strengthen the church in Ephesus with power through the Holy Spirit. He also prays that Jesus Christ dwell in their hearts because of their faith in him. Paul also prays that we have the strength to comprehend Father-God’s boundless love, and to know and experience the love of Christ. Paul also prays that we may be filled with fullness of Father-God.

I love this prayer, and I think we can use this verse and substitute you for “me” or “I” as I’ve seen this done with other verses from Paul’s letters. For example, instead of “he may grant you to be strengthened”, you would say “he may grant me to be strengthened.” You would be praying for this prayer for yourself, instead of for the church in Ephesus. You would be praying for yourself to have the strength to comprehend Father-God’s love, and to know that Jesus Christ dwells in your heart through your faith. If you said it daily, you could have the blessings of Paul’s prayer over your life every day.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and you want to have a personal relationship with Father-God through your faith in Jesus Christ—then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Wednesday, September 24, 2025

Day 266 Bible Readings – Ephesians 2: 8-10 (ESV)

Isaiah 55-56, Isaiah 57: 1-13, Ephesians 2, Psalm 146

Ephesians 2: 8-10 (ESV)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

In verses 8 through 10 from Ephesians 2, Paul writes to the Ephesians in the church at Ephesus about the nature of grace and salvation. Paul tells them that they are saved by Father-God’s grace through faith in Jesus Christ. The grace to be saved through faith is a gift from Father-God, and not because of the good deeds that we do. Our good deeds are the evidence of our faith and being saved by grace, but our good deeds cannot earn our salvation. We should not boast about all the good deeds that we do.

Paul tells us that we were created by Father-God, and when we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ, we have rebirth and renewal. Because we are new creations through our faith in Jesus Christ, we do good deeds to show the evidence of our deliverance. Father-God who created us, has prepared a plan for our life and is active in our life. All we need to do is walk in the paths Father-God prepared for us.

I love Paul’s definition of grace in Ephesians 2:8-10 because it offers a profound understanding of God’s gift to humanity. Grace, as described by Paul, is rooted in the idea that Father-God is our Creator, and through His love, He gave us the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. This sacrificial act was done so that we might be saved, not by our own efforts, but through faith in Jesus.

Grace is the unearned favor bestowed by Father-God upon His creations. It is not something we can earn or achieve through good deeds or personal accomplishments. Instead, salvation is possible only through believing in Jesus Christ. When we accept this gift of grace through faith, we are transformed into new creations.

As new creations, our lives take on new purpose and direction. We are called to walk in the paths that Father-God has already prepared for us. This journey is not about proving ourselves worthy, but about living in response to the grace we have received, allowing our faith to be evident in the way we live.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and you want to be saved through your faith in Jesus Christ—then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Day 265 Bible Readings – Isaiah 53: 7-9 (ESV)

Isaiah 52-54, Ephesians 1, Psalm 145 13-21

Isaiah 53: 7-9 (ESV)

“He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people? And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.”

In verses 7 through 9 from Isaiah 53, Isaiah the Old Testament prophet gives us another prophecy about the life of Jesus Christ. Isaiah predicted that Christ would be oppressed and become like a lamb that is led to slaughter. Isaiah said that the Messiah would not open his moth, and during his trial Jesus Christ never defended himself. Isaiah also tells us that Christ would be make his grave with the wicked, which came true because Jesus was crucified with two other criminals. And finally, Isaiah prophesied that Christ would be buried with a rich man in his death. Christ was buried in the tomb of the wealthy Joseph of Arimathea.

When I meditate on these verses, I am struck by the phrase “like a lamb that is lead to slaughter.” In the sacrificial system, lambs were offered for atonement to take away sin. In Exodus, Moses told the people of Israel to slaughter the Passover lamb and put the blood on their door frames, and by doing this they would not suffer the 10^th plage which was the death of all the first born in Egypt. Jesus Christ was always meant to be the sacrificial lamb to atone for our sins to save us from plague of death. I am also in awe of how Father-God orchestrated all the events which led to life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We need to trust that no matter what happens in our life, Father-God has a plan for our life and for the world.

If you found encouragement in my reflections on these Bible verses, and you desire a personal relationship with Jesus Christ to have a Father-God who has a purpose for your life and for the world—then I invite you to pray the following prayer aloud:

Monday, September 22, 2025

Day 264 Bible Readings – Galatians 6: 9-10 (ESV)

Isaiah 49-51, Galatians 6, Psalm 145: 8-13

Galatians 6: 9-10 (ESV)

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

In verses 9 and 10 from Galatians 6, Paul writes to the churches in Galatia to not lose heart or become discouraged from doing good. He tells them you might not see immediate results, but you need to trust in Father-God’s timing that you will see that you have contributed to Father-God’s plan for yourself and humanity. Paul tells them that they need to continually do good to everyone at every opportunity, and especially to their brothers and sisters in faith.

I found these verses comforting in light of last week’s news of the assassination of Charlie Kirk. No matter how much craziness and ugliness we sometimes see in the world, we need to always do good and treat everyone well. We need to think of how Jesus Christ would have reacted and treated people at a time like this. I’m also grateful to have a church community around me with whom I can talk to about what happened and share in our collective grief over this tragedy. It’s hard at a time like this to think of continuing to do good in the face of the evil that was committed, and the aftermath of some people celebrating the murder of this amazing Christian man. But as Paul told the Galatians, we need to continually do good because we know that Father-God will help us in our efforts and we will one day know that our efforts were not in vain, and they helped to further Father-God’s plan for us and for the world.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to always do good in the world with the help of Father-God to help you through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Day 263 Bible Readings for September 21 – Galatians 5: 16-18 (ESV)

Isaiah 47-48, Galatians 5: 7-26, Psalm 145: 1-7

Galatians 5: 16-18 (ESV)

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.”

In verses 16 through 18 from Galatian 5, Paul tells the church in the region of Galatia that they need to walk by the spirit which means to live in continuous dependence and obedience to the Holy Spirit. If they depended on and obeyed the Holy Spirit, they will have the strength to not gratify the desires of their flesh. We do not have the strength on our own to resist the desires of the flesh; we need to ask the Holy Spirit to help us. We need to surrender daily to the guidance of the Holy Spirit because the struggle between the desires of our flesh and doing the things Father-God wants us to do is a normal part of life. When you rely on the Holy Spirit, we live in the freedom that Christ provided by his death and resurrection and not under the law of Moses. Relying on the Holy Spirit will give us the fruits of the spirit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

I am slowly learning to rely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit for all decisions in my life, and not just the big and important decisions. I found out that it is the small decisions that I make every day that can lead to a crisis or problem later in my life. If I ask the Holy Spirit for guidance in small decisions, then my life seems to be problem and crisis-free. But it’s hard because I want to be independent and not rely so much on the Holy Spirit. But I’ve learnt that my need for independence is a subtle way for me to rebel against obeying Father-God in everything, and relying on the Holy Spirit helps me be more obedient to Father-God.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to have the guidance of the Holy Spirit to lead a life free from problems through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Day 262 Bible Readings for September 20 – Isaiah 46: 3-4 (ESV)

Isaiah 45-46, Galatians 4: 21-31, Galatians 5: 1-6, Psalm 144: 9-15

Isaiah 46: 3-4 (ESV)

“Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.”

In verses 3 and 4 from Isaiah 46, the prophet Isaiah tells us of the promises Father-God made to his children. He will always be faithful to us and be with us. In our old age when we have gray hair, Father-God will carry us. He made us and will sustain us in all circumstances. Father-God also promises to be our provider and savior.

In these verses, we have promises from Father-God that he will be same throughout our life from childhood to our old age. He will sustain and deliver us, and we can be assured that he is always looking after us because he made us. We need never worry that Father-God’s love for us will diminish as we age. We can trust in Father-God alone to sustain and deliver us and not just trust in the world or our possessions.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want the promise of a Father-God who will be with you until you die through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Friday, September 19, 2025

Day 261 Bible Readings – Isaiah 43: 2 (ESV)

Isaiah 43-44, Galatians 3: 26-29, Galatians 4: 1-20, Psalm 144: 1-8

Isaiah 43: 2 (ESV)

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”

In verse 2 from Isaiah 43, Isaiah the prophet tells us the promises of Father-God for us. He promises to be us with trials of water and fire. Water is chaotic and dangerous, but Father-God promised to be with us. Rivers in the Bible represented insurmountable obstacles in the Bible, yet Father-God promised they will not overwhelm us. Fire was often a symbol of judgement and purification in the Bible, and Father-God promised that we will not be burned or consumed by it. Fire was also often seen as a time of trial and testing in the Bible, and Father-God promised he will always be with us during these times.

This verse makes me think of all times in my life where I felt I was in a situation where it felt like I was drowning. I think of times when I felt like I was in a situation where I felt everything in my life was going to burn up, or I was in a time of trial and testing. I prayed to Father-God during these seasons, and I always felt like Father-God was always with me and that I wouldn’t have survived these times without him. I often forget these times where I felt so strongly the presence of Father-God and how he saved me, but reading this verse reminds me that Father-God has always been with me through my whole life.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verses, and you want a Father-God who will be with you through the trials of your life so they will never overwhelm you because of your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Thursday, September 18, 2025

Day 260 Bible Readings – Isaiah 42: 1-4 (ESV)

Isaiah 41-42, Galatians 3: 1-25, Psalm 143

Isaiah 42: 1-4 (ESV)

“Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not grow faint or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his law.”

In verses 1-4 from Isaiah 42, we find another prophecy about Jesus Christ from the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah prophesies about a servant from Father-God who delights his soul. The servant has the Holy Spirit inside of him and will bring forth justice to the world. Isaiah then talks about the gentleness of this servant, but one who will not grow faint or be discouraged in his mission from Father-God.

I love this description of Jesus Christ from these verses in Isaiah because they accurately describe who Jesus was during his ministry on earth. Jesus was sinless and was so gentle with the sinners he ministered to and healed. These verses also tell us how to emulate a servant of Father-God. We need to make sure that everything we do and think delights our Father-God. We need to be sure we are always filled with the Holy Spirit and are always consulting with the Holy Spirit for every decision, so we are always following Father-God’s plan for our life. Isaiah also tells us to be humble, gentle, and to treat people with respect. And finally, we need to have unwavering commitment in our faith and our trust in Father-God and his mission and plan for our life and for the world.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to have a role model for how to be a servant of Father-God through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Heavenly Father, I want to give you my Life. Forgive me of all of my sins. Wash me in your blood. I believe in my heart You raised Jesus from the dead. I confess with my mouth Jesus is my Lord and Savior. Right now, I receive forgiveness by the blood of Jesus. I am saved, I am forgiven, I am clean, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Day 259 Bible Readings – Isaiah 40: 3 (ESV)

Isaiah 38-40, Galatians 2: 11-21, Psalm 142

Isaiah 40: 3 (ESV)

“A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”

When I read verse 3 from Isaiah 40, I immediately thought of John the Baptist. He is the voice in the wilderness that the prophet Isaiah talks about in this verse. John the Baptist prepared the way for the ministry of Jesus Christ. I knew that there were verses in Isaiah that prophesied the birth of Jesus Christ, but I didn’t realize until now that Isaiah also prophesied the mission of John the Baptist.

I love how we can see in this verse from Isaiah that Father-God had a plan for the deliverance of his people that was prophesied years in advance. It gives me the hope and the trust to know that whatever is going on in the world and in my life, Father-God has a plan for all of it. Father-God will use whatever is happening, good or bad in the world and in my life, for the good to further his plan for my life and for the world. The ministry of John Baptist also inspires me to be a messenger of the gospel. My intention behind these daily blog posts, which highlight notable verses from my personal Bible readings, is to encourage blog readers to engage with and understand the teachings of Jesus Christ. And that like John the Baptist, I am preparing the way for Jesus Christ in the hearts of people who read my blog.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verses, and you want a Father-God who has a plan for the world and your life through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Day 258 Bible Readings – Psalm 141: 3-4 (ESV)

Isaiah 36-37, Galatians 2: 1-10, Psalm 141: 1-10

Psalm 141: 3-4 (ESV)

“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! Do not let my heart incline to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity, and let me not eat of their delicacies!”

In verses 3 and 4 from Psalm 141, David asked Father-God to guard his mouth so he would say evil or foolish things. David also asked Father-God to guard his heart against temptation even when he was the presence of people who did not have the same beliefs. I was very drawn to these verses because my pastor always talks about “the power of life and death being in the tongue.” I must constantly watch what I say in case I say anything that prophesies bad things about my life, or any kind of talk where I am the victim that have no power. I find it so easy to look for the worst in any situation, although I am getting better at looking at the brighter sides in any situation thanks to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

I also am noticing when the people I am with start prophesying about how bad life is or how corrupt every institution is, as well as the people who run it. I don’t want to be in a conversation with people who are using their tongues to prophecy about how the world worked. I was with a group of friends from church and one person started going on about how corrupt the world was, and I blurted out “the power of life and death is in the tongue.” I didn’t even stay to see their reaction but got up and joined another conversation. I think it was the Holy Spirit who made me blurt out that rebuke, because as believers in Christ we need to watch what we say and not give in victimhood or saying the world is a terrible place. How can the world be a terrible place when Father-God is ultimately in charge of everything taking place in the world, and will use everything for the good to further his plan for the earth and for humanity? I know it’s easy and I have to stop myself constantly, but Holy Spirit constantly reminds me that “the power of life and death is in my tongue.” David reminds us in these verses that our words are powerful, and we need to pray to Father-God to control our speech, so we only say words that honor him and his plan for the world.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want a Father-God who helps you guard your speech and your heart against temptation through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Day 257 Bible Readings for September 15 – Isaiah 35: 5-6 (ESV)

Isaiah 33-35, Galatians 1, Psalm 140: 6-13

Isaiah 35: 5-6 (ESV)

“Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy.”

In verses 5 and 6 from Isaiah 35, the prophet Isaiah prophesied of a time when the Messiah would come and heal the blind, the deaf, the lame, and the mute people in the world. In these verses, Isaiah foretold what would happen not only during the ministry of Jesus Christ, but also of his followers. Jesus was able heal physical blindness, deafness, people who were lame, and those who couldn’t speak. When Christ died, the Holy Spirit came down and filled his disciples and others with the power to perform healing miracles like Christ. And even today, I’ve seen for myself ministers heal people were partially blind, people who were deaf, people who could barely stand up and leaned heavily on a cane, and a child who was deaf and mute.

But Christ not only healed physical blindness but spiritual blindness as well. Christ opened the ear of people who were deaf to spiritual truth. Christ gave strength to people who couldn’t walk, so they could go out and spread his world. And through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ gave his followers and believers the ability to speak the truth and prophesy. I love that I believe in a Father-God who promises physical and spiritual healing and renewal and has passed that power on to his followers in Biblical times and even onto today.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to have a Father-God who promises physical and spiritual healing and renewal through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Day 256 Bible Readings for September 14 – 2 Corinthians 13: 5 (ESV)

Isaiah 31-32, 2 Corinthians 13, Psalm 140: 1-5

2 Corinthians 13: 5 (ESV)

“Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!”

In verse 5 from 2 Corinthian 13, Paul asks the Corinthians Christians to ask themselves if they really have faith in Jesus Christ by examining and testing themselves. The church in Corinth at this time was influenced by false teachers and had questioned Paul’s authority. I think this is a good practice for believers in Jesus Christ to always ask yourself, “does Jesus Christ dwell within me?”

I know when I’ve done it in the past, I couldn’t see Christ in my heart. I had too much doubt, too many experiences of unbelief I hadn’t looked at, too many sins that I hadn’t asked Father-God for forgiveness, and all kinds of other issues I didn’t know was there. I could sort of see Christ in my heart, but there was a thin wall of all these issues blocking my view. When I finally asked Father-God forgiveness and I repented and then asked the Holy Spirit to help break through my “issue wall”, then the wall disappeared, and I could see that Jesus Christ was inside of me. I had tears of joy and regret for doubting Christ’s presence when he was always there within me. I realized that when I was experiencing doubts about Father-God, it was because I was the one who the wall up between myself and Jesus Christ.

As I reflect on the importance of examining my faith and asking whether Jesus Christ truly dwells within me, I have come to realize that I am not alone in this journey. I know that I can turn to the Holy Spirit for help. The Holy Spirit is always available to assist me in breaking down barriers and dissolving anything that stands in the way of my awareness that Jesus Christ is always with me and that Father-God is always in my life.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to have the power of the Holy Spirit to know that the presence of Christ is always within you, please pray this prayer out loud:

Monday, September 15, 2025

Day 255 Bible Readings for September 13 – Psalm 139: 23-24 (ESV)

Isaiah 29-30, 2 Corinthians 12: 11-21, Psalm 139: 17-24

Psalm 139: 23-24 (ESV)

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!”

In verses 23 and 24, David had such trust in Father-God that he asked him to search and know his heart. David also asked Father-God to test him so he can spiritually grow and mature. Then David asks Father-God to reveal any sins within him, so he can align himself with his will.

When you ask Father-God to do these things, it shows that you have close relationship with him, and you are seeking his guidance. You also must have a tremendous amount of trust that Father-God will still love no matter what he finds in your thoughts and heart. When you give permission to Father-God to point out your sinful thoughts, you are telling him that you want to fully align yourself with his will and are willing to change. Praying these verses will increase your spiritual growth maturity and bring you close to Father-God.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want to spiritually grow and mature in your relationship with Father-God, please pray this prayer out loud:

Saturday, September 13, 2025

Day 254 Bible Readings for September 12 – Psalm 139: 13-14 (ESV)

Isaiah 27 & 28, 2 Corinthians 12: 1-10, Psalm 139: 11-16

Psalm 139: 13-14 (ESV)

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

In verses 13 and 14 from Psalm 139, David tells us Father-God formed our parts and put us together in our mother’s womb. Each person is uniquely made by Father-God and “fearfully and wonderfully made.” We are all created to have a purpose by Father-God to have a part in his plan for the earth. We need to trust in Father-God’s design for our body and our lives and know that he has given us qualities are unique only to us.

We live in a world that tells us every day there is something wrong with us, and if we just buy a certain product, wear certain clothes, buy a certain car, etc., then everything will be right in our world. But the Bible tells us that we are perfect as is coming out of our mother’s womb. We were made a certain way to fit into Father-God’s plan for our lives and for the world. We need to hold on to this truth and turn off the voices of popular culture that tell us there is something wrong with us.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want a Father-God who made you for a unique purpose in life, please pray this prayer out loud:

Thursday, September 11, 2025

Day 253 Bible Readings – Psalm 139: 1-4 (ESV)

Isaiah 24-26, 2 Corinthians 11: 16-33, Psalm 139: 1-10

Psalm 139: 1-4 (ESV)

“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.”

I love verses 1 through 4 from Psalm 139. David tells us that Father-God has searched and knows him. He knows our every action, and he knows and understands our inner life and our mind. We can rely and trust on Father-God and the Holy Spirit to guide us because they know where we are going and lead us in the right direction. Father-God knows us so intimately that he knows our words before we say them.

I know there was a time in my life when I didn’t like that Father-God was intimate with me. I wanted to be independent, and I wanted to have my own privacy. I didn’t want a God who watched so closely over me like my parents. But now, I am so grateful that Father-God knows me so well that I can rely on him for guidance and advice. He knows much better than I do what I like and what I don’t like. And I know Father-God loves me and only wants the best for me. I didn’t know that for a long time because of what I was taught in the churches I attended, who told me I was a sinner who had to continually repent. Now I attend a church that emphasizes how much Father-God loves me, and how I am entitled to every promise he made to his people in the Bible. And that when I was born again, I became a new person and the old sinful me died. And most importantly, that Father-God created me and will always love me, no matter how many times I fall short. I know for a fact that can never be shaken that Father-God loves me and always has my best interests at heart.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want a Father-God who knows you inside and out and still loves you, please pray this prayer out loud:

Rest in Peace Charlie Kirk

I wanted to pay my respects to Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, who was assassinated yesterday in Utah. Charlie was so amazing. I was fortunate that I was able to attend all his AmericaFest event in December. I went to the monthly Freedom Night in America service at Dream City Church, and I was grateful to hear him give a sermon once. I joined his wife Erika Kirk's one-year Bible Study group with its app called Biblein365.

Charlie was an aamzing patriot. At the age of 31 years old, he was an inspiration to his generation with over 800+ Turning Point USA chapters in colleges and highschools across the US.

Chartlie was a devout Christian and whiplash smart! He was simply amazing! I grieve that we lost him so soon, but I know that he is now with his savior Jesus Christ.

My deepest condolences to his wife Erica, his children, and his family and friends. America lost an amazing patriot, and I know he left an amazing legacy in his short and unbelievable life.

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Day 252 Bible Readings – Psalm 138: 7 (ESV)

Isaiah 20-23, 2 Corinthians 11: 1-15, Psalm 138

Psalm 138: 7 (ESV)

“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.”

When I first read verse 7 from Psalm 138, I thought about the more famous verse 4 from Psalm 23 (Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.) Instead of death, this verse is about trusting in the Lord when you are in trouble. David, who is believed to be the author of this psalm, tells us that Father-God saved his life when he was in trouble. David trusted in the Lord’s protection and deliverance from his life’s challenges. He implies that Father-God’s hand in our life is active, and not passive. David uses the metaphor of the Lord’s hand stretching out against his enemies, and his right hand delivering him from his enemies.

I like this verse because no one had more trouble with David, when he was on the run from King Saul who wanted to kill him. David was in dire trouble, yet he had total trust in Father-God to keep him alive. Father-God delivered David from his enemies, and we can trust He will do the same for us. We can rely on Father-God’s strength and his ability to shield us from troubles, rather than facing our problems on our own. We can trust that Father-God has an active hand in our life, and he will always protect and deliver us from life’s challenges.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse and you want to have Father-God’s protection, support, and intervention in life’s problems through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Tuesday, September 09, 2025

Day 251 Bible Readings – 2 Corinthians 10: 3-6 (ESV)

Isaiah 17-19, 2 Corinthians 10, Psalm 137

2 Corinthians 10: 3-6 (ESV)

“For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.”

In verses 3 through 6 from 2 Corinthians 10, Paul tells the church in Corinth that being a Christian means we are always fighting a spiritual battle, and not a physical one. Since our battle is spiritual, we must use spiritual weapons and strategies. Paul tells us we need to rely on Father-God’s power and wisdom to destroy strongholds. We need to use weapons of faith and prayer. Strongholds in these verses refer to arguments, positions, false beliefs, ideologies, or sinful patterns that oppose the knowledge of Father-God. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can destroy any thoughts or ideas that oppose Father-God’s truth and laws. As believers, we need to make sure that every thought we have is obedient to Father-God. To align our thinking, we can use the teachings and examples of Jesus Christ. Paul reminds us that we must be ready to confront and correct our own sins and disobedience and bring our thoughts back in alignment with Father-God’s will and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

I love having the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit in my life to keep me in line with Father-God’s will, and to be in alignment with the teachings that Jesus Christ left for in the Bible. But I also read the Bible every day using a plan to read the Bible in a year, and I am collecting verses to memorize so I can recite them to counteract negative or false thoughts. I also love having friends from church to discuss any problems I may be having and look to them for encouragement to grow in my faith.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want to have strategies and tools to fight the strongholds in your life, please pray this prayer out loud:

Monday, September 08, 2025

Day 250 Bible Readings – 2 Corinthians 9: 10-11 (ESV)

Isaiah 14-16, 2 Corinthians 9. Psalm 136: 13-26

2 Corinthians 9: 10-11 (ESV)

“He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”

In verses 10 and 11 from 2 Corinthians 9, Paul reminds the church at Corinth that Father-God is our great supplier. Whatever we have is from Father-God. He supplies both our physical and spiritual needs. We need to trust that our generosity is a demonstration of our trust in Father-God’s provision. Father-God will multiply what we give. Paul also prays that when we give, we will be enriched both materially and spiritually because Father-God is the supplier of everything. Paul tells us that all of our actions have consequences, but Father-God particularly pays attention to our generosity. When we so sow in faith, Father-God will increase the harvest of our righteousness. Father-God sees our giving as an act of worship because our giving impacts not just us, but the church and the greater body of Christ. Our generosity can create a cycle of blessing, where giving leads to gratitude and gratitude leads to us glorifying Father-God.

Reading these verses enabled me to realize that my generosity comes from Father-God. When Father-God blesses my finances, he is the one who is enabling my generosity. I can only be generous when Father-God blesses me.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want to have the blessings of generosity Father-God, please pray this prayer out loud:

Sunday, September 07, 2025

Day 249 Bible Readings – Isaiah 11: 10 (ESV)

Isaiah 11-13, 2 Corinthians 8: 16-24, Psalm 136: 1-12

Isaiah 11: 10 (ESV)

“In that day the root of Jesse, who shall stand as a signal for the peoples—of him shall the nations inquire, and his resting place shall be glorious.”

In verse 10 from Isaiah, we read about another prophecy of the birth of Jesus Christ. Jesse was the father of King David, and Jesus Christ was descended from the line of Jesse. A signal in ancient times was a symbol of victory or a rallying point for troops on the battlefield of a war. Jesus Christ, like his descendant King David, will be a unifying figure for his people but also for the nations of the world. We read in this verse that that Gentiles were always included in Father-God’s redemptive plan for the earth, and not just for the children of Israel. Father-God promised Abraham in verse 3 from Genesis 12 that “in you (Abraham) all the families of the earth shall be blessed”.

I love that even in this prophetic verse from Isaiah that Father-God always intended that Jesus Christ would become a savior not just for Israel, but for the Gentiles or all the nations of the earth. This verse from Isaiah also reminds us that Father-God promised to unite all his people under the faith of Jesus Christ, and that faith in Jesus Christ will bring us rest and peace.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse and you want to live in a world that is full of peace and unified through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Day 248 Bible Readings for September 6 – Isaiah 9: 6 (ESV)

Isaiah 8-10, 2 Corinthians 8: 1-15, Psalm 135: 13-21

Isaiah 9: 6 (ESV)

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

In verse 6 from Isaiah 9, we read another prophecy about the birth of Jesus Christ the Messiah and the future hope for Israel. This prophecy from Isaiah tells us about the future roles of Jesus Christ. The Messiah of Israel will be a man Jesus Christ, and not an angel. IN the future, Jesus Christ will also rule the earth, and government of the earth will be under him. Jesus Christ will be a wonderful counselor, so we can seek his wisdom and guidance in our daily life. Christ will be a mighty God, as the son of Father-God. Christ will be a ruler over all aspects of our life. We will experience peace through faith in Jesus Christ, and his reign will be everlasting which gives up hope and assurance for the future. We can trust in the trinity of Father-God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. We can count on the promises of Father-God, because he is the same today as he was in the Bible. I love that this Bible verse from the prophet Isaiah reminds us of the roles that Father-God will play in our lives.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse and you want to have a Father-God that you can count on to have these roles in your life through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Friday, September 05, 2025

Day 247 Bible Readings – Isaiah 7: 14 (ESV)

Isaiah 5-7, 2 Corinthians 7, Psalm 135: 1-12

Isaiah 7: 14 (ESV)

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”

Verse 14 from Isaiah 7 is one of the most famous prophecies in the Bible regarding the birth of Jesus Christ. Isaiah was a prophet during the time of King Ahaz, who was the King of Judah. Ahaz was known for his lack of faith and reliance on alliances with foreign kings, instead of trusting fully in the promises of Father-God. But Father-God gave to Isaiah a prophecy for Ahaz of his commitment to the house of David and the covenant he made with Abraham and his descendants. Father-God’s promises to his people are not dependent upon their faithfulness to him. Father-God promises through the birth of Jesus Christ, that God’s presence will always be with us. Even when we are in times of trouble and doubt like Ahaz, Father-God promises that he will always with us. Isaiah reminds us we need to trust in Father-God’s promises and his timing.

I love finding the prophecies of the birth of Jesus Christ in the Old Testament, because it tells me that Father-God has a plan for all of us long before we are born. He has a plan and purpose for all his people, and we can trust that Father-God in his timing even when everything around us seems to be in a dire situation.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse and you want to trust that Father-God has a plan for you and the world through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Thursday, September 04, 2025

Day 246 Bible Readings – 2 Corinthians 6: 14 (ESV)

Isaiah 3-4, 2 Corinthians 6, Psalm 134

2 Corinthians 6: 14 (ESV)

“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?”

In verses 14 from 2 Corinthians 6, Paul writes to the church of Corinth that their closest relationship needs to be with people who share the same faith in Jesus Christ. Paul reminds believers that different spiritual values can lead to conflict and compromise. As Christians, we are called to lead lives that are set apart for Father-God. Leading a life for Father-God can be difficult with a partner who could lead us away from following his will. As believers in Jesus Christ, relationships will work better if you are with someone with whom you can have mutual encouragement, and you can both grow together in your relationship with Jesus Christ. This principle may also involve looking at your friendships and business partnerships. We may also need to look at books we read, movies we watch, and other entertainment choices to make sure they align with our faith and values.

I find that the deeper my relationship grows with the Holy Spirit, the more I need to assess my friendships. I still have a few close friends who aren’t saved, and I find it harder to now travel with them on vacation. I know that discussing my relationship with the Lord and the Holy Spirit is something my friends won’t understand, so I never bring it up. My unsaved friends don’t know that part of me; they only know a part of me. One of my friends smoked marijuana casually while we were on a trip together, and while they knew it bothered me, they still smoked anyway because they consider marijuana smoking the same as cigarette smoking. I’ve had this friendship for a long time, and it’s sad for me that we are drifting apart. I pray for them to be saved, but I never seem to get a sign from the Holy Spirit that I can have a discussion with them about Jesus Christ. I trust that the Holy Spirit will guide my friendship with my unsaved friends, so I know that it will all work out according to Father-God’s plans. I know from experience that having any partnership with someone of the same faith is so much better, than being partnered with someone who has no faith in Jesus Christ.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse and you want to have relationships with people who have the same faith through your faith in Jesus Christ, please pray this prayer out loud:

Wednesday, September 03, 2025

Day 245 Bible Readings – 2 Corinthians 5: 17 (ESV)

Isaiah 1-2, 2 Corinthians 5: 11-21, Psalm 33

2 Corinthians 5: 17 (ESV)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

In verse 17 from 2 Corinthians 5, Paul writes to the church in Corinth reminding them of the promises that come from faith in Jesus Christ. If you have faith in Jesus Christ, your race/ethnicity, your social status, your language, your level of intelligence, or your past sins no longer matter. Anyone can become a new creation through their faith in Jesus Christ. Your sins are not just forgiven and forgotten, you are regenerated into a new person. You have been and will be continually transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Your former way of life will no longer be your identity and has passed away. Your new identity will now be defined by your relationship with Father-God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. Through your love of Father-God, you will grow in the fruits of the Holy Spirit. You will turn away from the life of your past sins and old identity.

These are the promises of faith in Jesus Christ. We do not need to be defined by our past, but instead we can forge a new identity through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. I love the promises that faith in Jesus Christ brings. Every time I think of the old me and my former life, Holy Spirit reminds me that I have become a new creation through my faith in Jesus Christ. That old me is dead, and Father-God now sees me as his child and has forgotten all of my sins. I wake up every morning knowing that I am loved by Father-God because I became his child through my faith in Jesus Christ, and I am entitled to all the promises in the Bible that Father-God gave to his people.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on this Bible verse, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want to wake up knowing you are a new person and can forge a new identity, please pray this prayer out loud:

Tuesday, September 02, 2025

Day 244 Bible Readings – Micah 7: 18-19 (ESV)

Micah 5-7, 2 Corinthians 5: 1-10, Psalm 132

Micah 7: 18-19 (ESV)

“Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger forever, because he delights in steadfast love. He will again have compassion on us; he will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.”

Verses 18 and 19 from Micah 7 tell us of Father-God’s ability to forgive his people and show mercy. The prophet Micah was prophesying to people who were repeatedly unfaithful to Father-God, yet he promised to always restore them. Micah reminds believers that Father-God does not hold on to his anger forever because he has great mercy, love, and forgiveness for his people. The Lord continually offers compassion to his people and when we repent, Father-God will remove the guilt and consequences of our sin and offers us complete forgiveness by casting our sins into the sea. Our sins will be forgotten and no longer held against us. Father-God’s compassion and mercy is revealed through the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who died for our sins so we would no longer have to offer sacrifices to the Lord for forgiveness. Jesus Christ offers believers grace, redemption, and forgiveness through his sacrifice of himself on the cross.

These verses from the prophet Micah reminds us that there is no sin too great for Father-God’s mercy and compassion, and that we have hope for restoration and renewal through the death and resurrection of his son Jesus Christ.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and through your faith in Jesus Christ you want to have hope for restoration and renewal no matter how sinful you feel your life has been, please pray this prayer out loud:

Monday, September 01, 2025

Day 243 Bible Readings – 2 Corinthians 4: 17-18 (ESV)

Micah 1-4, 2 Corinthians 4, Psalm 131

2 Corinthians 4: 17-18 (ESV)

“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”

In verses 17 and 18 from 2 Corinthians 4, Paul tells the church at Corinth to remember the temporary nature of suffering in the world as they faced persecution from the Jewish and Roman authorities. Paul reminds them that their suffering was not meaningless but instead will prepare them for eternal glory with Father-God. Paul reminds all believers that our lives need to focused and oriented towards the things that will forever, and not the transient pleasures of the world.

It can be hard to be a believer in Christ in today’s world, since popular culture seems to be intent on demonizing everything that is associated with Jesus Christ and the value expounded in the Bible. Studying the nature of cultural trends, you can see that they seem to be temporary, changeable, and sometimes seasonal. What is popular for a few months will be looked upon as evil by popular culture later. But the promises of Father-God are eternal. Father-God is the same as he was in the Bible as he is today. The faith of Jesus Christ has been thriving and growing since its inception, despite the views of popular culture. Father-God has been giving his children signs, wonders, and miracles for the last 2,000 plus years. As believers in Jesus Christ, we need to remind ourselves of all the signs, wonders, and miracles in our lives since we came to faith when we are going through a season of problems, doubt, and persecution. Father-God is always faithful to his children, and his love and mercy towards is eternal and forever.

If you enjoyed reading my thoughts on these Bible verses, and you want to cultivate a faith that trusts in Father-God’s promises even when you are in challenging circumstances through your faith in Jesus, please pray this prayer out loud: