Edification - The Unmasking: When Sin's Seduction Loses Its Charm

Have you ever had a moment when something you thought you understood suddenly hit you with profound, even terrifying, clarity? That’s exactly what happened to me this morning while reading Proverbs 7. The passage vividly describes the seductive allure of adultery, but as I read, a chilling realization washed over me: this wasn't just about one specific sin. This was about everything.

The world, in its deceptive brilliance, wraps so much in beautiful coverings, perfumes it with promises of ease and pleasure, and whispers, "Forget your responsibilities. Forget your faith. Forget that your very life was purchased by God." And for too long, I listened. I realized, with a jolt of terror, that this path, disguised as freedom, actually leads to the very thing Proverbs 7:23 warns against: it will cost you your life.

I’ve seen it play out before. A conservative estimate? 1400 days. That’s how long I was caught in a cycle of not taking responsibility for my own spiritual well-being. It's a stark reminder of Proverbs 7:26-27: "For many victim, she has laid low, and all her slain are a mighty throng. Her house is the way to Sheol, going down to the chambers of death." There's no other destination for this path.

But here’s the powerful shift: this terror wasn't meant to paralyze, but to pivot. It led me to a desperate prayer, echoing Proverbs 7:1-4: "Lord God, thank you for this wisdom. I pray that I bury it deep in my heart. I pray that wisdom will be my sister and my intimate friend... Help me to treasure up your commands with me, keep those commands alive and keep the teaching as the apple of my eye."

The pull of sin is real, and it’s mighty. "How will I bind them on my fingers?" I wondered, feeling the immense pressure. But then came the answer, the only true answer: "I take shelter in you, God. Only you can save me from my sinful heart. Save me, my Lord. I transfer my trust from myself to the Savior to do so. Amen."

What deceptive "coverings" is the world tempting you with right now? What responsibilities are you being enticed to forget? Take a moment to reflect. Then, like me, turn to the only One who offers true life. His wisdom is not burdensome; it's liberating. His commands are not restrictive; they are protective. And His salvation is not a suggestion; it's the only way home.

Evangelism - Heartbeats of Grace: A conversation with Cody

Hi friends,

I’m still holding close a conversation I had with a guy named Cody during one of my outing to share the gospel in the Springfield area. As part of my ministry with Living Hope Initiative, I go out to meet people where they are, trusting God to guide these encounters. This time, it was Cody and his friend, and what unfolded was a heartbeat of grace—a reminder that God weaves His love through every story, every smile, every shared moment.

I approached Cody on a street corner, offering a gift bag containing a $5 Subway gift card, some reading material, a book, my card with the ministry website, and a bit of candy. I asked if I could record our conversation for my YouTube channel, but Cody preferred not to be recorded, and I respected his wishes. We sat down, joined by his friend who listened quietly the whole time. Cody opened up with a warmth that drew me in. He spoke of an “awakening” with a friend, describing himself as an “elemental star seed” who believes in the universe, immortality, and past lives. Yet he also shared that he’s a Christian, raised in the church, working on relationships, dreaming of marriage, and striving to live well with his “homies.” His words were a vibrant mosaic of faith and searching, reflecting a heart seeking truth in its own unique way.

As I listened, I felt the Holy Spirit urging me to share the gospel with love and care. I started with the hard truth—the bad news that we’ve all fallen short of God’s perfect standard. Romans 3:23 says it clearly: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” I asked Cody about the Ten Commandments—had he ever lied, stolen, or lusted? He was honest, admitting to struggles but quick to say he’s stayed true to his values, avoiding serious wrongs. I admired his openness, the way he engaged with those tough questions without hesitation.

Then came the good news, the hope that changes everything. I shared how Jesus paid our fine on the cross, like someone clearing a debt we could never pay ourselves. John 3:16 captures this so beautifully: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” I explained that Jesus’ sacrifice means we can walk free from God’s courtroom if we repent—turn from sin and toward God—and trust in Him like we’d trust a parachute in a freefall. It’s not about our own efforts; it’s about resting in His righteousness.

Cody listened, and I prayed he was processing it all. He shared that he’d already repented this summer, crying and “rolling in the mud,” finding truth in his own way. His words painted a picture of a heart God is already pursuing. I didn’t want to push or preach; I wanted him to know that God sees his heart and offers salvation as a free gift. I reminded him that life is fragile—150,000 people die daily, and none of us know when our moment might come. But I also shared that this fear can be a friend, urging us to trust in Jesus. As 2 Corinthians 6:2 says, “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”

As we talked, Cody’s friend sat quietly, taking it all in. I gave Cody the gift bag and provided an identical one to his friend, who’d listened to every word. Our conversation wasn’t polished—it was real, messy, and beautiful. I encouraged Cody to read the Bible as God’s love letter and to explore the materials in the gift bag, and I promised to pray for him. As I walked away, I glanced back and saw something that filled my heart: Cody leaned over to his friend, grabbed him, and they were smiling so big, unpacking their gift bags. Those smiles, that shared joy over a simple meal, felt like a glimpse of God’s provision breaking through.

This encounter reminded me why I go out into Springfield to share the gospel. God is already at work in every heart, and He invites us to join Him in these sacred moments. Cody’s beliefs—blending Christianity, universalism, and more—might not fit neatly into a box, but God knows his heart. His friend, whose name I didn’t catch, was just as much a part of this moment, listening with quiet attention. My role was to point them to Jesus with gentleness and respect, as 1 Peter 3:15 urges: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

Friends, this moment challenges me to keep showing up, to listen deeply, and to share the good news with love. Psalm 139:7-8 says, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.” God is chasing us all, inviting us into His grace. Those smiles, that shared joy over the gift bags, remind me that even small acts of kindness can reflect His love in big ways.

Let’s pray together for Cody and his friend:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of meeting Cody and his friend, for the chance to share Your love and truth with them. Lord, You know their hearts, their dreams, and their struggles. I pray that the seeds planted in our conversation would take root, that Your Holy Spirit would draw them closer to You. Wrap Cody in Your grace, guide him as he seeks truth, and show him the depth of Your love through Jesus. Bless his friend, who listened so quietly, and meet them both in their needs—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Thank You for their smiles, for the joy of Your provision in a simple meal. Keep pursuing them, Lord, and let them find rest in Your salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have you had a moment where God used a conversation or a small act of kindness to touch your heart or someone else’s? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear!

Edification - Welcomed Home: Becoming God’s Family

Friends, have you ever felt the weight of trying to figure out life on your own, as if you’re meant to have all the answers? I was recently listening to Knowledge of the Holy, reflecting on sin and how I’ve often placed myself on the throne meant for God. In that moment, I cried out, “God, I don’t know what to do!” I felt lost, unsure of how to live. But as I prayed, a truth settled in my heart: I don’t need to know everything. The Holy Spirit does. He’s forming a new creation in me, importing me into a new home—God’s family—every time I choose His will over mine.

This realization hit me like a warm embrace. I pictured the prodigal son, returning broken and unworthy, only to have his father throw a robe over his shoulders, welcoming him with joy. That’s me—imperfect, yet invited into God’s perfect presence, not just as a creature but as a child. It’s not about my performance but about His grace, paid for by Jesus’ sacrifice. This truth shifts everything, inviting us to rest in His love rather than strive for approval.

Scripture: “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1, NIV). This verse, reminds us that God’s love transforms us from mere creations into His beloved family. The context, drawn from Matthew Henry’s commentary, emphasizes that this adoption is a gift of grace, not earned but freely given through Christ.

Reflecting on this, I think of the thief on the cross (Luke 23:39–43). With one moment of faith, he was welcomed into God’s kingdom, his heart imported into eternity. Then there’s Samuel, dedicated to God from birth, living a life of surrender (1 Samuel 1:11). Both stories show that whether we come to God late or early, the start is what matters—choosing His will. It’s not about how much we bring but about trusting the Holy Spirit to shape us. Each choice to follow Him builds a new home in us, a place of peace, joy, and love, far from the hell we create when we live apart from God.

I’ve seen humanity’s capacity for good, but without God, it can spiral into chaos. Choosing God’s will over mine opens limitless possibilities—freedom to love, worship, and care for others with His heart. It’s like stepping off a treadmill of self-effort into a wide-open field of grace, where I’m not just pardoned but celebrated as His child.

Practical Step: Pause for five minutes today. Pray, “Lord, I’m here. Lead me into Your will.” Let the Holy Spirit guide one small choice—maybe a kind word or a moment of trust.

Call-to-Action: How have you felt God welcoming you as His child? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how His grace is shaping you!

A Prayer for Belonging: Father, thank You for calling me Your child. I surrender my need to know everything, trusting Your Spirit to form a new creation in me. Help me choose Your will, finding rest in Your love. Amen.

#LivingHopeInitiative, #NewCreation

Evangelism - Heartbeats of Grace

 

Hi friends,

This week, a garage door repair person visited, and I felt led to share a little more than just a repair bill. I gave them a tract with a two-dollar bill from Living Waters, a humble gesture using worldly wealth to spark curiosity about Jesus’ love. It wasn’t about earning points—it was a simple offering, trusting God to work in their heart. Seeing the tract’s message reminded me that Jesus desires our hearts, not our hustle, and that small acts can carry eternal weight.

The tract’s words echoed 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV): “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This encourages me to share with joy, knowing God sees our intent. It’s all about grace-filled moments, not perfection.

Friends, I invite you to visit LivingWaters.com for tracts and try a small act today—maybe share one with someone you meet. It’s a beautiful way to reflect Jesus’ love. Let me know your story in the comments—I’d love to hear! #LivingHopeInitiative #HeartbeatsOfGrace #GenerousFaith

Evangelism - Heartbeats of Grace

 

Friends, have you ever shared something precious, not to convince someone, but just to let them know they’re seen? Yesterday at Park Central Square, I was sharing the gospel, not to win arguments, but to share God’s love. I met a man whose life had left him scarred—stories of losing his father, caring for his mother, and feeling weighed down by pain. When I told him I cared, he took my hand and said, “I believe you.” That moment felt like God’s love breaking through, even if just a little.

This reminded me of John 4:7–26, where Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at the well. He doesn’t demand she change; He offers her living water, a gift of life given freely. My friend wasn’t ready to take a gospel tract, but for 25 minutes, he listened as I shared how God loves us and offers life, no strings attached.

Scripture: John 4:13–14 (NIV)
“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’”

This verse captures the free gift of God’s love—a rest that doesn’t require us to earn it. The Samaritan woman carried a heavy past, much like my friend, who spoke of his struggles with loss and feeling overwhelmed by evil, in the World, in himself.  Jesus didn’t push the woman to perform; He invited her to rest in His gift. I wanted my friend to know that God sees his pain and offers life, not because of what he does, but because of who God is.

This encounter also brought to mind Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1–10. A tax collector, despised and lost, Zacchaeus climbed a tree just to see Jesus. Jesus didn’t wait for him to clean up his life; He called him by name and dined with him, offering grace that transformed his heart. I didn’t expect my friend to change on the spot. I just wanted him to feel God’s love, like Zacchaeus did, through a moment of connection.

Practical Step: Pause for five minutes today and pray, “Lord, help me share Your love with someone, just as I am.” Maybe it’s a kind word or a listening ear—let God’s love flow through you.

Let’s keep sharing the gospel, not to prove something, but to show God’s heart. My friend may not have accepted the tract, but he heard about a God who loves him freely. That is priceless. Share your story of showing God’s love in the comments!

A Prayer for God’s Love
Father, thank You for loving us freely and offering the gift of life. Help us share Your love with others, not to perform, but to point them to Your salvation. Be with my friend from the square, showing him Your heart. Amen.

#LivingHopeInitiative, #SharingTheGospel

Edification - Praying Without Ceasing: Trusting God with Every Thought

 Friends, have you ever felt like life’s worries pile up so fast you can’t keep up? A couple of weeks ago, I found myself overwhelmed, my mind buzzing with concerns—decisions I didn’t know how to make, people I wanted to help, dreams I hoped would come true. I started jotting down every thought, every need, every hope in a prayer list. It wasn’t hours on my knees, but it was honest. I’d scribble a worry about a friend’s health or a question about my next step, and I’d pray over it, sometimes just a quick, “Lord, I’m trusting You with this.” Reading 2 Corinthians 1:8–11 this morning, I felt God whisper, “This is what I want—your heart, not your perfection.”

In 2 Corinthians 1:8–11 (NIV), Paul writes, “We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers.” Paul’s words hit me hard. He was in deadly peril, yet he saw God’s deliverance—not just once, but again and again. And he points to the prayers of others as part of that rescue. My little prayer list, messy and raw, felt like my way of joining Paul in trusting God with everything.

Recording every concern feels like praying unceasingly, as Paul urges in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. It’s not about eloquence or endurance but about intention—a heart turned toward God. Each scribbled note is a step off the spiritual treadmill, a choice to rest in His presence rather than strive for control. The love of Christ meets me there, and the Holy Spirit empowers me to keep going, even when I don’t fully understand how.

Practical Step: Try this today: jot down one thought or worry that’s on your mind. It could be a decision, a hope, or a need for someone else. Pause for a moment and pray, “Lord, I give this to You.” Let that be your start to praying without ceasing.

Call-to-Action: Have you tried bringing every thought to God in prayer? Share your experience in the comments—I’d love to hear how He’s meeting you!

A Prayer for Trusting Prayer
Lord, thank You for wanting my heart, not my hustle. Help me bring every thought, worry, and hope to You, trusting You with my life. Teach me to rest in Your presence and pray without ceasing. Lavish me with Your love and empower me by Your Spirit. Amen.

#LivingHopeInitiative, #PrayWithoutCeasing

Edification - Pausing with Jesus: Finding Rest in His Presence

Friends, have you ever had a moment when Scripture stops you in your tracks and changes how you see your faith? That happened to me recently while reading about Lazarus in John 12:1–3. I was caught up in my usual rush—planning, serving, trying to be a “good Christian”—when I came across Lazarus, not striving or performing, but simply reclining at the table with Jesus. This man, brought back from death, wasn’t hustling to prove his gratitude. He was just there, resting in the presence of the One who gave him life. That image hit me hard: Jesus wants my heart, not my hurry.

I hadn’t thought about pausing before. I was so used to measuring my faith by what I did—how many prayers I said, how much I served—that I forgot to just be with God. Reading about Lazarus felt like God whispering, “Slow down. Sit with Me.” It was a wake-up call to stop chasing approval and start resting in His love. That moment shifted something in me, like a deep breath after running too long.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28–30 (NIV) echo this truth: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Isn’t that beautiful? Jesus doesn’t demand our performance—He offers rest. He invites us to pause, to learn from His gentle heart, and to find a lightness that comes from being with Him.

I think of Mary, too, in Luke 10:38–42, sitting at Jesus’ feet while Martha buzzed with tasks. Jesus called Mary’s choice the “better part”—not because serving is wrong, but because His presence is the source of everything we do. Pausing with Jesus isn’t lazy; it’s trusting that His grace is enough. It’s letting Him carry the weight we’re not meant to bear.

Here’s a simple way to start: take five minutes today to pause. Find a quiet spot, maybe with a cup of tea or by a window, and just sit with Jesus. Whisper, “I’m here, Lord,” and let His presence fill you. No need to perform—just rest. I tried this after reading about Lazarus, and it felt like coming home, like God was reminding me I’m loved just as I am.

Friends, you don’t have to earn Jesus’ love—it’s already yours. Pause today, like Lazarus at the table, and let His presence be your rest. Share your moment of pause in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re finding peace with Jesus!

A Prayer for Pause
Lord, You are our rest and refuge. Help us pause in Your presence, trusting Your grace over our efforts. Teach us to sit with You, finding peace in Your love. Let our hearts rest in You, bearing fruit for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Edification - Choosing to Love Yourself: A Journey of Faith and Movement

Friends, have you ever felt like the world’s constant pull to consume—whether it’s social media, material things, or even fleeting distractions—keeps you from truly caring for yourself? I’ve been reflecting on this lately, and I want to share a truth that’s been stirring in my heart: when we let consumption take over, it can pull us away from loving ourselves the way God intends. But when we choose to care for ourselves—body, mind, and soul—we step into a freedom that aligns with His design for us.

This realization hit me one morning while I was on the elliptical. I cranked the resistance from 10 to 11—not because I was forcing myself or trying to prove something, but because I wanted to feel my body move, to embrace the experience of being alive and active. It wasn’t about willpower; it was a decision born out of love for myself. That moment felt like a gift, a reminder that caring for ourselves can be an act of worship, a way to honor the body God gave us.

Scripture reminds us of this truth in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” When we exercise, rest, or make choices that nurture our well-being, we’re not just taking care of ourselves—we’re saying yes to God’s call to steward the life He’s entrusted to us.

But here’s the thing: it’s so easy to fall into misdirected love. We chase after things that seem fulfilling—scrolling endlessly, comparing ourselves to others, or seeking approval—but these can lead us to abandon ourselves. They pull us away from the peace and joy God offers. I’ve been there, caught in cycles that left me feeling empty, wondering why I wasn’t showing up for myself the way I wanted to.

Lately, I’ve been learning that moving my body—whether through a walk, a workout, or even stretching—changes something deep within. It’s not just about physical health; it’s about aligning my heart with God’s purpose. There’s a spiritual defiance in it, too—a way of saying no to the forces that try to control us, whether it’s the pressure of culture, the noise of the world, or even the enemy’s lies that tell us we’re not enough. A wise friend once said that taking care of yourself is like “sticking it to the man,” because the world’s systems often want us to stay distracted and disconnected. But when we choose to move, to care for ourselves, we’re reclaiming the life God gave us, rooted in His truth.

This isn’t about perfection or pushing ourselves to exhaustion. It’s about small, intentional choices. Maybe it’s choosing to step away from the screen for a walk in the fresh air. Maybe it’s savoring a moment of gratitude for the strength to move, even if it’s just a little. These acts of self-love ripple outward, helping us do harder things—not out of obligation, but because we’re anchored in God’s joy and strength.

Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” When we care for ourselves, we’re walking that path of life, trusting God’s guidance to fill us with His joy. It’s a rebellion against the chaos of the world, a declaration that we belong to Him.

So, here’s my encouragement to you today: take one step to love yourself the way God loves you. Move your body, even if it’s just a short walk or a moment of stretching. Pause to pray and thank God for the gift of your life. Let go of the distractions that pull you away from His purpose. You don’t have to do it all at once—just start where you are, with a heart open to His grace.

Prayer for the Journey
Lord, thank You for creating us with purpose and love. Help us to care for ourselves as temples of Your Holy Spirit, choosing actions that honor You. Give us the strength to say no to distractions and yes to Your path of life. Fill us with Your joy and peace as we move, grow, and trust in Your sufficiency. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Evangelism - Heartbeats of Grace

While waiting for my coffee at McDonald's on North Glenstone, I had an evangelism encounter. As I usually do, I was connecting, praying for my wife and family, and preparing my heart for the week. A 71-year-old man, from the sounds of it, had been through a lot. He questioned who God is, doubting Jesus as the Messiah. The Holy Spirit prompted me to pray for him as we spoke, though it was hard to discern the truth of his words. I shared John 3, where Jesus told Nicodemus we must be born again through repentance and trust in Him. When he questioned Jesus’ divinity, I pointed to His resurrection. He disagreed, saying one person can’t bear all sins and God is just the universe’s creator. I prayed for him, left him to reflect, and wished him a great day. Please join me in praying: Heavenly Father, touch this man’s heart. Reveal Your truth and love through Jesus, our Savior. Heal his past hurts and guide him to Your peace. Amen. #Faith #Evangelism