Jesus is often depicted as a savior, protector and guide, much like a classic car that can be relied upon to get you where you need to go. Just like a vintage car that has been maintained and cared for over time, Jesus has stood the test of time, providing hope and comfort to people throughout history.
One of the most important attributes of a classic race car is its reliability. Similarly, Jesus is someone we can always count on in times of trouble or need. He is a constant source of support, offering unwavering emotional and spiritual guidance to those who seek it.
Another similarity between Jesus and a classic race car is their ability to inspire awe and admiration. A well-maintained vintage car can leave people speechless, and the teachings of Jesus have had a profound impact on millions of people around the world. Both have a timeless quality that continues to capture the imaginations of people today.
Finally, both Jesus and a classic race car represent a connection to the past. They are symbols of a bygone era, reminding us of the values, traditions and beliefs that were once so important to us. By celebrating these connections, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
Jesus can be compared to a classic car in many ways. Both offer dependability, inspiration and a connection to the past. By recognizing these similarities, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the timeless qualities that make each of them unique.
The topic of life after death has been a point of fascination and debate for centuries. While many religious beliefs propose various ideas, Christians have their own understanding of what happens to us when we die. As a born-again believer, I hold the conviction that upon our passing, our soul ascends to heaven immediately. In today’s message , I will delve into the biblical basis for this belief, addressing common misconceptions that exist among believers.
One of the essential verses that solidify my belief is found in 2 Corinthians 5:8, which states, “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” This verse affirms that as soon as our earthly bodies are deceased, our souls are welcomed into the presence of God in heaven. Additionally, in Luke 23:43, Jesus promises the believing thief on the cross, “Today you will be with me in paradise,” indicating an immediate transition from Earth to heaven for believers.
Despite these clear Scriptures, some misconceptions exist about the waiting period or purgatory before entering heaven. These ideas do not align with the teachings of the Bible, which affirm that our salvation and eternal destiny are sealed at the moment we believe in Christ as our Savior. Ephesians 2:8-9 asserts, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works so that no one can boast.” This passage reinforces the idea that our salvation is not earned by our actions but is a free gift from God, and once we accept it, we are guaranteed a place in heaven.
It is also important to note that the biblical concept of judgment occurs after our physical death, and the judgment determines our eternal destination. Hebrews 9:27-28 states, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” This verse confirms that a believer’s eternal destiny is determined at death, not at a later time.
As a born-again Christian, and ordained minister I believe that when we die, our souls immediately ascend to heaven to be in the presence of God. If we are born again. While misinterpretations may exist about purgatory or waiting periods between death and heaven, the Bible’s teachings affirm that our salvation is secured by our faith in Jesus Christ. By understanding these biblical truths, we can confidently look forward to our eternal home with our Heavenly Father.
We live here on earth and we’re living now, so we tend to think in terms of the here and now. But this world isn’t home for believers. If we’re too focused on this world and never give a thought to living in the light of tomorrow, we won’t live well in the here and now! The Apostle Peter uses this line of thinking to warn us about the risk of becoming so earthbound and seduced by worldly things that we lose sight of heaven. What does living in light of tomorrow look like? In this message,
From – 2 Peter about living in anticipation of the eternal days to come so that we can live our best life now.
Today I wanted to dive deeper into the message from 2 Peter about living in anticipation of the eternal days to come. This message is so powerful and has the ability to transform our lives if we truly embrace it.
Peter reminds us that our time here on earth is limited, and that we should be making the most of every moment. We should strive to live with purpose and intention, and to make choices that align with our values and beliefs. This means focusing on the things that truly matter, such as our relationships, our health, our personal growth and development, and our contribution to the world around us.
Living in anticipation of the eternal days to come means that we are not just focused on the present moment, but also on the future. We have a sense of hope and expectancy for what is yet to come, and this motivates us to keep moving forward even in difficult times. It gives us a perspective that is beyond our current circumstances, and helps us to see the bigger picture.
So how can we apply this message to our daily lives? Here are a few practical tips:
Focus on your priorities: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you, and make sure that your daily actions align with these priorities. This might mean saying no to things that don’t serve you, or setting boundaries to protect your time and energy.
Cultivate a positive mindset: Living in anticipation of the eternal days to come requires us to have a hopeful and optimistic outlook on life. Practice gratitude, focus on the good in your life, and surround yourself with positive people who uplift and encourage you.
Take care of yourself: Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all important factors in living your best life now. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and taking time for self-care activities that nourish your soul.
Serve others: One of the best ways to live with purpose and intention is to serve others. Look for opportunities to give back to your community, volunteer your time and resources, or simply show kindness and compassion to those around you.
I hope this message from 2 Peter has inspired you to live with anticipation of the eternal days to come, and to make the most of every moment here on earth. Let’s strive to live our best life now, so that we can be ready for all the amazing things that are yet to come. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in my next post! #2Peter #EternalDays #LiveWithPurpose #BestLifeNow
In today’s society, it can be challenging to remember the importance of self-respect and self-awareness. With so much emphasis placed on outward validation and success, we often forget that true happiness comes from within. In this essay, we will explore ways to live authentically, respect ourselves, recognize our talents and intelligence, and speak positively to ourselves.
First and foremost, it is essential for individuals to understand their worth and value as human beings. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 139:14 that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made.” This means that we are all unique, with our own set of talents, strengths, and weaknesses. By embracing our individuality and recognizing our worth, we can live more fulfilling lives.
One way to show self-respect is by setting clear boundaries and saying no when necessary. We must prioritize our mental and physical well-being, even if it means prioritizing ourselves over others. This can be challenging at times, but it is a necessary step in living authentically.
Another essential aspect of self-awareness is recognizing our talents and intelligence. Proverbs 22:29 tells us, “Do you see a person skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” This verse highlights the importance of recognizing and using our God-given talents to achieve success and fulfillment.
When it comes to speaking positively to ourselves, it can be helpful to practice affirmations daily. Affirmations are positive statements that can help reprogram our negative thought patterns. For example, repeating phrases like “I am worthy” or “I am capable” “ I am smart”can boost our confidence and self-esteem.
May we all strive to live our best lives and fulfill our God-given potential. Amen.
Growing your own food and connecting to nature is a powerful and rewarding experience that can bring us closer to God. Not only can this practice help to sustain our physical bodies, but it also has spiritual implications. As the Bible says in Proverbs 12:11, “He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, But he who follows frivolity will have poverty enough!” This scripture speaks to the importance of working hard and cultivating the land. And in Galatians 6:7-8, it is written: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” This passage speaks to the idea that we will reap what we sow, both physically and spiritually.
The large area raised garden
The act of growing our own food is an act of self-sufficiency, a connection with nature, and a way to remind ourselves of the gifts of God. It is a reminder that we can trust in God for all of our needs. When we plant our gardens and tend to them throughout the season, we are reminded of our faith and dependence on God. Planting and harvesting our own fruits and vegetables is a reminder of the miracles God has created and how we can glorify Him in our lives. It is also a reminder of how we are all connected to the land and each other.
Growing our own food can offer us peace, community, and connection with God. By getting our hands in the dirt and learning to cultivate the land we can build a closer relationship with God, deepen our understanding of nature, and experience the joy of eating fresh fruits and vegetables that we grew ourselves. Even patios gardens with tomatoes and peppers in a pot allows us to get one with Mother Earth
Ways to grow plants no matter how small the area is.
The Benefits and Joys of Small-Space Vegetable Gardening
The world we live in today is fast-paced, with most people busy with work and other responsibilities. As such, it’s essential to slow down and take time to enjoy some leisure activities that can improve our quality of life. One such activity is gardening, which can be both therapeutic and rewarding. However, not everyone has the luxury of a big garden or yard. For those living in small apartments or homes with limited outdoor space, vegetable gardening may seem like a far-fetched idea. But worry not, because with a little creativity and some helpful tips, you can create your own mini-garden oasis.
One excellent way to start small-space vegetable gardening is by using patio pots. Patio pots come in various sizes and materials, making them ideal for growing different types of vegetables. For instance, you can grow lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens in small pots, while larger ones can accommodate tomato plants and bell peppers. Additionally, patio pots offer flexibility, allowing you to move them around to maximize sunlight exposure or protect them from harsh weather conditions.
Another great option for small-space gardening is vertical gardening. This technique involves growing plants upwards rather than outwards, using trellises, hanging baskets, or wall-mounted planters. Vertical gardening helps save on space and can add aesthetic appeal to your balcony or patio. You can grow cucumbers, beans, peas, and other vining vegetables using this method.
When it comes to planting, you have two options: seeds or seedlings. Seedlings are young plants that are already a few weeks old and are ready to be planted, while seeds require more time and effort to germinate. If you’re a beginner or if you have limited time, seedlings are a perfect choice as they save time and shorten the growing season. However, starting with seedlings will limit the types of plants you can grow. If you prefer a more diverse selection of vegetables, starting with seeds is the way to go.
We have all experienced moments in our lives where we feel like we are in the dark. Whether it’s due to ptsd, grief, divorce, mental illness, physical illness, chronic pain, rape, abuse, harassment, problems on top of problems , addiction, job loss, or any other challenge that life throws our way. Sometimes it seems like the universe is out to get us. It isn’t. It will pass and we will move on, it may take some time. But we will push through.
But there is a difference between dark times and living in darkness.
Being in the dark is a temporary state, a momentary feeling that we all experience at some point in our lives. It’s a place of uncertainty, where we are unsure of what the future holds, and we can feel lost and alone.
On the other hand, being stuck in darkness is a much more profound and challenging state. It’s when we feel like we are trapped, hopelessness despair unable to escape the situation we are in because we don’t know how. we are consumed by our pain and sorrow.
Some common signs that someone may be living in darkness and in need of professional help include feelings of hopelessness and despair, loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, withdrawing from friends or family, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It is important to take these signs seriously and encourage the person to seek help from a mental health professional.
We cannot say oh it’s not that bad. Because we are not in their shoes and how we handle things may be different for others and what works for us may not work for others.
Never be afraid to seek mental health counseling.
The Bible teaches us that we don’t have to be stuck in darkness. In Psalms 23:4, it says, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” This verse reminds us that no matter how dark our situation may seem, we are not alone. God is with us every step of the way, guiding us through the darkness and comforting us in times of need.
Another verse that provides comfort during dark times is Isaiah 41:10, which says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse reminds us that even in the darkest of moments, God is there to strengthen us and provide us with the help we need to get through our struggles.
So my friends, if you find yourself in the dark, know that it’s only temporary. Don’t allow yourself to get stuck in darkness. Instead, turn to God and allow Him to guide you through the darkness and into the light. Remember, God is always with you, and He will never leave you alone. Also it’s ok to reach out to a mental health professional for help and guidance.
Once upon a time, on the peak of a rugged mountain, there lived two steadfast goats named George and Gracie. They were known throughout the mountain range for their agility and determination – always scaling the toughest crags and peaks.
But one day, as they were resting in a serene meadow, they began to consider their future. The years had taken a toll on their bodies, and they longed for a life of ease and relaxation.
As they pondered their plight, they started talking about God – a subject that was rarely addressed among the animals of the mountains. They wondered if He existed and, if so, what His plan was for them.
Gracie had an unwavering faith that God was real, citing their unique abilities as evidence. But George was skeptical – until a desperate cry pierced the air.
They followed the sound to the edge of a precipice where they found a baby bear, separated from his family, dangling precariously over the abyss. The little cub’s cries tugged at their hearts, and George knew he had to act fast.
With no regard for his own safety, he scaled down the steep incline, secured the cub, and carried him up to safety. It was a moment that changed everything.
From that day on, George and Gracie saw the world with new eyes. They realized that God’s plan for them wasn’t just about climbing and conquering – it was also about helping those in need.
Their friendship with the baby bear and his family grew stronger with each passing day, and they became inseparable companions. George and Gracie felt a newfound sense of purpose, and they continued to scale the mountain with a new perspective and appreciation for God’s creation.
They realized how blessed they were and their daring rescue taught them that true fulfillment comes not from a life of ease but from facing life’s challenges head-on, serving others, and appreciating the beauty of the world around them. They learned that God’s plan for them was much greater than they ever could have imagined.
there was a young woman named Emme who found herself sitting underneath the beautiful cherry blossom tree in Washington DC. Emme was a disabled young woman due to her joint pain, and she often felt lost and unsure of what to do with her life.
As she sat there, she prayed and searched her heart for guidance. Suddenly, she felt a strong sense of purpose. She realized that she wanted to be an advocate for others with disabilities, to help them overcome their challenges and live a fulfilling life.
Emme began to research and learn as much as she could about advocacy, connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations. However, she still felt unsure at times if she was on the right path.
One day, as she was sitting under the cherry blossom tree, she heard a quiet voice in her heart. It was the Lord speaking to her, reminding her of her purpose and encouraging her to continue on her journey.
With renewed determination, Emily worked hard to make a difference in the lives of those with disabilities. She became a powerful voice for change, fighting for equal rights and opportunities for all.
And as she continued to work tirelessly, Emily found that her own pain and struggles had given her a unique perspective and strength that she could use to help others. Her advocacy work brought fulfillment and joy to her life, and she knew that she was making a meaningful impact in the world.
Years later, when Emily returned to the cherry blossom tree, she felt a deep sense of gratitude for the guidance she had received, and the opportunities she had been given. She knew that she was exactly where she was meant to be, thanks to the power of faith and listening to her heart.
Our minds truly are the control tower of our lives, and it’s important to understand the power of our thoughts. Our thoughts can either lift us up or bring us down, and it’s up to us to choose what kind of thoughts we allow to take root in our minds.
One way to help control our thoughts is to open our minds up to a higher power. By programming our minds to think the way God thinks and focusing on things above instead of earthly desires, we are able to experience the best that life has to offer.
However, it’s important to be mindful of what content we are allowing into our minds. Watching sexual shows, pornography, and horror movies can poison our thoughts and program our minds towards negative thinking. These types of content can be seen as junk, and by avoiding them we can better control our thoughts and ultimately lead happier, more fulfilling lives.
As Colossians chapter 3 states, if we have been raised up by Christ, we should set our minds on things above and strive to eliminate greedy, materialistic, swearing, drugs and alcohol all evil desires and idolatrous thoughts from our lives. By doing so, we can experience the best God has in store for us and live our lives to the fullest.
2nd Corinthians Chapter 4
Present Weakness and Resurrection Life
4 Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2 Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 3 And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord,and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,”[a] made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side,but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11 For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. 12 So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
13 It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.”[b] Since we have that same spirit of[c]faith, we also believe and therefore speak,14 because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you to himself. 15 All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
11 I hope you will put up with me in a little foolishness. Yes, please put up with me! 2 I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him. 3 But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ. 4 For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the Spirit you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough.
5 I do not think I am in the least inferior to those “super-apostles.”[a]6 I may indeed be untrained as a speaker, but I do have knowledge. We have made this perfectly clear to you in every way.7 Was it a sin for me to lower myself in order to elevate you by preaching the gospel of God to you free of charge? 8 I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so as to serve you.9 And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied what I needed. I have kept myself from being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so. 10 As surely as the truth of Christ is in me,nobody in the regions of Achaia will stop this boasting of mine. 11 Why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!
12 And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. 13 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
Paul Boasts About His Sufferings
16 I repeat: Let no one take me for a fool. But if you do, then tolerate me just as you would a fool, so that I may do a little boasting. 17 In this self-confident boasting I am not talking as the Lord would, but as a fool. 18 Since many are boasting in the way the world does, I too will boast. 19 You gladly put up with fools since you are so wise!20 In fact, you even put up with anyone who enslaves you or exploits you or takes advantage of you or puts on airs or slaps you in the face.21 To my shame I admit that we were too weak for that!
Whatever anyone else dares to boast about—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast about.22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they Abraham’s descendants? So am I. 23 Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently,been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again. 24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one.25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, 26 I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my fellow Jews, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false believers. 27 I have labored and toiled and have often gone without sleep; I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked. 28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?
30 If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. 31 The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, who is to be praised forever, knowsthat I am not lying. 32 In Damascus the governor under King Aretas had the city of the Damascenes guarded in order to arrest me.33 But I was lowered in a basket from a window in the wall and slipped through his hands.
As Mother’s Day approaches, I can’t help but feel grateful for my daughter and granddaughter. They are the shining stars in my life, and I am so blessed to have them by my side.
My daughter is an incredible woman who never fails to amaze me with her kindness, dedication, and strength. She has been my rock through thick and thin, and I could not be prouder of her accomplishments.
And then there’s my granddaughter, a young woman who is simply beautiful inside and out. She helps those less fortunate, she earns her own living and has goals. Her infectious smile and caring heart never cease to fill me with joy, and I feel so lucky to have them both in my life.
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, I want to thank these two incredible women for being a constant source of love and support in my life. Without them, I don’t know where I would be.
To all the mothers and mother figures out there, I hope this day brings you as much joy and happiness as you bring to the world. Never forget the impact you have on those around you, and always remember that you are loved and appreciated. Happy Mother’s Day! #mothersday #familylove #gratefulheart
In 1896 in a small town in Germany, there lived a young girl and boy who were brother and sister. They came from a very poor family and had struggled to make ends meet for as long as they could remember. One day, their parents had to make a tough decision to send them to the United States with their aunt and uncle, while the oldest two siblings stayed back to work on the family farm.
The young siblings were heartbroken and felt abandoned by their family. They didn’t understand why they had to leave and why their family couldn’t afford to keep them all together. They feared that they were not loved and their sadness was overwhelming.
Upon arriving in the United States, the young siblings were taken in by their aunt and uncle, but they still felt alone and isolated. Months went by and they barely spoke to anyone outside their relatives’ home. However, their quiet and lonely lives soon changed when they met a Baptist minister and his wife who lived on the same street.
At first, the siblings were hesitant to speak with the couple, fearing they might be judged or rejected. But the preacher and his wife kept trying to reach out to them, inviting them over for tea and encouraging them to share their stories.
Eventually, the young siblings warmed up to the minister and his wife and began to share their stories of sadness and pain. The preacher and his wife listened intently and offered comfort and kindness, becoming a source of support for the siblings.
Although they still missed their family dearly, the young siblings found solace in the company of the minister and his wife. They felt a sense of belonging and were grateful for the love that they were shown, even in the midst of such disparity.
In time, their hearts healed, and they became resilient and strong. They never forgot the kind couple who had shown them compassion and kindness when they needed it the most. And even though they still faced challenges in their lives, they were forever grateful for the love that had been shown to them, and they knew that they were never truly alone.
As the siblings grew older and became successful in their own careers, they never forgot the kindness and generosity of their aunt and uncle who had taken them in and cared for them as their own children. They always made it a point to send money back home to their family and visit them whenever they could.
Eventually, the siblings found partners,married and had children of their own and continued the tradition of visiting their family in Germany and helping out on the family farm. They wanted their children to understand the importance of family and showing love and kindness to others.
When the Baptist minister who had taken them under his wing fell ill, the siblings rushed to be by his wife’s side and expressed their gratitude and love for the couple who had shown them so much kindness over the years. They wanted them to know how much they had impacted their lives and that their kindness had not gone unnoticed.
In the end, the siblings realized that the love and kindness that had been shown to them as children was not just because they couldn’t be cared for, but rather out of love and compassion. And so, they vowed to continue spreading kindness wherever they went, knowing that a little bit of kindness can go a long way.
Joyful-Echoes 