Category: Let’s Learn the Bible

Posted in joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Stop Judging Start Loving

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Stop Judging, Start Loving


We live in a world where judging others has become almost second nature, something we do without even realizing it. But the truth is, we all judge people – you, me, and even our ministers. Today, I want to shed light on the importance of recognizing our tendency to judge and challenge ourselves to shift our mindset to one of love and acceptance.

Acknowledging Our Tendency to Judge:
It’s a fact that we all judge people, whether consciously or unconsciously. We pass judgment on politicians, not caring for their decisions and policies. We judge those struggling with addiction or going through recovery, failing to see the battles they face every day. We even judge individuals making difficult choices like abortion or adoption, forming opinions without truly understanding the complexities involved. From our partners and children to people of different religions or appearances, our judgments know no boundaries.

Reflecting on Our Shared Humanity:
Amidst our tendency to judge, it is crucial to pause and reflect on our own flaws and mistakes. By acknowledging our own imperfections, we can develop empathy and understanding towards others. Our kids, for instance, teach us valuable lessons about acceptance and unconditional love. We need to recognize that playing God and passing judgment does more harm than good.

Embracing the Good in Each of Us:
Instead of focusing on judgment, let us shift our attention towards the good in each person we encounter. We all have unique qualities, experiences, and challenges that shape who we are. Rather than dwelling on our differences, we can choose to celebrate diversity and embrace the shared humanity that binds us together.

Stop Judging, Start Loving:
Ultimately, it comes down to making a conscious choice. Let’s break free from the cycle of judgment and replace it with compassion, kindness, and love. By shifting our mindset, we create a more inclusive and accepting world, fostering connections and understanding among all individuals, regardless of their background or choices.


In a world filled with judgments, it’s time for us to take a step back and reflect on our own biases. Let’s choose love over judgment, empathy over criticism, and understanding over prejudice. Together, we can create a more compassionate and accepting society, where the power of love surpasses the destructive force of judgment.

The Bible has several verses that address the topic of judging others. Here are a few key passages:

  1. Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV):
    “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”

This passage reminds us not to judge others while overlooking our own faults. It encourages self-reflection before looking to criticize or point out flaws in others.

  1. Romans 14:10-13 (NIV):
    “You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat… Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.”

Here, the Bible emphasizes that it is not our place to judge others because we will all ultimately be held accountable by God. It encourages us to focus on building each other up rather than creating divisions.

  1. James 4:11-12 (NIV):
    “Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?”

This passage warns against slandering and judging others, reminding us that God alone is the ultimate Lawgiver and Judge. It encourages humility and refraining from placing ourselves in a position of judgment over others.

These passages highlight the importance of self-reflection, humility, and treating others with love and respect rather than judgement. They remind us that we are all fallible and that only God has the authority to judge.

Posted in joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Moses The Old Testaments Greatest Prophet (Learn The Bible)

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Story Moses story is in the Biblical Books of Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy, and Numbers. Moses is the prophet most mentioned in the New Testament.

Moses was born during a time when the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt. His mother, Jochebed, fearing for his life, placed him in a basket and set him adrift on the Nile River. Miraculously, he was discovered by Pharaoh’s daughter, who took him in as her own and named him Moses.

As Moses grew older, he became aware of his Hebrew heritage and witnessed the harsh treatment of his people. One day, while defending a Hebrew slave being mistreated by an Egyptian, Moses unintentionally killed the Egyptian. Fearing for his own life, he fled to the wilderness of Midian.

In Midian, Moses met Jethro, a priest and shepherd, and married his daughter, Zipporah. They had two sons together, Gershom and Eliezer. Moses worked as a shepherd and lived a quiet life in the desert for forty years.

One day, while tending to his flock, Moses encountered a burning bush that was not consumed by the flames. God spoke to Moses from the bush, calling him to lead the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Reluctant at first, Moses eventually accepted the mission and returned to Egypt.

With the guidance of God, Moses confronted Pharaoh and demanded the release of the Israelites. After a series of plagues, Pharaoh finally relented, and Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, through the parted waters of the Red Sea.

During their journey through the wilderness, Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. These commandments were a set of moral and ethical guidelines for the Israelites to live by.

Moses was a wise and respected leader, guiding the Israelites through many challenges and teaching them the importance of faith and obedience. However, his leadership was also tested as the Israelites often grumbled and rebelled against God’s guidance.

After many years of leading the Israelites, Moses reached the edge of the Promised Land but was not allowed to enter due to a moment of disobedience. God showed him the land from a distance and appointed Joshua as his successor.

Moses died at the age of 120 on Mount Nebo, overlooking the land he had led the people towards. The Israelites mourned his loss for thirty days before continuing their journey under Joshua’s leadership.

During Moses’ leadership of the Israelites in the wilderness, he faced numerous challenges. Here are some of the notable ones:

  1. Lack of provisions: As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, they faced scarcity of food and water. They often complained and grumbled about their conditions, putting pressure on Moses to provide for their needs.
  2. Rebellion and idolatry: The Israelites were prone to rebellion and turning away from God’s commands. One notable incident was the worship of the golden calf when Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments. This required Moses to intercede and restore order.
  3. Dissension within the community: Moses had to deal with internal disputes and conflicts among the Israelites. This included disagreements over leadership, differing opinions on various matters, and challenges to Moses’ authority.
  4. External threats: Along the journey, the Israelites encountered hostile nations that sought to attack and defeat them. Moses had to navigate these external threats, such as the battle against the Amalekites, and ensure the safety and protection of the Israelites.
  5. Leadership burdens: Moses carried the weight of responsibility for the entire community. He had to make decisions, settle disputes, and provide guidance on a wide range of issues. This placed significant emotional and mental strain on him.
  6. Personal doubts and frustrations: At times, Moses himself struggled with doubts and frustrations. There were moments when he questioned his own abilities and felt overwhelmed by the enormity of the task given to him.

Despite all these challenges, Moses demonstrated resilience, faith, and perseverance. Through his strong leadership and unwavering trust in God, he guided the Israelites through the wilderness towards the promised land.

Moses’ legacy lived on through the teachings and laws he imparted to the Israelites, including the Ten Commandments. His story remains an inspiring example of faith, leadership, and dedication to God’s calling.

Posted in joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible, Uncategorized

Choose Kindness

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In a society that can sometimes be cruel and hateful, practicing kindness can have a profound impact on individuals and the world around us. Kindness is a powerful tool that can foster empathy, compassion, and understanding. Here are a few suggestions on how to cultivate kindness:

  1. Practice empathy: Try to understand others’ perspectives and experiences. Empathy allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and treat them with kindness and compassion.
  2. Choose compassion over judgment: Instead of rushing to judge or criticize others, strive to approach situations with an open mind and a compassionate heart. Recognize that everyone has their own struggles and challenges.
  3. Perform random acts of kindness: Small gestures can go a long way in brightening someone’s day. Simple acts such as holding the door for someone, offering a kind word or compliment, or volunteering your time to help others can make a significant difference.
  4. Be mindful of your words and actions: Words can have a lasting impact, so choose them wisely. Practice speaking kindly to others, avoiding gossip or negative talk, and being mindful of the impact your actions may have on those around you.

Regarding prioritizing family, it is a personal decision. Family relationships are often valued and cherished, as they provide a support system and a sense of belonging. However, it is also important to maintain balanced relationships and treat everyone with kindness and respect, whether they are family or not. Each individual’s circumstances and dynamics within their family may differ, so it is essential to consider individual needs and circumstances when making such decisions.

Remember, kindness is a virtue that can create a ripple effect in society. By choosing kindness, we can contribute to building a more compassionate and inclusive world.

Posted in joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

The Book of Exodus

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Book of Exodus is the second book in the Old Testament of the Bible and is an essential part of the King James Version. It is a captivating and influential narrative that holds significant theological and historical importance.

The Book of Exodus begins with the Israelites’ oppression and slavery in Egypt, under the rule of a new pharaoh who fears the growing number of Israelites. In response to their cries for deliverance, God raises up Moses as a leader and prophet to guide the Israelites out of slavery and into the Promised Land.

Throughout the book, Exodus depicts remarkable events such as the ten plagues of Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and the giving of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. These miracles and divine interventions serve as powerful demonstrations of God’s power and faithfulness to His chosen people.

The central theme of the Book of Exodus revolves around redemption and liberation. The Exodus narrative underscores God’s compassion and His desire to free His people from bondage, both physically and spiritually. It communicates the significance of faith, trust, and obedience in fulfilling His promises.

Moreover, the Book of Exodus establishes the foundation for the Mosaic Law, which encompasses a wide range of moral, ceremonial, and civil regulations that govern the Israelites’ daily lives. These laws provide guidance on matters such as worship, social justice, and personal conduct, shaping the Israelites into a distinct and righteous community.

Furthermore, the Book of Exodus explores the concept of covenant, as God establishes a special agreement or covenant with the Israelites, inviting them into a unique relationship with Him. This covenant relationship forms the basis of their identity as God’s chosen people, and it comes with responsibilities and blessings.

Overall, the Book of Exodus offers readers a rich tapestry of history, theology, and spirituality. It portrays the journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom, from doubt to faith, and from estrangement to communion with God. Its teachings and narratives continue to inspire and guide countless individuals seeking deliverance, hope, and a deeper understanding of their relationship with the divine.

Posted in Bible, joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Abrahams Test and The 2 Brothers

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Back in time in the ancient land of Canaan, there lived a man named Abraham. He was a righteous and honorable man, known for his deep faith in the one true God. Abraham was blessed with two sons, Ishmael and Isaac.

Ishmael, the elder son, was born to Abraham and his wife Sarah’s maidservant, Hagar. As Ishmael grew older, he became skilled in hunting and survival in the desert. His father loved him dearly and saw great potential in him.

Isaac, on the other hand, was born to Abraham and his wife Sarah in their old age. Isaac was a gentle and wise young man who possessed great compassion and empathy towards others. His birth was seen as a miracle by his parents.

As the brothers grew older, differences started to arise between them. Ishmael, being strong and independent, often enjoyed exploring the vast desert and its mysteries. He found peace and solitude in the wilderness, developing a deep bond with nature.

Isaac, on the other hand, felt a powerful connection to his father’s teachings and the spiritual world. He dedicated his time to studying and understanding the ways of God, seeking guidance and wisdom.

One fateful day, when Isaac was a young man, a test of faith was placed upon Abraham by God. He was instructed to offer his beloved son as a sacrifice on Mount Moriah. Abraham, though devastated by this command, trusted in God’s plan and prepared to carry out the sacrifice.

As Abraham and Isaac journeyed together up the mountain, Ishmael learned of their mission. Filled with concern for his brother, he followed them quietly from a distance. Deep in his heart, Ishmael hoped that there would be a way to prevent the sacrifice and protect his beloved sibling.

When Abraham and Isaac reached the mountaintop, Isaac willingly submitted himself to his father’s hands, placing his trust in God’s will. Just as Abraham prepared to fulfill the divine command, a voice from heaven called out, guiding him to stop.

God had seen their devotion and faith and provided a ram caught in a nearby thicket as a substitute for Isaac. In that moment, Abraham witnessed God’s mercy and grace, and he praised Him for His endless love.

Ishmael, who had been silently watching from afar, emerged from the shadows and rushed towards his brother, relieved to see him unharmed. The brothers embraced, their bond strengthened by the shared experience and the knowledge that they were indeed loved and protected.

From that day forward, Ishmael and Isaac cherished their relationship, understanding the value of family and the importance of faith. Each brother took a different path in life, but their connection remained strong, as they learned from one another and celebrated their differences.

Posted in joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Abraham and Sarah

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible and it contains various accounts of the origins of the world, mankind, and the Israelite nation. Within this book, Abraham and Sarah play a crucial role in the narrative.

Abraham, originally known as Abram, is introduced in Genesis as a righteous man who God chooses to be the father of a great nation. God promises to bless him and make his descendants numerous. However, there is initially a problem as Abraham and Sarah are childless and beyond the age of bearing children.

In Genesis 16, Sarah comes up with a plan to fulfill God’s promise by offering her Egyptian handmaid Hagar to Abraham as a surrogate. Abraham agrees, and Hagar becomes pregnant and gives birth to a son named Ishmael. This decision was influenced by their desire to have an heir and fulfill God’s promise, but it was not part of God’s original plan.

Later on, in Genesis 17, God reaffirms His covenant with Abraham and changes his name from Abram to Abraham, which means “father of many nations.” God also promises that Sarah will conceive and bear a son, despite her old age. In Genesis 18, three visitors, who some interpret as angels or manifestations of God, come to Abraham and Sarah to deliver this message.

As promised, Sarah does conceive and gives birth to Isaac, which means “laughter.” This miraculous birth is significant because it fulfills God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah, emphasizing their faithfulness and God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

The birth of Isaac creates tensions within the family. When Isaac is weaned, Sarah becomes concerned about Ishmael’s behavior towards him and insists that Abraham cast out Hagar and Ishmael. Abraham is initially reluctant but receives reassurance from God that He will make a great nation out of Ishmael as well.

Abraham follows God’s instruction and sends Hagar and Ishmael away. God provides for them in the wilderness, and Ishmael grows up and becomes the father of twelve princes, ultimately fulfilling God’s promise to make him into a great nation.

Abraham and Sarah play an essential role in the book of Genesis. They are initially childless but are promised descendants by God. Seeking to fulfill this promise, Sarah offers her handmaid Hagar to Abraham, resulting in the birth of Ishmael. However, God’s original plan comes to fruition as Sarah miraculously conceives and gives birth to Isaac. Ishmael and Isaac both have significance in biblical history, with Ishmael becoming the father of a great nation and Isaac being chosen as the line through which God’s covenant and promises continue.

Posted in Let’s Learn the Bible, Uncategorized

What Can We Learn From Noah

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Noah, one of the most well-known figures in the Bible, was a righteous man who found favor in the eyes of the Lord. According to Genesis 6:9, “Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.”

When God saw how wicked humanity had become, He decided to send a flood to destroy everything on earth. However, He instructed Noah to build an ark so that he and his family could be saved along with a pair of every kind of animal.

Noah’s wife is not named in the Bible, but she is described as the mother of his three sons – Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Together, they worked tirelessly to build the massive ark according to God’s instructions.

After the floodwaters receded, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat (Genesis 8:4). The exact location of these mountains is uncertain, but it is believed to be somewhere in the region of modern-day Turkey.

Noah is an important figure in the Bible because he obeyed God even when it seemed impossible. He trusted in God’s promises and acted on faith, which ultimately saved him and his family from the destruction of the flood.

Through Noah’s story, we can learn valuable lessons about the importance of obedience, faith, and trust in God’s plan. We can also find comfort in knowing that even in the darkest of times, God is always with us and will never abandon us.

Noah did as God commanded, and when he was 600 years old, in Biblical years , he completed the ark. He took his family into it, as well as pairs of all the different animals, two by two. Seven days later, the flood came upon the earth and the rain poured from the skies for forty days and forty nights. The waters rose higher and higher on the face of the earth, until even the tops of the highest mountains were covered and every breathing creature perished (7:22).

After 150 days, the Lord brought a great wind over the earth, causing the waters to subside, and the ark came to rest on top of Mt. Ararat. Noah released a dove:

Then he released a dove, to see if the waters had lessened on the earth. But the dove could find no place to perch, and it returned to him in the ark, for there was water over all the earth. Putting out his hand, he caught the dove and drew it back to him inside the ark. He waited yet seven days more and again released the dove from the ark. In the evening the dove came back to him, and there in its bill was a plucked-off olive leaf! So Noah knew that the waters had diminished on the earth. He waited yet another seven days and then released the dove; but this time it did not come back. (Genesis 8:7-12)

When the dove did not return, Noah opened the covering of the ark and saw that the waters had dried up from the ground. God instructed him to bring his family and all the creatures out of the ark.

What was the first thing Noah did upon exiting the ark? He built an altar to God and presented him with an offering, giving thanks to him for his provision. And God made a promise never to flood the earth again, setting a rainbow in the sky as a sign of this covenant with mankind.

What We Can Learn from Noah

The story of Noah and the Flood is one of judgement and salvation; of obedience and disobedience. In an era of overwhelming wickedness, Noah set himself apart by living righteously. Noah was likely mocked for building a giant boat when no flood was yet seen upon the earth – but he did not worry about what other people thought. He simply responded to God’s commands with a willing heart and hands. God rewarded him for his righteousness and obedience, saving both him and his family from destruction.

The story of the Flood also demonstrates both the gravity of God’s justice and the promise of His salvation. Every sin we commit grieves God, and His justice demands judgement for that sin. Just as God provided salvation for Noah and his family when His judgement was brought upon the world, so also does God provide salvation for each of His followers through Christ.

My thoughts.

In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, there is much we can learn from the story of Noah. This ancient tale holds valuable lessons that can guide us in our own lives, helping us navigate through challenges and make wise decisions. The story of Noah teaches us the importance of living with integrity, following our convictions, and trusting in a higher power.

Noah’s unwavering righteousness sets him apart from the rest of society. In a time where wickedness prevailed, he remained steadfast in his commitment to live a righteous life. This teaches us the significance of upholding our moral values, even when it may seem unpopular or go against the prevailing norms. Noah’s example reminds us that staying true to ourselves and our beliefs is crucial, regardless of the opinions of others.

Another vital lesson we can draw from Noah’s story is the importance of obedience. When Noah received the command from God to build an ark, he did not question or doubt. Instead, he immediately set to work, wholeheartedly obeying God’s instructions. This displays his unwavering faith and trust in a higher power. It reminds us of the significance of listening to our inner voice, following our intuition, and having faith in something greater than ourselves. By doing so, we can navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with confidence and resilience.

Noah’s story also emphasizes the power of perseverance and resilience. As he constructed the massive ark, Noah faced ridicule and disbelief from those around him. Yet, he remained undeterred, focused on the task at hand. This serves as a reminder to stay committed to our goals, even when faced with skepticism or adversity. Noah’s unwavering determination paid off in the end when he and his loved ones were saved from the catastrophic flood. It teaches us the importance of staying persistent and dedicated, even in the face of daunting obstacles.

Furthermore, Noah’s story highlights the necessity of taking action. Noah did not merely pray for salvation; he actively took part in building the ark, playing his role in the grand scheme of things. This teaches us that faith without action is incomplete. We must take concrete steps towards our goals and aspirations, putting in the necessary effort and commitment. By doing so, we can bring about positive change in our lives and the world around us.

Lord, we come before you today seeking the same unwavering faith and determination that Noah displayed. Help us to stay committed to our goals and aspirations, even when faced with skepticism or adversity. Give us the strength to persevere through the challenges that life throws at us, knowing that with you by our side, we can overcome anything. Teach us to take action and not just rely on prayer alone, but to put in the necessary effort and commitment to bring about positive change in our lives and the world around us. May we live with integrity, staying true to our convictions, and may our actions reflect our unwavering faith in you. In your precious name, we pray. Amen.

Posted in Let’s Learn the Bible

The Parable of Two Brothers and a Forgiving Father

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Parable of the Prodigal Son (also known as the parable of the Two Brothers, Lost Son, Loving Father, or of the Forgiving Father) is one of the parables of Jesus Christ in the Bible, appearing in Luke 15:11–32.

Today, I want to talk about the story of the Prodigal Son and how it relates to our lives. The Prodigal Son is a powerful story about forgiveness and redemption, but often overlooked is the story of the second son who was just as troubled.

The second son’s story teaches us about judgment, anger, jealousy, and hostility, all traits that we may find in ourselves if we look deep enough. We all have our own pig pens, whether it be drug and alcohol addiction, gambling, food addictions, or any other unhealthy habits that keep us from living a full life.

But the message of the Prodigal Son is a message of hope. No matter how low we may feel, we are never too low to turn our lives around and seek forgiveness and redemption. Just like the father in the story who forgave his son’s wrongdoings, God is always ready to forgive us and welcome us back into His loving embrace.

So let’s take this opportunity to reflect on where we are in our own lives, and ask for forgiveness for any wrongdoings we have committed. Let’s also extend forgiveness and love to those who have hurt us, just as the father in the story did.

Remember, we are all children of God, and He loves us no matter what. All we have to do is ask for forgiveness and try to live a better way.

Let’s spread positivity and hope on social media today by sharing this message and encouraging others to turn their lives around.

The parable of the prodigal son is perhaps one of the most well-known parables mentioned in Scripture. Not only does it paint a picture of God’s love for us, but it also demonstrates how we should love our brothers and sisters in Christ. 

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

In the gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the well-known parable of the prodigal son. A son asks his father for his inheritance, then squanders it recklessly as he lives a life of indulgence. With nothing left of his fortune, he is forced to work as a hired hand for a pig farmer. He is so destitute that he longs to eat the food of the pigs. Realizing that his father’s servants have better working conditions, he resolves to return to his father, beg forgiveness, and ask to be his servant.

However, upon arriving at his father’s house, he is welcomed with loving arms. His father is overwhelmed with joy at his son’s return, and holds a feast in his honor:

So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.’ But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.’ Then the celebration began. — Luke 15:20-24

However, the prodigal son’s older brother, who has remained serving in his father’s house, does not share his father’s joy. Instead, he is jealous that his father has not honored him. His father urges him not to resent his brother, but to instead be happy for him.

The Love of God the Father

The story of the prodigal son is a picture of God’s love for us as His children. God’s love for us does not depend on our faithfulness; it is unconditional. He loved us while we were still sinners. Though we are demanding and do not remain faithful, God is still our faithful and loving Father. When we come to repent of our sins, He is willing to forgive us and welcomes us with open arms.

“…I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.” — Jeremiah 31:3 (NRSVCE)

Loving the Family of God

The  example of the elder son demonstrates how we should not treat other believers. We are all equal in His sight — sinners saved by God’s grace. Jesus tells this parable shortly after a group of Pharisees and scribes complained about how Jesus was fraternizing with tax collectors and sinners. Jesus responds to their criticisms with the parable of the lost sheep and the parable of the lost coin, demonstrating His willingness to pursue sinners.

If Jesus, the King over all creation, values the least of these, how much more so should we? We should not hold ourselves in higher regard than those whose sins we deem “worse” than ours, but love and accept them as fellow members of the church. We are to share in their joys and sorrows and live in harmony with them.

As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit…

 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I do not need you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I do not need you.” Indeed, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are all the more necessary…  If [one] part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, all the parts share its joy. — 1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 21-22, 26

Posted in Let’s Learn the Bible

Seth the 3rd Son to Adam and Eve

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Seth, the third son of Adam and Eve, played a significant role in biblical history. After the tragic death of Abel at the hands of his brother Cain, Seth was born to Adam and Eve as their third son. According to the book of Genesis, he became the father of Enosh at the age of 105 years and lived for a total of 912 years.

Seth’s descendants included many notable figures in biblical history, including Enoch, who famously “walked with God and was taken up by Him” (Genesis 5:24), and Noah, who built an ark to save his family and the animals from the Great Flood. From Noah’s lineage would eventually come Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelite nation.

While there is little information about Seth’s contributions to mankind in the Bible, he is often seen as a symbol of hope and continuity. After the tragic events of Cain and Abel, Seth’s birth was a sign that life would go on and that God had not given up on humanity. His descendants would later play a crucial role in God’s plan for salvation.

In addition to his symbolic significance, Seth also represents the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. The book of Genesis describes him as a man who “walked with God” and lived a life that pleased Him. This emphasis on faith and obedience can serve as an important lesson for believers today.

Ultimately, while Seth may not have made any specific contributions to mankind that are recorded in the Bible, his role as a faithful follower of God and the progenitor of a line of important biblical figures ensures that his legacy lives on. As Christians, we can look to his example and strive to follow in his footsteps, remaining faithful to God and trusting in His plan for our lives.

Posted in Let’s Learn the Bible

Cain, Abel and Seth

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The story of Cain and Abel is one of the oldest and most tragic tales in the Bible. It tells how the first two sons of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, both offered sacrifices to God, but God was pleased only with Abel’s offering of the firstlings of his flock . Cain, who was a farmer, became angry and jealous of his brother, and killed him in the field . God confronted Cain and asked him where Abel was. Cain lied and said he did not know, adding, \”Am I my brother’s keeper?

God knew what Cain had done and cursed him to wander the earth as a fugitive and a vagabond . God also put a mark on Cain to protect him from anyone who might try to kill him. Cain left the presence of God and settled in the land of Nod, east of Eden . There he had a son named Enoch and built a city.

It’s often said that our actions speak louder than words. For the first two sons of Adam and Eve, their actions spoke of their level of faith in God. One son demonstrated his faith and was received from God. The other son, Cain, demonstrated his faith in works leading to his sinful demise.
Bible Story Summary

Sometime after Adam and Eve sinned against God and were forced out of the Garden of Eden, they began to have children. The first son was Cain and he was a farmer. The next son was Abel who was a shepherd. When it was time to offer sacrifices to God, Cain brought fruit from the ground and Abel brought the fat portions from some of the firstborn. God favored Abel’s sacrifice, but He didn’t extend that same grace to Cain. This rejection made Cain angry and God admonished Cain to do the right thing and his sacrifice would be accepted. Cain was also warned that if he refused to do the right thing—sin was ready to consume him.

Cain disregarded God’s admonition and warning. Instead he took out his anger on his righteous brother, Abel. In a premeditated manner, Cain invited Abel out to the fields where he murdered him! Later God approached Cain about the whereabouts of Abel just as He did with Adam and Eve with their sin. Cain (being a child of sin and the devil) lied and countered the all-knowing God with the infamous question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Cain’s response lacked remorse for his dead brother, but rather that his punishment was too severe and that he would be killed in revenge.

Cain’s response lacked remorse for his dead brother, but rather that his punishment was too severe and that he would be killed in revenge.

God responded quickly with the pronouncement of his punishment: Cain would be driven from his people, no longer able to farm the land and he would be a wanderer. Cain’s response lacked remorse for his dead brother, but rather that his punishment was too severe and that he would be killed in revenge. The Lord God, being full of mercy and grace, put a mark on Cain to keep people from killing him. As a result Cain left the presence of God, started a family, and built a city. His descendants were prosperous, worldly, and without God.

The legacy of Cain led to the destruction of the entire world with the flood. (You can read the Biblical account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4)
What can we learn from this Bible story for our lives today?
Question #1) Are we better than Cain?

“Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him” (1 John 3:15).

It’s easy for us to judge Cain without taking a look at our own sinful hearts. Cain was jealous of Abel because of God’s favor on him. Do we harbor jealousy and envy towards our brothers and sisters in Christ who are honored for their righteous service and gifts to the Lord? The sin of jealousy can wind itself around our hearts and minds with such deception that we may not even recognize it right away.

When the Holy Spirit sends us that gentle nudge about envy or jealousy in our hearts, we have the same opportunity that was afforded to Cain…repent! By admitting our weakness in the flesh we can be forgiven and restored to right relationship with God. Otherwise, we allow the bitter root to grow into sin and become murderers in our hearts.
Question #2) Are we offering the right sacrifices?

“You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5).

Cain gave back to God what he deemed adequate. Abel brought a better offering in faith and was honored by God. Do we offer sacrifices out of duty, compulsion, or seeking the admiration of other people? While our spiritual sacrifice may seem great on the surface, God knows our hearts. He knows our true motives in giving towards the kingdom of God in our time, energy, finances, and efforts. There is nothing hidden from Him.

By spending time in prayer and Bible study, our hearts are kept sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. We are compelled by our love for God to give the best we have to offer in light of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Question #3) Are we mastering sin or being mastered by it?

“For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14).

God warned Cain that sin desired to have him, but that he should master it. Are we entangled in sin as much as those without Christ? It should never be so with believers! We’ve been bought with the precious blood of Jesus so that we no longer live as slaves to sin. Just as Cain, we’re warned through the Holy Spirit to not use grace as an opportunity to sin.

As Christians we have the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sinful choices. Sin wants to take root in our hearts. But we resist it by keeping our hearts fertile with the desire to please God more than pleasing ourselves.
Cain or Abel? Your choice…

Cain’s actions were evil and Abel’s were righteous. Both men demonstrated in action the passions of their hearts. What is your passion concerning the Lord? If you’re spiritually passive and stale—it may be time for a heart check. The Lord wants the best from you and the best for you. Don’t ignore the knocks on your heart from the Holy Spirit, repent and be made whole in the way of righteous Abel rather than the error of Cain.