Jeremiah 20:12 states “O Lord of hosts, who tests the righteous, who sees the heart and the mind, let me see your vengeance upon them, for to you have I committed my cause.” This verse comes from a prayer of Jeremiah when he was facing persecution for proclaiming God’s word. In his distress, Jeremiah cries out to God asking for vindication against those who were persecuting him. This verse provides insight into how we can plead our cause before God when facing trials or persecution. First, we plead our cause before God by reminding ourselves of His character – that…
Author: Kristal Wheatley
Praying in the Spirit refers to praying according to the leading and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. It goes beyond our own understanding and human reasoning, connecting us directly to God’s heart and mind. The apostle Paul instructs believers to “pray at all times in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18 ESV). When we pray in the Spirit, we yield control of our prayer time to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to guide our thoughts, words, and prayers. There are several key aspects to praying in the Spirit: 1. It is supernatural prayer Praying in the human spirit relies on our…
The topic of whether Satan was originally an angel is one that generates a lot of interest and debate among Christians. While the Bible does not provide an explicitly clear answer, there are passages that give clues about Satan’s origins and nature. By looking at these biblical texts, we can develop an understanding of what scripture seems to say about whether Satan was once an angel. Satan as a Fallen Angel There are several passages in the Bible that refer to Satan falling or being brought down, which imply a prior state from which Satan fell. For example, Luke 10:18…
The Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays during the season of Lent has biblical roots and spiritual significance. Here is an overview of where this tradition comes from and why Catholics observe it today. Origins in the Bible The practice of abstaining from certain foods, like meat, has ancient origins in the Bible. In the Old Testament, the prophet Daniel fasted from meat and wine as an act of spiritual devotion (Daniel 10:2-3). Jewish dietary customs also included fasting and avoiding unclean foods on certain holy days as a way to purify oneself and focus on God. In…
The book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible and tells the story of God’s creation of the world, humanity’s fall into sin, and God’s promise of redemption. Genesis raises many interesting theological questions that believers through the ages have tried to answer. Here are some of the key questions people ask about the Genesis narrative: Who wrote Genesis and when was it written? Traditionally, Moses has been considered the author of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible, including Genesis). However, modern scholarship suggests Genesis was written by an unknown author or authors referred to…
The Bible does not directly address the modern concept of retirement saving, as retirement is a relatively recent phenomenon. However, the Bible provides principles that can guide Christians in wise financial stewardship and preparing for the future. Here are some key biblical principles regarding saving, investing and planning for the future: 1. God calls us to be wise stewards of the resources He has given us The Bible makes it clear that everything we have comes from God (1 Chronicles 29:14). As stewards, we are responsible for wisely managing what God has entrusted to us. This includes our finances and…
The Bible has a lot to say about the issue of popularity and fame. While being well-known and influential is not inherently wrong, Scripture warns about the dangers and temptations that often accompany popularity. One of the most common themes in the Bible regarding popularity is the warning against pride and arrogance. When someone becomes popular, they may be tempted to see themselves as better or more important than others. Several passages talk about the importance of humility and caution against pride that can arise from fame and adoration. “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”…
Praying for others is vitally important for several reasons according to the Bible. First, we are commanded to pray for others. 1 Timothy 2:1 says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” Here Paul urges Timothy and all believers to make prayers and intercessions for others. We see other direct commands to pray for others in passages like James 5:16, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:25, and 1 Samuel 12:23. As followers of Christ, we must obey these biblical directives to pray for others. Second, praying for others demonstrates love. When…
The Bible provides important details about where Jesus Christ will return. Though we do not have an exact location, Scripture points to the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem as a significant place connected to Christ’s second coming. Zechariah 14:4 states, “On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east…” This indicates the Mount of Olives will be a pivotal site when Jesus returns. Acts 1:11-12 also describes Jesus ascending to heaven from the Mount of Olives, and the angels said he would return “in the same way you have seen…
Here is a 9,000 word article on the seven “I AM” statements in the Gospel of John: 1. I AM the Bread of Life (John 6:35) In John 6, Jesus feeds the five thousand with just five loaves of bread and two fish (John 6:1-14). The next day, the crowds follow him seeking more food. Jesus tells them, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you” (John 6:27). The people ask Jesus for a sign like the manna God gave the Israelites in the wilderness.…