Forget the Former Things: Embracing God's New Work

Forget the Former Things: Embracing God's New Work

Isaiah 43:18-19 says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

These verses offer a powerful reminder that God is always at work, bringing new life and new opportunities. For me, this passage holds a special significance, thanks to a family Bible study led by Keith M. Craddock. He kept bringing up this topic, emphasizing the importance of looking forward to what God is doing now, rather than dwelling on the past.

Ironically, little did we know that Keith wouldn't be here to see the new thing God had planned. His passing left a void, and our family faced a new wilderness. But in God's sovereignty, the lessons from that Bible study – specifically from Keith's own mouth – became the anchor I needed to carry on without him.

As I navigated a whole new season of life, those words kept echoing: "Forget the former things... See, I am doing a new thing!" It was as if God was saying, "Trust Me, even when circumstances change, and people leave. I'm still working." Keith's teaching had prepared me for this moment, even if he wasn't there to

see it.

Understanding the Message

In its context, Isaiah 43:18-19 was a message of hope for the Israelites who were struggling. They'd faced many challenges, and God was telling them to look forward, not backward. He was doing something new, and they needed to be open to it.

Applying It Today

So, what does it mean to "forget the former things" and embrace God's new work in our lives? Here are a few key points:

Letting Go of the Past: We all have things we'd rather forget – mistakes, regrets, or painful experiences. But holding onto these can weigh us down and prevent us from moving forward. God's message is clear: it's time to let go.
Seeing God's New Work: God is always active, always working. The question is, do we see it? Are we open to the new things He's doing in our lives? This requires faith and a willingness to trust Him.
Finding Hope in Difficulty: The image of God making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland is powerful. No matter where we find ourselves, God can bring life and hope. We just need to trust Him and look for the ways He's working.
Conclusion
Isaiah 43:18-19 reminds us that God is a God of new beginnings. He's not limited by our past or our current circumstances. As we look to the future, let's trust Him to do a new thing in our lives. Let's be open to the ways He's working and find hope in His promise to make a way, even in the wilderness. And let's honor those who've gone before us by applying the lessons they've taught us, even when they're no longer with us to see the outcome.

Credits: 

Keith M. Craddock family bible study

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Hearing God's Voice: A Guide to Spiritual Discernment

Hearing God's Voice: A Guide to Spiritual Discernment

John 10:27 says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." As Christians, we believe that God communicates with us through various means, including prayer, scripture, and the Holy Spirit. However, it's essential to discern God's voice from other influences that may masquerade as divine guidance.

Distinguishing God's Voice

To hear God's voice, we must develop spiritual discernment. Here are some key principles:

To hear God's voice, we must develop spiritual discernment. Here are some key principles:

Know God's Word: God's voice aligns with scripture. Familiarize yourself with the Bible to recognize God's character and principles.
Pray for Guidance: Ask God to help you discern His voice and distinguish it from other influences.
Seek Counsel: Consult with trusted spiritual leaders, mentors, or friends to gain perspective and insight.

Potential Influences to Discern

When seeking God's guidance, be aware of potential influences that may cloud your judgment:

Fleshly Desires: Our own desires, emotions, and biases can masquerade as God's voice. Be honest with yourself, and pray for self-awareness.
Demonic Influence: Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Be cautious of thoughts or promptings that contradict scripture or lead you away from God's character.

Practical Tips for Discernment

Test Everything: Evaluate thoughts, impressions, or promptings against scripture and God's character.
Wait and Reflect: Don't rush into decisions or actions. Take time to reflect and seek confirmation.
Seek Peace: God's voice often brings peace and confirmation (Philippians 4:7).

By developing spiritual discernment and being aware of potential influences, you can cultivate a deeper relationship with God and hear His voice more clearly.

Credits:

Keith M. Craddock family bible study

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Staying Vigilant: A Reflection on Luke 21:36

Staying Vigilant: A Reflection on Luke 21:36

Luke 21:36 says, "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man." This verse is part of Jesus' teachings on the end times and the importance of being prepared for his return.

In this passage, Jesus emphasizes the need for vigilance and constant prayer. He encourages his followers to stay awake, spiritually speaking, and to be ready at all times for his coming. This requires a deep commitment to faith and a willingness to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.

So, what does it mean to "watch" and "pray always"? It means being mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions, and seeking God's guidance and strength in every aspect of our lives. It means being aware of the world's temptations and distractions, but not being swayed by them. Instead, we fix our eyes on Jesus and seek to honor him in all that we do.

Praying always doesn't mean we have to be praying out loud or on our knees 24/7. Rather, it's about cultivating a constant sense of dependence on God and communicating with him throughout our day. It's about seeking his wisdom, guidance, and protection, and trusting in his goodness and sovereignty.

As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life, Luke 21:36 reminds us that our ultimate hope is not in this world, but in the world to come. We are citizens of heaven, and our Lord is coming again to claim his own. May this truth motivate us to live with purpose, integrity, and passion, and to stand firm in our faith, no matter what the future holds.

Reflection Questions:

What does it mean for you to "watch" and "pray always" in your daily life?
How can you prioritize your relationship with God and seek his guidance and strength in every aspect of your life?
What are some practical ways you can stay vigilant and focused on Jesus amidst the distractions and temptations of the world?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to stay vigilant and focused on you. Give me the strength and wisdom to navigate the challenges of life with purpose and integrity. May I be accounted worthy to stand before you when you return, and may my life be a reflection of your love and grace. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

Credits:

Keith M. Craddock family bible study

Meta AI assistance with blog format, spell check and polishing. 

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But Thanks Be to God!

But Thanks Be to God!

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." - 1 Corinthians 15:57

This verse is nestled in one of the most powerful chapters in the Bible, where the Apostle Paul lays out the foundation of Christianity: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul addresses the question of what happens after we die, and he makes it clear that without the resurrection, our faith would be futile.

But with the resurrection comes victory. And that's exactly what Paul celebrates in verse 57. He breaks out into a triumphant declaration of praise, acknowledging that our triumph over death, sin, and the grave is thanks to God alone.

The phrase "But thanks be to God" is more than just a polite expression of gratitude. It's a battle cry, a shout of triumph, and a declaration of dependence on God. Paul recognizes that without God's intervention, we'd be doomed to face eternal separation from Him. But because of Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection, we can face death and the unknown with confidence.

The victory Paul talks about isn't just about getting to heaven one day; it's about living a life that's empowered by the resurrected Christ. It's about overcoming the struggles, temptations, and doubts that come our way. It's about knowing that no matter what we face, we have the ultimate victory on our side.

So what does this mean for us practically? It means we can face each day with hope and confidence, knowing that our circumstances aren't the final word. It means we can trust God's sovereignty, even when things seem bleak. And it means we can live with a sense of purpose, knowing that our lives are part of a larger story that's being written by a loving God.

Whether we're facing triumph or turmoil, 1 Corinthians 15:57 reminds us that we serve a God who gives us victory. Let's take a moment to thank Him for that gift, and let's live like we believe it.

Embracing Humility: Unpacking John 3:30

 

Embracing Humility: Unpacking John 3:30

John 3:30 has become a cornerstone verse for many Christians, offering a profound insight into the nature of humility and spiritual growth. The verse reads:

"He must become greater; I must become less." (John 3:30, NIV)

This powerful declaration was made by John the Baptist, a prominent figure in the New Testament known for baptizing Jesus and preparing the way for His ministry. John's statement wasn't a declaration of defeat or inadequacy but rather a profound recognition

of Jesus' divine purpose and his own role in God's larger plan.

Understanding the Context

To fully grasp the significance of John 3:30, it's essential to understand the context in which it was spoken. John the Baptist had been gaining a significant following due to his powerful preaching and baptizing rituals. Some of John's disciples began to express concern over Jesus' growing popularity, suggesting a sense of competition between the two figures. In response, John offered a humble yet profound perspective on his role and Jesus'.

The Essence of Humility

John's statement, "He must become greater; I must become less," encapsulates the essence of humility in a few key ways:

Recognition of Purpose: John understood that his purpose was not to seek glory for himself but to prepare the way for Jesus. This recognition allowed him to step aside and let Jesus take center stage.
Selflessness: By saying "I must become less," John demonstrated a selfless attitude, prioritizing Jesus' ministry over his own ambitions.
Faith in God's Plan: John's declaration reflects his trust in God's plan and timing. He knew that his role, though crucial, was not the ultimate goal but rather a stepping stone to something greater.
A Personal Reflection
As I reflect on John 3:30, I'm reminded that this verse isn't just about John the Baptist; it's also about my own journey. I'm becoming less of me and more of Him. The more I seek to follow Jesus, the more I realize that my own strengths, weaknesses, and desires should align with His will. This transformation isn't about losing my identity but about finding my true self in Christ.
In my daily life, I'm learning to let go of my need for control and recognition, embracing the idea that Jesus should be the central figure. This journey isn't always easy, but it's one that brings peace and purpose. As I
become less, I make room for Jesus to work through me, guiding my thoughts, actions, and decisions.
Applying John 3:30 to Our Lives
The principle behind John 3:30 can be applied to various aspects of our lives. Here are a few ways to embody this verse:
Letting Go of Ego: In a world that often celebrates self-promotion, embracing humility can be challenging. However, recognizing that our accomplishments and talents are gifts from God can help us keep our ego in check.
Focusing on God's Glory: Instead of seeking personal glory, we can strive to bring glory to God in our actions and decisions. This shift in focus can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Trusting God's Plan: Like John the Baptist, we can trust that God has a plan for our lives. This trust allows us to step back when necessary and let others take the forefront, knowing that God is working everything out for His glory.
Conclusion
John 3:30 is more than just a verse; it's a way of life. By embracing humility and recognizing Jesus as the central figure in our lives, we can live with greater purpose and peace. As we strive to become less so that Jesus can become greater in our lives, we open ourselves up to experiencing the fullness of God's plan and the joy of living a life that points others to Him.

Beyond Familiarity: The Challenge of Recognition

Beyond Familiarity: The Challenge of Recognition

In the biblical narrative, Jesus' experience in his hometown of Nazareth serves as a powerful illustration of a universal theme: the challenge of being recognized for one's true value or calling, especially when others have preconceived notions about us based on our background or past experiences.

As Jesus returned to Nazareth, he faced rejection and skepticism from the very people who had known him since childhood. "Isn't this the carpenter's son?" they asked, unable to see beyond their familiarity with him to acknowledge his teachings and miracles. In this moment, Jesus highlighted the common phenomenon of people being overlooked or undervalued in their own communities.

This experience is not unique to Jesus. Many individuals face similar challenges in their own lives, whether in their hometowns, workplaces, or social circles. When others know us in a certain way, it can be difficult for them to see us in a new light or recognize our full potential.

Jesus' response to this rejection emphasizes that his mission and message are not limited by local expectations or familiarity. Instead, he looks beyond the confines of his hometown and community to connect with people from all walks of life. This serves as a powerful reminder that our value and purpose are not defined by the opinions of those around us.

As we navigate our own lives and struggles, we can draw inspiration from Jesus' experience. By looking beyond the limitations of our current circumstances and embracing our true potential, we can break free from the constraints of others' expectations and forge our own paths.

Reflection Questions:

Have you ever felt overlooked or undervalued in your own community or workplace?
How do you respond when others have preconceived notions about you or your abilities?
What steps can you take to break free from the limitations of others' expectations and pursue your true potential?

Explore Further:

Read the biblical accounts of Jesus' experience in Nazareth (Matthew 13:54-57, Mark 6:1-4, Luke 4:16-30)
Reflect on times when you've felt seen and recognized for your true value – what contributed to those experiences?
Consider how you can apply the lessons from Jesus' experience to your own life and relationships.

This blog post aims to capture the essence of Jesus' experience in Nazareth and its relevance to our lives. 

Credits:

Keith M. Craddock family bible study

Image by Ir Solyanaya

Meta AI Response: Beyond Familiarity: The Challenge of Recognition In the biblical narrative, Jesus' experience in his hometown of Nazareth serves as a powerful illustration of a universal theme: the challenge of being recognized for one's true value or calling, especially when others have preconceived notions about us based on our background or past experiences. As Jesus returned to Nazareth, he faced rejection and skepticism from the very people who had known him since childhood. "Isn't this the carpenter's son?" they asked, unable to see beyond their familiarity with him to acknowledge his teachings and miracles. In this moment, Jesus highlighted the common phenomenon of people being overlooked or undervalued in their own communities. This experience is not unique to Jesus. Many individuals face similar challenges in their own lives, whether in their hometowns, workplaces, or social circles. When others know us in a certain way, it can be difficult for them to see us in a new light or recognize our full potential. Jesus' response to this rejection emphasizes that his mission and message are not limited by local expectations or familiarity. Instead, he looks beyond the confines of his hometown and community to connect with people from all walks of life. This serves as a powerful reminder that our value and purpose are not defined by the opinions of those around us. As we navigate our own lives and struggles, we can draw inspiration from Jesus' experience. By looking beyond the limitations of our current circumstances and embracing our true potential, we can break free from the constraints of others' expectations and forge our own paths. Reflection Questions: Have you ever felt overlooked or undervalued in your own community or workplace? How do you respond when others have preconceived notions about you or your abilities? What steps can you take to break free from the limitations of others' expectations and pursue your true potential? Explore Further: Read the biblical accounts of Jesus' experience in Nazareth (Matthew 13:54-57, Mark 6:1-4, Luke 4:16-30) Reflect on times when you've felt seen and recognized for your true value – what contributed to those experiences? Consider how you can apply the lessons from Jesus' experience to your own life and relationships. This blog post aims to capture the essence of Jesus' experience in Nazareth and its relevance to our lives. Feel free to modify or add to it as you see fit!

The Teachings of Jesus: A Guide to Living a Meaningful Life

The Teachings of Jesus: A Guide to Living a Meaningful Life

Jesus' teachings, as recorded in the New Testament, offer profound insights into living a life of purpose, compassion, and spiritual growth. His messages, often conveyed through parables and direct teachings, continue to inspire and guide people worldwide.

Key Themes in Jesus' Teachings

Love and Compassion: Jesus emphasized the importance of loving one's neighbors, enemies, and even oneself. He taught that love is the foundation of all relationships and actions.
Forgiveness and Mercy: Jesus modeled and taught the value of forgiveness, encouraging his followers to show mercy and kindness to others, just as God shows mercy and kindness to us.
Humility and Servant Leadership: Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others, not seeking power or status. He demonstrated this through his own life, washing his disciples' feet and sacrificing himself for humanity.
Spiritual Growth and Self-Reflection: Jesus encouraged people to seek spiritual growth through prayer, self-reflection, and a deepening relationship with God.
Faith and Trust: Jesus taught that faith is not just about belief, but about trust and obedience to God's will. He encouraged his followers to trust in God's provision and care.

Practical Applications of Jesus' Teachings

The Golden Rule: Jesus taught that treating others with kindness and respect is essential to living a meaningful life. "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31) is a guiding principle for relationships.
Generosity and Stewardship: Jesus taught about the importance of using one's resources wisely and generously, recognizing that all we have comes from God.
Personal Growth and Accountability: Jesus encouraged people to take responsibility for their actions, to forgive themselves and others, and to strive for personal growth.

Living Out Jesus' Teachings

Jesus' teachings offer a roadmap to living a life of purpose, compassion, and spiritual growth. By embracing love, forgiveness, humility, and faith, we can build stronger relationships, find inner peace, and make a positive impact in the world.

Acknowledgment

This article draws inspiration from the family Bible studies led by Keith M. Craddock

Image by Mabel Amber

Meta AI Response: The Teachings of Jesus: A Guide to Living a Meaningful Life Jesus' teachings, as recorded in the New Testament, offer profound insights into living a life of purpose, compassion, and spiritual growth. His messages, often conveyed through parables and direct teachings, continue to inspire and guide people worldwide. Key Themes in Jesus' Teachings Love and Compassion: Jesus emphasized the importance of loving one's neighbors, enemies, and even oneself. He taught that love is the foundation of all relationships and actions. Forgiveness and Mercy: Jesus modeled and taught the value of forgiveness, encouraging his followers to show mercy and kindness to others, just as God shows mercy and kindness to us. Humility and Servant Leadership: Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others, not seeking power or status. He demonstrated this through his own life, washing his disciples' feet and sacrificing himself for humanity. Spiritual Growth and Self-Reflection: Jesus encouraged people to seek spiritual growth through prayer, self-reflection, and a deepening relationship with God. Faith and Trust: Jesus taught that faith is not just about belief, but about trust and obedience to God's will. He encouraged his followers to trust in God's provision and care. Practical Applications of Jesus' Teachings The Golden Rule: Jesus taught that treating others with kindness and respect is essential to living a meaningful life. "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31) is a guiding principle for relationships. Generosity and Stewardship: Jesus taught about the importance of using one's resources wisely and generously, recognizing that all we have comes from God. Personal Growth and Accountability: Jesus encouraged people to take responsibility for their actions, to forgive themselves and others, and to strive for personal growth. Living Out Jesus' Teachings Jesus' teachings offer a roadmap to living a life of purpose, compassion, and spiritual growth. By embracing love, forgiveness, humility, and faith, we can build stronger relationships, find inner peace, and make a positive impact in the world. Acknowledgment This article draws inspiration from the family Bible studies led by Keith M. Craddock, who has helped many explore the teachings of Jesus and apply them to everyday life. Would you like me to add or modify anythin