Those who have a personal encounter with Christ are permanently and radically changed. John 4:7-30 Ephesians 2:1-2 says that before salvation, we all are spiritually dead. But when a person places faith in Christ, he or she becomes a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Nowhere is this more evident than in the life of the woman … Continue reading Christ’s Transforming Power
The Privilege of Knowing Christ
Knowing Jesus intimately is the most rewarding pursuit in life. Philippians 3:1-16 Have you ever written a résumé? It requires a good deal of skill and tact. After all, it’s the way you introduce yourself to a potential boss. You must feature your skills and accomplishments in a way that isn’t boastful. That’s quite a … Continue reading The Privilege of Knowing Christ
Christ in You
Our salvation is the work of Christ, and so is our sanctification every day that follows. Colossians 1:24-29 Paul wrote to the Colossians, “I rejoice in my sufferings” (1:24). Can you imagine yourself saying that? It’s a difficult claim to make, much less to adhere to day after day. In fact, that would be impossible … Continue reading Christ in You
A New Creation in Christ
Upon salvation, a person becomes a new creation, holy and blameless in God's sight. Ephesians 4:17-24 Some people think they can receive salvation and go on living as they did before. But 2 Corinthians 5:17 is clear: “If anyone is in Christ, this person is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have … Continue reading A New Creation in Christ
Christ Above All
The reason we should worry less and trust God more. How well do you know Jesus? If you’re a Christian, you know that He’s your Savior and the Son of God. But what if you wrote down everything you understand about Him? Would you be able to fill up both sides of even one sheet … Continue reading Christ Above All
Know What You Believe
The Bible is our protection against deception. 2 Timothy 1:12-14 All people have a belief system, whether they realize it or not. Even those who claim there is no God have faith that He does not exist. Some base their convictions on what fits their lifestyle, reasoning, and desires. Jesus’ followers, however, are called to … Continue reading Know What You Believe
Christ-Centered Confidence
Spending time in the Word and in prayer deepens our trust in the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:1-6 Did you know you can build your confidence in God? It grows the more we meditate on His Word, know who He is, and draw near to Him through prayer. Confidently trusting the Lord brings many blessings: • Spiritual … Continue reading Christ-Centered Confidence
Dead Men Walking
Ephesians 2:1-5, Made Alive with Christ! Zombie movies are science fiction, but did you know that, spiritually speaking, there actually are dead men and women walking around on earth? They look like everyone else, but deep down inside, their spirit is dead. Truth be known, everyone begins life as a spiritual “zombie.” Human beings are … Continue reading Dead Men Walking
Relying on Christ
Instead of focusing on our self-esteem, let’s rely on Jesus in our inadequacy. 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 Our world emphatically proclaims the importance of self-esteem, which is a favorable impression of oneself. It’s not unusual to hear that an individual who values himself will accomplish much. Yet Scripture warns us not to think too highly of … Continue reading Relying on Christ
