THURSDAY November 14, 2024

A Great Conflict

Colossians 2:1-3

Here we see Paul's great concern for the church in Colossae––for their spiritual growth and maturity. He started to talk to them about the great conflict he had for them. He had a deep concern for them because of the heresies of Gnosticism and Judaism that had crept into the church. He did not want them to be deceived.

The Greek word for conflict translates and points again to Paul’s struggle, or his agonizing, for the believers. He had entered a spiritual battle for them with God. He struggled for them in prayer. He loved them that much. Paul had never met them face to face, but out of love, he warned them and continuously prayed for them. He wanted them to know that every believer was either his brother or sister in Christ. He loved them, even though they had never met. That is so beautiful. They were always on his heart.

What keeps me going forward in the call of God? The Spirit of God keeps me moving onward. When I watch other pastors laboring in the Gospel, and I see their tender care for their flocks, I know that I am called to encourage and equip them. As they are often isolated and on their own, I go with teams that travel to South America to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and give them the right hand of fellowship (Galatians 2:9).

We teach them the philosophy of Calvary Chapel, as taught by Chuck Smith, and how to teach the Word of God for themselves. The team of men are ready to counsel them, cry with them, and at times, rejoice with them. This is what ministry is all about.

Consider how precious a soul must be when both God and the devil are after it.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

WEDNESDAY November 13, 2024

We Preach Christ

Colossians 1:28-29

Who did Paul preach about? Jesus Christ. His preaching was simple, but powerful. He used the wisdom of God to show the futile wisdom of men. Christ crucified was the central theme of his message:

1 Corinthians 1:23-25: ...we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

1 Corinthians 2:2: For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

To this end, Paul tirelessly labored. He toiled, even though weary at times, striving to do the work of God. The word striving is the Greek word agonizo. He agonized and struggled in his labor of love for the Lord as if contending for a prize.

Interestingly, in Luke 22:41-44, Luke used the same word to help express Jesus’ struggle, as He agonized in prayer, in the Garden of Gethsemane, for the work of the Cross that He knew was before Him:

And He was withdrawn from them about a stone’s throw, and He knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done.” Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground.

Listen, we need God’s strength to do the work of God. It is according to His working in us mightily. The work of God is done through the Spirit of God. That's the only way we can do it.

Preach you Christ, and Christ, and Christ, and Christ, and nothing else but Christ.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY November 12, 2024

Christ, Our Hope of Glory

Colossians 1:26-27

Paul made an incredible statement about Jesus Christ being revealed to us. You see, a mystery is something that was hidden, but is now revealed. In the Old Testament, Christ was seen many times as a theophany prior to His incarnation. However, in the New Testament, He was revealed.

Many of the prophets, such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, Amos, and Zechariah, prophesied about Jesus Christ, but they did not see what we have seen. They prophesied by faith. All those things in the Old Testament that were told as a mystery have now been unveiled to us. It used to be a mystery, but it is no longer. We now see clearly and understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and that He is the Messiah. You see, the mystery that has been hidden from ages and from generations has been revealed to us––the saints.

God reveals this mystery to all those who place their trust in Jesus Christ for their salvation. Christ came out of all eternity to die for you and to die for me. He has given us salvation through faith in Him. How beautiful that our eyes have been opened to the truth. It is as if a veil has been lifted from our eyes so we can see clearly. Christ has become our hope of glory.

What does Christ becoming our hope of glory mean? Colossians 1:2 NLT helps us to understand better: For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory. As Christians, we have a joyful expectation, knowing that one day we shall see Christ face to face. We will be glorified––changed into His image.

To those to whom Christ is the hope of future glory, he is also the life of present grace.
~John Owen~

MONDAY November 11, 2024

Veterans Day

Psalm 144:1

Today is Veterans Day. It was formerly called Armistice Day. On November 11, 1918, an armistice was signed between Germany and the allies, ending World War 1. The word Armistice in Latin means “to stand (still) arms.” President Wilson established Armistice Day on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the first anniversary of the 1918 armistice that ended World War 1. It became a national holiday in the United States to honor those who served.

Did you know that during World War 1, more than 30,000 Americans died in the fighting and were buried overseas? It is well-known that the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier serves as a symbolic grave for all those whose remains have not been found or identified. However, the Tomb was first built for the remains of a service member from World War I. Since then, several other remains of service members have been buried there.

Veterans Day now celebrates the service of all U.S. Military veterans. The United States Congress passed legislation on June 4, 1926, which includes these words:

...it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations....

War is terrifying. It causes untold misery, death and destruction. It is good for nations to work toward peace, but the world is unstable. War exists still among many nations today. Hamas committed unspeakable atrocities on October 7th, 2023, and Israel declared war against them and others who seek their harm. Israel continues to strategically fight against her enemies. We must pray for Israel and all the men and women who continue to fight for freedom.

Never before have men crossed the seas to a foreign land to fight for a cause which they did not pretend was peculiarly their own, but knew was the cause of humanity and of mankind.
~President Woodrow Wilson~

SUNDAY November 10, 2024

Our Stewardship From God

Colossians 1:25

Paul knew his call. He became a minister, which translates a word from Greek language which carries the thought of being a “servant.” A minister is to serve God’s people. He was there for the people, not the other way around. They were not to serve him. As Paul ministered to the Colossian believers, he was fulfilling the Word of God by his love and care for them. This was all according to God’s plan for his life.

Paul was given stewardship of the Gospel message. The word stewardship simply means that he was as a “house manager,” accountable before the Lord for what was given to him. He not only listened to God, but he also obeyed Him. Paul was faithful to his call and became a good example for us to follow.

We are to be good stewards or house managers of everything that God has given to us. Never take for granted what you have been given spiritually and materially. We are to be responsible for our families, our homes, cars and finances. What about being a good steward of your time? How much time do you spend with the Lord in prayer and in His Word?

Have you heard the voice of God, through the Word of God, telling you what you must do? Do you know your call? What has God specifically given to you to do? Today, are you continuing to fulfill your call as spoken to you through the Word of God? Do you see that the Word of God plays a vital part in your daily Christian life? It will always guide you and give your life direction. God’s Word must be a main priority, then everything else will fall into place.

The worst sin against stewardship is to waste your life.
~R. C. Sproul~

SATURDAY November 9, 2024

Rejoicing in Sufferings

Colossians 1:24-25

Paul began to elaborate on his sufferings in his ministry to the Gentiles. His call to ministry was not easy. In fact, ministry is never easy. As a Christian, even if you are not serving in some capacity in the church, think of the sufferings you have endured in your own personal life. What trials did you face? Some people, after accepting Christ as Savior, have been ostracized by their families. They really have had to count the cost. None of us like to suffer, but suffering draws us closer to the heart of God.

Look at Job’s life. This godly man endured, while suffering so much, but in the end, God blessed him greatly. I do not think any of us have gone through what Job experienced. He lost everything––his material wealth vanished, his sons and daughters were killed, and his health declined. He received no comfort from his wife. She told him, “Curse God and die!” (Job 2:9). His friends were no better. They accused him of folly. Surely, he must have done something sinful for God to allow such disasters.

Although difficult, suffering is not to be thought of as strange:

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy (1 Peter 4:12-13).

Suffering will cause us to identify with Christ’s sufferings, and it will give us an assurance of our future salvation with Him. Think about people who will identify with us. We will become a great witness to them as they watch our lives during trials and sufferings. They will continue to see our steadfast faith and hope while suffering. We can be of great comfort to anyone who will go through times of suffering. God will use our lives for His glory.

This is God's universal purpose for all Christian suffering: more contentment in God and less satisfaction in the world.
~John Piper~

FRIDAY November 8, 2024

The Hope of the Gospel

Colossians 1:23

Paul showed theologically how Christ accomplished our salvation. He came out of eternity to die on the Cross, and, by the shedding of His blood, we can have our sins forgiven. However, there is a condition in regard to our Christian walk––if indeed you continue in the faith. Are you continuing in your Christian faith?

Listen, we are to remain or abide in Christ. We are to mature and become grounded in God’s Word. Lastly, we are to be steadfast. You see, it is not just receiving Christ at an altar call and repeating the sinner’s prayer, you have to continue your walk with Christ. This means you are to seek the Lord daily as you live your life.

What does the Bible have to say to you about these things? First, in John 15, Jesus taught the simple precept of abiding in Him: “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me” (John 15:4). As we abide in Christ, there is fruitfulness––a natural growth of spiritual fruit––love, hope, goodness and gentleness, to name a few.

Second, we are to be grounded. Grounded in what? The Word of God and the love of God:

...that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:17-19).

Finally, be steadfast: ...my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). If you do these things, you will not be moved away from the hope of the Gospel.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
~Romans 15:13~

THURSDAY November 7, 2024

Be Reconciled to God

Colossians 1:21-22

Paul explained to the Colossian believers how they were alienated and enemies of God, but then he gave them hope. Through Christ’s death, they were reconciled to God.

Notice, nobody can reconcile themselves to God; that would be an impossibility. Reconciliation cannot happen through Mary, Jesus’ mother, or angels, or any other person. We can only be reconciled to God one way––through Jesus Christ: For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all... (1Timothy 2:5-6). Again, Jesus is the only One who can reconcile us to God.

Salvation through Christ has been made available to everyone––not just for the select few. The Holy Spirit brings conviction of sin to those who are alienated from God. The Bible tells us: “And when He [the Holy Spirit] has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:8). He convicts a person and leads them to repentance.

Through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, repenting, and receiving Jesus as Savior, regeneration takes place. This is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit whereby people who are dead in sin are now given spiritual life. They are born-again. Listen, if there is no regeneration, then there is no spiritual life––no true conversion.

Jesus Christ died on the Cross, and those who now accept Him as Savior and Lord are reconciled to God as holy, blameless and sanctified. This is the work of Jesus Christ; it is all by grace.

Here we see the infinite love of God, that He has been pleased to think of us poor creatures from everlasting and make it His work to reconcile us to Himself.
~Jeremiah Burroughs~

WEDNESDAY November 6, 2024

Mindful of Your Wickedness

Colossians 1:21-22

False teachers in Colossae tried to cause doubt in the minds of the believers by saying that Paul was an illegitimate Apostle. In writing his letter, Paul realized the situation and knew that the Colossians needed to know they could trust him.

Paul understood his calling and began to speak words of his sincere intent for them. He had already exalted Jesus Christ. They perceived he loved Jesus Christ, and he wanted them to grow to love Him too. Paul explained different aspects of his ministry to the Colossians––his call to share the Gospel, his suffering for the Gentiles’ sake, and his stewardship in striving for their care and maturity in Christ.

Paul began to unfold who they were before they came to Christ. They were once enemies of God, alienated from Him because of their sinful works. The word alienated in the Greek language means “to be cut off.”

As sinners, we have all done some of the wicked things we thought about. Sin caused us to be separated from God––we were cut off from Him. In Jeremiah 17:9, we find a description of our hearts and how God knows the thoughts in our minds:

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.”

In the ignorance of our sinfulness, we did not know God; not until conviction came by the Holy Spirit, we believed in Jesus, repented and forsook our sin. Helpless people, addicted and enslaved to drugs and alcohol, have to admit, “Yes, I have a problem with addiction. I am a sinner. I need God’s help!” If they reach out to Jesus, just as they are, He will touch their lives and deliver them. Once born-again, they are reconciled to God though Jesus Christ, and their lives are transformed!

The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation.
~D.L. Moody~

TUESDAY November 5, 2024

Peace Through the Cross

Colossians 1:19-20

God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are One––the Trinity. They have the same attributes and characteristics. In the plan of God for our salvation, the Father was pleased that Jesus Christ would willingly come to earth to die for our sins.

As enemies of God, we were in danger of spending eternity apart from Him. God’s judgment was hanging over our heads when Jesus Christ, out of eternity, stepped down rescue us. As sinners, we could never deliver ourselves from the guilt and penalty of sin, but Jesus did that for us on the Cross. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus Christ by faith, we are reconciled to God through Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross. This is the only way we can have peace with God.

Jesus was born of a virgin, Mary, and laid in a manger (Luke 2:6-7). He grew into manhood and, at the age of 30, He began His earthly ministry. He preached repentance, and the Gospel, and He healed people. Later, Jesus was arrested and crucified, and then He resurrected from the dead on the third day. He is our Redeemer. He came to deliver us from the authority of Satan, from the darkness, and from the fear of death.

Many people are trying to save themselves through their own good works. Some seek salvation through the worship of false idols. It hurts me to see young, sincere men on their bikes, trying to witness to others about their Mormon faith. The Jehovah’s Witnesses diligently walk the streets, going door to door with their magazines, trying to convince people of their false doctrine. It is all of works and not by faith in Jesus Christ. When you talk to any one of these people, you will find that they are not talking about the same Jesus in the Bible who we know. Jesus the Son of God, came in human flesh.

If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.
~Charles Studd~

MONDAY November 4, 2024

The Preeminence of Christ

Colossians 1:18

Jesus is the Head of the Church––the entire body of believers in Christ. The pope or any other person is not the head. Christ is the Head of the Church, and He unifies Christians together: And He [God the Father] put all things under His [Christ’s] feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23).

It is important to understand that each believer has their own unique function within the body of Christ. There are actually 21 gifts that are to be used through the power of the Holy Spirit. These are some of them:

Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues... (1 Corinthians 12:27-28).

Ephesians 4:11-12 informs us that Christ is the giver of such gifts, and they are to be used to edify the body of Christ. When Jesus died and resurrected, He conquered death and gave gifts to men:

But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift. Therefore He says: “When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men” (Ephesians 4:7-8).

Jesus became the firstborn from the dead. The word firstborn means “first in order.” J. Vernon McGee gives us this insight: “He is preeminent in creation because He is the Creator. He is preeminent in redemption for He is the Redeemer. He is preeminent in the church because He is the One who gave Himself for the church.”

Know this: Christ has to have Lordship over your life––preeminence––first place. Is He? Our lives are truly blessed when Jesus is.

Seek not happiness first; seek Christ first, and happiness shall come after.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SUNDAY November 3, 2024

Christ Holds Everything Together

Colossians 1:17

In the church of Colossae, Christ’s deity was repeatedly challenged. Jesus Christ is God, but Gnostics and Judaizers attacked the Gospel and the truth of His deity. This subject has become, all too often, the battleground of New Testament theology.

The Bible is the inspired Word of God, and we need to study it to know sound theology. Theos is the Greek word used for “God.” Theology is the study of God, His nature, character and holiness. This is how we come to know God.

Consider what the Apostle Paul revealed about Jesus. He is Creator of heaven and earth, having all the powers of creative activity. In the Greek language, the phrase and in Him all things consist become much clearer to us as it translates to “everything is held together.” All protons and neutrons in the atom, cells, planets, stars and the entire universe are held together by Jesus Christ our Sustainer. The moment He lets go, everything will fly apart.

Jesus sustains everything; He is in control of every system. Without Him, it would be impossible to exist. Look at your life. You may feel many times like you are falling apart, especially when catastrophic circumstances

hit––a death of a child, a divorce, or surmounting financial difficulties. Yet Jesus is the One who holds us together.

When life becomes overwhelming, stand still and take a glance at the moon. Look at the stars. The Lord has a name for each of them:

Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. Because of his great power and incomparable strength, not a single one is missing (Isaiah 40:26 NLT)

View your problems in the power and vastness of God’s creation, and you shall not be moved. Everything in space is held there by Him. Reassure yourself, if Jesus holds everything together, then He will not let you go.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
~Isaiah 41:10~

SATURDAY November 2, 2024

Our Creator God

Colossians 1:15-17

When read in context using the Greek language, Paul had written one of the most beautiful, eloquent poems of praise in the entire New Testament concerning Christ’s preeminence. He is first place over all created things. These verses celebrate His sovereignty over all creation and His preeminence over all powers––angelic powers in heaven and earth––as Jesus is Lord of heaven and earth. What powerful Scriptures!

The Colossians were very confused about creation because of the Gnostics who did not believe Jesus was God. False doctrines always attack the preeminence of Christ. Jesus is God! Who created God? Nobody! He has always been, and He will always be. This is a very important doctrine of Christianity. Christians must know their theology, because error is best defeated by standing in the truth of God’s Word.

Paul educated Christians as if they were in seminary. He gave them the precise, doctrinal terms of who Christ is and who Christ should be in their own personal lives. Jesus was not just one among many prophets. Christ is the Son of the Living God! He is God incarnate in the flesh––100% man and 100% God.

Who is Jesus Christ to you? Read through the Gospels and look for the answers to these questions: Who did Jesus declare Himself to be? Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees want Him dead? As Creator, how did He use His authority? Jesus asked His Disciples one important question: “...who do you say that I am?” (Mark 8:29). What did one of His disciples reply?

Paul did not begin by attacking the false teachers and their doctrines. He began by exalting Jesus Christ and showing His preeminence in five areas: the gospel message, redemption, creation, the church, and Paul’s own ministry.
~Warren W. Wiersbe~

FRIDAY November 1, 2024

The Kingdom of Light

Colossians 1:13

I wanted to go back to this important point. God has conveyed or translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love. Paul used the word conveyed which described the deportation of a population from one country into another country. History records the fact that Antiochus Epiphanes the Great transported at least 2,000 Jews from Babylon to Colossae. So here in this verse, we can say that Jesus transported us from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of the Son of His love.

The moment you gave your life completely to Jesus Christ, you became born again of the Holy Spirit just like Jesus explained to Nicodemus in John 3. It is the work of regeneration. Paul explained: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new (2 Corinthians 5:17). Everything in your life becomes brand new.

Jesus did not release you from sin and bondage to have you wander aimlessly in life. He delivered you and moved you into his own Kingdom of light. He enables you to be victorious over Satan's kingdom of darkness. You do not have to yield, listen, or be controlled by Satan anymore because you can overcome through the Holy Spirit’s power.

When you are disobedient to God and fall back into sin, you open the door for Satan and his demons to attack. As a child of the light, you can suffer oppression, depression, and harassment from him, but Satan cannot possess you. The light is greater than the darkness: You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).

Since Christ has delivered you from Satan and the power of darkness, you do not have to be afraid anymore. You are a child of the light, walking in the light by obeying God's commands: Your [God’s] word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105).

The light of God’s presence in our lives is a purifying flame that will draw us near to Him.
~Billy Graham~

THURSDAY October 31, 2024

This is the Lord’s Day

Psalm 118:24

Today, at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, we celebrate Camp Jubilee! The vision for Camp Jubilee began in the heart of my wife Sharon, as she was listening to Chuck Smith and Don Stewart speaking on a radio program, Answers for Today. They happened to be discussing Halloween. Historically, in Europe, Halloween was wiped out because of all the pagan and satanic activities. Chuck and Don discussed how November 1st was actually a day to celebrate the Biblical Saints, such as Samson, Gideon, Barak, and David.

It instantly came to Sharon’s mind to wipe out Halloween! At the same time, she quickly wrote down on a piece of paper the name: Camp Jubilee, the War Camp of the Armies of the Hosts of the Lord. God instructed her to take back His day and celebrate the victories of the LORD of Hosts. She knew Camp Jubilee would celebrate the Saints of Old. Sharon also received from the Lord a flood of ideas for the biblical titles of food booths and games booths. The Lord gave her an amazing vision which we shall continue.

Interestingly, the word Jubilee is a biblical word stemming from Jewish culture. There is some debate whether the celebration happened every forty-nine years or fifty years. The year of Jubilee followed the last year of seven Sabbatical cycles and was announced by a blast from a shofar––an instrument made from a ram’s horn––on the Day of Atonement. Men who had become poor or in debt were able to sell their land or become slaves themselves. In the year of Jubilee, their land or freedom would be returned, and any debt would be cancelled. It became a time of great emancipation in Israel. Then God would be remembered as a God of mercy (Leviticus 25:8-13; 47, 55).

This is the wonderful, biblical backdrop for the vision of Camp Jubilee. People have received Christ on this very evening. They come to know the grace and mercy of God for themselves and are set free from their sin.

Jesus is our Jubilee, for He died to pay for our debt of sin. May you turn to Jesus for true freedom and forgiveness of sin.
~Gospel Light Christian Church~

WEDNESDAY October 30, 2024

Can You Save Yourself?

Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT

Paul the Apostle taught healthy doctrine to the Ephesians and the Colossians. Yet the Colossians were continuing to fight Gnosticism. Gnostics believed in an organization of evil spirits that controlled the world, but they did not believe that Jesus was God.

Jesus is the Redeemer of the world––the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He came to deliver us from the darkness, from the authority of Satan. Still people do not believe Jesus is God. Many believe they can save themselves and go to heaven because of their good works. I see Mormons, young men riding their bicycles, witnessing to people about their faith––but what of Christ?

Jehovah's Witnesses walk from house to house or on the streets with their magazines, trying to convince people about a hope of salvation through works––not by faith in Jesus Christ. When you talk to Jehovah's Witnesses or Mormons, you will find that they are not talking about the same Jesus of the Bible. Salvation is a work of God, not of men. The Word of God tells us we are sinners, at enmity with God. Judgment is hanging over our heads: For the wages of sin is death... (Romans 6:23).

Out of eternity, Jesus Christ stepped down. He came to earth. He was born as a baby and placed in a manger. It was a miracle––a virgin birth. Then He grew to manhood, and at the age of 30, he began His ministry. Jesus chose 12 men––His Disciples. He preached, taught and healed people. For three and a half years, He served mankind.

Then Jesus was arrested and killed. On the third day, He resurrected from the dead. You see, even though the wages of sin is death, the second part of this verse gives us good news: ...the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 6:23). Christians can answer this question, “Can you save yourself?” The answer is, “No.” Only Jesus can.

We can receive Jesus Christ when we believe in His message and trust in Him alone to save us.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY October 29, 2024

Our Deliverance From Darkness

Colossians 1:13

Interestingly, when Paul used the word delivered, it literally meant in the Greek language “to rescue from danger.” We were all in danger––on our way to an eternity without God––in utter darkness. Yet in Matthew 25:41, we are told that hell was not made for men; it was made for the devil and his demons. God never intended for anyone to perish there; but when sin entered the world, He put in place a rescue mission. Because of His great love, He rescued me, and He rescued your soul from eternal destruction.

How did God step in and rescue us? For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). This is a verse that we must know and memorize. It tells us of God’s plan of salvation before the foundation of the world came into existence.

However, Satan is like a lion, seeking whom he may devour. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8 NLT). He still rules the principalities and the powers of the air. Satan and his demons are real, and he tries to undo God's work. He has control over those who do not know Christ, those walking in darkness. He blinds them from coming to know the Gospel message:

Satan, who is the god of this evil world, has made him blind, unable to see the glorious light of the Gospel that is shining upon him or to understand the amazing message we preach about the glory of Christ, who is God (2 Corinthians 4:4 TLB).

Those who believe in Jesus Christ have seen the glorious light of the Gospel. We know Jesus has delivered us from the guilt and penalty of sin. It cost Him His life to rescue us from the power of darkness. As a Christian, will you let your light shine and share the Gospel with those who are perishing?

For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
~2 Corinthians 4:6 KJV~

MONDAY October 28, 2024

The Light of the World

John 8:12

Jesus made an incredible declaration to the people––“I am the light of the world.” Spiritual darkness consumed humanity. Sin is a deadly disease that affects us all. We were all sinners without hope and without God. Helpless and destitute, we would have been lost for all eternity if Jesus had not obediently come to die for the sins of the whole world.

As God, preexisting with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit, Jesus left eternity. He came and walked among us as the Living Word:

In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone (John 1:1-4 NLT).

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son (John 1:14 NLT).

What was Jesus’ mission? He told us: “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Luke 5:32). He also said: “for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). The Apostle Paul knew the same thing: This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners... (1 Timothy 1:15). Christ saves lost sinners!

Jesus became the light of life to a woman caught in the sin of adultery. Her penalty due was death by stoning, but Jesus intervened. He delivered her, forgave her of her sin, and said this: “...go and sin no more” (John 8:11). What a wonderful example of what Jesus can do!

How about yourself? Are you caught up in some kind of sinful behavior that will destroy your life? Look to Christ. He can deliver you.

The center of salvation is the Cross of Jesus, and the reason it is so easy to obtain salvation is because it cost God so much.
~Oswald Chambers~

SUNDAY October 27, 2024

The Son of God’s Love

Colossians 1:13

False teachers had infiltrated the church in Colossae. These men did not deny the importance of Jesus Christ, but they simply dethroned Him. They gave Him prominence, but not preeminence. Remember what I said: The danger in their teaching was that they did not give preeminence to Jesus Christ. In their philosophy, Jesus Christ was but one of many emanations that proceeded from God the Father, through which men could actually reach Him.

Paul was refuting this claim and stood against Gnosticism and Judaizers

––those who were trying to keep people under the Law. And yet, probably there is no paragraph in the New Testament that contains more concentrated doctrine about the Lord Jesus Christ than this one in Colossians 1. False doctrine can creep into our churches today. That is why this incredible chapter is of vital importance. It will keep us from a fatal detour away from the Gospel of truth, because it proves the preeminence of Christ.

Paul used good, theological arguments in the book of Colossians. Christ is the Savior of the world. Philosophers or false teachers can never see this truth in the way Christians see it. It is something they cannot resolve in their minds. Yet the Bible always points us to Christ's preeminence. In regards to Israel, the prophet Isaiah revealed this truth about Him: “...I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Israel” (Isaiah 49:26 NLT).

What did Mary, the mother of Jesus, proclaim in her song? In Luke 1:47, she sang: “...my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” What did the Holy Spirit revealed to Elisabeth when Mary visited her? She said: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:42-43). Jesus is God; therefore only He can be the Savior of the world.

Never does a person see any beauty in Christ as a Savior, until they discover that they are a lost and ruined sinner.
~J.C. Ryle~

SATURDAY October 26, 2024

Delivered From the Power of Darkness

Colossians 1:13-14

Notice, God has delivered and conveyed or translated us into His Kingdom––a Kingdom that only belongs to those in Christ. It speaks of the miracle of regeneration. Through Christ, we are changed into a new person. We used to live our lives under the power of Satan––darkness, but now we are in the light.

When people see a real change in your life, they sometimes do not understand what happened to you. They listen to your testimony, but find it hard to believe. They may attribute it to something else, but not to Christ. The miracle of redemption does happen––it happens all the time. Some people are saved during church services; others hear the Gospel as Christians witness to them. Salvation happens every day, all around the world.

How has God delivered us? He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, into the world so that you and I could be redeemed (John 3:16). We no longer have to walk blindly in the darkness––in sin. Again, we have become children of the Lord, children of the light:

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret (Ephesians 5:8-12).

Jesus has delivered us, so then why are there still so many Christians choosing to live in darkness? Listen, the light is greater than the darkness. When you go into a dark room, all you have to do is look for the light switch and turn it on. What happens? The darkness disappears. Christ has turned on the light in our lives.

Perils as well as privileges attend the higher Christian life. The nearer we come to God, the thicker the hosts of darkness in heavenly places. Aggressive Christianity is the world’s greatest need.
~A. B. Simpson~

FRIDAY October 25, 2024

The Working of God’s Glorious Power

Colossians 1:11-12

Christians are strengthened with all might by the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in them. In context, the word strengthened literally speaks of how God, through the Holy Spirit, will give believers the power to live with a controlled, patient temperament. They are enabled to remain calm, in circumstances, and they do not get easily angered with people.

In every area of a believer’s life, they are to demonstrate patience and longsuffering. Again, where does this power to be patient and longsuffering with a joyful attitude come from? It is given by God according to the glorious power of the Holy Spirit! The only way the Holy Spirit can really operate in a believer’s life is when they are totally submitted to Jesus Christ. Then God can work in them and through them.

I believe there are too many Christians who lack joy. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit––along with love, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Through the power of the Holy Spirit, all of His spiritual fruits will be evident in believers’ lives. Remember, the fruit of joy comes from within a person; it is not the same as happiness that can come and go with outward circumstances. No matter what happens in life, nothing can steal away a Christian’s joy.

We have the joy of our salvation––an eternal inheritance. Heaven awaits us! How were we qualified to be partakers of this inheritance? It is not man’s work––it is God’s work. We could not qualify ourselves. There is no possible way! Jesus Christ is the One who has redeemed and saved us.

We believe, that the work of regeneration, conversion, sanctification and faith, is not an act of man’s free will and power, but of the mighty, efficacious and irresistible grace of God.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

THURSDAY October 24, 2024

Are You Fruitful in Good Works?

Colossians 1:10-11

Paul prayed that the Colossians would be enabled to walk worthy of the Lord and be fully pleasing to Him. Their lives needed to become fruitful in good works. They were not to remain immature, but should increase in their knowledge of God. He also prayed that the Holy Spirit would give them strength and power. They were to find God’s perfect will for their lives.

It is so easy for Christians to become comfortable with their everyday lives, but they need to seek God’s will. What does He want them to do? For Nehemiah, it was to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem; for David, God’s will was for him to become the King of Israel; and for Noah, it was to become a preacher of righteousness. There is a purpose and plan for all of our lives. Find God’s will for your life and obediently set your hand to do it!

Believers who become idle have a greater danger of falling into sin––yielding to their carnal desires. We all need accountability with others. Resist becoming inactive. Be fruitful in Christian service. Each of us has been given gifts and talents to use in the body of Christ. What are your gifts and talents? Put them to good use!

Why not get involved in ministry? It is exciting to serve the Lord––it brings a sense of purpose and joy. Your life will be fruitful in good works. Seriously, life is too short to remain idle. When you stand before the Lord, and He asks, “As My servant, what did you do for My Kingdom?” Will you reply, “I attended Calvary Chapel Golden Springs”? The Lord may ask, “But what else did you do for My Kingdom?”

The Holy Spirit gives liberty to the Christian, direction to the worker, discernment to the teacher, power to the Word, and fruit to faithful service. He reveals the things of Christ.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY October 23, 2024

A Christian’s Worthy Walk

Colossians 1:10

Notice, Christians are called to a higher standard––that you may walk worthy of the Lord. The word worthy in the Greek language means “of equal weight.” Literally, your walk is to imitate the life of Jesus Christ. It is important to understand that our Christian walk also speaks of our intimate fellowship with God.

Enoch was a person who walked in close fellowship with God. He had this testimony––he pleased God (Hebrews 11:5). What happened to Enoch as a result of walking worthy––fully pleasing God? The Lord took him into His presence: And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him (Genesis 5:24). Is your life pleasing to God in everything you do? If so, then one day, either when you die or are taken in the Rapture of the Church, you, too, shall be in His presence!

However, there are some people who mistakenly think that once they have accepted Christ, they have eternal life and that is it. That is far from the truth. Yes, they have salvation, but believers need to grow and mature in their walk with God and know how to please Him. They must study His Word to gain knowledge and wisdom.

You can tell the kind of walk a person has with the Lord by the fruit seen in their lives (Galatians 5:19-23). Does your walk with the Lord have evidence of fruitfulness? A close walk with God will bring fruitfulness in every good work you set out to accomplish.

If I walk with the world, I can’t walk with God.
~D.L. Moody~

TUESDAY October 22, 2024

God’s Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding

Colossians 1:9

When Christians pray, they enter into a time of intimate communion with God. As they study His Word, they are filled with His knowledge, wisdom and spiritual understanding. Every answer to their questions and problems are found in the Bible. The Holy Spirit dwells in them, and He becomes their Counselor (John 14:16-17).

When someone asks for counseling, point them to three important principles, because usually, one of these areas is lacking in their lives. Ask them, “Have you been praying?” They may reply, “Once in a while.” Continue to ask, “Are you daily studying the Word of God?” They often reply, “I am pretty busy, so when I get the chance, I read it.”

Finally, ask, “Are you regularly going to a Bible study and, for accountability, remaining in fellowship with other believers?” People usually admit, “Once in a while I go to church.” Well then, you can see why these Christians have problems in their lives.

If only believers in Christ would discipline themselves to pray, study the Word of God daily, and fellowship with others, they would save themselves a lot of heartache. Christians must also have their own personal time with God. Sit alone with an open Bible and wait on God to speak to you through the Scriptures. Learn from the stories and all the lives of different people––they are examples for you.

Again, if you are too busy to do the three essentials of being in prayer, studying the Word, and fellowshipping with other believers, then you are too busy!

Blessed is the man... [whose] delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season....
~Psalm 1:1-3~

MONDAY October 21, 2024

Knowing the Knowledge of God’s Will

Colossians 1:9

I love how Paul started to develop his prayer for the Colossian fellowship. He never ceased praying that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s perfect will for their lives. This is a common question asked by believers, “What is God’s will for my life?” The Word of God makes God’s will easy to understand. Consider how Paul instructed believers to know the will of God for their lives in these two passages of Scripture:

Romans 12:1-2 NLT: And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 NLT: God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor—not in lustful passion like the pagans who do not know God and his ways. Never harm or cheat a fellow believer in this matter by violating his wife, for the Lord avenges all such sins, as we have solemnly warned you before. God has called us to live holy lives, not impure lives.

Reread these passages and answer these questions for yourself. In what ways can you learn to do God’s will? What is God’s revealed will?

Like Paul, my prayer for you is that your life would be in complete submission to Jesus Christ, because only then will you be filled with the knowledge of God’s will for your life. I know that, as you give yourself to the study of God’s Word, you will receive the wisdom and guidance to always do His will.

Is it difficult to know God’s will? There is a simple answer which is this: God’s will is for everyone to obey His Word.
~Billy Graham~

SUNDAY October 20, 2024

Love in the Spirit

Colossians 1:7-8

Notice Paul's companion in the church of Colossae, it was his dear, fellow servant Epaphras who was a faithful minister of Jesus Christ. How I thank God for all the faithful ministers of Christ. They are His trusted servants.

Did you know the book of Acts is the only epistle in the New Testament that does not have an amen? That means the Church is still continuing to make history today. Think about it. God is still moving! He is moving in your life and in mine. God is using and working through faithful men and women in many churches around the world today.

Listen, the work of God continues through much prayer, the teaching of the Word of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit. As the Church submits, as the Church repents, and as the Church waits upon God, the power and energy of the Holy Spirit will enable believers to do the work of the ministry. God’s work, done God’s way, will accomplish much.

Have you asked God recently to empower you by His Holy Spirit so you can become a bold witness for Christ in your Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the uttermost parts of the world (Acts 1: 8)? He wants to use your life!

Another way God helps you to become a witness to those who do not know Christ is through His love. Epaphras spoke to Paul about the love of Christ seen among the believers in Colossae. Your life is to bring forth the fruit of love. Jesus said: “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35 NLT).

Do you have the Holy Spirit’s power and love evident in your life? If you are lacking these, then pray and ask God to fill you anew.

In the Gospel, the Spirit is not a Spirit of bondage and fear, but a Spirit of power and of love.
~Samuel Bolton~