Depart from Me, for I Am a Sinful Man ∙

Depart from Me, for I Am a Sinful Man ∙

When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. – Luke 5:8

Isaiah 6:1-8

“I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple. Attending him were mighty seraphim. They were calling out to each other, ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!’

Then I said, ‘It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies.’ Then one of the seraphim flew to me. He touched my lips with it and said, ‘See, this coal has touched your lips. Now your guilt is removed, and your sins are forgiven.’

Then I heard the Lord asking, ‘Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?’ I said, ‘Here I am. Send me.’”

The Trance of Unworthiness: A Shadow Over Self-Worth

“Many of us are walking around in a ‘trance of unworthiness.’ It’s a gnawing feeling that we’re deeply flawed. It tells us we’re not worthy of love, happiness, success, or approval. And it follows us around like a shadow” (Gregg Vanourek). This pervasive sense of unworthiness is often rooted in fear or shame, a belief that we are fundamentally flawed, unacceptable, or “not enough.” As Tara Brach describes it, it’s the internalized message that “Who I am is not okay.”

Sources of Low Self-Worth

Research highlights several factors that contribute to feelings of unworthiness. These influences often stem from early life experiences and societal pressures, shaping how individuals perceive themselves:

  • Critical or Disapproving Authority Figures: Parents or caregivers who were excessively critical or applied intense pressure to achievement..
  • Uninvolved or Distant Caregivers: Emotional neglect or caregiver preoccupation that leaves children feeling unimportant.
  • Sibling Comparisons: Frequent comparisons during childhood foster feelings of inferiority.
  • Performance-Based Praise: Overemphasizing achievements instead of effort, leading to a fragile sense of self-worth.
  • Conflict in the Home: Exposure to excessive conflict during formative years..
  • Bullying or Ostracism: Childhood experiences of teasing or social exclusion, resulting in lasting insecurities..
  • Overprotective Parenting: Shielding children from challenges, which leaves them unprepared for real-world difficulties..
  • Academic Failures: Struggles in school that lead to feelings of inadequacy or stupidity.
  • Societal pressures: Unrealistic standards of beauty, success, and happiness perpetuated by media and culture.
  • Trauma and Abuse: Experiences of physical, emotional, or psychological harm that diminish self-worth. (Gregg Vanourek).

Signs of Unworthiness

  • Feelings of unworthiness appear in different ways, often affecting behavior, thoughts, and emotional health. Common signs include:
  •  
  • • Constant feelings of inadequacy or believing something is wrong with you.
  • • An overactive inner critic, characterized by negative self-talk and doubt.
  • • Staying busy and multitasking to avoid inner discomfort.
  • • Focusing on achievement, success, or status to prove worth.
  • • Avoiding vulnerability and hesitating to share personal struggles.
  • • Ongoing shame and feeling unworthy of love or belonging.
  • • Continually striving for self-improvement out of feeling not good enough.
  • • Harshly criticizing yourself for past mistakes.
  • • Struggling to accept compliments or positive feedback.
  • • Fear of risk or failure, causing overly cautious actions.
  • • Hesitation to ask for help or share personal needs.
  • • People-pleasing, often sacrificing personal well-being.
  • • Self-hatred or intense self-loathing (Gregg Vanourek).

Peter’s Encounter with Holiness: A Different Perspective

Peter’s reaction to the miraculous catch of fish was not rooted in a “trance of unworthiness.” Instead, it reflected a common response seen in the Scriptures to experiencing the holiness and majesty of the living God. Peter’s sinfulness and inadequacy were exposed, leading him to fall to his knees in humility and awe.

Luke 5:8: “When Simon Peter realized what had happened, he fell to his knees before Jesus and said, ‘Oh, Lord, please leave me, I’m too much of a sinner to be around you.’”

This moment was not about shame or self-loathing but about recognizing the vast gap between human imperfection and divine holiness. Peter’s response parallels Isaiah’s reaction when he encountered God’s majesty. Isaiah 6:5: “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”

Such encounters reveal the transformative power of God’s presence, exposing sin while also offering redemption and restoration.

Like Isaiah, Peter was overwhelmed by God’s wonder and majesty. His response reflects deep humility and reverence, not unworthiness in a human sense but a recognition of God’s infinite worthiness. His cry, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord,” shows a deep conviction, recognizing his unworthiness to stand before the living God.

REFLECT & PRAY

“Low self-esteem is like driving through life with your hand brake on” (Maxwell Maltz).

Father, thank You for catching me with Your kindness. Thank You for calling me to serve You with my whole heart. Strengthen and embolden me to do so.

INSIGHT

The Paradox of Unworthiness  

Peter’s confession of sinfulness was not a disqualification for service but the very foundation of it. His humility and acknowledgment of his inadequacy prepared him to depend fully on God.

As Constable explains, “Admitting one’s inability and sin is the best prerequisite for service, since then one can depend on God. Peter’s confession becomes his résumé for service. Humility is the elevator to spiritual greatness.”

The Father’s ways are unlike human ways. God doesn’t call the prepared. He prepares the called. Peter was called to serve!

Jesus did not reject because he confessed sinfulness. Instead, He drew Peter closer, transforming him from a fisherman into a fisher of men. This moment marked the beginning of Peter’s journey as a disciple, leaving behind his old life to follow Jesus.

The Call to Fish for People

Peter’s calling was not merely to abandon his nets but to embrace a new assignment. As James R. Edwards explains, “The call of Peter demonstrates what ‘fishing for people’ means: Jesus has ‘caught’ Peter by a miracle of grace, and he commissions Peter to ‘catch’ people likewise.”

In Mark 1:17, Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” When the boats reached the shore, Peter and his companions left everything to follow Jesus.

Leaving everything behind was not merely a physical departure from their old lives but also a spiritual commitment to a new purpose. Peter’s change from a fisherman to a fisher of men shows the power of God’s grace to redeem and repurpose even the most unlikely people for His honor.

Grace and Mercy – the Foundation for Service

Understanding unworthiness is not an obstacle to serving God but the foundation for it. God’s grace and mercy are amplified when He employs imperfect people to fulfill His plans.

As Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1:15-17: “This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners’ – and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever!”

Paul’s testimony echoes Peter’s experience. Both men acknowledged their unworthiness but were transformed by God’s grace. Their lives serve as powerful examples of God’s patience, mercy, and power to redeem.

From Unworthiness to Service

Peter’s encounter with Christ reveals a profound truth: our unworthiness does not disqualify us from God’s service. Instead, it is through humility and reliance on His grace that we are prepared to answer His call. God’s strength is perfected in our weakness. Through His grace, He transforms sinners into servants, calling them to leave their old lives behind and follow Him into a mission of eternal significance.

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© Dr. H 2025

Deliberate Ignorance ∙∙

Deliberate Ignorance ∙∙

They tell the seers, “Stop seeing visions!” They tell the prophets, “Don’t tell us what is right. Tell us nice things. Tell us lies. – Isaiah 30:10

2 Timothy 2:14-16

 14 Remind everyone about these things, and command them in God’s presence to stop fighting over words. Such arguments are useless, and they can ruin those who hear them.

 15 Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.

 16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior.

The Paradox of Knowledge in the Digital Age

In today’s world, vast amounts of information and knowledge are readily accessible to nearly everyone. The internet, combined with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), has revolutionized how we access, process, and interact with information. AI-powered tools can analyze vast datasets, provide instant answers, and even personalize learning experiences, making knowledge more accessible than ever before. This democratization of information allows even those with limited resources or formal education to explore an endless supply of knowledge. Such unprecedented availability was unimaginable just a few decades ago.

Yet despite this abundance, a tragic paradox persists: many people deliberately choose to remain ignorant. This phenomenon, amplified in the modern era, is not new but has become more pronounced with the rise of digital technologies. As Brian Klaas observes, “Many are often wrong, yet never uncertain.” Even with AI offering tools to fact-check, analyze, and clarify, deliberate rejection of knowledge persists. This behavior has been described as a “Cult of ignorance,” a term popularized by Isaac Asimov, who warned against the false notion that “democracy means that my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge.”

The Nature of Deliberate Ignorance

Deliberate ignorance, also called “willful ignorance” or “intentional ignorance,” describes the conscious decision to remain uninformed or unaware, even when learning opportunities are available. It involves rejecting or overlooking information that conflicts with one’s beliefs, preferences, or worldview.

This behavior is not just a personal decision but often reflects cultural or societal trends. A term used to describe this phenomenon is agnotology.

Agnotology: The Study of Ignorance

Agnotology is the study of intentional, culturally created ignorance or doubt. It investigates how misinformation, disinformation, and knowledge suppression are used to manipulate opinions, shape narratives, and sway public discourse. This often involves deliberately spreading false or misleading information to hide the truth.

In a world increasingly divided by ideological and cultural divides, agnotology has become a powerful tool. Many people no longer seek out dissenting viewpoints; instead, they prefer to stay within echo chambers that reinforce their existing beliefs. As George Bernard Shaw warned, “Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.”

REFLECT & PRAY

In contrast to the dangers of deliberate ignorance, Scripture offers a foundation for truth and wisdom. As Wiersbe explains, the Scriptures “are profitable for doctrine (what is right), for reproof (what is not right), for correction (how to get right), and for instruction in righteousness (how to stay right).” The Word of God provides not only knowledge but also guidance for living a life aligned with truth and righteousness.

Father, may I always remain open to correction and rebuke, seeking to do what is right. Keep my heart soft and my mind receptive to the truth, so that I may walk in righteousness and avoid the pitfalls of ignorance.

INSIGHT

Rejecting Truth for Illusions

Isaiah, the prophet, a servant of the living God, clearly recognized the Israelites’ rebellion and stubbornness. They behaved like willful children, refusing to accept the Father’s truths. Rather than listening to His prophets, they dismissed the messages that challenged their wrong thinking, misguided beliefs, and actions. They opted for the smooth, pleasant words of false prophets, preferring comforting illusions over the challenging, hard truths of God’s Word.

The Israelites’ rejection of prophetic messages was an active, deliberate choice, not merely passive indifference. It was a conscious decision. They actively called on the seers and prophets to cease speaking the truth entirely. As stated in Isaiah 30:10: “They say to the seers, ‘See not’; and to the prophets, ‘Prophesy not unto us what is right; speak unto us smooth things; prophesy deceits.’”

Their desire for “pleasant things” and “illusions” revealed their unwillingness to face reality. As Gary V. Smith notes, “What it all boils down to is that these people are, in effect, demanding to be deceived by false assurances.” They sought comfort in lies rather than the transformative power of truth.

Language of Rebellion: Smooth Words and Illusions

The Hebrew word translated as “smooth” or “pleasant” is halaq, which conveys the “idea of slippery or flattering words.” These words are “meant to soothe rather than convict and to maintain a facade of comfort instead of challenging the heart.”

Similarly, the Hebrew word for “illusions” or “deceptive messages” is talal, derived from a verb meaning “to mock, trifle with, or deceive.” The Israelites were not concerned with moral absolutes or the Father’s character. Instead, they preferred messages that were harmless and lacked accountability.

This rejection of truth was not just a refusal to change but a refusal to let God influence their lives. Instead of seeking what is morally correct, they wanted to maintain the smooth facade of life, tending to trivial matters. They were very religious. Therefore, they welcomed “prophetic messages” as long as they were innocuous, devoid of moral absolutes that reflect the Father’s character (Micah 3:1-10).

They had no intention of changing, allowing the Father to influence their lives and alter their lifestyles. What a tragedy!

Rejecting Truth Through History

What happened in ancient Israel is a tragic pattern that has repeated itself multiple times in biblical and church history.It is a characteristic of human nature, particularly in times of moral and spiritual decline.

The Apostle Paul warns in 2 Timothy 4:3 that the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires.

Paul elaborates in 2 Timothy 3:1-9: “You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days, there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that!

Pause for a moment and reflect. Do we recoil from such behavior? Do we find their behavior despicable?

Are we guilty of the same? Do we listen? Do we want to know all the Father has to say, understand, and actualize it in our lives? Or are we recalcitrant? How can we be sure? The Father provided us with a standard.

Crave Truth and Righteousness

In contrast to rejecting the truth, Scripture calls children of the King to actively seek and crave the Word of God. 1 Peter 2:1-3: “So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness.”

The Greek word for “crave” is epipotheo, which conveys “an intense longing or desire.” Epipotheo has a sense of great affection, of desiring intensely, craving, or pursuing with love. We are to seek to fall in love with the Word and run after it with reckless abandon.

The Transformative Power of Scripture

The Scriptures are not merely a source of knowledge but a tool for transformation. 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.  God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”

The Word of God is designed to rebuke, correct, and instruct, preparing children of the King to live lives that reflect His character. It confronts stubborn, selfish behavior and urges a heart that is receptive to reproof and correction.

Embrace Truth or Silence It

The implication is clear: we should long for and embrace the truth of God’s Word, even when it convicts or challenges us. The Israelites’ rejection of truth serves as a warning for all children of the King. Will we seek reproof, correction, and righteous instruction, or will we silence the truth and settle for smooth words and illusions?

The Father has provided His Word as the standard for truth and righteousness. It is our responsibility to listen, learn, and allow it to transform our lives.

The deliberate rejection of knowledge is a dangerous trend that weakens personal growth and societal progress. By remaining open to truth and seeking wisdom through Scripture, we can fight ignorance and live lives grounded in understanding and righteousness.

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© Dr. H 2025

Soul Pollution ∙∙∙

Soul Pollution ∙∙∙

John saw Jesus coming to him and said, Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! – John 1:29

2 Corinthians 5:21 God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

1 John 3:5 And you know that Jesus came to take away our sins, and there is no sin in him.

The Environmental Challenges of the 21st Century

The environmental issues facing us in the 21st century are extensive and deeply troubling. Pollution stands out as one of the most significant dilemmas of our era, adversely affecting ecosystems, human health, and natural resources. Among the most pressing challenges is the growing scarcity of clean, potable water. This essential resource, crucial to sustaining life, is increasingly threatened by human activities, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions to safeguard our water supply.

The Impact of Pollution on Water Sources

Rain and snow, essential natural sources of freshwater, are not exempt from the impacts of pollution. As stormwater flows through city streets, gutters, and drainage systems, it picks up a wide range of contaminants, including toxic metals, organic pollutants, and pesticides. This accumulation of harmful substances renders urban underground wastewater largely unsuitable as a viable water supply, exacerbating the already pressing global water crisis. Addressing this issue is crucial for protecting our water resources.

A Breakthrough Solution: Sustainable Sand

Addressing the increasing problem of water pollution, engineers from UC Berkeley have developed an innovative solution: sustainable sand. This filtration media consists of sand particles coated with manganese oxide. This uniquely mineral-coated sand exhibits a remarkable ability to absorb harmful heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, from polluted water. It also effectively neutralizes organic pollutants and pesticides, making it a powerful tool for water purification.

The effectiveness of this filtration method is innovative and promising. As water passes through the mineral-coated sand, various toxic metals and organic contaminants interact with the sand’s specially treated surface. This interaction results in their efficient removal, representing a significant step forward in filtration technology.

What makes this breakthrough especially transformative is its potential to turn urban stormwater into a valuable resource. Once purified, the water can be used to replenish underground aquifers, ensuring a sustainable supply of clean water for urban areas facing water shortages. This remarkable approach not only addresses immediate environmental issues but also supports long-term water management solutions, making it a crucial part of the fight against water pollution in cities.

The Invisible Pollution of the Human Soul

While the world faces visible damage from toxic chemicals and metals, another, more insidious form of pollution is human sin. This unseen contamination corrupts our hearts, souls, and spirits, creating a barrier between us and the Father. Just as sustainable sand can purify polluted water, the Father offers a lasting solution to cleanse the human soul.

The Ingenious Exchange

The Father has devised an extraordinary and ingenious way to cleanse humanity of its soul pollution. This divine system relies on a profound yet simple exchange. He took our sins and unrighteousness and placed them on the Lord Jesus Christ while He was on the cross. As the only person who had never committed a single sin, he was qualified to become His Sustainable Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

In His crucifixion, Jesus became the ultimate substitute, enduring the full brunt of divine judgment that was intended for us. Through this redemptive act, He opened the door for humanity to exchange their sinful nature for His perfect righteousness. This means that, instead of facing condemnation, we have the incredible opportunity to embrace a new identity in Christ, one marked by forgiveness, grace, and a restored relationship with God.

2 Corinthians 5:21: “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”

The significance of this exchange cannot be overstated. It is the final purification process in which our past mistakes and moral failures are washed away, allowing us to walk in the newness of life. Just as sustainable sand removes impurities from water, the Lord Jesus Christ removes the impurities of sin from our lives, replacing them with His righteousness. For the children of the King, sin pollution is no longer an issue.

REFLECT & PRAY

Because of His Sustainable Son, the toxic pollution of sin has been removed, and we are made clean in the eyes of the Father.

Father, thank You for the extraordinary gift of Your Son, who bore the weight of my sin and became a curse in my place. Through His sacrifice, You have removed my impurities and replaced them with Your righteousness. I am forever grateful for this eternal solution to my soul’s pollution.

INSIGHT

The Sinless Savior Became Sin

The Lord Jesus Christ, being entirely without sin, had no personal sin to overcome or resolve. In a way that surpasses full human understanding, the Scriptures declare that He became sin. This does not mean He sinned, but that He completely identified with sinful humanity. An African language translation of this verse captures the idea beautifully: “God caused him to enter the ranks of sinners in our place” (UBS). Through the act of substitution, sin and its curse were genuinely transferred to Him.

Galatians 3:13: “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”

The Curse of Sin and the Redemption of Christ

Sin is a violation of the Father’s law, which results in humanity being under a curse of judgment and eternal separation from God.

However, the Lord Jesus Christ intervened. He took our place and became a curse for us. By accepting Him as our sin-bearer, we are no longer under the curse but are redeemed and freed from condemnation.

Through His sacrifice, we are no longer impure or condemned. Instead, we are justified and declared righteous. His death carried the full burden of human sin, and when we accept Him as our Savior, His righteousness is credited to us. We actually become the righteousness of God. This divine exchange provides a permanent remedy for the pollution of our souls.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy: Imputed Righteousness

The reality of imputed righteousness is a remarkable and awe-inspiring theological truth. It fulfills the messianic prophecy foretold in Isaiah 53, which describes the suffering servant who would bear the sins of many and make them righteous.

Isaiah 53:10-12: “But it was the LORD’s good plan to crush him and cause him grief. Yet when his life is made an offering for sin . . . and the LORD’s good plan will prosper in his hands. When he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he will be satisfied. And because of his experience, my righteous servant will make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins. . . because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for transgressors.”

This prophecy highlights the depth of Christ’s sacrifice and the everlasting impact of His work. Through His suffering and death, He made it possible for humanity to be reconciled to God and regarded as righteous.

The Eternal Solution for Soul Pollution

The work of the Lord Jesus Christ is the ultimate solution to the problem of sin. His one act of righteousness has brought all who believe into a right relationship with God.

Romans 5:18: “Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone.”

Through His sacrifice, the weight of sin is lifted, breaking the curse that once defined us. We are no longer measured by our wrongdoings but by the righteousness of Christ that has been bestowed upon us. This profound solution reflects the Father’s love and the might of His grace.

While the development of sustainable sand offers promise for addressing physical pollution, the Sustainable Son provides eternal hope for the purification of our souls. Through His sacrifice, we are made clean, restored, and eternally united with the Father.

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© Dr. H 2025

Experiencing Christ ∙

Experiencing Christ ∙

I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, . . . that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death. – Philippians 3:8, 10

Psalms 25:4-5

 4 Show me your ways, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow.

 5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long, I put my hope in you.

The Nuances of “To know” in Different Languages

In many languages, a single English word can have multiple equivalents, each with distinct meanings. This is especially true for the verb “to know.” For instance, French and Spanish each have two words for “to know,” while Greek has three, all of which are translated as “know” in English. These linguistic nuances highlight the importance of understanding meaning rather than relying solely on direct word-for-word translations.

Understanding Saber and Conocer in Spanish

In Spanish, the verbs saber and conocer are both translated as “to know” in English, but they carry different meanings and are used in distinct contexts. Recognizing this distinction is essential for accurate communication and translation.

Saber: Knowledge and Facts

Saber refers to intellectual knowledge or the possession of information. It is used to express knowing facts, skills, or learned information. For example:

  • I know the answer
  • She knows how to swim

This verb emphasizes cognitive awareness and learned abilities, focusing on factual or technical knowledge.

Conocer: Knowing People  

Conocer derives from the same root as “cognition” and “recognize,” emphasizing familiarity and personal connection. It is used to express knowledge of people, places, or things gained through experience. For example:

  • I know Bobby

This verb implies a deeper, relational understanding. To conocer someone is to have interacted with them, understanding their character and personality, rather than merely knowing facts about them.

While saber is essential for acquiring and recalling information, it often lacks the relational depth implied by conocer. For instance, you might saber someone’s name or occupation, but without personal interaction, you cannot conocer who they truly are.

Knowing God: Beyond Facts to Intimacy

The distinction between saber and conocer provides a helpful framework for understanding how we “know” God. Scripture often speaks of knowing the Father, but this knowledge goes far beyond intellectual understanding or factual awareness. It involves a deep, personal, and relational connection with Him.

Knowing the Father’s Ways

David’s prayer in Psalms 25:4 captures this desire: “Show me your ways, O LORD.”

When Scripture refers to the Father’s “ways,” it encompasses more than His actions or attributes. His ways include His motivations, desires, thoughts, and purposes. To truly know the Father, we must move beyond simply understanding facts about Him, such as His omnipotence or historical acts, and seek to comprehend His heart and character.

Not knowing God’s ways can lead to discouragement and a lack of trust, especially during difficult times. As Charles Stanley notes, “As long as we remain ignorant of His ways as revealed in His Word, we won’t trust or know Him intimately.”  

For example, it is one thing to know that God is love (a fact) and another to experience His love personally. The former is intellectual; the latter is relational. This intimate knowing transforms how we live, think, and trust in Him.

REFLECT & PRAY

The ultimate goal of trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ is to develop and experience a personal relationship with Him. This relationship isn’t based on mere intellectual knowledge but on close fellowship

Father, I aspire to know You and experience You. I do not want simple head knowledge. I want to know You and Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, personally and intimately. For me, nothing else will do.

INSIGHT

What Is Eternal Life?

Eternal life is not merely about living forever; it is about being united with the Father and the Son, the Source of all life.

The Apostle John defines eternal life in John 17:3: “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”

The Greek verb translated as “know” in this verse is ginosko, which “conveys a deep, experiential knowledge,” much like the Spanish verb conocer. It suggests “understanding someone through firsthand personal experience, not merely through facts or information.”

To ginosko the Father is “to know Him relationally, to become acquainted with Him through a personal connection.” This is the essence of eternal life, knowing God intimately and experiencing His presence.

From Head Knowledge to Heart Knowledge

Learning facts about the Lord Jesus Christ gives us head knowledge. We may know about His life, teachings, and sacrifice. However, this intellectual understanding is not enough. Salvation occurs when head knowledge becomes heart knowledge, when we enter into a personal relationship with Him by faith.

It is the difference between knowing about Him and truly knowing Him.

Revelation 3:20: “I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in.”

Imagine the Lord Jesus Christ standing at the door of your heart, knocking and seeking to enter. When we open the door and invite Him in, we welcome Him into our lives forever. This act of faith transforms us, uniting us with Him in an everlasting relationship.

Becoming Children of God

When we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and accept Him as our Savior, we are adopted into the Father’s Forever Family. This is a profound and joyful reality: we become children of the King, heirs to His promises, and members of His eternal kingdom.

John 1:12: “To all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”

This adoption is not based on our merit but on His grace. By believing the facts about Christ and accepting Him as Lord, we are welcomed into God’s family.  

Knowing Through Understanding and Experience

The process of knowing God involves both intellectual understanding and experiential relationship. This dual aspect is beautifully illustrated in 1 John 5:20: “We know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.”

In this verse, two Greek words for “know” are used:

  • Oida: Refers to “intellectual knowledge or understanding, gained through thought and reflection.”
  • Ginosko: Refers to “experiential knowledge, the deeper relational knowing that comes from walking with Christ.”

The Scriptures show that head knowledge (oida) is the foundation, but it must lead to heart knowledge (ginosko), a personal, transformative relationship with the living God.

The Transformative Power of Knowing God

The journey from head knowledge to heart knowledge is the essence of the Christian faith. It begins with learning about God, His character, works, and promises, but culminates in a personal relationship with Him. This relationship allows us to experience His love, grace, and presence in our lives.

This transformation is not something we achieve on our own; it is a gift of grace, made possible through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The more we learn about Him and experience Him personally, the closer we grow to the Father and the Son.

Knowing God intimately is the core of faith, the foundation of eternal life, and the ultimate fulfillment of our purpose as His children.

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© Dr. H 2025

Gonna Change My Way Of Thinking

Gonna Change My Way Of Thinking

The LORD says I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. – Psalms 32:8

Psalms 25:8-18

 8 The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.

 9 He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.

 10 The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness, all who keep his covenant and obey his demands.

 11 For the honor of your name, O LORD, forgive my many, many sins.

 17 My problems go from bad to worse. Oh, save me from them all!

 18 Feel my pain and see my trouble. Forgive all my sins.

Gerald Rafferty: A Musical Legacy

Gerald Rafferty (1947–2011) was a renowned Scottish singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. Known for his smooth voice and introspective lyrics, Rafferty achieved notable success in the late 1970s with solo hits such as “Baker Street,” “Right Down the Line,” and “Night Owl.” He also gained fame as a member of the band Stealers Wheel with the hit “Stuck in the Middle with You.”

Among his lesser-known tracks is “Wrong Thinking,” a song featured on his 1994 album “Over My Head”. This reflective song explores the consequences of negative thought patterns and their effects on behavior and relationships. The lyrics examine themes of self-awareness, accountability, and the effort to overcome destructive tendencies.

“Is this a state that you can’t control, or don’t you care who you’re talking to
Each time when things get out of hand why it’s the same thing you always do
You start to point out other people’s mistakes sometimes you even show contempt.
How come the way you exclude yourself can’t you see that you’re not exempt?”

The chorus reinforces the central message:


“Wrong thinking gets the better of you
It only takes a moment or two.
Comes stealin’ like a thief in the night
Changes every little thing in sight
Wrong thinking gets the better of you.”

Well, it’s the same old thing that happens every time you react that way

Tomorrow, you will want to forget everything you said today

But every time something reminds you, you play the same old game inside

Any excuse in the book will do; Everything can be justified

Rafferty’s lyrics serve as a powerful reminder of how quickly negative thoughts can take over, influence actions, and cause regret.

Wrong Thinking in the Life of King David

The idea of “wrong thinking” is not only a theme in Rafferty’s song but also a common issue in human behavior, as illustrated in the life of King David. He was “a man after God’s own heart” and lived a life almost entirely above reproach before the Lord. 1 Samuel 13:14: “The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart.”

However, his moral failure with Bathsheba illustrates how wrong thinking can lead to devastating consequences.

1 Kings 15:5: “For David had done what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight and had obeyed the LORD’s commands throughout his life, except in the affair concerning Uriah the Hittite.”

David’s wrong thinking began with a moment of unchecked desire, which spiraled into a series of grave sins, including adultery, deceit, and murder. His actions not only caused him personal regret and remorse but also damaged the reputation of the God whom he loved deeply. Despite his failures, David’s heart remained tender toward the Lord, and he sought forgiveness with genuine repentance.

The Danger of Wrong Thinking

The Bible gives a clear warning about how wrong thinking can develop and its consequences. James 1:14-15: “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.”

Jamesemphasizes the dangerous cycle that starts with unchecked desires. When wrong thinking takes hold, it leads to sinful actions, which, if ignored, cause spiritual and emotional ruin. David’s life illustrates this truth, as his initial mistake triggered a series of sins and deep regret.

The Steep Price of Foolishness

How could David make so many mistakes? He lost his clarity of thought and allowed his passions and lust to take over. David’s misguided thinking led him to act impulsively, like a “senseless horse or mule,” as described in the Psalms. His stubbornness and lack of self-control resulted in serious consequences for not only himself but also those around him. Yet, even in his failure, David’s story is one of redemption. His heartfelt repentance and desire to restore his relationship with God demonstrate the power of grace and forgiveness.

Wrong thinking is a universal struggle that can trap even the most faithful believers. It often begins subtly, appearing as harmless desires, but quickly leads to actions that create distance from God. The life of King David serves as both a warning and a testament to the redeeming power of God’s love.

Psalms 32:8-9: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Misguided thoughts can lead us astray. By entrusting our minds and hearts to Him, we can rise above these pitfalls and align our lives with His purpose.

Father, I am guilty of repeated wrong thinking and inappropriate action. My life seems beset with snares, nets, and traps. Deliver me, forgive me, and encourage me to think rightly.

INSIGHT

The Complexity of Human Nature

People are inherently complex, capable of both extraordinary good and devastating evil. This duality is evident in the life of King David, whose flawed thinking led to a significant moral decline. Overcome by unchecked emotions, self-deception, and sinful actions, David’s choices resulted in pain, destruction, and even death. His fallen human nature, inherited from humanity’s brokenness, brought him to his lowest point.

Yet, the Father chose to include David’s entire story, flaws and all, in His Word. Why? Because David’s struggles mirror our own. His shortcomings, failures, and rebellion resonate with us, allowing us to see ourselves in his story. More importantly, David’s life reveals how the Father works to provide hope and encouragement, even in the darkest moments.

Hope and Encouragement Through Scripture

The Father’s Word is a source of hope and guidance, written to teach us and remind us of His promises. David’s story, though filled with failure, also demonstrates the Father’s unwavering love and willingness to forgive and restore.

Romans 15:4: “Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.”

The stories of the past are not just historical accounts but lessons meant to inspire and uplift us. Through David’s life, we see that no matter how far we fall, the Father is always there, ready to forgive and bring us back into fellowship with Him.

The Miracle of Forgiveness

The Father does not hold grudges or respond to our sins with unrelenting anger. Instead, He poured out the condemnation we deserved onto the Lord Jesus Christ. In a miraculous and divine exchange, Jesus took upon Himself the weight of our sins and, in return, gave us the righteousness of God.

2 Corinthians 5:21: “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”

This gracious act is the foundation of our hope. When we turn back to the Father, we experience the joy of forgiveness and the restoration of our relationship with Him. The sweetness of His love and the delight of His presence are renewed, allowing us to walk closely with Him once again.

The Barrier of Wrong Thinking

It is often our own mistaken thinking that creates a barrier between us and the Father. Negative thoughts lead to inappropriate emotions, words, and actions, which disrupt our fellowship with Him. Still, the Father desires an incredibly close relationship with us. He longs for us to feel the warmth of His embrace and to experience the joy of sweet fellowship with Him. His desire for intimacy with us is even greater than our own longing for Him.

A Call to Change Our Thinking©

The importance of changing our way of thinking is highlighted in Bob Dylan’s song “Gonna Change My Way of Thinking.” Dylan conveys the core of transformation, encouraging us to reject harmful influences and align our thoughts with truth and righteousness.

Gonna change my way of thinking, Make myself a different set of rules.

Gonna change my way of thinking, Make myself a different set of rules.

Gonna put my good foot forward, And stop being influenced by fools.

Well don’t know which one is worse, Doing your own thing or just being cool.

Well don’t know which one is worse, Doing your own thing or just being cool.

You remember only about the brass ring, You forget all about the golden rule.

Jesus said, “Be ready, For you know not the hour in which I come.”

Jesus said, “Be ready, For you know not the hour in which I come.”

He said, “He who is not for Me is against Me,” Just so you know where He’s coming from.

There’s a kingdom called Heaven, A place where there is no pain of birth.

There’s a kingdom called Heaven, A place where there is no pain of birth.

Well the Lord created it, mister, About the same time He made the earth.

Dylan’s lyrics remind us of the need to shift from wrong thinking to right-thinking, a transformation that aligns our minds and hearts with the Father’s will. This change is not just about avoiding sin but about embracing a mindset that reflects the values of the kingdom of Heaven, a place of peace, joy, and eternal fellowship with God.

The Power of Right-Thinking

When we change our way of thinking, we open the door to a renewed relationship with the Father. Wrong thinking, which leads to sin and separation, is replaced by right-thinking, which fosters closeness and alignment with His purposes. This transformation allows us to experience the fullness of His love and the joy of walking in His ways.

The Father’s desire is clear: He wants us to live in the freedom and peace that come from right-thinking, free from the snares of sin and self-deception. Through His Word, His forgiveness, and His grace, He provides everything we need to make this change and draw nearer to Him.

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© Dr. H 2025