I’ve Been There ∙∙

I’ve Been There ∙∙

The Lord Jesus Christ is our High Priest. He understands our weaknesses. [He is able to sympathize with us.] For He faced all of the same tests and temptations we do, yet He did not sin. – Hebrews 4:15

Hebrews 2:10-18

God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation.

Because God’s children are human beings – made of flesh and blood – the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.

Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.

The Power of Shared Experiences

The phrase “I’ve been there” has become a widely recognized English idiom that signifies shared experience and understanding. It conveys the idea that someone has walked a similar path and can empathize with another’s struggles.

Many respected organizations in the US and globally are founded, developed, and led by individuals who have faced tough times, failure, life-altering injuries, addiction, abuse, significant loss, or abandonment. The list is extensive, and here are a few examples:

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of America – for at-risk youth
  • Celebrate Recovery – for those struggling with addiction, trauma, and more
  • Gilda’s Club – for cancer patients and survivors
  • GriefShare – for individuals mourning the loss of a loved one
  • Prison Fellowship – for incarcerated individuals and their families
  • Wounded Warrior Project – for injured veterans

David L. Burrier’s I’ve Been There Ministries was born out of a series of personal life challenges that fostered a deep sense of empathy and sensitivity toward those who are struggling. His mission: to serve and uplift others by sharing messages of hope. As Burrier states, “My life will be a source of inspiration so that whomever I encounter will walk away with a renewed sense of mission and purpose for their life” (ivebeenthereministries.com).

Trusting God Through Life’s Challenges

Life often presents us with challenges and situations that may seem impossible to grasp at the moment. The pressure and weight we carry can feel overwhelming, causing us to ask, “Why?” Still, the Father encourages us to trust in Him, even when the road ahead is unclear. One day, the pieces will come together, and we will understand the greater purpose behind our struggles. Until then, we are encouraged to rely on Him, confident that He will guide us in His intelligent design for our lives.

The Father has done something extraordinary to ensure we are not alone in our struggles. He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to walk among us, to experience life as we do, and to become our ultimate source of comfort and encouragement.

Jesus’ Shared Humanity

While on Earth, Jesus became fully human. As Wiersbe explains, “During His time on Earth, Jesus was ‘made like unto His brethren’ by experiencing the sinless infirmities of human nature. He knew what it was like to be a helpless baby, a growing child, and a maturing adolescent. He experienced weariness, hunger, and thirst (John 4:6-8). He understood what it meant to be despised and rejected, to be lied about and falsely accused. He endured physical suffering and death.”

Jesus’ shared humanity enabled Him to fully understand the struggles and temptations we encounter. He experienced rejection, physical exhaustion, and the sorrow of suffering. Despite these hardships, He remained sinless, offering the perfect sacrifice for our sins.

Why Did Jesus Become Human?

Jesus became human not only to empathize with us but also to perform the highest act of love: dying for our sins and freeing us from the enemy’s power. Through His death and resurrection, He offers eternal salvation to all who accept Him. His shared experiences with humanity make Him a compassionate and understanding advocate who can comfort and encourage us in our darkest moments.

The Advocate Who Understands

Stanley writes, “Jesus had to leave heaven and take on human flesh, not only to become our sacrifice but also so He would know experientially exactly what it’s like to be one of us.”

The Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, chose to become fully human. He entered the world as a vulnerable baby, relying on others for care. Throughout His life, He faced the same experiences and challenges that all humans encounter. His humanity was not simulated; it was real and tangible.

REFLECT & PRAY

“You get one life. The time will pass anyway. You can either spend it creating the life you want or spend it living the life you do not want. The choice is yours” (anonymous).

Father, thank You for sending the Lord Jesus Christ to share in our humanity to provide eternal salvation. He walked among us and faced the same struggles and temptations we experience, becoming a source of comfort and encouragement for us all. Encourage us to find hope in His example.

INSIGHT

The Savior Who Truly Understands

For all eternity, the Lord Jesus Christ can say, “I’ve been there.” His decision to share in everyday human experiences allows Him to genuinely comprehend our challenges. Because of this, He is especially prepared to help us as we face the struggles and hardships of life. It’s like He’s walking alongside us, feeling the highs and lows of life in real time. The Lord Jesus Christ chose to take on our likeness so that we could, in turn, become more like Him.

Trials: A Tool for Growth and Encouragement

The Father often uses trials to build our character and lead us toward spiritual maturity. However, not all trials are solely about personal development. Sometimes, the challenges we face equip us to encourage and support others who are suffering. Our own experiences of pain and perseverance allow us to come alongside others with genuine empathy, offering them hope and comfort.

Hebrews 2:18: “Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.”

The Greek word translated as “help,” “aid,” or “succor” is boetheo. This word is derived from boe (a cry for help) and theo (to run). It literally means “to run to assist upon hearing a cry for help.” This imagery beautifully captures the immediacy and compassion of Jesus’ response to our struggles. He does not hesitate or delay; He runs to our aid when we call out to Him to provide what is needed.

Empathy Over Sympathy

The Lord Jesus Christ does not offer superficial or cliché expressions of sympathy, such as the often-heard phrase, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.” Instead, He provides something far deeper: empathy. Because He has experienced the same pain and struggles we face, He can say, “I know your pain, because I have felt pain just like yours. I have been there.”

This deep empathy distinguishes Jesus as our Savior and gentle Shepherd, providing comfort in times of need. His understanding is personal and real, not distant or theoretical.

A Man of Sorrows

The Lord Jesus Christ is described in Isaiah 53:3 as “a man of sorrows” and “acquainted with grief.” He endured rejection, suffering, and unimaginable pain, yet He never gave up. He persevered until His mission was complete, providing the ultimate example of endurance and faithfulness.

Jesus is our consummate “Hope Coach.” His life demonstrates that, because He never gave in or gave up on hope, neither should we. His victory over suffering and sin gives us the courage to keep going, no matter how hard the road may be.

The Champion of Our Faith

The Lord Jesus Christ is our ultimate example and source of strength. He endured the cross, disregarding its shame, because of the joy set before Him, the joy of fulfilling His mission and bringing salvation to the world. His perseverance in the face of hostility and suffering encourages us to remain steadfast in our own struggles.

Hebrews 12:2 explains: We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame.

A Savior Who Runs to Our Aid

The Lord Jesus Christ is not only our Savior but also our empathetic Shepherd and Hope Coach. He understands our pain because He has experienced it Himself. He runs to our aid when we cry out, offering comfort, strength, and hope. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He has shown us that victory is possible, even in the face of the greatest trials.

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© Dr. H 2025

Do good to all people ∙∙

Do good to all people ∙∙

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it. – Proverbs 3:27

Galatians 6:9-10

 9 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.

 10 So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

The Best and Worst of Humanity: Dr. David Nott’s Story

Dr. David Nott, a British humanitarian war-zone surgeon, has witnessed humanity at its worst. He has dedicated nearly 30 years to navigating the chaos and destruction of war zones. From treating victims of barrel bombs in Syria to removing a detonator from a woman’s leg, his career has placed him at the epicenter of human suffering. In Bosnia, he faced snipers; in Sudan, he encountered the horrors of child abuse. On one occasion, a nurse standing beside him was killed by a bullet.

Despite these harrowing experiences, Dr. Nott describes his work as “joyous,” stating that “conflict work was the only thing that made me feel alive.” Known as “the Indiana Jones of Surgery,” he credits his survival in war zones to the relationships he forms with local people. “You can’t stop human bullets or bombs,” he explains, “but you can develop relationships with people so that they don’t want you to die or be in situations where your life is at risk.”

While he has witnessed terrible acts, Dr. Nott has also seen remarkable displays of kindness, loyalty, and honor. Reflecting on human nature’s duality, he notes, “There are some people who use their power to make things better and positively impact others’ lives, and there are others who use power to destroy everything around them.” Despite the horrors he’s faced, he still believes that “the majority of humans are good” (Staying Alive in a War Zone, The Week, March 13, 2020).

Ukraine: A Modern War Zone

On February 24, 2022, the world witnessed the largest conventional military attack on a European country since World War II. What was initially dismissed as a potential “minor incursion” rapidly escalated into a full-scale invasion with around 200,000 Russian troops, tanks, rockets, and advanced weapons, including supersonic and hypersonic missiles. The threat of chemical and nuclear weapons loomed ominously over the conflict.

The invasion shocked the world, leaving many people stunned by the destruction and suffering. Once-beautiful cities were turned to rubble, and many innocent men, women, and children lost their lives. At the start of the invasion, the outcome was unclear, and the spread of false information made it hard to know the truth.

Despite the tragedy, some surprising things happened. The Ukrainian people came together around their flag, showing incredible courage and strength against overwhelming odds. Their brave resistance inspired support from around the world. In response to the unprovoked attacks, many countries joined together to impose sanctions on the aggressor.

A Shift in Global Alliances

One of the most surprising results of the invasion was the dramatic shift in global political and economic alliances. European nations that had long pursued neutrality suddenly changed course, uniting against the common enemy. This represented a major paradigm shift, shaking up the geopolitical landscape and altering international relations.

The unity displayed by these nations echoed the spirit of the American Revolution, where a shared cause brought people together to fight oppression. The invasion of Ukraine served as a catalyst for renewed dedication to collective action and the defense of shared values.

Benjamin Franklin published the first American political cartoon in his newspaper, the Pennsylvania Gazette, on May 9, 1754. It signaled the beginning of the French and Indian War. The cartoon shows a snake divided into eight segments, each with initials for a colony or region. The caption reads “JOIN or DIE.” It was a call for unity among the American colonies, which were divided and acting separately.

REFLECT & PRAY

“Instead of looking for a place to quit, we should be looking for another place to start!” (Boles)

Father, strengthen me to do good and avoid evil. In coming alongside others, I seek to serve joyfully rather than with reluctance. May it be an invigorating, spiritually uplifting experience. Please work out what You have placed within me.

INSIGHT

Understanding Goodness: A Divine Standard

What does it mean to be good? According to the dictionary, “good” refers to something that is morally excellent, virtuous, righteous, of high quality, or exceptional. Goodness encompasses attributes such as excellence, delightfulness, and being enjoyable, pleasant, or admirable. It is a concept that goes beyond mere actions and reflects a state of moral and spiritual integrity.

For the children of the King, the Father has entrusted them with the responsibility of doing good for others. This is at the core of practicing Christian love and ethics. In addition to loving the Father with all our heart, soul, and mind, doing good is a prime directive.

Galatians 6:10: “Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone, especially to those in the family of faith.”

The Call to Goodness

On one hand, God treats everyone equally, and His children should do the same. We have a responsibility to do good for everyone. However, there is also an inner circle, the children of the King, the Father’s Forever Family, that requires special attention.

Tragically, when the children of the King forget this directive, prejudice and bigotry can take root. Human nature tends to gravitate toward tribalism, leading people to believe that their “tribe” is superior to others.

We are called to be ready to help everyone, but our foremost responsibility is to support our spiritual family. In the end, we will spend eternity with the Lord Jesus Christ and with each other.

The Language of Goodness: Kalos and Agathos

In Galatians 6, two different Greek words are translated into English as “good,” each carrying a distinct nuance: kalos and agathos.

In Galatians 6:9, kalosconveys the sense of “being noble, praiseworthy, beautiful, admirable, healthy, fit, or morally excellent.” It reflects “the intrinsic goodness of character and action.”

In Galatians 6:10, agathos emphasizes “doing good for the benefit of others.” It conveys the idea of “being useful, upright, and honorable.” This term focuses on the “outward expression of goodness through actions that positively impact others.”

Key differences between the terms are as follows:

• Kalos – refers to being good

• Agathos – refers to doing good

These concepts emphasize the dual nature of goodness: an internal characteristic of moral excellence and an external dedication to aiding others.

The Consequences of Neglecting Goodness

Individuals who choose not to do good or embody positive traits often develop negative attitudes, becoming cynical and bitter. For them, life turns into a series of “sour grapes,” marked by suspicion, contempt, and disapproval. Sadly, many who see themselves as children of the King allow life’s challenges to shatter their spirits, leaving them defeated and resentful. This mindset directly plays into the enemy’s hands, robbing them of joy and purpose (Richison).

The Father sets a high standard for His children, but striving to meet it brings fulfillment and vitality.

Luke 6:35: “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.”

The Paradigm Shift: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus

How can flawed, self-centered human beings rise to such a high standard? The Father provides a profound yet straightforward solution: a change of focus and a paradigm shift. The key lies in fixing our eyes on Jesus, who exemplifies perfect goodness and endurance.

Hebrews 12:1-3: “Let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, our champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, despising its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up.”

Focusing On Jesus

By focusing on Jesus, we are empowered to endure, love, and do good, even in the face of adversity. His example inspires us to rise above our limitations and fulfill the Father’s high calling with joy and purpose.

The stories of Dr. David Nott and the Ukrainian resistance serve as powerful reminders of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of standing against evil. In the face of adversity, there is an opportunity to serve, uplift, and make a difference.

Philippians 2:13: “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”

The choice to embrace the call to do good and avoid evil, finding joy and spiritual renewal in serving others, is entirely ours. Let us strive to discover what the Father has placed within us, trusting in His guidance and strength.

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© Dr. H 2025

The Fog of Disruption

The Fog of Disruption

She turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. – John 20:14

John 20:13-16

 13 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” the angels asked her. “Because they have taken away my Lord,” she replied, “and I don’t know where they have put him.”

 14 She turned to leave and saw someone standing there. It was Jesus, but she didn’t recognize him.

 15 “Dear woman, why are you crying?” Jesus asked her. “Who are you looking for?” She thought he was the gardener. “Sir,” she said, “if you have taken him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will go and get him.”

 16 “Mary!” Jesus said. She turned to him and cried out, “Rabboni!” (which is Hebrew for “Teacher”).

Preoccupation: The Mental Merry-Go-Round

Preoccupation with sorrow and disappointment can feel like a mental merry-go-round, an endless cycle that traps people in a rut, making escape seem impossible. It’s easy to get caught up in the small details of daily life and lose sight of the bigger picture. When our focus narrows only to what is immediately in front of us, we become distracted and unable to see the forest for the trees.

This narrow perspective often leads to a fixation on things that, in the grand scheme of life, might hold no real significance. Could it be that our deepest fear is not failure, but instead achieving success in pursuits that ultimately do not matter?

The Clouded Vision of Fixation

Our ability to see clearly is often hindered by fixation and self-reflection. This was true for Mary Magdalene. Her grief and preoccupation blinded her to the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, even though He stood right before her. As Westcott insightfully noted, “We see only what we have the inward power of seeing.”

In ancient times, the soul was seen as the essence of our being, harmonizing the mind, body, and will into a cohesive whole. It serves as a bridge to the divine, connecting us to God. John Ortberg explains: “A healthy soul is whole and integrated. It is connected to God. A person with a healthy soul is at peace with God, with himself, and with others. When the soul is understood and cared for, we can be freed from hurry, preoccupation, unsatisfied desires, and chronic discontent.”

The Encounter at the Tomb

After the Lord Jesus Christ’s death, Mary Magdalene went to His tomb early in the morning. She discovered the stone rolled away, the tomb empty, and His body gone (John 20:1-2). In her distress, she ran to inform Peter and John. When the three of them returned to the tomb, they found it empty (John 20:3-10). Heartbroken, Mary lingered outside, weeping (John 20:11). Mary was consumed by loss and grief.

When the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to her, she failed to recognize Him. Instead, she assumed He was the gardener (John 20:14-15). How could Mary, who had spent so much time with the Lord, fail to recognize Jesus? Her expectations had shaped her perception. She anticipated finding a sealed tomb and a lifeless body. The idea of encountering the risen Christ was so far removed from her expectations that she could not see the reality standing before her.

How did Mary Finally Recognize Jesus?

Mary’s moment of recognition came when the Lord Jesus Christ spoke her name: “Mary.” At that moment, something shifted inside her, and she knew it was Him. Such recognition comes from close, personal relationships. It’s reminiscent of how we remember our mother’s voice, distinct, unforgettable, and full of meaning. For Mary, hearing her name spoken by the Lord cut through her grief and distraction, helping her see clearly. Throughout history, when people hear their name spoken by the Father or Jesus, it deeply resonates within their souls.

The Challenge of Seeing Clearly

Daily life, with its distractions, preoccupations, and challenges, often obscures what the Father is trying to reveal to us. Like Mary, we can become so consumed by our expectations and circumstances that we fail to recognize the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ in our lives.

This is not wishful thinking. The apostle Paul explained that it would be the present reality of all children of the King. Philippians 4:7: “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

When we let the Father guide us, He gives us the discernment to see with the eyes of our heart, enabling us to recognize His presence and understand His guidance.

REFLECT & PRAY

How often do we see only what we want to see? Daily events, our preoccupations, and the ups and downs of life often hide what the Father is trying to reveal to us.

Father, grant me the discernment to see the Lord Jesus Christ with the eyes of my heart. Help me to understand Your guidance and recognize whatever it is You wish to teach me.

INSIGHT

Detecting Counterfeits

How do United States Treasury agents learn to identify counterfeit money? At first glance, one might think they study fake bills to understand their flaws. However, the truth is quite different. Treasury agents learn to spot counterfeit currency by becoming deeply familiar with the features of real money. Instead of studying counterfeits, they master the details of genuine bills, their texture, design, security features, and distinctive traits. This method helps them instinctively recognize anything that strays from the authentic standard.

One treasury agent summed up this approach with the phrase, “Touch, Tilt, Look At, Look Through.” This meticulous process ensures that agents can detect even the most convincing forgeries by comparing them to the real Thing.

Discernment Through Familiarity with Christ

Children of the King develop discernment by becoming deeply familiar with the Lord Jesus Christ. The better we know Him, the more effectively we can identify and reject spiritual counterfeits. This protective discernment does not happen instantly; it requires practice, determination, and experience.

Hebrews 5:14: “Those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.”

As we deepen our relationship with the Father, we should expect to see Him more clearly and hear His voice more distinctly. Familiarity with Him enhances our spiritual perception, allowing us to navigate life with wisdom and clarity.

A Desire to See Jesus

In the Gospel of John, a group of outsiders called “Greeks” came to worship. The apostle John used the term “Greeks” not to refer to people from Greece, but to non-Jews, that is, Gentiles. Since they had come to worship, they were likely God-fearers. In the New Testament, a God-fearer was a Gentile who worshiped the God of Israel and respected Jewish religious practices but had not fully converted to Judaism by undergoing circumcision and fully adopting the Mosaic law. These “Greeks” had heard stories about the Lord Jesus Christ and were eager to meet Him.

Their excitement and longing are reflected in their simple yet profound request to Philip, John 12:21: “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”

The longing to see the Lord Jesus Christ should resonate deeply with every child of the King. To truly experience His presence, we need to pray for spiritual clarity and insight. The Father deeply desires to open the eyes of our hearts that we might fully grasp his love and grace.

Paul expresses this beautifully in his prayer for believers: Ephesians 1:18-19: “I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called, his holy people, who are his rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him.”

Paul’s prayer highlights the need for spiritual illumination, a divine intervention that helps us understand the hope, inheritance, and power we have as children of the King.

Spiritual Cataracts

As people age, their vision often declines, often requiring cataract surgery. Over time, their eyesight may become blurry and discolored, making it hard to see clearly. Thanks to modern medical advances, this procedure is now quick, safe, and highly effective, restoring clarity through the skill of an eye surgeon.

Similarly, our spiritual vision can become clouded over time. Distractions, doubts, and life’s challenges can blur our ability to see the Lord Jesus Christ clearly. Paul’s prayer in Ephesians reflects a plea for spiritual surgery, a divine sharpening of our spiritual eyes. Just as a skilled surgeon restores physical sight, the Father works to restore and enhance our spiritual sight, enabling us to see Him with clarity and confidence.

Seeing Clearly Through Spiritual Growth

The journey of developing spiritual discernment and clarity can be compared to training treasury agents. By immersing ourselves in the truth of the Lord Jesus Christ, we become skilled at recognizing and dismissing falsehoods. Through prayer, consistent practice, and deepening our relationship with Him, our spiritual perceptions are refined, enabling us to experience the beauty, hope, and power of His presence in our lives.

Mary’s encounter at the tomb highlights the importance of spiritual clarity. When we’re overwhelmed by grief and distractions, our vision can become clouded; however, the Lord’s voice can pierce that chaos, offering us understanding and peace. A healthy soul, connected to God, is vital for seeing clearly and living the life the Father has called us to.  

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© Dr. H 2025

Maligned for Living Out Biblical Faith

Maligned for Living Out Biblical Faith

In the same way, let your light shine out for all so that everyone will see your good deeds, and they will praise your heavenly Father. – Matthew 5:16

1 Peter 2:11-21

Dear friends, I warn you, as “temporary residents and foreigners,” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then, even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.

Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God and respect the king. For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment.

Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

Barriers to the Free Expression of Biblical Belief

Large areas around the world remain closed to the free expression and practice of biblical Christianity due to cultural, religious, or geographical barriers. In many places, preaching the gospel is strictly prohibited, leaving countless individuals unaware of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Despite these challenges, God has found ways to spread His word. “Underground churches” exist in these regions, demonstrating the resilience of faith. However, if people cannot openly share the gospel, how does the word of God reach others?

Living Out Faith Authentically

As children of the King, we have both the freedom and responsibility to live out our faith authentically. When we do so, our positive attitude and joyful spirit, even in the face of extreme hardship, often draw others’ attention. This curiosity can lead to personal questions, opening opportunities to share our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

However, this visible faith through right living can also provoke suspicion or envy. The good deeds of believers may be met with false accusations or unwarranted charges. This is precisely what Peter foretold, 1 Peter 2:11-12: “Dear friends, I warn you as temporary residents and foreigners to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then, even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

The Power of a Life Well-Lived

As we navigate through life, those around us are constantly observing, whether at home, work, school, or social gatherings. Our actions and attitudes make a lasting impression. It is essential for children of the King to rely on the Father for guidance and strength in their thoughts and actions.

William J. Toms urged, “Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some person ever reads.” Similarly, you may be the only Jesus that some people ever see. As children of the King, we are called to embody and demonstrate to those around us what the Lord Jesus Christ would look like if He were present on earth today.

Most people would rather witness a sermon lived out than hear one spoken.

A Call to Action

St. Francis of Assisi famously said, “Preach the gospel all the time, and, if necessary, use words.” This profound statement reminds us that our lives should reflect the gospel in every action, even when words are not spoken.

The apostle Paul asserted, Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Father, help me live in such a way that Your name is honored wherever I go. May my life be a reflection of Your love and truth, drawing others closer to You.

INSIGHT

What is Right Living?

Peter provides a clear and concise explanation of what it means to live rightly as children of the King. He encourages believers to live in a way that reflects their faith and moral character, especially in the presence of unbelieving neighbors.

1 Peter 2:12: “Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles.”

Behavior and Conduct

The Greek word translated as “behavior” or “conduct” is anastrophe. Anastrophe refers to “a person’s entire way of life, encompassing their moral character, actions, and overall conduct, not just their words.” It aligns with the well-known adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” When our actions fail to align with our words, the credibility of our message is diminished.

Interestingly, anastrophe is a neutral term, much like the word “passion.” “It can refer to either good or bad conduct, depending on the context.” However, Peter is clear in his instruction: the behavior of the children of the King must be excellent.

The Beauty of Excellence: Kalos

The Greek word translated as “excellent” or “good” is kalos. This word goes “beyond mere goodness; it conveys a sense of loveliness, elegance, and beauty.” Kalos describes something that is “fine, attractive, and pleasing, something that embodies harmonious completeness, balance, and proportion.”

When children of the King allow the Lord Jesus Christ to live through them, their lives exhibit a Christlike beauty. Their behavior reflects His character, attracting others to the gospel through the loveliness of their actions.

The Aroma of Christlike Living

Living a Christlike life produces a spiritual fragrance that is both strong and divisive. Paul describes this in his letter to the Corinthians: 2 Corinthians 2:15-16: “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?”

This spiritual aroma, which emanates from a close relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, is perceived differently depending on the person receiving it. To those who are being saved, it is a life-giving perfume that draws them nearer to God. To those who are perishing, it is a dreadful scent, symbolizing death and destruction. The fragrance itself remains the same; its perception is shaped by the heart of the one who receives it.

Adequacy Through God

The immense responsibility of living as a public display of the life and character of the Lord Jesus Christ simply feels overwhelming. Paul himself questioned, “Who is adequate for such a task?” The natural response might be to say no one is capable. However, Paul offers a more profound answer, 2 Corinthians 3:5: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God.”

Children of the King should not rely on their own strength or abilities. Their adequacy comes from God, who empowers them to live in a way that reflects Him.

The Impact of Christian Living

In the early days of the Church, Christians faced a flood of slander and baseless accusations from the surrounding Gentile society. Despite this wave of hostility, they shone brightly through the radiant beauty of their lives and their cheerful, honorable conduct. Their steadfast faith and compassion became a shining beacon of hope, capturing the hearts of those initially skeptical. Through acts of kindness and the strength of their convictions, they skillfully turned misconceptions into understanding, inviting the curious and doubtful to discover the deep truths of Christianity.

As William Barclay notes: “In the early Church, this demonstration of the loveliness of the Christian life was necessary above all because of the slanders that were deliberately circulated about the Christian Church. The striking fact of history is that by their lives, the Christians actually did defeat the slanders of the Gentile world . . .. Here is our challenge and our inspiration. It is by the loveliness of our daily life and conduct that we must commend Christianity to those who do not believe.”

This challenge is still relevant today. Believers are called to live in a way that serves as a testimony to the world. Paul writes Philippians 2:15: “Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.”

A Call to Shine

Right living goes beyond simply avoiding wrongdoing; it involves embodying the beauty, balance, and grace of Christ in every aspect of life. As children of the King, believers are called to shine brightly in a dark world, attracting others to the truth of the gospel through their actions and character.

The gospel is not limited to words; it is demonstrated through the lives of those who follow Christ. In places where verbal proclamation is restricted, the actions and attitudes of believers often serve as the most powerful testimony of God’s love and grace.

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© Dr. H 2025

Even though I ______, God had mercy

Even though I ______, God had mercy

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. – 1 Timothy 1:12

1 Timothy 1:12-16

 12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him,

 13 even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief.

 14 Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.

Internal Nagging Accusations

Have you ever found yourself grappling with that persistent, nagging voice inside you, echoing in the depths of your mind, that relentlessly whispers you are unworthy, hopeless, guilty, pitiful, and simply unusable in God’s eyes? This inner voice can take many forms, often serving as a relentless reminder of your weaknesses, flaws, and shortcomings. It can make you feel completely powerless, like a marionette whose strings have been cut, leaving you haunted by the thought that you will never meet expectations. The word “failure” seems to reverberate in your mind, intensifying feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. You may feel like you fall tragically short of God’s high standards.

As you go through your day, you might notice that your thoughts drift toward deep-seated feelings of shame and guilt, linked to memories of past missteps. These could be the shadowy remnants of decisions that veered away from the path of righteousness, moments where you chose rebellion over obedience. Each memory can weigh heavily on your heart, as if wearing a cloak made of regret that suffocates any sense of peace. You may come to believe that your hands are stained by your mistakes, and the idea that your heart is somehow tainted fills you with an overwhelming sense of disgrace before the Father. This feeling can be so intense that it creates the illusion of an impenetrable barrier, making a close walk with the Lord Jesus Christ seem completely out of reach.

Too often, this oppressive inner dialogue drags your spirit down, making you feel as if you are under an enormous burden: “I can never become the person the Father envisions for me.” The gnawing guilt and suffocating shame can stalk you like insidious phantoms, lurking just beyond your conscious thoughts, following you throughout the day, and invading your dreams at night. These feelings creep into your mind as you close your eyes, turning rest into a turmoil-filled space, perpetuating a cycle of despair that feels impossible to break.

As David Wilkerson noted, “That is the hounding voice of the devil – the accuser of the brethren! He tells you, ‘God can’t use you until you sit down and get this thing figured out. You can’t even come into his house until you’ve made yourself worthy!’”

A Shared Struggle

This experience resonates deeply in the hearts of the children of the King, weaving a poignant narrative of struggle and redemption. The esteemed Puritan minister William Bradford once expressed his profound inner turmoil, lamenting, “I think sometimes I have the blackest heart in all of Europe.” His words carry a chilling intensity, shedding light on the insidious nature of the devil’s accusations, deceptive whispers that seek to paralyze our hearts and hinder our devoted service to God.

Amid this relentless and formidable spiritual warfare, we find ourselves in the company of revered figures such as Paul and Peter. The apostle Paul exemplifies the transformative power of grace; he was not merely granted a second chance but received an entirely new life in Christ. Although he carried the burden of his past like a heavy shroud, he refused to be shackled by it, courageously embracing his calling and the mission ahead.

Paul boldly proclaimed in 1 Timothy 1:12-13: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The reality is that the Father is gracious, merciful, kind, and forgiving. God accepts us in our current state and helps us grow as we serve Him. The slate has been wiped clean through forgiveness, giving us a new life. The past is truly behind us.

Father, thank You for fully forgiving me for everything I have done. You wiped the slate clean. I have been born again to an entirely new life. The past is past!

The Paradox of the “Chief of Sinners”

When contemplating the identity of history’s greatest sinner, many automatically conjure up notorious figures who caused great suffering or perhaps the infamous Judas, who betrayed Christ with a kiss. However, surprisingly, the person who claims this dubious title is the apostle Paul.

His story, filled with transformation and contradictions, challenges our ideas of sin and redemption. It shows a complex character whose passion and intensity once led him to persecute the very followers he would later champion.

Paul unabashedly asserts, 1 Timothy 1:15: “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.”

The King James Version renders this as, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” The competition for the greatest sinner has, by this account, already been decided. That distinction was claimed by none other than the apostle Paul, self-identified as “the chief of sinners.”

Peter’s Moment of Failure

The apostle Peter can be seen as a close second in terms of deep human failure, right alongside the toughest tests of faith. Before the pivotal night, the Lord foresaw the struggles awaiting Peter, predicting he would falter under the enemy’s influence. This prediction starkly contrasted with Peter’s passionate declarations of loyalty, where he confidently swore he was ready to lay down his life for Jesus Christ.

In the poignant words of Luke 22:31-32, we hear the Lord’s solemn warning, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Within this solemn declaration, there is a glimmer of hope: the idea that Peter, despite his looming failure, would ultimately find his way back, repent, and become a source of strength for others.

However, as the dark hour approached, the tragedy unfolded exactly as predicted. In the shadow of the impending crucifixion, Peter, overwhelmed by fear and confusion, denied knowing Jesus not once, but three times, his heart burdened by the very despair he had vowed to resist.

As Luke states in Luke 22:60-62: “But Peter said, ‘Man, I do not know what you are talking about.’ Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, ‘Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly.”

Pause for a moment and imagine the scene: as Jesus is being led to his death, He makes direct eye contact with Peter at the exact moment of his third denial. The shame and guilt must have been overwhelming. Peter’s bitter weeping reveals the crushing weight on his conscience. Consider the immense struggle it must have been to live with such a haunting memory. Yet in fact, this is precisely what we often do with our shameful memories, allowing them to shape our inner dread.

Redemption and Forward Movement

When we reflect on our own failures and mistakes, do they compare to those of two of the greatest apostles, Paul and Peter? Their stories highlight a key truth: the Lord Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. Their examples inspire us to let go of the past and commit to moving forward in service to our King.

By the way, fill in the blank for yourself: Even though I ______, God had mercy.

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© Dr. H 2025