Human Challenge Trials ∙∙

Human Challenge Trials ∙∙

We hope with all our hearts that each one of you will display the same zeal to make your hope come true and that you will continue doing so until the end so that you may not become lazily lethargic but may copy those who, through faith and patience, inherit the promises. – Hebrews 6:11,12

Hebrews 6:9-12

 9 Dear friends, even though we are talking this way, we really don’t believe it applies to you. We are confident that you are meant for better things, things that come with salvation.

 10 For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have shown your love to him by caring for other believers, as you still do.

 11 Our great desire is that you will keep on loving others as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true.

 12 Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance.

The Race for a Vaccine: A Global Challenge

With the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the world faced an urgent need for a vaccine. Confidence was high that an effective vaccine could be developed, but initial projections estimated a timeframe of 12 to 18 months for thorough testing and approval for widespread use. During this period, millions of lives would be lost, and the virus would infect countless others.

An Unconventional Approach: Human Challenge Trials

In the midst of this crisis, an unconventional idea gained traction to accelerate vaccine development: human challenge trials. These trials involve volunteers receiving a potential vaccine and then being deliberately exposed to the virus to test the vaccine’s efficacy. While the concept seemed outlandish to some, it was not entirely novel.

In April 2020, 35 members of the U.S. House of Representatives urged the FDA to consider allowing such trials. The approach was likened to dangerous, even life-threatening missions undertaken during wartime. Despite the risks, the idea resonated with many.

A Global Response: Volunteers Step Forward

By late September 2020, the website 1daysooner.org had registered 37,254 volunteers from 162 countries, all willing to participate in human challenge trials. These individuals understood the risks, including the possibility of severe illness or death, yet they were motivated by the potential to save lives.

Scientists believed that such trials could significantly reduce the time required for final vaccine testing. However, many in the medical community viewed the proposal as “ethically unthinkable.” The idea of intentionally exposing humans to a deadly virus raised serious ethical concerns.

Altruism in Action: Sacrificing for the Greater Good

For the volunteers, it was an entirely different affair. Their focus was on the results, not the risk. Their decision was rooted in altruism. One volunteer remarked, “Times like these call for people who are able to be brave and put themselves forward for the greater good of society. This may be the defining period of my lifetime.” Their willingness to sacrifice for others is rare but not unprecedented, particularly in times of crisis.

There are moments when what is deemed “ethically unthinkable” becomes “ethically imperative.” Such personal sacrifice for the good of others seems almost unthinkable. But nothing could be further from the truth.

REFLECT & PRAY

Self-sacrifice for the greater good may seem almost unheard. When does what is considered “ethically unthinkable” become an ethical imperative? The most remarkable and far-reaching act of self-sacrifice took place over two thousand years ago.

Father, thank You that You loved each of us individually enough to send the Lord Jesus Christ to die in our place, the One for the many. As a result, we will not perish but have everlasting life.

INSIGHT

The Precedent Was Set 2000 Years Ago

The most extraordinary, irrevocable example of self-sacrifice was set in 33 AD. Humanity, ruined by sin and helpless, was in need of rescue. Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

His sacrifice was the ultimate act of love and redemption, the One giving His life for the many.

Christ’s Sacrifice for Humanity

Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

The Greek word translated as “ransom” in this verse is lutron, which refers to “the price paid to free slaves.” In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from the payment itself to its results: redemption, deliverance, and release. This powerful idea highlights the liberty Christ secured for humanity through His sacrifice.

The word “for” in this verse is translated from the Greek word anti, which carries a deeper meaning. In addition to “for,” it can also mean “instead of,” “on behalf of,” “in place of,” or “in exchange.” This highlights the substitutionary nature of Christ’s sacrifice; He gave His life in our place.

The Lord Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price, laying down His life to provide redemption and release for all children of the King. This was not just an act of service; it was the greatest act of love in human history.

The Greatest Love of All

John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”

While this verse speaks of the ultimate love one can show for their friends, Christ’s sacrifice went far beyond this. He did not die only for His friends; He died for the entire world.

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

This act of love was not limited to those who loved Him in return. It extended to all humanity, even to those who were estranged from God. Christ’s death was the ultimate expression of altruism, surpassing any human example of self-sacrifice.

Christ’s Sacrifice

The apostle Paul reflects deeply on the unparalleled nature of Christ’s love and sacrifice.

Romans 5:5-8: “For we know how dearly God loves us because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for an especially good person. But God demonstrated his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.”

Paul emphasizes that Christ’s death was not for the righteous or the deserving but for sinners, those who were utterly helpless and undeserving of such grace. This sets Christ’s sacrifice apart from any other act of altruism in history.

Dying for Enemies: A Unique Sacrifice

One of the most remarkable aspects of Christ’s death is that He died for humanity while we were still enemies of God.

Romans 5:10: “For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.”

The challenge before the Father and the Son was immense: how could they reconcile rebellious, defiant sinners to themselves? The answer was found in the death of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Father’s love made it “ethically imperative” to send His one and only Son as a sacrifice for the many. It was, in essence, a “suicide mission” undertaken for the sake of humanity.

The Result of Christ’s Sacrifice

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

Through Christ’s death, humanity was offered a way out of a hopeless situation. Sin had enslaved humanity, leaving no escape. But Christ’s sacrifice broke the deadlock, offering redemption and new life.

As William Barclay eloquently explains: “All humanity was involved in a situation from which there was no escape; sin had human beings in its power, and there was no hope. Into this situation came Jesus Christ, and he brought with him something that broke the old deadlock. By what he did, by what he is, by what he gives, he enabled men and women to escape from a situation in which they were hopelessly dominated by sin . . . it is completely true that the world was ruined by sin and rescued by Christ.”

A Love Beyond Comprehension

The sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ is an extraordinary act of love and redemption. It was more than just an act of kindness; it was a divine intervention designed to rescue humanity from the grip of sin. Through His death, Christ provided a way for everyone to be reconciled to God, offering eternal life to those who believe.  

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© Dr. H 2025

Commander-in-Chief ∙∙

Commander-in-Chief ∙∙

I come now as captain of the host of the LORD. – Joshua 5:14

Joshua 5:13-15

 13 When Joshua was near the town of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a sword in hand. Joshua went up to him and demanded, “Are you friend or foe?”

 14 “Neither one,” he replied. “I am the commander of the LORD’s army.” At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence. “I am at your command,” Joshua said. “What do you want your servant to do?”

 15 The commander of the LORD’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did as he was told.

A Story of Leadership and Triumph

In 1966, the movie Cast a Giant Shadow was released, portraying Israel’s struggle for survival as a newborn nation during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The film highlighted the immense challenges faced by the Israelis, including disunity and a lack of organization among the various loosely connected paramilitary groups fighting for the nation’s survival.

David Daniel “Mickey” Marcus, a United States Army colonel, was recruited to serve as modern Israel’s first general. He was tasked with uniting and commanding the diverse military units of the fledgling Israeli Defense Forces (IDF).

Kirk Douglas portrayed Marcus in the film. To protect his identity, the Haganah provided him with a false passport under the alias “Michael Stone,” and he became known as Aluf Stone. The Israelis faced overwhelming odds, outnumbered 50 to 1 by the combined Arab armies. The Arab forces, equipped with modern military weapons including fighter aircraft, tanks, artillery, and guns, sought to annihilate every living Jew. In contrast, the Israelis had almost nothing. Yet, Aluf Stone led the nascent IDF to victory.

The Meaning of “Aluf”

The Hebrew term aluf originally referred to a “tribal chief, captain, head, ruler, or leader.” Specifically, it denoted “a leader or chief over a thousand people.” The word is derived from the Hebrew noun elep, meaning “thousand.” Over time, it came to signify a leader over many and, ultimately, “a commander-in-chief.” In modern English, it translates to “general.”

1 Chronicles 13:1: “David consulted with all his officials, including the generals (captains of the thousands) and captains of his army.”

In contemporary Hebrew, aluf also means “champion.” In the present-day Israeli Defense Forces, the military rank of “major general” is known as aluf.

Our Champion and Commander

As children of the King, we too have a great leader, a champion, and the commander of the LORD’s army. The Lord Jesus Christ stands as our ultimate commander-in-chief, guiding and leading us in every aspect of our lives.

Hebrews 12:2: “Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The Lord Jesus Christ is not only the one who begins the process of our faith but also the one who brings it to completion. He ensures that the work He starts in us is finished.

Father, help me to fix my eyes entirely on the Lord Jesus Christ and to follow His leadership faithfully. May I reflect on Him moment by moment, just as I instinctively breathe moment by moment.

INSIGHT

Heroes of Faith: A Legacy of Inspiration

Throughout the millennia, the children of the King have lived lives marked by faith, confidence, consistency, and trust. The eleventh chapter of Hebrews recounts their remarkable stories. By faith, they sought to walk with God, diligently pursuing His will. Many of these heroes are named, beginning with Abel and Noah and continuing through David, Samuel, and the prophets (Hebrews 11:4-32). These individuals lived and died by faith, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering trust in God.

These narratives of historical figures serve not only as records of the past. They are meant to inspire us to live as they did, emulating their character, faithfulness, and resilience. It is as though they are watching us from above, cheering us on as we run our own race of faith.

Hebrews 12:1 asserts: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, 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.”

The Race of Life

The Father has entered each of His children in the race of life, with the ultimate goal of victory. He is not a passive observer; He actively cheers us on to win. Just as athletes running a race focus their minds and eyes on the finish line, we are called to fix our attention on the Lord Jesus Christ, turning away from distractions.

The apostle Paul explains, 1 Corinthians 9:24: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.”

A Strategy for Success

The book of Hebrews provides a clear strategy for running this race successfully. It starts with removing anything that slows us down or trips us up, especially recurring sins. By shedding these obstacles, we can run with determination and perseverance toward victory.

The key to achieving success rests in a principle that is elegantly simple yet deeply profound, clearly articulated in Hebrews 12:2: “We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.”

Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus

The Greek word translated as “fixing our eyes” or “keeping our eyes” is aphorao. This term literally means “to look away from all else.” It conveys the idea of “focusing intently on one thing, giving it undivided attention, free of distractions.”

We are called to focus entirely on the Lord Jesus Christ. The UBS commentary translates it as “constantly thinking about Jesus.” He should be our “steady state.” “Our minds should instinctively return to Him,” just like a compass needle always points north. When we are not occupied with other tasks, our thoughts should naturally center on Him.

Jesus: Our Champion and Trailblazer

The Lord Jesus Christ is described as our champion, our aluf. The Greek word translated as “author,” “pioneer,” “founder,” or “leader” is archegos. This term paints a vivid picture of “someone who blazes a trail for others to follow.” In the context of the old West, He is like a scout sent ahead to prepare the way. In football, He is the blocker who clears the path for the running back.

The strategy is simple: He leads, and we follow.

The Perfecter of Our Faith

But there is more. The Greek word translated as “perfecter” is teleiotes. This term refers to “someone who brings something to completion without defect or blemish.” In baseball, this would be the closer, the relief pitcher who steps in at the end of the game to secure the final outs and ensure victory.

The Lord Jesus Christ is not only the one who begins the process of faith but also the one who completes it. He is the creator, sustainer, and finisher of faith for the children of the King. He makes faith possible, calls us to it, inspires us within it, and ensures that we complete the tasks the Father has set before us.

1 Corinthians 15:57: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!”

The Dread Champion

The prophet Jeremiah offers a powerful description of the Lord: Jeremiah 20:11: “The LORD is with me like a dread champion.”

The apostle John echoes this sentiment, declaring that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.

Revelation 21:6: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.”

Conclusion

The story of Aluf Stone highlights the power of leadership, unity, and perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds. As children of the King, we are called to follow the leadership of our ultimate champion, the Lord Jesus Christ, who guides us to victory in both faith and life.

The race of life is filled with challenges, but we are not alone. We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who inspire us with their faith, all while being led by the ultimate champion, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the trailblazer who clears the path and the perfecter who ensures our victory. By keeping our eyes fixed on Him, we can run with endurance and finish the race that is set before us.

Dare to be like Joshua. Joshua 5:14 “I am the commander of the LORD’s army.” At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence and said, “I am at your command. What do you want your servant to do?”

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© Dr. H 2025

Hated for Believing in Christ

Hated for Believing in Christ

If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. – John 15:18

1 Peter 4:12-16

 12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.

 13 Instead, be glad – for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.

 14 So be happy when you are insulted for being a Christian, for then the glorious Spirit of God rests upon you.

 16 But it is no shame to suffer for being a Christian. Praise God for the privilege of being called by his name!

Watchman Nee

Watchman Nee was born Ni Tuosheng in China on November 4, 1903. He was one of the most influential Christian leaders and writers of the 20th century. Raised in a devout Christian family, his mother, Lin He-Ping, was a fervent believer who played a significant role in shaping his early spiritual foundation. Despite his Christian upbringing, Nee did not initially embrace the faith.

Nee’s life took a dramatic turn in the spring of 1920 when he attended a revival meeting led by the renowned evangelist Dora Yu. At the age of 17, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening. According to Nee’s own account, the evening of April 28, 1920, became a pivotal moment in his life.

Wrestling with God

Alone in his room, he wrestled with the decision to accept Christ. As he prayed, he became deeply aware of his sins and the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. Nee was overwhelmed by His love and grace. In his own words, “I visualized the Lord’s hands stretched out on the cross; they seemed to be welcoming me, and the Lord was saying, ‘I am waiting here to receive you.’”

“Realizing the effectiveness of Christ’s blood in cleansing my sins and being overwhelmed by such love, I accepted Him there. Previously, I had laughed at people who had accepted Jesus, but that evening the experience became real for me, and I wept and confessed my sins, seeking the Lord’s forgiveness.”

“As I made my first prayer, I knew joy and peace such as I had never known before. Light seemed to flood the room, and I said to the Lord, ‘Oh, Lord, you have indeed been gracious to me’.”  

Foundational Teachings and Ministry

Following his commitment to Christ, Watchman Nee immersed himself in the study of the Bible and Christian literature. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of the Plymouth Brethren, which emphasized the authority of Scripture, the priesthood of all believers, and the simplicity of church gatherings. From these teachings, Nee adopted essential principles, including the plurality of elders, the centrality of the Lord’s Supper in worship, and the rejection of a hierarchical distinction between clergy and laity.

In 1922, Nee began holding church meetings in Fuzhou, which are considered the foundation of the local church movement. Over his thirty-year ministry, he established churches throughout China and organized conferences to train Bible students and church workers.

Watchman Nee was a prolific writer, and his books and sermons have had a lasting impact on Christians worldwide. Some of his most notable works include:

  • The Normal Christian Life: A foundational book that examines the believer’s identification with Christ in His death and resurrection.
  • Sit, Walk, Stand: A concise yet insightful study of the book of Ephesians, emphasizing the believer’s position in Christ, their walk in the world, and their stand against spiritual opposition.
  • The Spiritual Man: An in-depth work on the three-part nature of humanity, spirit, soul, and body, and the believer’s journey toward spiritual maturity.

Persecution and Imprisonment

The rise of the Chinese Communist Party in 1949 brought significant challenges to Watchman Nee and his ministry. The Communist regime viewed Christianity as a threat to its ideology and sought to suppress religious activities. Nee’s bold proclamation of the gospel and his leadership of the local church movement made him a target of intense persecution.

In 1952, Nee was arrested on charges of “counter-revolutionary activities” and accused of leading an “anti-revolutionary sect.” Despite the harsh treatment he endured, Nee remained steadfast in his faith. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison, but his imprisonment extended far beyond that. During his incarceration, he was subjected to severe conditions, including isolation and forced labor. The Communist authorities sought to break his spirit and force him to renounce his faith, but Nee’s unwavering commitment to Christ remained unshaken.

Final Words

For two decades, Watchman Nee endured imprisonment, separated from his family and fellow believers. His letters and notes from prison reveal a man who, despite immense suffering, continued to trust in God’s sovereignty and grace. His final words, written on a piece of paper found under his pillow after his death on May 30, 1972, encapsulate his unyielding faith: “Christ is the Son of God who died for the redemption of sinners and resurrected after three days. This is the greatest truth in the universe. I die because of my belief in Christ.”

REFLECT & PRAY

There is nothing odd about being at odds with the world. It is perfectly normal.

Father, thank You for reminding us that this world is not our final home. Instead, we look forward to being with You with your Forever Family in the heavenly places.

INSIGHT

Living at Odds with the World

A profound tension exists between the world and the Father, along with His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. The Father’s profound love for the world is demonstrated by His decision to send His Son to atone for humanity’s sins. John 3:16 states, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

However, the world’s response to this love is often one of hatred. The world despises the Father and the Son.  The world hates the very name of Jesus Christ.

This hostility extends to the children of the King. The world also hates us. As followers of Christ, we shouldn’t be surprised when we are misunderstood, disliked, or mistreated. The Apostle Peter, in his first letter to the Jews for Jesus, articulated a vital truth: enduring suffering for one’s faith is not uncommon or extraordinary, but rather a normal part of our spiritual journey to maturity.

1 Peter 4:12-13 reminds us, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though something strange were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing.”

Following in the Footsteps of Christ

The Lord Jesus Christ, as the Father’s Suffering Servant, set the ultimate example of enduring persecution for the sake of truth. When we suffer for our faith, we are following in His footsteps. The standards and values of the world often conflict with those of God’s children, creating tension and hostility. Christians are called to uphold moral standards that challenge the world’s conscience, which can sometimes lead to resentment. As Barclay observed, “The very goodness of Christianity can be an offense to a world in which goodness is regarded as a handicap.”

Watchman Nee: A Modern Example of Persecution

Watchman Nee’s unwavering dedication to the gospel ultimately led to his imprisonment and, ultimately, his death. Nee, a faithful servant of Christ, was condemned for his consistent proclamation of the truth. His conviction echoes the trial of Jesus Christ, who was also judged and condemned for speaking the truth. His life serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and challenges involved in discipleship.

Mark 14:61-64 recounts this moment:

“Then the high priest asked him, ‘Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?’
Jesus said, ‘I AM. And you will see the Son of Man seated in the place of power at God’s right hand and coming on the clouds of heaven.’
Then the high priest tore his clothing to show his horror and said, ‘Why do we need other witnesses? You have all heard his blasphemy. What is your verdict?’
‘Guilty!’ they all cried. ‘He deserves to die!’”

Overcoming the World Through Christ

Despite the challenges children of the King face, the Lord Jesus Christ offers hope and confidence. John 16:33 declares, “In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” Charles Stanley asks, How could Jesus, on the verge of crucifixion, claim to have overcome the world?  Stanley answers. “Jesus overcame the world by obeying His Father despite all challenges and opposition.”

In the same way, we are called to be overcomers. Revelation 3:21 promises, “He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.”

Waiting for the Return of Christ

The blessed hope for children of the King is in the return of Jesus Christ. Although the wait might seem long, God’s timing is perfect. What feels like a long wait to us is not seen the same way by God, since He does not measure time the way we do. During these seasons of waiting, we are called to trust His eternal perspective and to let our trials shape us. These experiences provide avenues for growth, enhance our faith, and deepen our reliance on Him.

Conclusion

Living at odds with the world is an inherent part of the Christian life. As children of the King, we are called to stand firm in our faith, even in the face of persecution and rejection. Our hope lies in the victory of Christ, who has overcome the world, and in the promise of His return, when we will dwell with Him in eternal glory. John 14:2-3 assures us, “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.”

Watchman Nee’s life stood as a testament to unwavering faith and devotion to Christ. His teachings and writings continue to inspire Christians worldwide, reminding believers of the cost of discipleship and the eternal hope found in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Living in a world that often opposes our beliefs is a fundamental part of the Christian journey. As followers of Christ, we must remain firm in our faith despite challenges and rejection, trusting in His victory and the promise of eternal life with Him. Watchman Nee exemplified this unwavering faith, enduring intense persecution even unto death. “I die because of my belief in Christ.”

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© Dr. H 2025

Be a better listener ∙

Be a better listener ∙

Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God. – John 8:47

John 8:42-46

Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me.

Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!

For you are the children of your father, the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

So, when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me!

Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin?”

The Power of High-Quality Listening

Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic emphasizes the importance of listening in his article, stating, “High-quality listening is an underrated ability. How well and frequently you listen to others is a better predictor of your leadership potential than your actual intelligence or personality” (How to Become a Better Listener, Chamorro-Premuzic, fastcompany.com). Research shows that good listeners not only perform better at work but also cultivate more meaningful and fulfilling relationships. These individuals are viewed as trustworthy, curious, empathetic, and emotionally intelligent.

Why Is Good Listening So Rare?

Chamorro-Premuzic points out that contemporary culture often praises behaviors such as self-promotion, attention-seeking, and long-windedness, even when there is little substance or value to share. This societal tendency makes the art of listening a rare and underappreciated skill.

A Simple Formula for Better Listening

Is it possible to become a better listener? Chamorro-Premuzic offers a straightforward approach to becoming a better listener:

  1. Shut up.
  2. Listen.
  3. Repeat.

Although the concept may seem simple, mastering this formula demands both intentionality and consistent practice.

Four Keys to High-Quality Listening

Chamorro-Premuzic identifies four essential components of effective listening:

1. Focus: Give your undivided attention. This means removing distractions and being completely present in the moment.

2. Empathy: See the world from another person’s point of view. Empathy involves stepping outside your own ego to understand someone else’s experience. However, empathy must be combined with thoughtful kindness and compassion to be effective.

3. Self-Control: Manage your emotions and practice mindfulness to prevent impulsive interruptions. Simply put: don’t interrupt.

4. Inclusion: When it’s your turn to speak, include the perspectives and statements of others in the conversation. This shows you’ve truly listened and valued their input.

Listening in Our Relationship with God

If high-quality listening is vital for nurturing human relationships, how much more important is it for our connection with the Father? Scripture continuously encourages us to listen intentionally to His voice, drawing us into a deeper, more profound, transformative relationship.

Luke 14:35 asserts, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!”

Listening to God is a deeply intentional act, much like the way we engage with those around us. It demands our full attention and presence. To truly listen to God, we must cultivate focus, setting aside distractions and immersing ourselves in His instruction and guidance.

Empathy is just as important; we must approach our understanding of His Word with an open heart, striving to grasp the depth of His messages and how they connect with our own experiences.

Self-discipline is crucial. It involves taking a moment to think before we act, making sure our reactions align with His gentleness, kindness, and empathy rather than our personal biases or emotional impulses. This practice helps us stay grounded in our faith, enabling us to absorb His teachings and put them into practice effectively.

We are encouraged to integrate His Word, guidance, and perspective into our thoughts, decisions, and actions. It’s more than just hearing or understanding what God says; it’s about making His voice central to how we live and interact with the world around us.

Ultimately, listening to God is not merely about hearing His Word; it is about putting His Word into action. It calls us to embody His teachings in our day-to-day lives.

REFLECT & PRAY

Charles Stanley sagaciously observes, “Our culture tends to consider people ‘spiritual’ merely if they have an interest in spiritual things. That is not the biblical perspective. Only those who hear God’s voice and obey it are spiritual.”


Father, help me become a better listener, not only to those around me but, more importantly, to You and Your Word. Empower me to do more than just hear; guide me to act, becoming a doer rather than just an auditor.

INSIGHT

The Importance of Hearing and Recognizing God’s Voice

In a world filled with distractions and competing voices, it is essential to learn how to hear and recognize the Father’s voice. Many influences compete for our attention, making it crucial to discern His voice amid the noise. Developing this skill requires time, experience, and intentional effort.

The familiarity of a loved one’s voice serves as a powerful analogy. For example, even decades after a loved one has passed away, many can still recall their mother’s voice with clarity. The same is true for fathers, siblings, and other significant people in our lives. This deep recognition results from years of building relationships and fostering connections. Similarly, as children of the King, we are called to know and recognize the voice of our Heavenly Father.

Sometimes He speaks softly, only a whisper, as He did to Elijah, 1 Kings 19:12: “A still small voice.”

However, hearing His voice and understanding His Word is only the beginning.

Hearing and Doing: A Call to Action

Merely hearing God’s Word is not sufficient. As children of the King, we are called to act on what we hear. Zane Hodges explains, “James’s readers must never allow themselves to become mere auditors of the Word; instead, they must obey it. Here, of course, James trades on the fact that the word hear, in both Hebrew and Greek, can mean either mere sensory audition or it can also mean ‘to hear responsively,’ i.e., ‘to obey.’”

James 1:19: “Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”

To be “swift to hear” goes beyond simply listening. At its core, it means being swift to obey. Hodges further emphasizes, “If the readers ever thought that mere attention to the Scriptures was enough, they were mistaken. With such a view, they would be deceiving themselves.”

The Danger of Being a Passive Hearer

Warren Wiersbe cautions against the common misconception that merely hearing a sermon or going to a Bible study automatically results in spiritual maturity. Wiersbe writes, “It is not enough to hear the Word; we must do it. Many people have the mistaken idea that hearing a good sermon or Bible study is what makes them grow and get God’s blessing. It is not the hearing but the doing that brings the blessing. Too many Christians mark their Bibles, but their Bibles never mark them! If you think you are spiritual because you hear the Word, then you are only kidding yourself.”

James 1:22-25: “Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. If anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the law of liberty and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this person will be blessed in what he does.”

The imagery James uses is striking. A person who hears the Word but does not act on it is like someone who glances in a mirror, only to forget their reflection immediately. This fleeting interaction with the truth leaves no lasting impact. In contrast, the one who looks intently at God’s perfect law and lives it out is transformed and blessed.

Consistency in Living Out God’s Word

Living out God’s principles requires both consistency and conviction. As Wiersbe points out, “The person who lives out God’s principles is consistent in their convictions.” We seriously damage our spiritual lives when we expose ourselves to the Bible but fail to act on what we read. It’s easy to misjudge our spiritual condition when we rationalize inaction or confuse knowledge with obedience.

True spiritual growth comes from aligning our actions with God’s Word. While hearing is an essential first step, it is our actions that bring about transformation and blessings. By becoming effective doers, we reflect the character of Christ and express our faith in a manner that honors Him.

Listening is more than a passive act; it is an active discipline that transforms our relationships with others and with the Father. By cultivating the skill of high-quality listening, we not only reflect Christ’s love but also deepen our spiritual walk.

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© Dr. H 2025

Innocent Fun or A Celebration of Darkness?

Innocent Fun or A Celebration of Darkness?

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. –

Ephesians 5:1

3 John 1:11 Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. Whoever does good is from God; whoever does evil has not seen God.

October, the Month of Halloween

As the leaves change color and a chill fills the air with the arrival of October, store shelves come alive with costumes, an array of candy and treats, and spooky, often macabre decorations of ghosts, ghouls, and goblins. Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, is a day that many eagerly look forward to. But have you ever wondered what Halloween actually celebrates?

The Ancient Origins of Halloween

The history of Halloween is far from merely innocent fun; it is deeply rooted in ancient pagan rituals. This celebration dates back over 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced “sow-in”). The Celts lived in what is now Ireland and Great Britain. They celebrated the start of their new year on November 1st. A day that signified the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the dark, cold winter. Winter was a time they associated with darkness and death.

The Celts believed that on the night before the new year, October 31st, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. They thought the spirits of the dead returned to earth. To protect themselves from these spirits, they would light bonfires and wear costumes, often made from animal heads and skins. These customs were rooted in pagan beliefs, fear, and superstition, not faith in the God of the Scriptures.

All Saints’ Eve

In an attempt to Christianize this pagan festival, the church in the 8th century designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a.k.a. All Hallows’ Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs.

The night of October 31st is celebrated as All Hallows’ Eve, commonly known as Halloween, which signifies the evening before All Saints’ Day. The term “Halloween,” derived from the phrase “All Hallows’ Eve,” marks the night before All Hallows’ Day.

The word “hallow” originates from Old English, meaning “holy” or “saint,” and is linked to the term “hallowed,” as seen in the phrase “hallowed be Thy name” from the Lord’s Prayer.

Furthermore, the contraction “E’en,” short for “evening,” contributes to the development of “All Hallows’ Eve.” This phrase was eventually shortened to “Hallowe’en,” and over time, the apostrophe was dropped, resulting in the modern spelling of “Halloween.”

However, this attempt to rebrand the celebration did not erase its dark origins. Instead, the pagan traditions largely overshadowed the Christian observance, merging into the holiday we see today.

The “Night on Bald Mountain”

This dark, spiritual undertone has been reflected in culture for centuries. A notable example is Modest Mussorgsky’s “Night on Bald Mountain,” famously animated by Disney in the movie Fantasia. The piece portrays satanic revelry, a witches’ sabbath where demons and evil spirits are summoned to dance and create chaos. This artistic depiction accurately captures the core of what Halloween spiritually symbolizes: a celebration of the forces of darkness. It’s no surprise that many call it “Satan’s holiday,” as it celebrates the very things, death, fear, witchcraft, and the demonic, that stand in direct opposition to God.

Trick-or-Treat: A Tradition of Fear and Mischief

The familiar custom of “Trick-or-Treating” also has less-than-glowing origins. During Samhain festivities, people left food and wine on their doorsteps to appease wandering spirits. Wearing costumes was meant to help individuals blend in with these evil spirits or deceive them.

Over time, this tradition developed into going door-to-door to collect food, where the “trick” served as a subtle threat of mischief unless a “treat” was given.

REFLECT & PRAY

But as children of the King, we are called to be set apart, to be light in a dark world. This often requires that we critically examine the things we take part in, including our participation in prevalent American traditions and practices. When do we cross the line from light into darkness? The line is often quite personal, but the principle of avoiding darkness is not.

Father, thank You for Your clear guidance in our lives. Help us make wise decisions regarding our cultural practices. Grant us hearts that prioritize people over personal preferences, allowing our love to focus on uplifting others rather than proving our own points. May our values and actions reflect Your grace and honor Your name.

INSIGHT

How Do Children of the King Deal with Each Other?

For some children of the King, in light of its pagan roots, consider Halloween to be dark and therefore avoid it. Ephesians 5:11 commands us, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”

For others, it is simply a whimsical, popular holiday enjoyed by children and adults alike. Yet, even if we participate with lighthearted intentions, we are still associating ourselves with a holiday that elevates fear and celebrates dark, supernatural practices.

The apostle Paul offers helpful guidelines to clarify issues and assist in making better choices. In 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Paul addresses the issue of eating food sacrificed to idols. He acknowledges that while idols are not real gods, and that mature Christians understand this, not everyone has the same level of knowledge or spiritual maturity. Some believers, particularly those who are newer in their faith, may still associate eating such food with idol worship, which could harm their conscience.

Paul emphasizes that while Christians have freedom in Christ, this freedom should not be used in a way that causes others to stumble in their faith. He warns that exercising liberty without love can lead to sin against weaker believers and, ultimately, against Christ Himself. The chapter concludes with Paul’s personal commitment to avoid eating meat if it causes another believer to stumble, prioritizing love and the spiritual well-being of others over individual rights.

Putting love before liberty is a guiding principle for children of the King regarding the celebration of Halloween.

Shine a Light: The Rise of Christian Alternatives

Many churches and Christian families have created positive, God-honoring alternatives that redeem the evening and honor the Father. Such events provide opportunities to celebrate the fall season in a way that aligns with their faith, fosters community, and shares the love of Christ. Here are some popular ways to give children a safe, fun, and God-honoring experience.

  • Trunk or Treat: A fun event where families decorate their car trunks and pass out candy to children. This creates a controlled and safe environment for fellowship and fun. It turns an evening into an opportunity for community and outreach, sharing the light of the Lord Jesus Christ with others.
  • Harvest Festival: Celebrate the Fall with activities like hayrides, pumpkin decorating, apple bobbing, and games, highlighting the beauty of the season.
  • Biblical Costume Party: Invite kids and families to dress up as their favorite Bible characters. Include storytelling and games related to these characters.
  • Bible Treasure Hunt: Organize a treasure hunt with Bible-themed clues that lead children to hidden treats. It can be set indoors or outdoors, all with a Fall theme.

Such events are more than mere substitutes; they are valuable opportunities. They help us build a stronger church community, provide a safe space for our children, and demonstrate our faith to those around us. They show that our joy comes not from celebrating darkness, but from the abundant life and fellowship we share in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Wise Choices

Opting out of Halloween celebrations and embracing Christ-centered alternatives should send a clear, positive message. Our decision is not about being overly rigid or legalistic; rather, it reflects our commitment to shine as lights in the darkness.

We celebrate the hope, life, and love found in the Lord Jesus Christ. Our desire to honor God, uphold His values, and protect our families from spiritual influences that contradict His teachings.

We choose to step away from certain actions and avoid activities that conflict with the values we cherish as Christians. Instead of feeling like we’re missing out on fun, we experience deep joy and satisfaction knowing that we celebrate light over darkness, faith over fear, and life over death, focusing on the hope and love we find in the Lord Jesus Christ.

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© Dr. H 2025