How’d They Do That? ∙∙∙

How’d They Do That? ∙∙∙

He makes me as sure-footed as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights. – Psalms 18:33

Psalms 119:133 When a man’s conduct pleases him, the Lord enables him to go through life with confidence (FRCL).

Matthew 18:4-7

Anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.

But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. What sorrow awaits the world because of its stumbling blocks, which tempt people to sin. Temptations are inevitable, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting.

The Remarkable Agility of Mountain Goats

Mountain goats in North America possess an extraordinary ability to climb nearly vertical cliffs effortlessly. As Douglas Chadwick aptly described, they might be “the most accomplished and consummate climbers to ever inhabit any continent.” Erica Tennenhouse further highlights their grace, noting, “Mountain goats can powerfully scale up the most precipitous slopes with the grace of hooved ballerinas.” Their unmatched talent for vertical ascent sets them apart as nature’s ultimate climbers.

Designed for the Heights

Mountain goats are intelligently designed to climb nearly vertical cliffs. They thrive in harsh, rocky environments where few other animals can survive. Their agility and strong grip allow them to ascend steep slopes quickly, gaining about 75 feet in height in just one minute. Their hooves are uniquely specialized for this task. The tough outer shell provides a solid grip on tiny ledges, while the soft pads underneath conform to the mountain’s surfaces, functioning much like modern climbing shoes. Plus, their slender bodies help them stay balanced on narrow, almost invisible ledges. 

2 Samuel 22:34: “He makes me as sure-footed as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.”

The Biblical Context of Surefootedness

The Hebrew word translated as “deer” or “hind” in 2 Samuel 22:34 is ayyalah. The term ayyalah appears only eight times in the Old Testament and refers to a species of deer recognized throughout the ancient Near East. Before Linnaeus developed the modern classification system in the 18th century, animals were often categorized by their functional traits. As a result, agile and sure-footed creatures such as sheep, goats, ibex, deer, and gazelles were commonly grouped together.

In ancient Israel, the local population would not have encountered the North American mountain goat, known for its remarkable climbing abilities. Had they encountered such an animal, it is conceivable that Scripture would have referred to the mountain goat rather than the deer or hind. Nonetheless, the creatures mentioned in the Old Testament became symbols of agility and grace. Much like contemporary phrases such as “fast as lightning,” these animals represented not only speed but also stability.

The Opposite of Surefootedness

Surefootedness embodies stability, confidence, and grace, while its antithesis, bumbling and stumbling, reflects clumsiness. This stark contrast highlights the importance of walking, intentionality, and steadiness in both our physical movements and spiritual development.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father takes great joy in His children and wishes for them to live with a sense of triumph and fulfillment.

Father, I am prone to stumbling in my walk with You.  Please guide my steps in alignment with Your word, so that evil will not overcome me.

INSIGHT

The Nature of Stumbling Blocks

The world is filled with stumbling blocks, obstacles that slow progress, cause difficulty, or lead to hesitation. These barriers can take many forms, from physical impediments like boulders, rocks, or fallen trees to intangible challenges such as emotional struggles, societal pressures, the unrelenting pain of aging, and unforeseen circumstances. Stumbling blocks are anything that disrupts or slows our forward movement, often affecting our spiritual walk with the Father.

As children of the King, we are not immune to facing stumbling blocks. Even the most steady-footed among us can stumble without the Father’s guidance and strength.

Psalms 18:32-33: promises, “God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect. He makes me as sure-footed as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.”

Strength and Safety in the Father

True safety is not the absence of danger but the presence of the Father. He provides the strength and stability needed to navigate life’s challenges. His guidance enables us to walk confidently, even on the most dangerous paths.

The prophet Habakkuk proclaims in Habakkuk 3:19, “The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as sure-footed as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.”

To become sure-footed in life’s trials, we must develop a deep, trusting relationship with the Father through the Lord Jesus Christ. This relationship gives us supernatural insight and discernment, equipping us to walk circumspectly and navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom.

Ephesians 5:15 cautions, “So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise.”

Living in the Father’s presence provides a deep sense of security. Every step, big or small, is led by His wisdom. Though we may stumble, we are never left alone. The Father is always there to steady us, preventing total destruction.

In Psalms 37:23-24, David asserts that “The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the LORD holds them by the hand.”

Protecting the Vulnerable from Stumbling

As the children of the King develop strength and assurance, they are entrusted with the duty of protecting the vulnerable and preventing others from faltering. The Father offers clear guidance for living with integrity and compassion, underscoring the importance of safeguarding those who are weak or disadvantaged.

Leviticus 19:14 cautions, “You must not curse a deaf person or put a stumbling block in front of a blind person. You must fear your God; I am the LORD.”

The Father’s care extends to those with physical limitations, ensuring their needs and dignity are protected. This principle also applies to the young and innocent, who are particularly vulnerable to harm.

Matthew 18:6: “But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea.”

The Father places a high priority on safeguarding the vulnerable. As a caring and devoted shepherd, He serves both as a source of support for those in need and as a guardian against injustice. His inherent nature calls for a balance of justice and compassion, establishing a guiding principle for the children of the King to emulate.

The Standard of Righteousness

The Father, as the ultimate Lawgiver, sets boundaries on our freedom to protect the well-being of others. Causing harm to the vulnerable is not simply a mistake; it is an act of iniquity, something fundamentally wrong. In simple terms, we might say, “That’s not right.” Wickedness challenges our natural sense of morality, as long as our consciences are clear.

When approached with wisdom and sagacity, obstacles can become opportunities for growth. With the Father’s guidance, what once appeared daunting, if not seemingly insurmountable, can become a catalyst for personal progress and praise. Onlookers may be amazed, asking, “How did they do that?” as they see the powerful ways God works in our lives.

The biblical image of sure-footed animals serves as a compelling metaphor for spiritual steadiness and confidence. Just as mountain goats are built to climb challenging terrain, children of the King are encouraged to rely on God’s guidance to face life’s challenges safely.

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© Dr. H 2026

The Mindset of Christ ∙∙

The Mindset of Christ ∙∙

Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes, and rain clouds continually darken your sky. – Ecclesiastes 12:2

Philippians 2:3-5

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the mindset of Christ Jesus.

Morrie Boogaart: A Life of Selfless Dedication

Morrie Boogaart was 93 years old when he passed away from cancer on February 9, 2018. However, his legacy of compassion and selflessness continues to inspire many. At age 75, Morrie made an important decision about how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. Throughout his years, he had always dedicated himself to helping others without expecting anything in return. Now, he began a mission that would define his final years: knitting hats for the homeless.

The “Hat Man” and His Mission

Morrie’s extraordinary journey started with a simple act of kindness. He began knitting hats for those in need, and over time, his efforts gained international recognition. Although he stopped counting after making 8,000 hats, his dedication earned him the affectionate nickname “Hat Man.” People from all around the world, touched by his generosity, started sending him yarn to support his cause.

Despite being diagnosed with cancer in 2015, Morrie refused to let his illness or physical limitations define his life. Instead, he focused outward, putting others’ needs before his own. Knitting became his life’s purpose. From the moment he woke up until he fell asleep, Morrie worked tirelessly, stitch by stitch, to create hats for the less fortunate. Even in hospice care, confined to his bed, he continued his mission. As his health declined, his pace slowed, but his determination remained strong. At the time of his passing, he was still making one hat every two days, a testament to his lasting commitment.

Finding Purpose in Service

For Morrie, knitting was more than just a pastime; it was a source of purpose and fulfillment. Reflecting on his work, he once said, “Why do I do it? It just makes me feel good. I know I have to be here, but I don’t do it very fast.” He also expressed how vital this mission was to him, saying, “If you take this [knitting hats] away from me, my life is over. Please don’t take it away.”

But Morrie’s motivation went deeper than personal satisfaction. A well-worn Bible sat on his nightstand, reflecting his faith and devotion. As a child of the King, Morrie was inspired by the Lord Jesus Christ’s selfless example. His work was an expression of the love and compassion modeled by his Savior. Morrie declared with conviction, “I’m going to do this until I go home to the Lord.”

A Crown of Glory

Morrie’s daughter, Karen Lauters, shared a heartfelt tribute upon his passing: “It is difficult for us to let him go, but he was so ready to rest in the arms of his Lord, and we rejoice that he has traded his knitted hats for a crown of glory and walks with Jesus.” Morrie’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to serving others.

Choosing How to Spend Our Time

In our youth, it seems as though we have all the time in the world. However, as we mature, our perspective shifts dramatically, prompting us to ponder a more pressing question: how much time do we truly have left, and how should we spend it? Many individuals create bucket lists filled with personal aspirations and strive to realize their dreams before life’s inevitable conclusion. Yet, Morrie’s selfless example invites us to adopt a different mindset. Rather than solely focusing on our own desires, how can we use our time to help others and leave a lasting legacy of love and kindness?

The apostle Paul instructs us in Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Charles Stanley cautions, “God will never direct us to be prideful, arrogant, and unforgiving, immoral, slothful, or full of fear. We step into these things because we are insensitive to the leadership of the Holy Spirit within us.”

Father, help me to abandon selfish ambition and empty conceit and have the same mindset as the Lord Jesus Christ.

INSIGHT

A Mindset in Opposition to Christ

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the mindset of those who resist the humility and selflessness exemplified by Jesus Christ. He highlights the importance of adopting a Christ-like attitude focused on selflessness, compassion, and love. These qualities are essential for living according to Christ’s teachings. By prioritizing the needs of others and practicing humility, followers of Christ reflect His heart and respond to His call to serve those around them.

Philippians 2:3-4: “Instead of being motivated by selfish ambition or vanity, each of you should, in humility, be moved to treat one another as more important than yourself. Each of you should be concerned not only about your own interests but about the interests of others as well.”

A Command to Avoid Selfishness and Conceit

The first half of Philippians 2:3 in Greek is striking in its simplicity and directness. It contains no verb and can be literally translated as “nothing according to selfish ambition nor according to empty conceit.” This is not a suggestion but a command. It has the sense of “Do nothing,” “Never act,” or “Don’t do anything” motivated by selfish ambition or vanity. Paul’s words leave no room for ambiguity.

The Greek term for “selfish ambition” is eritheia, which conveys a sense of “self-seeking pursuit or selfishness.” It describes someone “driven by personal success without regard for moral boundaries.” As Fee notes, “‘Selfish ambition’ stands at the heart of human fallenness, where self-interest and self-aggrandizement at the expense of others primarily dictate values and behavior.”

The term for “empty conceit” is kenodoxia, derived from kenos, meaning “empty,” and doxia, meaning “glory.” The implication is straightforward and striking. It can be translated as “empty glory,” “self-conceit,” “vain pride,” “empty pride,” “desire for praise,” or “groundless boasting.” In practical terms, kenodoxia manifests as “arrogance,” “boastfulness,” or “an inflated sense of self-importance.”

Pride and Arrogance in the World

Throughout history, pride and arrogance have been celebrated in the world’s system. Conventional wisdom often suggests that success requires a certain level of conceit. Examples abound:

  • Jean-Jacques Rousseau once remarked, “I rejoice in myself. My consolations lie in my self-esteem. . . If there were a single enlightened government in Europe, it would have erected statues to me.”
  • Abbie Hoffman declared unapologetically, “We were young, we were foolish, we were arrogant, but we were right.”
  • Oscar Wilde, when asked at customs if he had anything to declare, famously replied, “Only my genius.”
  • Russell Crowe asserted, “People accuse me of being arrogant all the time. I’m not arrogant, I’m focused.”
  • Mohammed Ali declared, “I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was.”
  • Julius Caesar announced, “Veni, Vidi, Vici,” that is, “I came, I saw, I conquered.”
  • Friedrich Nietzsche proclaimed, “The surest way to corrupt a youth is to instruct him to hold in higher esteem those who think alike than those who think differently.”

While self-confidence and vision are valuable, pride and arrogance, particularly within the body of Christ, are odious. They stand in stark contrast to the humility and selflessness that Christ calls His followers to embody.

The Mindset of Christ

Paul continues his exhortation in Philippians, urging children of the King to adopt the mindset of Christ, Philippians 2:3-5: “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.”

The mindset of Christ is centered on humility, selflessness, compassion, and love. It puts the well-being and needs of others before one’s own. This mindset is marked by forgiveness, grace, and a strong desire to serve others, providing them with abundant life and eternal salvation. It embraces sacrificial love, seeks reconciliation, and supports justice and righteousness. At its core, the mindset of Christ is grounded in unwavering faith, trust, and obedience to the Father’s will. It demonstrates a commitment to praying for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

True Greatness Through Service

The mindset of Christ, which emphasizes serving others rather than self-promotion, is clearly seen in Matthew 20:26: “Whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant.”

True greatness is rooted in humility and service, not in pride or self-conceit. The mindset of Christ encourages the children of the King to reject the world’s values of selfish ambition and empty pride, and instead embrace a life of selfless love and service to others.

Morrie Boogaart’s life exemplifies the power of selflessness and faith. His unwavering commitment to helping others, even in the face of illness and physical limitations, reminds us that true purpose is found not in what we achieve for ourselves, but in what we give to others.

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© Dr. H 2026

My Power Works Best In Weakness

My Power Works Best In Weakness

“My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses so that the power of Christ can work through me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Exodus 3:10-15

Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people, Israel, out of Egypt.

But Moses protested to God, “Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?”

God answered, “I will be with you. And this is your sign that I am the one who has sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God at this very mountain.”

But Moses protested, “If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ they will ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what should I tell them?”

God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.”

God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, the God of your ancestors – the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob – has sent me to you. This is my eternal name, my name to remember for all generations.”

The Power of Total Surrender: The Story of D.L. Moody

In the 19th century, a young man was captivated when a Bible teacher proclaimed, “The world has yet to see what God can accomplish through a man who is wholly devoted to Him.” This moment profoundly influenced Dwight L. Moody, who, inspired by the teacher’s words, made a bold decision: “I want to be that man!” This critical choice set him on a transformative journey, culminating in his rise to become one of the most influential evangelists of his era. Moody’s dedication to living a life of total surrender would ultimately shape not only his own future but also the spiritual lives of countless people worldwide.

Availability Over Ability

When the Father turned His gaze toward Moody, He found a man whose availability far outweighed his ability. Moody’s natural talents, or lack thereof, were of no consequence. The Father can accomplish extraordinary things with even the smallest resources, provided He has all of them. Moody’s life became a testament to this truth: God can work miracles with minimal means when a heart is fully surrendered.

Humble Beginnings

D.L. Moody was born in Northfield, Massachusetts, in 1837. Life dealt him an early, harsh blow when his father died at age 41, leaving his mother in severe poverty. Despite these hardships, Betsy Moody worked hard to keep her nine children together and made sure they attended Sunday school.

By age 17, Moody had become a successful shoe salesman. On April 21, 1855, his Sunday school teacher, Edward Kimball, visited him at the shoe store and encouraged him to dedicate his life to Christ. In the back room of that store, Moody accepted Christ as his Savior and Lord, a critical decision that ignited a passion that would shape the rest of his life.

Overcoming Limitations

Moody faced significant challenges, especially with English. His spelling was poor, and his grammar was, in short, atrocious. Many were shocked when they heard him speak. Early in his ministry, when he spoke as a young layman, a deacon said that while his zeal was commendable, his greatest service to the Father might be to remain silent.

Another critic pointed out his severe limitations, saying, “You make too many mistakes in grammar.” Moody listened patiently and replied, “I know I make mistakes, and I lack many things, but I’m doing the best I can with what I’ve got.” Then, looking directly at his critic, he asked, “Look here, friend, you’ve got grammar enough. What are you doing with it for the Master?”

A Call to Commitment

The Father always seeks children of the King who will rise above their limitations and dedicate what they have to His service. Moody’s life exemplifies this principle: it is not our natural abilities that matter most, but our willingness to surrender everything to God.

Ezekiel 22:30: “I looked for someone who might rebuild the wall of righteousness that guards the land. I searched for someone to stand in the gap in the wall so I wouldn’t have to destroy the land, but I found no one.”

REFLECT & PRAY

D.L. Moody asserted that “Before we pray that God would fill us, I believe we ought to pray Him to empty us.”

Father, when I consider my own abilities, I see how little I can accomplish. But when I look at Your ability, I am reminded that all things are possible. Use what I have, no matter how small, for Your kingdom purposes.

INSIGHT

The Burning Bush: A Divine Encounter

When Moses encountered the burning bush, his curiosity quickly turned to deep fascination. Drawn closer by the sight of a bush aflame yet unscathed, he was captivated, like a moth to a flame. This moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would alter the course of history.

Exodus 3:2-4: “Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up. ‘This is amazing,’ Moses said to himself. ‘Why isn’t that bush burning up? I must go see it.’ When the LORD saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’”

A Task Beyond Human Capability

The Father entrusted Moses with one of the most extraordinary assignments since the days of Noah. Just as Noah was instructed to construct an ark, a monumental undertaking for an individual lacking any experience in engineering or carpentry, Moses was called to lead the Hebrew people out of Egypt. Both these assignments seemed insurmountable, if not impossible by human standards, but the Father’s power made them not only possible but achievable.

Hebrews 11:7 tells us that, “It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before.”

For Moses, the challenge of freeing the Hebrew slaves from Egypt’s powerful grasp was formidable. Equipped only with a shepherd’s staff, a pair of sandals, and the clothes on his back, he confronted what appeared to be an overwhelming obstacle. His first response was marked by doubt and resistance.

Moses’ Reluctance and God’s Assurance

Moses did not simply doubt; he argued with God. He was convinced that he was the wrong person for the job. His protests were numerous, and his lack of confidence was evident. He sounded like a motorboat: “but, but, but.”

Exodus 3:10-15:

“Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people, Israel, out of Egypt. But Moses protested to God, ‘Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?’

God answered, ‘I will be with you. And this is your sign that I am the one who has sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God at this very mountain.’

But Moses protested, ‘If I go to the people of Israel and tell them, “The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,” they will ask me, “What is his name?” Then what should I tell them?”

Moses’ recorded objections likely only scratched the surface of his internal doubts. However, the Father remained unfazed. He responded to each of Moses’ concerns with assurances and promises. In this pivotal moment, Moses gained knowledge that no one else in history had received; he was told the very name of God, Yahweh.

The Revelation of God’s Name

From the dawn of creation until Moses’ encounter with the burning bush around 1450 BC, no human had known God’s name. While terms like Elohim and Lord were used to refer to Him, His true name remained a mystery. Moses, with boldness and wisdom, asked the question, and the Father revealed His name.

Exodus 3:14-15: “God replied to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I AM has sent me to you.’

God also said to Moses, ‘Say this to the people of Israel: Yahweh, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’”

This revelation was monumental. Moses received the message, accepted the assignment, and the rest is history.

Hebrews 11:27 explains, “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who was invisible.”

The Common Thread: It’s Not About You

Noah, Moses, and D.L. Moody all illustrate a profound truth: the Father’s work is not about human ability but about divine empowerment. Each of these men faced tasks far beyond their natural capabilities, yet they succeeded because they relied on God’s strength, not their own.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10: “‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses . . .. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

When we recognize our limitations, we see how little we can achieve. However, when we focus on His power, we are reminded that all things are possible.

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A Lost Sheep Found ∙∙

A Lost Sheep Found ∙∙

If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others in the wilderness and go to search for the one that is lost until he finds it? – Luke 15:4

John 15:1-5

I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you.

For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.

Apart from me, you can do nothing.

The Remarkable Recovery of Baarack: A Modern Parable

In February 2021, a lost sheep was found after nearly five years wandering through the Australian bush. Rescuers named the sheep Baarack, and they were amazed to discover that it had grown an incredible 77 pounds of dense fleece. The weight of its dirty, matted wool, caked with years of mud and debris, made it difficult for Baarack to stand or walk.

Unlike their wild ancestors, the mouflon found in Europe and Asia, modern domesticated sheep have been selectively bred over centuries to produce fleece that must be sheared rather than naturally shed. While wild mouflon have a rough outer coat and a soft undercoat that provides natural insulation, allowing them to shed in warmer months, domesticated sheep depend on human intervention. This change fundamentally altered their lives: Today’s sheep rely entirely on human care to keep their coats healthy and ensure their well-being, requiring regular shearing to prevent a fate like Baarack’s.

When the layers of fleece were removed, a torn ear, where an identification tag once hung, was first seen. This indicated that Baarack had once belonged to someone. Despite living wild for years, Baarack was still a domesticated sheep.

Biblical Imagery of Care and Dependence

Scripture uses vivid analogies to illustrate the relationship between children of the King and the Father, emphasizing roles such as Father-Child, Husband-Wife, Vine-Branches, Vinedresser-Branches, and Shepherd-Sheep. Each metaphor highlights the intimacy and dependence characteristic of this relationship.

As “Sheep of His pasture,” children of the King rely on His attentive care, similar to branches thriving on a vine under the watchful eye of a vinedresser. We need consistent nurturing, pruning, and guidance to truly flourish. Through this ongoing relationship, our lives can become fruitful and strong, much like grapevine branches that produce a bountiful harvest through careful cultivation.

REFLECT & PRAY

Only two things on Earth that are eternal: human souls and the Word of God. Everything else is temporary or fleeting.

Father, prune and shape my life so I stay rooted in the Lord Jesus Christ and bear lasting fruit that endures forever.

INSIGHT

Understanding Our Relationship with the Father

Knowing the Father, walking with Him, and maturing in faith are deeply rooted in relationship. Every child of the King is uniquely designed to live in a symbiotic relationship with the Father. We are not meant to be independent or detached from Him. Unlike wild sheep, we are domesticated and need a shepherd’s care and guidance.

The story of Baarack, a sheep that wandered off and became burdened by an overgrown fleece, vividly illustrates what happens when we pull away from the Father’s tender, loving care.  Even as members of His flock, we still exhibit sheep-like behaviors, which can result in unfavorable consequences if we wander.

Isaiah 53:6: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned to our own way.”

The Vine and the Vinedresser

We are not like wild grapes. Instead, we resemble cultivated grapevines that require a skilled vinedresser’s care to reach their full potential. Cultivated grapevines are carefully nurtured to produce the highest possible harvest, which then leads to optimal wine production. As the divine Vinedresser, the Father takes two essential steps to ensure we bear fruit: He removes unfruitful branches and prunes the fruitful ones to increase their productivity.

John 15:2: “He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.”

The Importance of Pruning

A little background on grapevines helps clarify this analogy. If left untrimmed, grapevines naturally develop long, woody branches that channel their energy into branch growth instead of grape production. This results in sparse, underwhelming grape clusters. Early winemakers learned that severe pruning redirected the vine’s energy, encouraging it to focus on producing abundant, high-quality grapes rather than excessive branches.

Pruning typically takes place in midwinter, resulting in bare fields dotted with small stumps. This essential process readies the vines for the upcoming spring growing season. The cut branches are collected and burned, allowing the vines to grow freely from their established stumps each year.

Lessons from the Vine and the Branches

What insights can we derive from these scriptural analogies regarding our relationship with the Father?

The underlying message is clear: as children of the King, it is essential for us to invite the divine Vinedresser to guide and shape our lives. Much like a grapevine that flourishes through careful pruning and nurturing, we too can thrive when we focus our energies on meaningful pursuits and deepen our connection with Him.

The metaphor of the vine and branches would have resonated deeply with the original audience. This teaching goes beyond simple agricultural principles, providing a rich understanding of how to cultivate a vibrant relationship with the Father. The ultimate goal is not just to establish a connection but to produce an abundance of spiritual fruit that reflects the depth of that relationship.

The Consequences of Straying

Sheep need regular shearing, and vine branches must be carefully pruned to thrive. When we stray from the shepherd’s caring guidance or ignore His direction, we risk becoming like Baarack, burdened, unproductive, and increasingly distant from the Father. As branches of the vine, we face a crucial choice: stay connected to our source and produce abundant fruit, or become unproductive and ultimately useless.

But how does one become insignificant? Resistance, distraction, and the refusal to follow the Father’s guidance cause us to weaken. A lukewarm or superficial faith, marked by empty words without action, results in leaves without fruit. When we turn away from our faith or neglect to act on the principles we believe in, we risk becoming completely ineffective and unproductive.

John 15:5: “For apart from me you can do nothing.”

What Does “Nothing” Mean?

The Lord Jesus Christ does not mean “nothing at all,” as we can still perform regular activities of life without Him. Instead, He is referring to “nothing of eternal value” or an inability to produce spiritual fruit (ESV notes).

As William Barclay rightly notes, “Uselessness invites disaster.”

A Call to Fruitfulness

The Father desires us to succeed, produce fruit, and live lives of eternal significance. By maintaining a connection with Him and allowing His pruning and shaping, we can achieve our purpose and experience a fulfilling life rooted in His love and care. Let us embrace His role as the divine Vinedresser, trusting His wisdom and guidance to steer us toward abundant spiritual fruitfulness.

Modern sheep are representative of our dependence on the Father’s wisdom, care, and provision. Just as domesticated sheep cannot flourish without a shepherd’s guidance, we must stay close and connected to Christ, our good Shepherd and source of life, meaning, and growth.

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© Dr. H 2026

Sky Dance of the Mustang

Sky Dance of the Mustang

It is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. – Hebrews 11:6

Galatians 5:16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.

The P-51 Mustang: A World War II Game-Changer

Introduced in the later stages of World War II, the P-51 Mustang became a powerful symbol of American air dominance. The skies over Europe during the war were a battleground of fierce aerial dogfights, where victory was often decided in fractions of a second. In these high-stakes engagements, fighter pilots pushed their P-51 Mustangs to the absolute limits of performance.

One particularly noteworthy tactic is the “inverted torque reversal,” which demonstrates both the Mustang’s advanced design and the exceptional skill of its pilots. This move highlights the plane’s impressive ability to conserve energy while retaining speed. By harnessing the powerful torque of its engine, pilots could enter inverted flight and perform quick directional changes and improvised maneuvers, helping them evade enemy attacks and gain a strategic advantage.

This tactic often caused opponents to overshoot or lose sight of the Mustang, giving the pilot an opportunity to escape or counterattack. Initially classified and kept secret, the effectiveness of this tactic soon became widely known and was adopted by other pilots. It was given the nickname “Sky Dance of the Mustang.” This phrase reflects the perfect blend of pilot resourcefulness and the Mustang’s remarkable technical engineering.

In the Heat of Combat

To fully appreciate the intricacies of the inverted torque reversal, it is essential to know the aircraft itself. Imagine being a P-51 pilot with an enemy fighter in close pursuit. A typical evasive turn might prove insufficient. However, by executing an inverted torque reversal, you introduce an element of chaos that disrupts the predictability of the chase. Your pursuer, expecting a typical maneuver, suddenly faces an aircraft that seems to go against the usual principles of flight. While they scramble to respond, you’ve already changed direction and positioned yourself to escape or switch to an offensive role.

The maneuver typically commences with the pilot rolling the Mustang into an inverted flight. This initial action can confuse the opponent and set the stage for the subsequent maneuvers. Maintaining control in inverted flight requires precision, as the plane’s responses are different and the pilot experiences negative G-forces. In this position, a skilled pilot can skillfully adjust the throttle to take advantage of the engine’s torque. By abruptly increasing or decreasing power, the pilot can trigger a rapid, unexpected roll or yaw, creating a sudden, jerky movement that is difficult for the pursuing pilot to anticipate and follow. The ordinary becomes extraordinary.

Extraordinary men and women

In the Old Testament, there are stories of men and women with extraordinary ability and strength.

Consider Deborah, a woman called to be a prophet with extraordinary wisdom, insight, courage, and leadership. It was as if she had a direct connection to the Father, and she advised the Army of Israel regarding winning strategy and tactics revealed to her by the Lord (Judges 4:3-14).

Then there was Samson, a man with extraordinary, supernatural strength, capable of taking on and defeating multitudes of enemy soldiers single-handedly. He was endowed with such power that he could literally tear the massive city gates of the Philistine city of Gaza from their foundations, carrying them along with posts and bars on his shoulders. Doing this humiliated the Philistines and proved that their defenses were no match for the living God of Israel (Judges 16:3). After he was blinded and humiliated, he asked the Father for strength just one more time inJudges 16:28: “Samson prayed to the LORD, ‘Sovereign LORD, remember me again. O God, please strengthen me just one more time.’” The Lord heard and answered his prayer. We can do the same, over and over.

Recall the extraordinary feats of Elijah the prophet. At his word, the rain ceased to fall for three years and then resumed at his command. He called down fire from heaven to demonstrate that the God of Israel was the only true God. He single-handedly defeated 850 pagan prophets at Mount Carmel (1 Kings 17,18).

These compelling and inspiring tales of heroes of the faith share real historical events. However, such extraordinary individuals were rare. The typical child of the King was simply that, average. So, what made these remarkable men and women stand out? Hebrews 11 provides a straightforward yet impactful answer: their achievements were accomplished “By faith.”

REFLECT & PRAY

D.L. Moody described his spiritual transformation as follows: “I was in a new world. The next morning the sun shone brighter, and the birds sang sweeter … the old elms waved their branches for joy, and all nature was at peace.”

Father, thank you for making it possible for me to live an extraordinary life through the power of the Holy Spirit.

INSIGHT

Understanding “By Faith” in the Bible

The phrase “By faith” in the Bible expresses deep trust and confidence in God, His promises, and His character. “By faith” indicates a reliance on God that goes beyond human understanding, logic, or physical proof, even when circumstances or outcomes are not immediately clear or fully understood.  

Trust in the Unseen

Faith is fundamentally about believing in realities that go beyond physical evidence. This is beautifully summarized in Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This verse captures the essence of faith as a deep-seated trust in God’s promises, even when their fulfillment is not yet visible. Faith allows believers to anchor their hope in the unseen and trust in God’s eternal plan.

Faith Expressed through Action

Faith is not merely an intellectual acknowledgment of biblical facts; it is demonstrated through action. In the Bible, true faith is characterized by obedience to God’s commands, even when those commands seem difficult or counterintuitive. For instance:

  • Hebrews 11:7: “By faith, Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household.”
  • Hebrews 11:8-19: Abraham’s faith is evident in his willingness to leave his homeland and in his readiness to sacrifice Isaac, fully trusting in God’s promises.

These examples show that faith is not passive; it demands an active response to divine guidance.

Faith is Nurtured by a Vibrant Relationship with God

Faith is more than believing a set of doctrines; it is a dynamic relationship with God that transforms lives and fosters spiritual growth. At its core, faith is the foundation of a meaningful connection with God, providing justification and reconciliation. This is beautifully expressed in Romans 5:1: “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Faith involves recognizing God’s ultimate authority and His ability to fulfill His promises. It shifts our dependence from our own strength to God’s unlimited power, allowing us to recognize our limitations while inviting the Father’s help. Through faith, children of the King can trust that God remains in control, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.

The phrase “by faith” captures the core of the journey of a child of the King: trusting the unseen, relying on His power, and building a relationship with Him. It is through faith that we face life’s uncertainties, anchored in the confidence of God’s promises and His eternal plan.

What Does “By Faith” Mean for Believers Today?

In essence, “by faith” is the lens through which believers view and respond to life, trusting in God’s unseen hand and His eternal plans. But there’s more. “By faith,” we depend on the power of the Holy Spirit to do the impossible.

Promise Made

The Lord Jesus Christ made a remarkable promise about the work of the Holy Spirit in Luke 24:49: “I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” He continues in Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere – in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Promise Kept

Acts 2:1-4

On the day of Pentecost, all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit . . ..

From Ordinary to Skilled and Powerful – A Choice to Make

Every child of the King has been given a remarkable resource: the indwelling Holy Spirit. Because of this, we no longer have to be dominated by sin, self-centeredness, and separation from God.  We are freed from the power of sin and are no longer enslaved to our old nature. We have the choice to live a life guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. We possess a new identity and purpose. The mundane and the unremarkable become extraordinary.

Paul assumes that if you are a child of the King, you will allow the Holy Spirit to lead your life.

Sadly, for many, this is simply not the case. Merely having the Holy Spirit inside us isn’t enough. We must choose to allow Him to control our hearts and lives.

Romans 8:5-9

Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

Newman and Nida note that, “Paul is here speaking of the contrast between the two ways of life: the way which is guided by one’s own human nature and the way guided by God’s Spirit.”

The choice is yours, choose wisely!

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© Dr. H 2026