What really matters? ∙∙

What really matters? ∙∙

What does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you respect the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. – Deuteronomy 10:12

1 Timothy 6:6-11

 6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth.

 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it.

 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.

 9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction.

 10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

 11 But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so, run from all these evil things. Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness.

Widespread Dissatisfaction in Modern Society

In today’s world, particularly among college students, there is a pervasive sense of chronic dissatisfaction and disconnection. Many young adults struggle to find meaning, balance, and joy in their lives. A survey conducted by the American College Health Association revealed that over 50% of students reported feeling hopeless. In comparison, close to 40% faced severe depression that significantly affected their ability to function. These numbers highlight a generation that is highly aware of its struggles and actively searching for ways to improve its well-being, identity, and happiness.

Yale’s “Happiness Class” – A Search for Well-Being

At Yale University in 2020, one course drew more student attention than any other: “Psychology and the Good Life,” often referred to as Yale’s “Happiness Course.” This innovative course explores the science of improving well-being. It became one of Yale’s most popular courses.

Can Happiness Be Learned?

The course is based on the principle that happiness is not merely a temporary feeling but a skill that can be developed. It provides a practical, step-by-step approach to enhancing personal happiness and well-being. Here are four key steps included in the course:

  • Focus on Your Strengths – Identify and utilize your unique talents and abilities. By emphasizing your strengths, you can boost confidence and find a sense of purpose.
  • Invest in Experiences – Prioritize meaningful experiences over material possessions. Memories and connections often bring more lasting happiness than physical objects.
  • Learn to Appreciate and Enjoy Things More – Practice mindfulness and savor small moments in life. Cultivating gratitude for the present can significantly enhance one’s perspective.
  • Express Gratitude and Spread Kindness – Acts of kindness and gratitude not only lift others up but also increase your own feeling of fulfillment and connection.

REFLECT & PRAY

Despite our best efforts, we often fall short in our pursuit of happiness, contentment, and well-being, relying on material possessions, relationships, or achievements. While these pursuits are not inherently bad, they tend to be temporary and often leave us yearning for more.

Father, help me find and maintain joy and contentment through a deep, personal relationship with You. Teach me the open secret of genuine contentment, as Paul described in Philippians 4:11-13. Guide me in fulfilling Your dream for my life. May my happiness be rooted in Your presence and purpose, rather than in the fleeting things of this world.

INSIGHT

The Weight of Awareness: Facing a Troubled World

The more we become aware of the world around us, the more we are confronted with reasons for despair, sadness, and even fear. Global crises, personal tragedies, and the constant stream of negative news can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Some of us, desperate for relief, choose to disconnect entirely, avoiding the news and shielding ourselves from the weight of the world.

But here’s the question: Will we allow world events or personal hardships to define our present and future reality? As children of the King, how can we rise above our natural tendencies toward negativity and despair?

Scriptural Guidance: A Shift in Perspective

The Bible offers profound guidance on matters of contentment, peace, and joy, which the world often labels as happiness. This transformation begins with a shift in perspective and conviction, leading to actions that reflect our faith.

Paul’s Example of Joy in Adversity

The Apostle Paul, despite facing persecution and difficult circumstances, experienced profound joy. Imprisoned in Rome, Paul faced a pivotal choice: Would he allow his situation to define him? His answer was clear: No! Instead of giving in to despair, Paul rose above it and chose joy and gratitude.

Paul’s secret to joy was no mystery. It was simple yet profound:

  • He drew near to the Father.
  • He placed unwavering trust in God.
  • He adjusted his expectations, focusing not on his circumstances but on God’s eternal purposes.

The Open Secret of Contentment

Paul’s extraordinary spirit of triumph is beautifully summarized in Philippians 4:11-13: “I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

True and enduring contentment comes from a deeper source: a relationship with the Father. As we seek Him, we discover the joy and peace that surpass all understanding, equipping us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and hope.

Single-Minded Devotion

Paul’s contentment was not rooted in his external circumstances but in his relationship with Christ. Paul’s life can be summed up with this attitude: “It makes no difference what happens to me, as long as Christ is honored and the Gospel is shared.”

This single-mindedness left no room for complaint. Instead, it allowed Paul to experience joy that sparkled and effervesced, even in the darkest of times.

A New Way of Living: Strength Through Adversity

When the Scriptures become the foundation of our faith, a new way of living becomes possible. This transformation leads to new attitudes and actions. Difficult circumstances no longer weaken us; instead, they lead to growth and strength. Spiritual strength increases, allowing us to persevere and overcome.

Paul’s example reminds us that joy and contentment are not found in external rituals or fleeting pleasures but in a tender, intimate relationship with the Father.

The Call to Justice and Compassion

The Scriptures also call us to reflect God’s heart in how we treat others. In Zechariah 7:9-10, the Lord commands: “Exercise true judgment and show brotherhood and compassion to each other. You must not oppress the widow, the orphan, the foreigner, or the poor, nor should anyone secretly plot evil against his fellow human being.”

A Warning Against Empty Rituals

The prophets of Israel repeatedly delivered God’s message, urging the people to practice justice and compassion. Yet, the leaders of the nation continued to exploit the vulnerable for personal gain. They ignored the teachings of Moses’ Law and failed to care for the widows, orphans, and foreigners among them.

God made it clear that He desired obedience from the heart, not empty rituals. As Wiersbe explains, “The Father wanted obedience from the heart. Without the right heart attitude, their prayers and ritual sacrifices were vain and pointless.”

A Genuine Relationship with God

Building a close and vibrant relationship with God can actively promote authentic and energizing personal connections. As Charles Stanley states, “A genuine and dynamic relationship with God leads naturally to genuine and dynamic relationships with others, in which you seek their best and treat them as you would like to be treated.”

Our heart attitudes matter far more to God than external rituals. When our hearts are aligned with Him, we joyfully obey His commands and reflect His love to others.

By following Paul’s example of unwavering devotion, trusting in God’s justice, and cultivating a compassionate heart, we can find a life filled with joy, contentment, and a sense of purpose. Let us not be defined by our circumstances but by our relationship with the One who gives us strength.

How’s your heart attitude today?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯9-13-3

© Dr. H 2025

Hunted ∙∙

For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. – Proverbs 3:12

Lamentations 3:52-53

 52 For no good reason, my enemies hunted me down like a bird.

 53 They shut me up in a pit and threw stones at me.

The Tarnished History of Christianity

The history of Christianity, which is fundamentally rooted in the teachings of love and grace, has regrettably been marred by the harsh persecution of believers with differing convictions. Such shameful actions have tarnished Christianity’s reputation and brought dishonor to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. For many, these dark chapters in history have undermined faith in Christ as a viable choice, leaving a stain on the message of the Gospel.

The Core of Division: Divergent Interpretations of Scripture

Much of this persecution stems from differing interpretations of Scripture. One of the most contentious issues in the 16th century was the practice of baptism. Most Christians, whether Catholic or Protestant, followed the tradition of infant baptism. However, a small minority of groups believed that baptism should only take place after a person consciously decided to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. This practice is known as “believer’s baptism.”

The Anabaptists: A Persecuted Minority

One prominent group that advocated for believers’ baptism was the Anabaptists. Their name, meaning “re-baptizers,” was assigned to them by their enemies. Both Protestants and Catholics condemned them, leading to widespread persecution, hunting, and massacres of Anabaptists.

On January 28, 1525, in Zurich, city authorities ordered two Bible teachers, Conrad Grebel and Felix Manz, to stop teaching interpretations of Scripture that contradicted the officially sanctioned doctrines. When they refused, Felix Manz was executed by drowning, a method chosen to mock and show contempt for adult baptism. This brutal act forced the Anabaptists to flee to Moravia, where they found temporary refuge.

In Moravia, Jakob Hutter emerged as a leader of the Anabaptists. He and his wife, Katherine Purst, became fugitives, hunted for their faith. Eventually, they were captured and killed. Despite this, the Anabaptist movement persevered.

A Biblical Parallel: King David’s Persecution

The persecution of the Anabaptists echoes the story of King David, who was also hunted and unfairly targeted. Initially, David was welcomed by King Saul, who was soothed by David’s harp playing. However, Saul’s attitude toward David shifted dramatically, fueled by jealousy.

Saul’s hatred for David stemmed from the people’s praise of David’s victories. Samuel the prophet recalls in 1 Samuel 18:7, “Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands!”

This comparison infuriated Saul, who was afraid of David’s increasing popularity and his potential to seize the throne. His jealousy caused him to try to kill David multiple times, even sending assassins after him. For 15 years, David was stalked and hunted by Saul, but he remained faithful to God.

REFLECT & PRAY

It’s easy to act out of foolishness, jealousy, or pride, but it’s never wise. Persecution and division within the faith dishonor God and hinder the spread of the Gospel. Instead, we are called to live with humility, grace, and unity.

Father, help me to learn from the examples of David and Abigail. May I be obedient to Your Word like David, and wise as a serpent yet gentle as a dove like Abigail. Teach me to live in a way that honors You and brings peace to others.

INSIGHT

David’s Test of Character: Sparing Saul’s Life

David, despite being hunted and persecuted by King Saul, showed remarkable restraint and wisdom when given the chance to kill his enemy. Twice, circumstances arranged by God put Saul in vulnerable positions where David could have easily terminated him with extreme prejudice. However, David chose mercy over vengeance. These moments were not mere coincidences; they were tests of David’s character, arranged by God to prepare him for the leadership he was destined to assume.

Why Did God Test David?

The opportunities to kill Saul were not about revenge but about transformation. God was shaping David’s character, teaching him patience, humility, and trust in divine justice. These tests showed David’s growth and maturity as he passed with flying colors. His actions became a model of wisdom and obedience.

David’s first test occurred in the cave of the wild goats, where David was hiding. In 1 Samuel 24:3-7. Saul was unaware of David’s presence and was completely vulnerable. David’s men urged him to seize the moment and kill Saul, but David refused, 1 Samuel 24:6, “The LORD forbid that I should do this to my lord the king and attack the LORD’s anointed one, for the LORD himself has chosen him.”

David understood that Saul, despite his flaws, was still God’s anointed king. By sparing Saul, David honored both God’s authority and His law.

A Two-Sided Lesson in Mercy

David’s decision to spare Saul carried a hint of irony. By refusing to harm Saul, David not only proved his own innocence but also emphasized Saul’s guilt. As Constable observes, David’s actions sent a clear message:

  • No one should harm the Lord’s anointed.
  • Saul’s pursuit of David was unjust, as David himself was also God’s anointed.

David set an example of the behavior Saul should have shown, demonstrating mercy and respect for God’s chosen servant, as seen in 1 Chronicles 16:22, “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.”

Trusting God for Justice

David’s self-control also demonstrated his trust in God’s promise to bring justice in His own time. Scripture clearly states that vengeance belongs to the Lord. In Deuteronomy 32:35, it says, “Vengeance is Mine, and retribution, in due time their foot will slip; for the day of their calamity is near.”

David’s faith in God’s justice enabled him to leave the situation in God’s hands, rather than taking matters into his own hands.

David’s Second Test: Saul’s Camp

Having passed his first test, David faced a similar challenge when he found Saul asleep in his camp (1 Samuel 26:5-11). Once again, David’s men urged him to kill Saul, but David refused, saying, 1 Samuel 26:11, “The LORD forbid that I should kill the one he has anointed! But take his spear and that jug of water beside his head, and then let’s get out of here!”

The Lesson of Nabal and Abigail

David’s encounter with Nabal and Abigail in 1 Samuel 25 had a profound influence on his understanding of mercy and restraint. Nabal, whose name appropriately means “fool,” was a harsh and selfish man. Despite David and his men protecting Nabal’s flocks, Nabal rudely refused to compensate them. Angered, David set out with 400 men to destroy Nabal and his household.

Nabal’s wife, Abigail, intervened with wisdom and grace. She met David with gifts of food and wine, pleading for mercy and reminding him of his divine calling. 1 Samuel 25:28, “The LORD will surely reward you with a lasting dynasty, for you are fighting the LORD’s battles. And you have not done wrong throughout your entire life.”

Abigail’s words stopped David in his tracks. She cautioned him against tarnishing his reputation through reckless bloodshed, urging him to trust in God’s justice. David recognized her wisdom and praised God for sending her to prevent him from making a terrible mistake, 1 Samuel 25:32-33: “Praise the LORD, the God of Israel, who has sent you to meet me today! Thank God for your good sense! Bless you for keeping me from murder and from carrying out vengeance with my own hands.”

True to His word, God dealt with Nabal. About ten days later, the Lord struck Nabal, and he died. (1 Samuel 25:38).

Lessons from David’s Restraint

David’s restraint demonstrated his growth and trust in God. He learned that vengeance was not his to take and that God’s justice would come in its time. David’s character tests challenge us to consider how we respond to adversity and injustice.

David’s journey from a hunted fugitive to a wise and merciful leader proves God’s transformative power. His restraint in sparing Saul, his humility in learning from Abigail, and his trust in God’s justice serve as powerful examples for us today. As we face our own character tests, may we, like David, succeed by trusting God, practicing wisdom, and leaving vengeance to His hands.

How are your exams going?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯5-4-2

© Dr. H 2025

As far as the East is from the West ∙∙

As far as the East is from the West ∙∙

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalms 103:12

Psalms 103:2-14

 2 Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me.

 3 He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases.

 4 He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.

 5 He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagles!

 7 He revealed his character to Moses and his deeds to the people of Israel.

 8 The LORD is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.

 9 He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever.

 10 He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.

 11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.

 12 He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.

 13 The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him.

 14 For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust.

What is the Distance from the South Pole to the North Pole?

Although Earth appears to be a perfect sphere, it is slightly flattened at the poles, making it wider than it is tall. This shape, known as an oblate spheroid, affects its measurements.

Circumference from Pole to Pole: The distance from the South Pole to the North Pole is roughly 24,859 miles. Circumference around the Equator: The equatorial circumference is slightly larger, at 24,902 miles.

Thanks to modern science and mathematics, we can measure distances precisely. If someone travels north from the South Pole, they will eventually reach the North Pole. However, once they arrive at the North Pole and continue in the same direction, they will no longer be heading north. Instead, they will be heading south. The distance between the North and South Poles is a finite measurement.

The “East Pole” and “West Pole”

What is the distance from the “East Pole” to the “West Pole”? In that neither of these poles exists, this question is a non-sequitur. Unlike the North and South Poles, which are fixed geographical points, East and West are simply directions without a defined endpoint.

When traveling from East to West, if you start at the equator and head east, you will never reach a “West Pole;” you would continue traveling east indefinitely. The same applies if you travel west; you will never encounter an “East Pole.”

East and West represent directions that extend indefinitely, having no boundary or endpoint.

The Infinite Distance Between East and West

The concept of distance, whether from the South Pole to the North Pole or from East to West, provides a profound metaphor for understanding the Father’s forgiveness. The realization of the boundless distance between East and West is crucial for grasping the depth of His forgiveness. The Bible uses this imagery to illustrate how far God removes our sins from us, as shown in Psalms 103:12, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”

Unlike the finite distance between the North and South Poles, the distance from East to West is immeasurable. This symbolizes an endless separation, representing the permanence of God’s forgiveness. We can say that the Father has removed our sins so far away that they can never be found or revisited. When He removes our sins, they are gone forever; the separation is absolute.

David’s Remarkable Insight

David wrote about the “distance” between East and West long before modern science existed. How could he have grasped this concept without the tools and knowledge we have today? This is an example of how the Bible conveys truth, before people had the scientific means to verify it.

REFLECT & PRAY

Have you fully embraced the transformative power of God’s infinite forgiveness in your life? Do you experience the freedom that comes from knowing your sins are removed as far as the East is from the West?

Father, thank You for removing my sins as far as the East is from the West. Help me to live in the freedom of Your forgiveness, knowing that my transgressions are gone forever.   

INSIGHT

As Far as the East is from the West

As Constable explains, “God did not say He forgives our sins as far as the North is from the South, but as far as the East is from the West, namely infinitely.” The Father places our sins at an immeasurable distance, never to be revisited.

The Language of Forgiveness

The Hebrew text of Psalms 103:12 emphasizes the Father’s active role in removing our sins. The word “distance” is used both as a verb and a noun, illustrating the action and result of God’s forgiveness:

Action: “He distances our sins from us.” The Father actively removes our sins, placing them as far away as possible.

Result: “As is the distance from the east to the west.” This separation is complete and eternal.

As the UBS handbook notes, “God removes our sins from us as far as the place where the sun rises is from the place where the sun sets.”  

The Full Scope of Sin

Psalms 103:10-12 describes the various ways people break God’s law using three key terms:

  • Sin: Falling short of the mark or missing the target.
  • Iniquity: An act that is inherently wrong or immoral.
  • Transgression: Crossing a boundary or breaking a rule.

Each term reflects a different aspect of human failure; however, the Father’s forgiveness encompasses them all. He offers His children a complete pardon, removing every sin, iniquity, and transgression.

Sin is Trampled and Cast into the Deepest Part of the Ocean

The imagery of God’s forgiveness is reflected in Micah 7:19, “Once again you will have compassion on us. You will trample our sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean!” This verse emphasizes that God’s forgiveness is both complete and everlasting:

  • Trampling Sin: God crushes our sins beneath His feet, making them powerless.
  • Casting Sin Away: He throws them into the depths of the ocean, where they can never be retrieved.

Why Do Past Sins Linger?

If God has removed our sins, why do they sometimes linger in our minds? The answer lies in our understanding and application of His forgiveness.

To start, we need a clear understanding of what the Father has done with our sins. Many children of the King struggle with guilt, not realizing the full extent of the Father’s work. The Bible assures us that our sins are completely removed and no longer affect our eternal relationship with God. Key steps include:

  • Embrace the Truth: Trust that God’s forgiveness is total and permanent.
  • Rely on Scripture: God’s Word is always true, and His promises are sure.

Effectively Apply the Knowledge We Have

The enemy often reminds us of past sins and regrets, aiming to trap us in guilt. To counter this, we should:

  • Resist the Enemy: Refuse to linger on past sins and focus on the reality of God’s forgiveness.
  • Practice the Process: Recognize that forgiveness is not a one-time event but a continual practice of living out God’s promises.  

Cleansing the Conscience

The Father not only forgives our sins but also purges and cleanses our conscience. Over time, memories of past sins fade away, and we find true freedom. He has issued a powerful declaration about the sufficiency and transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice. The author of Hebrews writes in Hebrews 9:14, “Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God.”

The “blood of Christ” refers to His sacrificial death on the cross. In the Old Testament, animal sacrifices were repeatedly required to atone for sins. These sacrifices were temporary and external. In contrast, Christ’s sacrifice was a once-for-all event. It was sufficient not only to remove our sins but also to cleanse our conscience, the core of our innermost being.

His sacrifice purifies our conscience by freeing us from guilt, shame, and the burden of our sinful past. It reaches into the depths of our souls, transforming our hearts and minds.

As Charles Stanley explains, “A father pities his children by considering their weakness, immaturity, and ignorance. Our heavenly Father does the same with us.”

¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-16-2

© Dr. H 2025

Training wheels ∙∙

Training wheels ∙∙

Therefore, the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. – Galatians 3:24

Galatians 3:21-26

 21 If the law could give us new life, we could be made right with God by obeying it.

 22 But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God’s promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ.

 23 Before the way of faith in Christ was available to us, we were placed under guard by the law. We were kept in protective custody, so to speak, until the way of faith was revealed.

 24 Let me put it another way. The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith.

 25 And now that the way of faith has come, we no longer need the law as our guardian.

 26 For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Training Wheels

Many children often struggle to balance on a bicycle. Training wheels are designed to help children learn to ride. They are especially suitable for young ones with physical challenges. Training wheels prevent the bike from tilting and, in many cases, falling over. Over time, the training wheels are raised higher, allowing the child to rely more on their own balance and gradually become an independent rider. As the child’s skill improves, the training wheels are removed when they are ready to ride independently.

Spiritual Training Wheels

The Father, in His wisdom, has provided children of the King with spiritual “training wheels.” These mentors are intended to guide us to Christ and, in the early stages of our faith, to support and steady us as we grow in our relationship with Him. Paul refers to them as our tutors or guardians. As we mature, we learn to walk in faith on our own, depending on God’s grace rather than external supports.

The Role of the Paidagogos

In ancient Greek culture, a household servant was “entrusted with the care and moral upbringing of children.” This individual “played a crucial role in preparing children for adulthood.” This servant was called a paidagogos. The paidagogos was a “child guardian, tutor, or guide.” The word literally means a “trainer of boys.”

The paidagogos was typically an elderly and trusted slave who had served in the family for a long time. Their primary responsibility was to maintain the child’s moral development and well-being by instilling essential values and discipline. Their duty was to ensure the child developed the basic qualities necessary for a successful transition to adulthood.

Barclay explains that one specific task defined their role: they safely escorted the children to and from school every day. Although they were not directly involved in teaching the children, their job was to transport them safely to school and deliver them to the teacher.

The tutor acted as both a protector and an escort. Being under his guidance was like being in protective custody.

The Analogy of the Law

The apostle Paul compared the Old Testament law to a paidagogos, which acted as a temporary guide and guardian, leading people to the Lord Jesus Christ by revealing their need for a Savior. The law laid the groundwork for Jesus’ coming, helping people recognize Him as the Messiah, Savior, and Lord.

The Law as a Tutor: Revealing Sin

One of the primary roles of the law was to reveal sin. It served as a mirror, showing people’s failure to meet God’s perfect standard. No matter how hard anyone tries, it is impossible to obey the law flawlessly. Attempting to do so is pointless, as everyone falls short. There is nothing a person can do to solve the problem of sin on their own.

This inability highlights our need for a Savior who can overcome sin on our behalf. The law functions like a thermometer, indicating when our moral “temperature” is high. However, it has no power to lower the temperature. It does not eliminate the problem of sin.

The End of the Law

The Law of Moses, like a temporary guardian, was never meant to be permanent. When people come to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the “training wheels” of the law are no longer needed. They are freed from the law and welcomed as mature children of the King.

Indicators of Spiritual Maturity

How can we tell if we’ve moved beyond spiritual infancy? Our diet changes. We stop consuming spiritual milk and start eating solid food. We hunger for deeper truths and aim to apply them in our lives. We develop spiritual discernment and begin to equip and encourage others on their journey of faith.

REFLECT & PRAY

No child of the King is meant to remain a perpetual spiritual infant, solely consuming milk. Once we reach spiritual maturity, we no longer need temporary supports. We are called to embrace the freedom and responsibility that come with living by grace.

Father, thank You for the guides and tutors You have provided to lead me to Christ and encourage my growth in faith. Help me move beyond spiritual infancy and embrace the solid food of Your Word. Teach me to live by grace, walk in freedom, and reflect Your love in all that I do.

INSIGHT

Growing to Maturity in Christ

The Father has designed a plan for His children to grow into full maturity in Christ. This journey is more like a cross-country race than a quick sprint; it is filled with challenges, varied terrains, and moments that require perseverance. Along the way, we are called to move beyond spiritual infancy and fully embrace our identity as sons and daughters of the King.

Just as a cross-country runner must endure the difficulties of the course, the children of the King must keep going through the vicissitudes and trials go to sleep of life to reach full maturity in Christ of life to reach full maturity in Christ.

Children vs. Sons: A Rite of Passage 

There is a subtle yet profound difference lurking beneath the surface between being “children” and “sons.” When we first become children of the King, we are simply that, young spiritual infants. We are naturally immature and dependent on others for guidance and support. However, as we mature, we are no longer merely children but “sons.” The word “sons” refers to maturity and status, not gender. Here, “sons” means “full-grown sons.”

As Ritchson points out, in ancient traditions, when a child reached adulthood, the father would give him a “toga virilis,” a symbolic garment representing manhood and the responsibilities of adulthood. This rite of passage marked the shift from childhood to sonship.

A Choice to Grow

Each child of the King has a choice: we can either stay immature or grow into adulthood. One indicator of our spiritual development is the kind of food we consume.

Our spiritual growth shows in the nourishment we seek. As the saying goes, “we are what we eat.” Scripture uses the metaphor of milk and solid food to illustrate the difference between spiritual infancy and maturity.

Paul addresses the Corinthians, saying, 1 Corinthians 3:2-3: “I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you were not ready for anything stronger. And you still are not ready, for your sinful nature still controls you.”

The author of Hebrews warns against remaining spiritually immature, Hebrews 5:12, “You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you the basics of God’s word again. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food.”

Are the training wheels still on?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-16-2

© Dr. H 2025

Pleasures forevermore ∙∙

Pleasures forevermore ∙∙

You will not abandon me to the realm of the dead . . .. You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence. – Psalms 16:10-11

Psalms 16:1-11

 1 A Psalm of David. Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.

 2 I said to the LORD, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you.”

 5 LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine.

 7 I will bless the LORD who guides me; even at night, my heart instructs me.

 8 I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.

 9 No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety.

 10 For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave.

 11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

Being in love

Ah, to be in love. Love and belonging are core needs of people. We are intuitively aware of this inner longing. Harvard conducted a 75-year longitudinal study that suggested that love is the key to a happy and fulfilling life. Falling in love often includes a bit of emotional and physiological instability. One’s focus revolves around the positive qualities of the beloved.

Some traits that characterize love include expressions of affection, a desire to please and fulfill the other person, open sharing of personal feelings, a diminished sense of self-interest, honesty, trust, and a genuine appreciation for who the other person is.

Who does not want to be “in love”?

Falling in love with God

The Psalms are a collection of prayers directed to God by real people facing everyday situations. They have a unique quality that distinguishes them from the other 65 books of Scripture. In the rest of the Bible, God is primarily the one revealing Himself to us; He does most of the talking, either directly or through His messengers. In contrast, the Psalms capture individuals speaking to God. For instance, in Psalms 16, David uses first-person pronouns (I, me, my) twenty-eight times as he expresses his hope and security in the Lord.

David begins Psalms 16 with a plea for safety, Psalms 16:1, “Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge.”

He acknowledges that every good thing in his life comes from the Father and declares his unwavering trust in Him, Psalms 16:5, “LORD, you alone are my inheritance, my cup of blessing. You guard all that is mine.”

David fell deeply in love with the Father. The Father became the passion of his life and the source of his delight. David was enraptured with the Father. His life became utterly theocentric. His relationship with the Father was beautiful and idyllic. David delighted in the Father’s presence. He is elated with the constant intimacy the Father provides. The Father is always with him, even right beside him.

David’s words reflect a heart fully committed to God, with no backup plan or alternative source of hope. As James A. Johnston notes, “There is no Plan B in this kind of commitment. If God does not come through for him, he is finished. This sort of commitment is where faith begins.”

Falling in Love with the Father

David’s relationship with the Father was not merely one of duty or obligation; it was a relationship rooted in love. He was deeply in love with the Father, who became the passion of his life and the source of his delight. David’s life was utterly theocentric, focused on God, revolving around the Father’s presence and guidance.

He declares, Psalms 16:8, “I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.”

Was David presumptuous to dare to think that the Father was at his right hand (Psalms 16:8)? Not at all. David’s intimacy with the Father was a reflection of the closeness available to every child of the King. This relationship brought him joy, stability, and security, even in the face of life’s uncertainties.

The Depth of David’s Joy

In Psalms 16:9, David declares, “My heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; my life is safe.”

There is an unusual expression in this verse, “my glory rejoices.” The Hebrew word translated as “glory” (kabod) is usually associated with the presence of God (Exodus 33:18, 22). The glory of the LORD is a manifestation of His presence.

But here, “it refers to the inner man, the spirit.” It is variously translated: “my glory rejoices, my whole being rejoices, my glory is gleeful, I rejoice, or I am happy.” The thought is that David’s joy and excitement were not superficial but were deeply felt, involving his entire being, body, mind, and spirit.

As Tesh and Zorn explain, “His relationship to God involves the entire person, body, mind, and spirit.” This holistic joy and excitement came from knowing that the Father was always with him, guiding and instructing him day and night.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father often speaks to us in moments of quiet, especially when we are at rest or preparing for sleep. As Charles Stanley reminds us, “We must always be prepared to listen because He may be ready to speak at any time.”

Father, those who seek and find You in their times of greatest need are blessed with a profound sense of inner calmness and peace that only You can offer. Yet more remarkably, You are with us continually. At every moment, we may experience the joy of Your presence. Thank You.

INSIGHT

From Earthly Well-Being to Eternal Joy

Psalms 16 builds to a powerful crescendo as David shifts his focus from his present well-being to the eternal delights of being in the Father’s presence after death. His earthly, temporal blessings are transformed into the promise of everlasting joy and pleasures that never fade.

David’s certainty is expressed in Psalms 16:10, “For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your holy one to rot in the grave.”

David knows that the Father is both the giver and sustainer of life. He reasoned that if the Father were near him in life, He would also be near him in death and beyond. As a result, David was stable and secure. He is not shaken because the Father has guided and instructed him day and night. As Tesh and Zorn beautifully state, “Where God is, there is life.”

The Joy of the Father’s Presence

David declares in Psalms 16:11, “You lead me in the path of life; I experience absolute joy in your presence; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

David’s words reveal the richness of life in the Father’s presence. In the presence of God, there is an abundance of joy, sufficient to fulfill the deepest longings of the human heart.

This verse is a masterpiece of simplicity and beauty, offering a glimpse into the eternal joy that awaits those who walk with the Father. As Derek Kidner explains, “The path of life is so called, not only because of its goal but because to walk that way is to live, in the true sense of the word, already. It leads without a break into God’s presence and into eternity.”

The path of life is not merely a road to a destination; it is a way of living that begins now and continues seamlessly into the presence of God. It is a journey marked by joy, purpose, and the promise of eternal fulfillment.

The Joy of the Father’s Presence

David contrasts life with the Father and life without Him. As Kirkpatrick notes, the Father is not only the sustainer of life but also the one who enriches it beyond measure, even beyond death.

The Father’s authority extends over all life, both in the present and for eternity. He is the Lord of life, the one who transforms temporal existence into eternal glory.

C. S. Lewis captures this truth with profound insight, “In the end, that Face which is the delight or the terror of the universe must be turned on each one of us . . . either conferring glory inexpressible or inflicting shame that can never be cured or disguised.”

Psalms 16 is a beautiful expression of trust, hope, and joy in the Father. David, the psalmist, speaks directly to God, pouring out his heart and declaring his confidence in the Father’s protection, provision, and presence. This Psalm reminds us that our journey with the Father leads to eternal joy and fulfillment. As we walk the path of life, we can experience the richness of His presence now and look forward to the pleasures of eternity to come.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-16-2

© Dr. H 2025