Looking for trouble ∙∙

Looking for trouble ∙∙

The LORD asked Satan, “Where have you come from?” Satan answered the LORD, “I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that’s going on.” – Job 1:7

Revelation 12:9-11

 9 The great dragon – the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world – was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.

 10 Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, “It has come at last – salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth – the one who accuses them before our God day and night.

 11 And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.

Looking for Trouble: The Enemy’s Relentless Prowl

In modern English, the phrase “looking for trouble” is a colloquial expression that means acting in a way that is likely to invite difficulty, danger, or conflict. This phrase aptly describes the enemy, Satan, who is always on the lookout for opportunities to cause harm and destruction.

This idea is even captured in pop culture, such as Elvis Presley’s song “Trouble”:

“If you’re looking for trouble, you came to the right place

If you’re looking for trouble, just look right in my face.

Because I’m evil, my middle name is misery

Well, I’m evil, so don’t you mess around with me.”

These lyrics reflect the essence of the enemy’s nature: evil, destructive, and always ready to stir up chaos.

The Enemy’s Names and Nature

The Scriptures reveal the enemy’s character through the many names he is given:

  • Satan: The adversary.
  • The Devil: The accuser or slanderer.
  • Abaddon and Apollyon: The destroyer.
  • Angel of Light: A deceiver who masquerades as good.
  • Lucifer: The fallen one.
  • The Great Dragon: A symbol of his power and ferocity.
  • The God of This World: Reflecting his temporary dominion (2 Corinthians 4:4).
  • The Prince of the Power of the Air: Indicating his influence over the world (Ephesians 2:2).
  • The Wicked One and The Evil One: Emphasizing his malevolent nature.

While these names describe his power and cunning, they also remind us of his ultimate defeat. To avoid lending him undue dignity by mentioning his name, I choose to refer to him simply as “the enemy.”

The Enemy’s Presence and Power

The enemy operates in the shadows, invisible yet unmistakably active. He makes his presence known anywhere, whenever he desires. He is described as the “god of this world” with temporary dominion, but his power is limited and subject to the Father’s authority.

1 Peter 5:8 warns us: “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.”

  • Peter likens the enemy to a lion, one of the fiercest and most feared predators of the ancient world. In Peter’s mind, the lion is: Menacing and Ferocious: A cruel beast of prey.
  • Relentless: Always on patrol, pacing back and forth, prowling, stalking, and searching for potential victims.
  • Intimidating: His mere presence is terrifying, and his roar strikes fear into the hearts of his prey.

The enemy’s goal is not merely to frighten or capture his prey but to maul and utterly devour it.

The Enemy’s Goal: Destruction

His mere presence is intimidating, but if that’s not enough, he terrorizes his would-be victims with his roar. Regrettably, all children of the King are on his watchlist. Of course, some more than others, depending upon how effectively they are serving the Father.

The enemy’s mission is always the same: to spread damage, destruction, and death. He seeks to make the children of the King ineffective in their service to Him.

A Master of Deception

With thousands of years of practice, the enemy is highly skilled, totally brilliant, and exceedingly cunning. How long do you think it took him to deceive Eve and provoke Adam to sin in the Garden of Eden? His tactics are subtle yet devastating.

Devouring His Prey

The Greek word translated as “devour” is katapiomai, derived from kata, meaning “down,” and pino, meaning “to drink.”

This word conveys the sense of “gulping down, swallowing hurriedly, or gobbling up.” To illustrate, imagine two dogs on either side of a barbecue, watching hamburgers being cooked. The chef is momentarily distracted, and two hamburgers fall off the grill. One hamburger heads toward a small Yorkshire Terrier. He lets the hamburger fall to the ground and nibbles at it cautiously, taking small bites. He eats as much as he can, as quickly as he can.

In contrast, a Rottweiler catches the other hamburger in mid-air and swallows it in one gulp. The Rottweiler devoured it.

This action vividly pictures the enemy’s intent; he doesn’t just cause harm, he devours.

How to Resist the Enemy

Despite the enemy’s power, believers are not defenseless. James 4:7 provides a clear strategy: “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Steps to Victory

  • Humble Yourself Before God: Recognize His sovereignty and submit to His authority. 
  • Resist the Devil: Stand firm in your faith, using the Word of God as your weapon. 
  • Trust in the Father’s Power: The enemy may be strong, but the Father is omnipotent, Pantokrator, the Ruler of All. 

REFLECT & PRAY

Are you keeping an eye out for the enemy’s tactics? Do you effectively stand your ground and stay strong in your faith?

Father, thank You that You are the Lord God Omnipotent, the Ruler of All. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and stand firm in faith, even in the face of trials. Strengthen me to overcome the enemy by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony.

INSIGHT

Satan’s Access to the Heavenly Court

The book of Job offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual realm, revealing that Satan, the enemy, has direct access to the very presence of the Father. He is currently free to come and go as he pleases.

Consider Job 1:6, “Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came among them.”

This access allows Satan to accuse and challenge the faithfulness of God’s people. He is always looking for trouble, seeking opportunities to test and destroy.

The Enemy’s Challenge

Satan is convinced that Job’s faithfulness is solely due to the Father’s blessings and protection. He challenges the Father to a test, claiming that if Job’s blessings are removed, he will curse God.

While we, as readers, know what is happening in the heavenly court, Job himself is unaware. He had not read the book of Job, because he had not yet written it.

The Father’s Permission

The Father permits Satan to test Job, allowing him to bring suffering into Job’s life. The enemy’s ultimate goal is to cause Job to turn his back on the Father.

This is perhaps best captured in the words of Job’s wife: Job 2:9, “Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die.”

She is urging Job to give up, blame, and curse the Father God who brought all these terrible things upon him. And finally, simply drop dead. Job’s wife is promoting the enemy’s plan. One can only imagine what it must have been like for Job to have such an uplifting, encouraging, and supportive companion.

Job’s Magnificent Response

Despite his immense suffering, Job responds with unwavering faith, Job 2:10, “You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?”

In all this, Job did not sin. His response is a powerful reminder of faith and trust in the Father, even in the face of unimaginable trials.

The Enemy is Restrained

Throughout human history, the Father has imposed a certain level of restraint on the enemy. While Satan possesses tremendous power, it is limited by the Father’s sovereignty. However, what has already occurred pales in comparison to what is about to happen. A time is coming when the enemy will be cast out of heaven and hurled down, and the restraints will be removed.

Revelation 12:9 describes this moment: “The great dragon, the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world, was thrown down to the earth with all his angels.”

The Enemy’s Realization and Rage

Until now, the enemy has deceived himself, convinced that his plans might ultimately succeed in one way or another. However, when he is cast out of heaven, he realizes that his time is running out. Furious and enraged, his fury intensifies, and he becomes even more destructive.

The Target of His Wrath

He becomes obsessed with annihilating the Jewish people and all the children of the King, those who have accepted Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord.

This is clearly stipulated in Revelation 12:17, “So the dragon was enraged with the woman and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus.”

The enemy’s rage is directed at two groups: “The Nation of Israel: those who keep the commandments of God and believers in Christ: Those who hold to the testimony of Jesus.”

This will be a terrible time, the worst of all times in human history. It is referred to as The Great Tribulation, and it will be marked by unparalleled suffering and persecution.

How Children of the King Overcome

Despite the enemy’s power and fury, the children of God are able to stand firm and overcome him. How?

We are told in Revelation 12:11, “They have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.”

Children of the King overcome the enemy through:

  • The Blood of the Lamb: Christ’s sacrifice on the cross represents the ultimate victory over sin and death. 
  • The Word of Their Testimony: Their faith and witness serve as a powerful testament to God’s strength. 
  • Fearless Devotion: They prioritize their eternal life in Christ above their earthly existence. 

Is this the fulfillment of the promise that Jesus made in Luke 10:19? Jesus said, “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.” Did they exercise authority over the enemy through the blood of Christ? One day, we will know for sure.

Temporary Defeat vs. Eternal Victory

While the enemy may achieve temporary victories on earth, the ultimate triumph of the children of the King is eternal. As Grant Osborne notes: “The victory of Satan over believers is both earthly and temporary (Revelation 13:7), while their victory over him is final and eternal.”

The Father’s Sovereignty vs. Satan’s Limited Power

Satan is described as a kosmokrator (ruler of this world) in Ephesians 6:12, but his power is temporary and limited (cf. John 16:11, 2 Corinthians 4:4).

The Father, on the other hand, is the pantokrator (Ruler of All), as declared in Revelation 19:6, “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty [the Lord God omnipotent], reigns.”

Even in the midst of trials and tribulations, believers can rest in the assurance that the Father is sovereign and that ultimate victory belongs to Him.

The Final Victory

The enemy crawls the earth, looking for trouble and seeking to devour. Though his power is real, it is temporary. His defeat is inevitable, and his time is running out. As children of the King, we are called to stand firm, resist the enemy, and trust in the Lord God Almighty. The enemy may rage, but the Lamb of God has already won.

¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-07-2

© Dr. H 2025

Fascinating ∙∙

Fascinating ∙∙

Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, “Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” – Genesis 17:17

Genesis 18:12 Sarah laughed silently to herself and said, “How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master, my husband, is also so old?”

How the Meaning of Words Evolves Over Time

Language is a living, dynamic entity. Many words in the English language change meaning or acquire new nuances over the centuries of their use. Some of these changes are dramatic, while others are subtle. A prime example of this evolution is the word “fascinate.”

The word “fascinate” originates from the Latin term “fascinari,” meaning “to cast an evil spell.” Initially, “it had a sinister connotation, referring to being bewitched or spellbound in a literal sense.” However, over the past four centuries, the word has gradually lost its dark origins and evolved to take on a more metaphorical meaning, signifying “to captivate” or “to command attention.”

Mr. Spock and His Use of the Term “Fascinating”

The word fascinating gained widespread popularity through the character of Mr. Spock in the original Star Trek series. Spock, portrayed by Leonard Nimoy, is one of the most iconic and enduring characters in science fiction. Who was Spock? Spock was a green-blooded, half-human, half-Vulcan hybrid, a character who never entirely belonged in either world. His struggle as an outsider resonates with fans across the decades. He was admired for his intelligence, elegance, and unwavering logic. His demeanor, iconic Vulcan salute, and catchphrase “Live long and prosper” have made him a cultural phenomenon. Though focused and logical, Spock was never cruel. He was loyal and devoted to Captain Kirk, often serving as both his assistant and conscience.

In the series and follow-up movies, Spock used the term fascinating a total of 49 times. In one episode, he explained his use of the word: “I reserve the use of the term fascinating for the unexpected.”

This definition perfectly captures the essence of the word’s evolution, from something dark and mysterious to something that sparks curiosity and wonder.

Fascinating Coincidences in Scripture

The Scriptures are filled with fascinating, unexpected, and often subtle details. These moments reveal the depth, beauty, and humor of God’s Word. Let’s explore one such example.

The Laughter of Abraham and Sarah

When the Father visited Abraham and Sarah to tell them they would have a child, their reaction was quick and the same: they laughed. Genesis 17:17, “Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, ‘Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?’”

Similarly, Sarah laughed silently to herself, as Genesis 18:12 states, “How could a worn-out woman like me enjoy such pleasure, especially when my master, my husband, is also so old?”

Why did they laugh? It was a spontaneous reaction to something they believed was clearly impossible, similar to men walking on the moon.

The Father’s Response

The Father replied with a question that challenges human doubt, Genesis 18:14, “Is anything too difficult for the LORD?”

He then declared that their son would be named Isaac, or Itschaqin Hebrew, which means “he laughs” (Genesis 17:19). In essence, the Father turned their laughter of disbelief into a name that would forever remind them of His power and faithfulness.

What started as laughter born from doubt turned into a powerful affirmation of God’s ability to accomplish the impossible. Fascinating!

REFLECT & PRAY

Jesus often spoke in parables, which created questions and sometimes confusion. He would then explain to His disciples the meanings and hidden treasures within them.

Father, thank You that Your Word is filled with beauty, wisdom, humor, and truth. Help me to trust in Your promises, even when they seem impossible. Thank You for challenging and enlightening my mind and feeding my spirit through Your Word.

INSIGHT

The Depth and Mystery of the Scriptures

The Scriptures are more than just a collection of stories; they are a rich source of wisdom, mystery, and profound truths. They are meant to be read, contemplated, and studied in depth. Often, they raise questions, create tension, and challenge our understanding, inviting us to explore their meanings more deeply.

2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV) reminds us, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

Let’s examine two fascinating examples of wordplay and theological tension in the Scriptures that highlight the richness of God’s Word.

Beelzebul: A Play on Words

In Luke 11:15, Jesus is accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, a name with a fascinating history. Originally, Baalzebub was a Canaanite deity worshipped at Ekron, as mentioned in 2 Kings 1:3. The name Baalzebub is derived from Ba’al, meaning “lord,” and Zebui, meaning “prince.”

Thus, Baalzebub meant “Baal the Prince.”

The Hebrews, in mockery, changed just one letter of the name to Baalzabub, which means “Lord of the Flies.” This clever wordplay was a deliberate insult, reducing the once-revered pagan deity to a ruler of flies, creatures associated with filth and decay.

The mockery goes even further. Flies are attracted to garbage and dung, which implies that Baalzabub was referred to as the “Lord of the Dung Heap” or the “Lord of the Garbage Dump.” This derogatory twist emphasizes the futility and absurdity of idol worship.

A single letter changed a name of honor to one of utter disdain, showcasing the sharp wit and theological depth of the Hebrew Scriptures. Fascinating!

The Flood and the Name Methuselah

In the days of Noah, God observed the rampant wickedness of humanity, Genesis 6:5-6, “The LORD observed the extent of human wickedness on the earth, and He saw that everything they thought or imagined was consistently and totally evil. So the LORD was sorry He had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke His heart.”

Because of such utter, vile corruption and debauchery, the Father declared His intention to destroy the earth with a flood, Genesis 6:17, “I am about to cover the earth with a flood that will destroy every living thing that breathes. Everything on earth will die.”

This is where Methuselah comes in. The meaning of his name carries a prophetic message. His name can be roughly translated: “his death shall bring” or “when he is dead, it (the Flood) will come.”

Methuselah’s life became a living prophecy of the coming judgment. His very name served as a reminder of the flood that would follow his death.

Although the decision to send the flood was made, the Father delayed its implementation. The death of Methuselah would trigger certain judgment. Methuselah lived longer than anyone else recorded in history, reaching the age of 969 years (Genesis 5:27). Why is this so? His remarkable lifespan is a living letter demonstrating the Father’s mercy, grace, and patience, as He allowed humanity as much time as possible to repent.

When Methuselah died, the floodwaters came. Coincidence? Hardly. Fascinating! Even in judgment, the Father’s mercy shines through, as He delayed the inevitable until the very end of Methuselah’s life.

The Father’s Heart: Does He Change His Mind?

The Scriptures portray the Father as experiencing sorrow, regret, and heartbreak over humanity’s wickedness. But how can an unchanging, omniscient God truly feel such emotions?

The Scriptures employ a figure of speech referred to as an anthropopathism. Anthropopathism is the attribution of human emotions, feelings, or passions to God. The term comes from the Greek words: anthropos, meaning “mankind,” and pathos, meaning “emotion.”

It is a theological and literary device used to help humans understand and relate to God or abstract concepts by describing them in terms of human emotions and experiences.

For example, Genesis 6:6 states, “So the LORD was sorry he had ever made them and put them on the earth. It broke his heart.”

The Hebrew word translated as “sorry” or “relented” is nacham. Nachamconveys the idea of “deep emotion,” often expressed through a physical act, such as “breathing or sighing deeply.”

Does God Change His Mind? The Scriptures seem to present a paradox. Numbers 23:19 states that, “God is not a man, so He does not lie. He is not human, so He does not change His mind.” This idea is reiterated in 1 Samuel 15:29, which explains that, “The Glory of Israel does not go back on His word or change His mind, for He is not a human being who changes His mind.”

Yet, other passages suggest that God does change His mind, as when He relents from judgment in response to the repentance of the Ninevites (Jonah 3:10).

Reconciling Biblical Tension

The Father’s immutability means that His character, purposes, and promises never change. However, His actions and emotions can vary in response to human behavior. He is not a distant or unfeeling deity; rather, He is a personal God who interacts with His creation.

This could be summarized as follows:

  • Immutable in Nature: The Father’s attributes, His love, justice, and mercy, are unchanging.
  • Responsive in Action: The Father chooses to respond to humanity’s actions, relenting or changing His dealings with people according to His sovereign purposes.

Fascinating! The Father’s unchanging nature coexists with His dynamic relationship with humanity, revealing both His consistency and His compassion.

The Fascination of The Scriptures

The Scriptures are more than just a collection of stories; they are rich with mysteries, wordplays, and profound truths that encourage us to study and meditate deeply. Similar to Jesus’ parables, they challenge our understanding, provoke questions, and invite us to explore further. They serve as a treasure trove of wisdom, humor, and deep insights. Most importantly, they reveal the heart of the Father.

As 2 Timothy 2:15 reminds us, we are called to study God’s Word diligently, seeking to rightly divide the truth. In doing so, we uncover the fascinating details that reveal His character and His plan for humanity.

Fascinating, isn’t it?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯3-16-3

© Dr. H 2025

Jesus the Merciful ∙∙

Jesus the Merciful ∙∙

He needed to be made in every respect like us so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. – Hebrews 2:17

Hebrews 4:14-16

 14 We have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us hold firmly to what we believe.

 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.

 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There, we will receive his mercy and find grace to help us when we need it most.

Maximus the Merciful

In the 2000 film “Gladiator,” Russell Crowe portrays Maximus Decimus Meridius, a high-ranking Roman general who served under Emperor Marcus Aurelius. After being betrayed by the emperor’s son, Commodus, Maximus narrowly escapes an assassination attempt and is presumed dead. Stripped of his rank and identity, he adopts the name “Spaniard” and, through a series of events, becomes a gladiator in Rome.

Commodus, eager to see Maximus defeated, orchestrates a fight between him and an undefeated gladiator named Tigris of Gaul, expecting Maximus to perish. However, against all odds, Maximus triumphs. In a surprising act of mercy, he chooses to spare Tigris’ life, earning the admiration of the crowd, who then acclaim him as “Maximus the Merciful.”

What Is Mercy?

Mercy is a profound concept. As Adrian Rogers explains, “Mercy is not getting what we deserve, grace is getting what we do not deserve.”

Maximus generously chose to spare Tigris as an act of mercy, opting not to impose punishment or harm when he had the power to do so. This mercy mirrors the defining qualities of the Father and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Our Merciful High Priest: Jesus Christ

The Father, in His infinite love, has provided every child of the King with a merciful and faithful High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus took on human form, experiencing the full range of human struggles, emotions, and temptations.

Hebrews 4:15, “This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do.”

Jesus’ understanding goes beyond mere knowledge. He is empathetic, sharing in our struggles and commiserating with our pain. His mercy is not distant or detached; it is personal and compassionate.

An Invitation to Come Boldly

Through His mercy, we can approach the Father with our struggles at any time and from anywhere. Since He faced similar temptations, the Lord Jesus Christ is prepared to help us whenever we encounter temptation.

Hebrews 4:16, “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”

The Greek verb eleos, translated as “let us come,” is in the present tense, meaning “let us keep on coming.” This emphasizes that we can approach Him repeatedly, without fear of being turned away. The Lord Jesus Christ, the Merciful, never gets tired of helping the children of the King. He loves to do it.

The Greek word translated as “boldly” or “confidence” is parresia, which “conveys an attitude of openness, freedom, and a lack of fear.”

Because of Jesus’ completed work of redemption, the issue of sin has been fully dealt with and atoned for. There is no reason to hesitate or fear. Instead, we are encouraged to approach Him fearlessly and confidently. We can come to Him bravely in any situation, especially when we need Him the most. We can come again and again, knowing that His mercy and grace are inexhaustible.

How great is that?

Why Do We Hesitate?

Despite this invitation, many of us are reluctant to approach Him boldly. Why? The apostle John provides the answer, 1 John 4:18, “There is no fear in love because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love.”

When we truly experience the perfect love of Christ, fear is removed from the equation. We no longer fear rejection, punishment, or inadequacy. Instead, we are drawn to Him by His love and mercy.

An Invitation Signed by Jesus Christ, the Merciful

Every child of the King holds an open invitation to come boldly to the throne of grace. The Lord Jesus Christ, the Merciful, signs this invitation. 

How great is that?

REFLECT & PRAY

The mercy and grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the merciful, are infinite. They can never be exhausted or used up.

Father, thank You for providing the Perfect High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Merciful. Encourage me to come boldly and confidently into Your presence, knowing that Your mercy and grace are always available. Help me to trust in Your perfect love and to live without fear, relying on Your infinite compassion.

INSIGHT

God: The Source of All Comfort and Mercy

2 Corinthians 1:3 reminds us, “God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort.”

When we experience God’s mercy and help in our times of greatest need, it is not meant to stop with us. What does the Father expect of us? The Father wants us to pay it forward, extending that same kindness and mercy to others. Mercy is not a stagnant gift; it is a flowing, living force.

Mercy begins with God, the source of all mercies, and flows through us to those in need. As we show mercy to others, we are blessed in return. This principle is beautifully captured in a familiar rabbinic saying: “The greater mercy that we give to others, the more we receive” (UBS).

The Blessing of Mercy

In the Beatitudes, Jesus makes a profound promise in Matthew 5:7, “God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

This verse highlights the intended cycle: as we extend mercy to others, we open ourselves to receive even more mercy from God. Mercy is not just a one-time act; it is a lifestyle that reflects the character of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Merciful.

Mercy and Forgiveness: A Reflection of God’s Heart

The call to be merciful is closely tied to forgiveness, as seen in the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:12, “Forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.”

Mercy is rooted in God’s acceptance of the unworthy, the guilty, and those in the wrong. As Larry Chouinard explains, “The merciful are those who reflect God’s acceptance of the unworthy, the guilty, and the ones in the wrong, based upon the premise that God’s forgiving and restoring acceptance has been manifested in the message and person of Jesus.”

Hebrew and Greek Words for Mercy

The Greek word translated as merciful in Matthew 5:7 is eleemon, which reflects the Hebrew word hesed. Hesed is one of the most beautiful and profound words in the Old Testament, describing the character of the Father.

Hesed is often translated as “kindness, lovingkindness, mercy, faithfulness, reliability, and loyal love.” It goes beyond mere sympathy or pity. Hesed is “a deep, empathetic commitment to understanding and helping others.”

Hesed: A Commitment of Mind and Will

The UBS Handbook defines mercy as “Having a feeling of sorrow over someone’s bad situation and trying to do something about it. Merciful people can be said to be ‘kind’ or ‘forgiving,’ or to be ‘people who take pity on others,’ ‘people who show mercy to others.’”

However, William Barclay explains, “Hesed enables us to deeply empathize with others, allowing us to perceive the world through their eyes, understand their thoughts, and resonate with their emotions. This goes far beyond a fleeting surge of sympathy. It requires a conscious commitment of both the mind and the will.”

Mercy, therefore, is not just a feeling; it is an action. It is a deliberate choice to step into someone else’s situation and do something about it.

Mercy as a Way of Life

Mercy is not just an occasional act or a fleeting impulse. It is a way of life for those who follow Christ. As Leon Morris puts it, “Being merciful refers to those whose bent is to show mercy.”

For the merciful, kindness, forgiveness, and compassion are not rare occurrences; they are the natural outflow of a heart transformed by God’s mercy.

When intelligence (understanding the situation) and compassion (kindness and action) meet and kiss, the result is mercy.

The Promise of Mercy

The Lord Jesus Christ makes a simple yet profound promise in Matthew 5:7, “Be merciful. You will be shown mercy.”

This is not merely a command; it is an invitation to experience the blessings of God’s mercy in your own life. The more mercy you extend to others, the more you will receive.

Be merciful and you will be shown mercy. What a tremendous promise!

What do you have to lose? Nothing!

Mercy costs us little but gives us much. It reflects the heart of God, blesses others, and brings us closer to Him. So why hesitate?

¯\_(ツ)_/¯10-10-3

© Dr. H 2025

Getting lost ∙∙

Getting lost ∙∙

All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. – Isaiah 53:6

Luke 15:4-7

 4 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?

 5 And when he has found it, he will joyfully carry it home on his shoulders.

 6 When he arrives, he will call together his friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’

 7 Similarly, there is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine righteous ones who haven’t strayed away!

The Perils of Early Maritime Exploration

Since the waters of the flood receded, mariners have ventured across the vast oceans. However, navigating the seas was fraught with dangers:

  • Ferocious storms that threatened to capsize ships.
  • Hidden shoals and reefs that could tear apart hulls.
  • Dense fog that obscured visibility.
  • Doldrums, where windless waters left ships stranded.
  • Lack of fresh water, leading to dehydration and death.
  • Sea monsters [just kidding].

But the greatest threat was getting lost. Without a reliable way to determine their location, sailors risked drifting aimlessly and being unable to find their way. Enter the idea of latitudes and longitudes, a revolutionary concept in navigation.

Latitude: Navigating North and South

Imagine a line running between the North Pole and the South Pole. Perpendicular to this line is the equator, an imaginary horizontal line encircling the Earth. From this foundation, latitudes were developed: horizontal lines parallel to the equator create imaginary circles around the globe.

Some of these latitudes are well-known, like the Arctic Circle and the Antarctic Circle.

By the 1700s, determining one’s latitude (North-South position) at sea had become a common practice, thanks to advancements in celestial navigation. The same couldn’t be said for longitudes.

Longitude: The East-West Challenge

While latitude was relatively easy to determine, longitude (East-West position) remained a mystery. The Longitudes are vertical lines running parallel to one another, but during the 1700s, there was no reliable way to calculate one’s longitude at sea. This conundrum became known as “the longitude problem.”

For centuries, even the brightest scientific minds, including Galileo and Sir Isaac Newton, tried to solve this problem using astronomical methods. However, all attempts failed.

A Mechanical Solution

Enter John Harrison, a clockmaker and carpenter by trade. With a stroke of genius, Harrison devised a mechanical solution to the longitude problem. He invented the marine chronometer, a clock capable of keeping accurate time at sea despite the ship’s motion and fluctuations in temperature and humidity.

By comparing the local time (determined by the sun) with the time at a fixed reference point (such as Greenwich, England), sailors could determine their longitude with remarkable precision.

Revolutionizing Navigation

Harrison’s invention transformed navigation and long-distance exploration. For the first time, mariners could reliably determine their position at sea, removing the fear of getting lost. Harrison’s marine chronometer addressed one of the most significant scientific challenges of the time. Sailors no longer had to worry about losing their way. They could find their location no matter where they were.

Lost Without Knowing It

When sailors are lost, they become aware of it. But the same can’t be said for most of humanity. According to Scripture, every person is born lost, separated from the Father, and wandering aimlessly through life. They are lost, yet sadly unaware of it. The journey to “becoming found” is a task the Father assigns to each individual before their death.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 reminds us: “God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.”

The human heart yearns for something eternal, yet we remain blind to what is truly missing.

Man-Made Attempts to Be “Found”

Throughout history, humanity has struggled in vain to find a solution to the problem of spiritual disconnection. Over the centuries, countless solutions have been proposed:

  • World religions offering paths to enlightenment or salvation.
  • Philosophies promising meaning and purpose.
  • Self-help ideologies claiming to unlock human potential.

But none of these man-made solutions have proven effective. They are like faulty compasses, leading people further astray.

The Father’s More Excellent Way

From the heavens above, the Father has provided a more excellent way. He sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to seek and save the lost. Jesus is the ultimate “navigator,” guiding us back to the Father and offering eternal life to all who hear His voice and follow Him.

Jesus tells us in John 10:27-28: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.”

REFLECT & PRAY

Just as John Harrison’s marine chronometer solved the problem of being lost at sea, the Lord Jesus Christ serves as the solution to humanity’s spiritual lostness. While the human race seeks answers, the Father seeks us. He calls each of us to follow Him and find our way home. Are you listening to His voice?

Father, thank You for designing and creating a way to find lost human sheep. Thank You that when the Lord Jesus Christ spoke, I heard His voice. I came, and He gave me eternal life. Help me to follow Him faithfully and guide others to the truth.

INSIGHT

Jesus Came to Rescue the Lost

The Lord Jesus Christ came to rescue humanity, lost in its separation from the Father. As Bock explains, “Jesus becomes the instrument through whom God works. Jesus’ mission is to initiate relationships with those who do not know God and call to them to come to know Him.”

This mission is clearly stated in Luke 19:10, “For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.”

What Does It Mean to Be Lost?

Being lost can be simply defined as being separated from the Father. While people have eternity planted in their hearts, as described in Ecclesiastes 3:11, they often experience a deep longing, emptiness, or desire for something more. However, they frequently do not identify themselves as spiritually “lost.”

They might wonder, “Is that all there is?” Yet, without asking the right questions, they struggle to find the right answers. The root problem, sin, remains unrecognized, causing them to wander aimlessly.

Jesus Calls to the Lost

Jesus addressed this condition in Luke 5:31-32: “Healthy people don’t need a doctor, sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”

Just as a sick person must first acknowledge their illness to seek healing, those who are lost must recognize their separation from God to seek salvation.

The Father’s Initiative: Sending the Savior

Sailors lost at sea understood their dire situation; they knew they were doomed. In contrast, those lost in the sea of humanity often remain unaware of their spiritual plight. Tragically, they are oblivious.

Recognizing this, the Father took the initiative and sent the Lord Jesus Christ to offer salvation and eternal life.

Jesus makes a fantastic offer: abundant, eternal life, as stated in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

Hearing His Voice

When Jesus’ words are proclaimed, they awaken His sheep. For those who belong to Him, His voice clarifies their sense of need. They transition from:

  • Oblivious wandering to conscious seeking.
  • Lost slumber to lost awakeness.

The numbness of stupefying, spiritual slumber fades away, and they become seekers. When they hear His voice, they respond and come to Him.

Lord Jesus Christ promises in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

The Separation Is Breached

Through Jesus Christ, the separation from the Father is bridged. Those who come to Him receive eternal life, a gift that cannot be taken away.

John 10:28-29: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.”

Every child of the King possesses eternal life:

  • Eternal life is a present possession, not just a future promise.
  • It lasts forever and cannot be taken away.
  • They are safe and secure in the Father’s hands, with no room for despair or fear.

His Sheep are No Longer Lost but Found

The Good Shepherd becomes the Guardian of Our Souls. The children of the King are no longer lost; they are now found. They have turned to their Shepherd, who lovingly guides and guards them.

1 Peter 2:25, “Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.”

Do you Continue to Wonder Aimlessly?

Many people are still wandering in spiritual lostness, but the voice of the Shepherd calls to them. Can you hear His voice? All you need to do is come to Him to be found forever. Every child of the King can live with the confidence and security of His eternal promise.

The mission of the Lord Jesus Christ is clear: to seek and save the lost. Through His voice, the lost are awakened, and through His sacrifice, the separation from the Father is bridged. Every child of the King is safe, secure, and eternally found in the hands of the Father. Let us embrace this truth and share it with a world that continues to wander in lostness.

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© Dr. H 2025

The Spirit of Truth and the spirit of error ∙∙

The Spirit of Truth and the spirit of error ∙∙

Now the Holy Spirit makes it clear that in the last days, some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons.

 – 1 Timothy 4:1

2 Timothy 3:1-4

 1 You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times.

 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.

 3 They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good.

 4 They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God.

The Power of Online Media Influencers

In the 21st century, online media influencers have emerged as some of the most influential voices in society. They inspire and guide the actions of others by sharing their opinions, expertise, and recommendations on social media platforms. Their extensive reach shapes trends, influences opinions, and even affects lifestyles.

The Ultimate Influencer of the Past

In stark contrast, one of the most profound influences on society throughout history has not been a singular figure, but rather a remarkable book, the Word of God. The Bible stands as a timeless Instruction Manual for Life, brimming with guidance and wisdom. It offers illuminating insights and answers to some of life’s most daunting questions, serving as a beacon of hope and clarity during turbulent times.

Why Do People Reject the Word of God?

Many individuals often dismiss the teachings of Scripture, primarily because of complex and seemingly insurmountable questions. For instance, they grapple with the profound dilemma of how a just and loving God can allow the existence of evil and suffering in a world. Additionally, they question how God can impose the exact, stringent expectations on all people when circumstances differ so drastically. These questions provoke deep reflection and, for many, lead to a growing skepticism.

These questions can lead people to reject not only the Word of God but also the God of the Word. Lifehopeandtruth.com poses a thought-provoking question: “Considering the stakes in this real-life game of life and death, shouldn’t we give the Instruction Manual a chance?”

A Blunt Answer from Scripture

The Father offers a clear and sobering explanation for this rejection through the words of the Lord Jesus Christ. He explains in John 8:47, “He who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason, you do not hear them because you are not of God.”

In simple terms, many people choose to disregard the Father’s Instruction Manual because they do not belong to Him. Their hearts do not align with His, which causes them to fail to hear and accept His words.

A World That Has Turned Away

In much of the Western world, the Word of God and God Himself have been largely disregarded. Society has embraced various influences, often prioritizing fleeting trends and worldly wisdom over eternal truth.

When the Bible is ignored, people miss out on the Father’s primary source of wisdom meant to help them navigate life’s complexities and prepare for eternity. Rejecting it means turning away from the wisdom and love of the One who created us.

REFLECT & PRAY

The game of life is not fair, and the Father never promised it would be. However, He has provided us with His Word as a guide, a source of strength, and a beacon of hope.

Father, encourage me to let You be my primary Influencer. Help me to reject the voices and influences of the enemy. Strengthen me to complete my assignments with integrity and endurance, always guided by Your Word.

INSIGHT

The Battle of Invisible Influencers

Behind the scenes of what we see, hear, or read through modern communication is a struggle between two powerful, unseen forces. These forces serve as “influencers,” inspiring, motivating, and guiding the actions of others.

  • Evil influencers: These forces generate interest in destructive opinions and viewpoints, leading to actions that result in harm, violence, and chaos.
  • Godly influencers: These forces direct people toward truth, love, and righteousness, helping them align with the will of the Father.

As 1 John 4:6 reminds us, “We are from God; he who knows God listens to us; he who is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.”

Godlessness: The Spirit of the Last Days

The Apostle Paul warned Timothy about the character of the last days in 2 Timothy 3:1, “You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days, there will be very difficult times.”

The Greek word translated as “difficult” is chalepos. Chalepos is used only twice in the New Testament. In Matthew 8:28, it describes the “vicious ferocity” of the demoniacs in the country of the Gadarenes. In 2 Timothy 3:1, it describes the “harsh, savage, and dangerous spirit of the age” that will characterize the last days. The last days will be so terrible that they are almost impossible to endure.

As William Barclay notes, “2 Timothy 3:1-4 is one of the most terrible pictures in the New Testament of what a godless world would be like, with the terrible qualities of godlessness set out in a ghastly list.”

The Rise of Evil Influencers

Are invisible spiritual forces preparing the way for the Antichrist? The signs of the times indicate a world increasingly shaped by self-centeredness and a lack of godliness.

The Age of Self-Love

In 2 Timothy 3:2, Paul describes a defining characteristic of the last days, “For people will love only themselves.”

The Greek term phílautos (from phílos, meaning “loving,” and autos, meaning “self”) conveys the idea of “self-centered love or self-importance.” It could be rendered as “self-lovers.” People will become “utterly self-centered” (Phillips), with “narcissistic egotism dominating their lives.”

Could this be a prophetic description of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) so prevalent in modern society? The rise of self-love, self-promotion, and self-obsession in today’s culture aligns with Paul’s warning about the spirit of the last days.

Lovers of God

In stark contrast to the self-lovers of self, the children of the King are called to be lovers of God. Paul uses the Greek term “philotheos,” which combines “phílos” (loving) and “theos” (God), to describe this orientation.

This term reflects the first and greatest commandment given by the Lord Jesus Christ in Matthew 22:36-38, “You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.”

The children of the King are to prioritize the Father above all else, choosing to align their lives with His will and His loyal love.

The Truth Will Prevail

Despite the savage and godless nature of the last days, victory belongs to the children of the King. Evil may seem powerful, but it is ultimately fighting a losing battle. Barclay takes note of the Latin proverb, “Magna est veritas et praevalebit” (Great is the truth, and in the end, it will prevail). The children of the King merely have to remember the truth they already know and cling to it. The truth of God’s Word is unshakable and will prevail.

The Key to Victory

Even the children of the King are not immune to the influence of evil. Remember the truth you already know. Hold fast to it, no matter how dire the circumstances may seem. Be cautious of negative influencers. During these savage times, it is all too easy to follow the wrong stream of influence.

The battle between good and evil is a real one, and the stakes are high. Who or What Is Your Primary Influencer? Are you a lover of God, or have you been caught up in the self-centered spirit of the age?

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© Dr. H 2025