Can You Have Your Cake and Eat It Too? ∙∙

Can You Have Your Cake and Eat It Too? ∙∙

I, the LORD, will answer all those . . . who reject me and set up idols in their hearts and so fall into sin, and who then come to a prophet asking for my advice. I will turn against such people . . .. – Ezekiel 14:7-8

1 Samuel 15:9-14

Saul and his men spared Agag’s life and kept the best of the sheep and goats, the cattle, the fat calves, and the lambs – everything, in fact, that appealed to them. They destroyed only what was worthless or of poor quality.

Then the LORD said to Samuel, “I am sorry that I ever made Saul king, for he has not been loyal to me and has refused to obey my command.” Samuel was so deeply moved when he heard this that he cried out to the LORD all night.

When Samuel finally found him, Saul greeted him cheerfully. “May the LORD bless you,” he said. “I have carried out the LORD’s command!” “Then what is all the bleating of sheep and goats and the lowing of cattle I hear?” Samuel demanded.

A Bizarre Case of Cake and Consequences

In Wichita Falls, Texas, an unusual and amusing incident took place when a woman was banned from her local Walmart for a culinary act of defiance. According to police reports, the woman entered the store, went to the bakery section, and started eating half of a cake while walking through the aisles. By the time she reached the checkout, she demanded to pay only half the price, claiming she was buying just half a cake. She refused to pay for the part she had already eaten, which led to her being banned from the store.

This peculiar story serves as a humorous yet striking illustration of the old proverb, “You cannot have your cake and eat it too.” The saying, which dates back centuries, conveys the idea that one cannot simultaneously enjoy the benefits of something while also retaining it. In this case, the woman’s actions epitomized the folly of defying this timeless truth.

It all seems rather contemptible and foolish. We ask, “Who would do such a thing?” Sadly, the answer is that we would.

The Spiritual Parallel: False Piety and Idolatry

While the Walmart incident might seem trivial, it reflects a deeper spiritual truth about human nature. It serves as a metaphor for how people often want the rewards and benefits of their beliefs or values without fully committing to the principles or sacrifices required. Just as the woman tried to enjoy the cake without paying its full price, many people express a desire to love and serve the Father while not fully aligning with His will. This disconnect indicates a lack of true devotion and commitment to their beliefs.

False Piety in Ezekiel’s Time

During the days of the prophet Ezekiel, the people of Judah were guilty of a similar kind of duplicity. Outwardly, they seemed to serve the Lord, but their hearts were far from Him. Instead of being motivated by love for the Father and His Word, their hearts were filled with idols, false substitutes that took priority over their relationship with God. Their actions were characterized by arrogance, delusion, and a tragic lack of true devotion.

The leaders of Judah, in particular, exemplified this false piety. They approached Ezekiel seeking guidance from the Lord, but their motives were insincere. Instead of gaining the insight they wanted, they received a stern rebuke. Ezekiel revealed their sinful attitudes and the idolatry rooted in their hearts.

Ezekiel 14:7-8: “I, the LORD, will answer all those, who reject me and set up idols in their hearts and so fall into sin, and who then come to a prophet asking for my advice. I will turn against such people.”

Really?The arrogance of Judah’s leaders was astounding. They sought the Lord’s counsel while simultaneously rejecting Him in their hearts. Instead of welcoming them, the Father declared that He would set His face against them, exposing their hypocrisy and rebellion.

A Call to Wholehearted Devotion

The story of Judah’s leaders serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of false piety and divided loyalty. Just as the woman in Walmart tried to manipulate the situation to her advantage, we can also fall into the trap of following the Father’s plan only so far, allowing our own desires to take precedence when it suits us.

The Father calls us to serve Him with undivided hearts, free from the idols and distractions that compete for our attention. Anything less than total devotion is inadequate.

In Ezekiel 14:1-5, the Lord’s rebuke through Ezekiel emphasizes the importance of examining our hearts and removing anything that obstructs our relationship with Him. True devotion requires more than outward appearances; it demands an all-consuming love for the Father and His Word.

REFLECT & PRAY

When it comes to following the Father’s plan, we often stop short and compromise by replacing it with our own ideas.

Father, I long to serve You with my whole heart. Help me to remove anything that competes with my devotion to You. Just enough will not do; encourage me to follow You fully and faithfully.

INSIGHT

The Consequences of Partial Obedience

When the Father gives a command, He expects complete obedience, not partial compliance. The story of King Saul in 1 Samuel 15 serves as a sobering reminder of the unexpected and far-reaching consequences of substituting our own plans for the Father’s. Saul’s tragic failure to fully follow the Lord’s instructions reveals the dangers of rationalizing disobedience and shows the futility of blame-shifting.

Saul’s Disobedience and Rationalization

Through the prophet Samuel, the Lord gave King Saul a clear and direct command: to completely destroy the Amalekites, Israel’s sworn enemy, along with all their possessions. However, Saul decided that partial obedience would be enough. Instead of fully following the Lord’s instructions, he spared King Agag and kept the best of the livestock, destroying only what was weak or of little value.

1 Samuel 15:9: “Saul and his men spared Agag’s life and kept the best of the sheep and goats, the cattle, the fat calves, and the lambs, everything, in fact, that appealed to them. They destroyed only what was worthless or of poor quality.”

When confronted by Samuel, Saul greeted him cheerfully, claiming to have carried out the Lord’s command. But Samuel immediately exposed the truth.

1 Samuel 15:13-14: “Saul greeted him cheerfully. ‘May the LORD bless you,’ he said. ‘I have carried out the LORD’s command!’ ‘Then what is all the bleating of sheep and goats and the lowing of cattle I hear?’ Samuel demanded.”

Caught in his disobedience, Saul began to rationalize his actions. He blamed his soldiers for sparing the best livestock, insisting it was for a noble purpose, to sacrifice to the Lord. However, his excuses only exposed his lack of personal responsibility and his failure to honor the Lord’s command.

1 Samuel 15:15: “It’s true that the army spared the best of the sheep, goats, and cattle,” Saul admitted. “But they are going to sacrifice them to the LORD your God. We have destroyed everything else.”

The Lord’s Rebuke Through Samuel

Samuel’s response to Saul’s excuses was direct and uncompromising. He reminded Saul that the Lord values obedience over sacrifice and submission over offerings. Partial obedience, Samuel declared, is not obedience at all; it is rebellion.

1 Samuel 15:22-23: “But Samuel replied, ‘What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness is as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, he has rejected you as king.’”

This rebuke was a devastating blow to Saul. His rebellion was likened to witchcraft, and his obstinacy was deemed no better than worshiping idols. The Lord’s standards are much higher than human reasoning, and Saul’s failure to meet them cost him dearly.

The Consequences of Saul’s Actions

Saul’s disobedience had immediate and lasting consequences. Samuel informed him that the Lord had rejected him as king and would give the kingdom to someone else, someone better suited to lead.

1 Samuel 15:28: “And Samuel said to him, ‘The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to someone else, one who is better than you.’”

Despite Saul’s admission of guilt and his plea for forgiveness, the damage was done. His failure to fully obey the Lord’s command revealed a heart that prioritized human approval over divine authority.

1 Samuel 15:24: “Then Saul admitted to Samuel, ‘Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the LORD’s command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they demanded.’”

The Weight of Partial Obedience

The story of Saul underscores a critical truth: partial obedience is not obedience at all. It is rebellion, defiance, and a rejection of the Father’s authority. Samuel’s words make it clear that the Lord does not accept excuses or rationalizations. His ways are higher than ours, and His standards are absolute.

1 Samuel 15:23: “Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness is as bad as worshiping idols.”

The Scriptures challenge us to examine our own hearts and actions. Are we fully submitting to the Father’s will, or are we offering Him only partial obedience? The Lord desires complete devotion, not half-hearted compliance. Anything less is rebellion in His eyes.

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Selfishness is in Our DNA ∙∙

Selfishness is in Our DNA ∙∙

God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. – Philippians 2:13

Philippians 2:1-4

 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,

 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord, and of one mind.

 3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.

Overcoming Selfishness: A Path to Transformation

Over the years, Alcoholics Anonymous has offered countless individuals comfort and a path to recovery. One member insightfully shared, “Selfishness, self-centeredness, that we think is the root of our troubles! Fear, self-delusion, self-pity, and self-seeking! My basic problem, as I see it now, was that I was full of SELF, full of Me, Me, Me, Me. How is everything going to affect me, how will I feel, what will I get, what will happen to me if X-Y-Z happens . . .. I am self-obsessed and deluded, and that is what I see as my alcoholism. This chronic self-centeredness. . .! It is still SELF that defeats me, and always will be.”

Selfishness, the inclination to be self-centered, is a common challenge. Consider a simple scenario: multiple roommates sharing a single bathroom. During the morning rush, who gets to use it first? Too often, the unspoken mindset is, “You’re welcome to go before me, right after I’m done.” This everyday example underscores how deeply ingrained self-prioritization can be.

A Call to Selflessness

Paul urges us to prioritize the well-being of others above our own. Yet, selfishness seems woven into the fabric of human nature. Many of us instinctively place our needs and desires ahead of others, often without even realizing it.

Is it possible to change this innate inclination? The answer is a resounding yes.

Change begins with recognizing the ultimate example of selflessness: the Lord Jesus Christ. We would not be children of the King if He had not put our needs before His own desires. In the Garden of Gethsemane, the Lord Jesus Christ revealed His deep anguish and reluctance to drink the cup of self-sacrifice. Yet, He willingly chose to submit to the Father’s will.

Luke 22:42: “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.”

As the good Shepherd, He laid down His life for His sheep, demonstrating the ultimate act of love.

John 10:11: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”

Because of His love for us, we are empowered to love others in the same way. As Gordon Fee aptly stated, “Love begins when someone else’s needs are more important than mine.” Each time we choose to do what is right, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable, we take a small step away from selfishness.

The Father’s Role in Transformation

The Father not only motivates His children to change but also provides the power to do so. The Scriptures serve as a guide, offering both encouragement and examples of how to live selflessly.

Philippians 2:3-4:


“3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.
4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”

The Father instills in us both the longing and the strength to do what pleases Him. When we genuinely understand this profound truth, we begin to align our actions with His wishes, releasing our self-focused desires and ambitions. While this journey may present numerous challenges, it is not beyond our reach. With determination and faith, we can do it, guided by His leadership and transformative insights. Though it may be tough, achieving this through His strength is entirely within our reach.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Scriptures are filled with stories of ordinary people achieving extraordinary things through the power of God. Diminishing and overcoming selfishness isn’t easy; it’s a remarkable transformation that reflects the Father’s work in our lives.

Father, I acknowledge that selfishness is ingrained in my DNA. However, You have instilled in me the desire to live differently. Lead me and transform me so that Your desires become my desires.

INSIGHT

Overcoming Selfishness: Following the Example of Christ

What is the most profound example given to us to overcome the inherent selfishness of human nature? It is the humility of the Lord Jesus Christ. He established the ultimate standard for transcending our natural tendency toward self-centeredness. By letting go of self-interest, He demonstrated how to live a selfless life. He emptied Himself of personal ambition, prioritized the needs of others, and willingly sacrificed His life for humanity.

The why is clear: we serve someone greater than ourselves. The method is simple yet challenging: we choose to serve others before we serve ourselves.

The Challenge of Selflessness

John F. Kennedy inspired a generation with his famous words: “We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard; because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept . . ..”

Overcoming the selfishness ingrained in our nature is challenging. However, it is a task that every child of the King can do. It requires intentionality, effort, and a commitment to follow Christ’s example.

Transitioning from Selfishness to Selflessness

How can we move away from selfishness and self-centeredness? The journey starts with a deliberate effort to focus on others’ needs and feelings. Psychologist Elinor Greenberg describes a six-step process that can assist in this transformation. Each step signifies a small yet significant improvement.

  1. Admit the need for change
    The initial and often hardest step is recognizing that current behaviors aren’t effective. This demands humility and a readiness to change.
  2. Identify a specific area for improvement
    Start with a problem that’s simple to identify and doesn’t need deep emotional empathy. This makes the process easier.
  3. Choose a new behavior to practice
    Decide on a specific, positive behavior to replace the old one. Planning ahead is essential for success.
  4. Practice the new behavior while inhibiting the old one
    Consistently implement the new behavior in real-life situations, deliberately resisting the urge to revert to old habits.
  5. Persist until the new behavior becomes automatic
    Repetition and consistency are essential. Eventually, the new behavior will feel natural.
  6. Introduce additional new behaviors
    After mastering the initial behavior, focus on adding another area to improve in order to keep growing.

This process, although gradual, can lead to significant transformation.

The First Step in Transformation

The first and most crucial step in this journey is choosing to be less selfish and striving to emulate the Lord Jesus Christ. When we choose to serve the Father with a willing and dedicated heart, we invite His transformative power into our lives. The Father nurtures within us the strength and desire to ensure our actions reflect His will.

2 Corinthians 4:1: “Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up.”

Through His boundless mercy and divine guidance, we have the remarkable ability to rise above the selfish instincts inherent in our human nature. By embracing His teachings, we can cultivate lives that radiate the humility and selflessness exemplified by the Lord Jesus Christ, embodying a spirit of compassion and love that transforms our hearts and those around us.

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© Dr. H 2025

I’ve Been There ∙∙

I’ve Been There ∙∙

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

Hebrews 2:10-18

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

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

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

The Power of Shared Experiences

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

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

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

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

Trusting God Through Life’s Challenges

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

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

Jesus’ Shared Humanity

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

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

Why Did Jesus Become Human?

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

The Advocate Who Understands

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

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

REFLECT & PRAY

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

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

INSIGHT

The Savior Who Truly Understands

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

Trials: A Tool for Growth and Encouragement

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

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

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

Empathy Over Sympathy

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

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

A Man of Sorrows

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

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

The Champion of Our Faith

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

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

A Savior Who Runs to Our Aid

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

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© Dr. H 2025

Do good to all people ∙∙

Do good to all people ∙∙

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

Galatians 6:9-10

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ukraine: A Modern War Zone

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

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

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

A Shift in Global Alliances

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

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

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

REFLECT & PRAY

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

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

INSIGHT

Understanding Goodness: A Divine Standard

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

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

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

The Call to Goodness

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

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

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

The Language of Goodness: Kalos and Agathos

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

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

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

Key differences between the terms are as follows:

• Kalos – refers to being good

• Agathos – refers to doing good

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

The Consequences of Neglecting Goodness

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

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

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

The Paradigm Shift: Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus

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

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

Focusing On Jesus

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

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

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

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

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© Dr. H 2025

The Fog of Disruption

The Fog of Disruption

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

John 20:13-16

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

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

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

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

Preoccupation: The Mental Merry-Go-Round

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

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

The Clouded Vision of Fixation

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

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

The Encounter at the Tomb

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

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

How did Mary Finally Recognize Jesus?

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

The Challenge of Seeing Clearly

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

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

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

REFLECT & PRAY

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

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

INSIGHT

Detecting Counterfeits

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

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

Discernment Through Familiarity with Christ

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

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

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

A Desire to See Jesus

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

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

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

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

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

Spiritual Cataracts

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

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

Seeing Clearly Through Spiritual Growth

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

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

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© Dr. H 2025