Maligned for Living Out Biblical Faith

Maligned for Living Out Biblical Faith

In the same way, let your light shine out for all so that everyone will see your good deeds, and they will praise your heavenly Father. – Matthew 5:16

1 Peter 2:11-21

Dear friends, I warn you, as “temporary residents and foreigners,” to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then, even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

It is God’s will that your honorable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil.

Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God and respect the king. For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment.

Of course, you get no credit for being patient if you are beaten for doing wrong. But if you suffer for doing good and endure it patiently, God is pleased with you. For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.

Barriers to the Free Expression of Biblical Belief

Large areas around the world remain closed to the free expression and practice of biblical Christianity due to cultural, religious, or geographical barriers. In many places, preaching the gospel is strictly prohibited, leaving countless individuals unaware of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Despite these challenges, God has found ways to spread His word. “Underground churches” exist in these regions, demonstrating the resilience of faith. However, if people cannot openly share the gospel, how does the word of God reach others?

Living Out Faith Authentically

As children of the King, we have both the freedom and responsibility to live out our faith authentically. When we do so, our positive attitude and joyful spirit, even in the face of extreme hardship, often draw others’ attention. This curiosity can lead to personal questions, opening opportunities to share our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

However, this visible faith through right living can also provoke suspicion or envy. The good deeds of believers may be met with false accusations or unwarranted charges. This is precisely what Peter foretold, 1 Peter 2:11-12: “Dear friends, I warn you as temporary residents and foreigners to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls. Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then, even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world.

The Power of a Life Well-Lived

As we navigate through life, those around us are constantly observing, whether at home, work, school, or social gatherings. Our actions and attitudes make a lasting impression. It is essential for children of the King to rely on the Father for guidance and strength in their thoughts and actions.

William J. Toms urged, “Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some person ever reads.” Similarly, you may be the only Jesus that some people ever see. As children of the King, we are called to embody and demonstrate to those around us what the Lord Jesus Christ would look like if He were present on earth today.

Most people would rather witness a sermon lived out than hear one spoken.

A Call to Action

St. Francis of Assisi famously said, “Preach the gospel all the time, and, if necessary, use words.” This profound statement reminds us that our lives should reflect the gospel in every action, even when words are not spoken.

The apostle Paul asserted, Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Father, help me live in such a way that Your name is honored wherever I go. May my life be a reflection of Your love and truth, drawing others closer to You.

INSIGHT

What is Right Living?

Peter provides a clear and concise explanation of what it means to live rightly as children of the King. He encourages believers to live in a way that reflects their faith and moral character, especially in the presence of unbelieving neighbors.

1 Peter 2:12: “Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles.”

Behavior and Conduct

The Greek word translated as “behavior” or “conduct” is anastrophe. Anastrophe refers to “a person’s entire way of life, encompassing their moral character, actions, and overall conduct, not just their words.” It aligns with the well-known adage, “Actions speak louder than words.” When our actions fail to align with our words, the credibility of our message is diminished.

Interestingly, anastrophe is a neutral term, much like the word “passion.” “It can refer to either good or bad conduct, depending on the context.” However, Peter is clear in his instruction: the behavior of the children of the King must be excellent.

The Beauty of Excellence: Kalos

The Greek word translated as “excellent” or “good” is kalos. This word goes “beyond mere goodness; it conveys a sense of loveliness, elegance, and beauty.” Kalos describes something that is “fine, attractive, and pleasing, something that embodies harmonious completeness, balance, and proportion.”

When children of the King allow the Lord Jesus Christ to live through them, their lives exhibit a Christlike beauty. Their behavior reflects His character, attracting others to the gospel through the loveliness of their actions.

The Aroma of Christlike Living

Living a Christlike life produces a spiritual fragrance that is both strong and divisive. Paul describes this in his letter to the Corinthians: 2 Corinthians 2:15-16: “Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this?”

This spiritual aroma, which emanates from a close relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, is perceived differently depending on the person receiving it. To those who are being saved, it is a life-giving perfume that draws them nearer to God. To those who are perishing, it is a dreadful scent, symbolizing death and destruction. The fragrance itself remains the same; its perception is shaped by the heart of the one who receives it.

Adequacy Through God

The immense responsibility of living as a public display of the life and character of the Lord Jesus Christ simply feels overwhelming. Paul himself questioned, “Who is adequate for such a task?” The natural response might be to say no one is capable. However, Paul offers a more profound answer, 2 Corinthians 3:5: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God.”

Children of the King should not rely on their own strength or abilities. Their adequacy comes from God, who empowers them to live in a way that reflects Him.

The Impact of Christian Living

In the early days of the Church, Christians faced a flood of slander and baseless accusations from the surrounding Gentile society. Despite this wave of hostility, they shone brightly through the radiant beauty of their lives and their cheerful, honorable conduct. Their steadfast faith and compassion became a shining beacon of hope, capturing the hearts of those initially skeptical. Through acts of kindness and the strength of their convictions, they skillfully turned misconceptions into understanding, inviting the curious and doubtful to discover the deep truths of Christianity.

As William Barclay notes: “In the early Church, this demonstration of the loveliness of the Christian life was necessary above all because of the slanders that were deliberately circulated about the Christian Church. The striking fact of history is that by their lives, the Christians actually did defeat the slanders of the Gentile world . . .. Here is our challenge and our inspiration. It is by the loveliness of our daily life and conduct that we must commend Christianity to those who do not believe.”

This challenge is still relevant today. Believers are called to live in a way that serves as a testimony to the world. Paul writes Philippians 2:15: “Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.”

A Call to Shine

Right living goes beyond simply avoiding wrongdoing; it involves embodying the beauty, balance, and grace of Christ in every aspect of life. As children of the King, believers are called to shine brightly in a dark world, attracting others to the truth of the gospel through their actions and character.

The gospel is not limited to words; it is demonstrated through the lives of those who follow Christ. In places where verbal proclamation is restricted, the actions and attitudes of believers often serve as the most powerful testimony of God’s love and grace.

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© Dr. H 2025

Even though I ______, God had mercy

Even though I ______, God had mercy

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. – 1 Timothy 1:12

1 Timothy 1:12-16

 12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him,

 13 even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people. But God had mercy on me because I did it in ignorance and unbelief.

 14 Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus.

Internal Nagging Accusations

Have you ever found yourself grappling with that persistent, nagging voice inside you, echoing in the depths of your mind, that relentlessly whispers you are unworthy, hopeless, guilty, pitiful, and simply unusable in God’s eyes? This inner voice can take many forms, often serving as a relentless reminder of your weaknesses, flaws, and shortcomings. It can make you feel completely powerless, like a marionette whose strings have been cut, leaving you haunted by the thought that you will never meet expectations. The word “failure” seems to reverberate in your mind, intensifying feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. You may feel like you fall tragically short of God’s high standards.

As you go through your day, you might notice that your thoughts drift toward deep-seated feelings of shame and guilt, linked to memories of past missteps. These could be the shadowy remnants of decisions that veered away from the path of righteousness, moments where you chose rebellion over obedience. Each memory can weigh heavily on your heart, as if wearing a cloak made of regret that suffocates any sense of peace. You may come to believe that your hands are stained by your mistakes, and the idea that your heart is somehow tainted fills you with an overwhelming sense of disgrace before the Father. This feeling can be so intense that it creates the illusion of an impenetrable barrier, making a close walk with the Lord Jesus Christ seem completely out of reach.

Too often, this oppressive inner dialogue drags your spirit down, making you feel as if you are under an enormous burden: “I can never become the person the Father envisions for me.” The gnawing guilt and suffocating shame can stalk you like insidious phantoms, lurking just beyond your conscious thoughts, following you throughout the day, and invading your dreams at night. These feelings creep into your mind as you close your eyes, turning rest into a turmoil-filled space, perpetuating a cycle of despair that feels impossible to break.

As David Wilkerson noted, “That is the hounding voice of the devil – the accuser of the brethren! He tells you, ‘God can’t use you until you sit down and get this thing figured out. You can’t even come into his house until you’ve made yourself worthy!’”

A Shared Struggle

This experience resonates deeply in the hearts of the children of the King, weaving a poignant narrative of struggle and redemption. The esteemed Puritan minister William Bradford once expressed his profound inner turmoil, lamenting, “I think sometimes I have the blackest heart in all of Europe.” His words carry a chilling intensity, shedding light on the insidious nature of the devil’s accusations, deceptive whispers that seek to paralyze our hearts and hinder our devoted service to God.

Amid this relentless and formidable spiritual warfare, we find ourselves in the company of revered figures such as Paul and Peter. The apostle Paul exemplifies the transformative power of grace; he was not merely granted a second chance but received an entirely new life in Christ. Although he carried the burden of his past like a heavy shroud, he refused to be shackled by it, courageously embracing his calling and the mission ahead.

Paul boldly proclaimed in 1 Timothy 1:12-13: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him, even though I used to blaspheme the name of Christ. In my insolence, I persecuted his people.”

REFLECT & PRAY

The reality is that the Father is gracious, merciful, kind, and forgiving. God accepts us in our current state and helps us grow as we serve Him. The slate has been wiped clean through forgiveness, giving us a new life. The past is truly behind us.

Father, thank You for fully forgiving me for everything I have done. You wiped the slate clean. I have been born again to an entirely new life. The past is past!

The Paradox of the “Chief of Sinners”

When contemplating the identity of history’s greatest sinner, many automatically conjure up notorious figures who caused great suffering or perhaps the infamous Judas, who betrayed Christ with a kiss. However, surprisingly, the person who claims this dubious title is the apostle Paul.

His story, filled with transformation and contradictions, challenges our ideas of sin and redemption. It shows a complex character whose passion and intensity once led him to persecute the very followers he would later champion.

Paul unabashedly asserts, 1 Timothy 1:15: “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.”

The King James Version renders this as, “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.” The competition for the greatest sinner has, by this account, already been decided. That distinction was claimed by none other than the apostle Paul, self-identified as “the chief of sinners.”

Peter’s Moment of Failure

The apostle Peter can be seen as a close second in terms of deep human failure, right alongside the toughest tests of faith. Before the pivotal night, the Lord foresaw the struggles awaiting Peter, predicting he would falter under the enemy’s influence. This prediction starkly contrasted with Peter’s passionate declarations of loyalty, where he confidently swore he was ready to lay down his life for Jesus Christ.

In the poignant words of Luke 22:31-32, we hear the Lord’s solemn warning, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”

Within this solemn declaration, there is a glimmer of hope: the idea that Peter, despite his looming failure, would ultimately find his way back, repent, and become a source of strength for others.

However, as the dark hour approached, the tragedy unfolded exactly as predicted. In the shadow of the impending crucifixion, Peter, overwhelmed by fear and confusion, denied knowing Jesus not once, but three times, his heart burdened by the very despair he had vowed to resist.

As Luke states in Luke 22:60-62: “But Peter said, ‘Man, I do not know what you are talking about.’ Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, ‘Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly.”

Pause for a moment and imagine the scene: as Jesus is being led to his death, He makes direct eye contact with Peter at the exact moment of his third denial. The shame and guilt must have been overwhelming. Peter’s bitter weeping reveals the crushing weight on his conscience. Consider the immense struggle it must have been to live with such a haunting memory. Yet in fact, this is precisely what we often do with our shameful memories, allowing them to shape our inner dread.

Redemption and Forward Movement

When we reflect on our own failures and mistakes, do they compare to those of two of the greatest apostles, Paul and Peter? Their stories highlight a key truth: the Lord Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. Their examples inspire us to let go of the past and commit to moving forward in service to our King.

By the way, fill in the blank for yourself: Even though I ______, God had mercy.

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© Dr. H 2025

If you wrote a letter to God, where would you send it?

If you wrote a letter to God, where would you send it?

For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. – Ephesians 2:18

Romans 5:1-2

 1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.

 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory.

Letters to God: A Tradition of Faith and Devotion

Every year, Israel receives and honors thousands of prayers and pleas, letters sent to God and mailed to Jerusalem from around the world. These heartfelt messages, often full of sorrow, longing, and unwavering faith, are met with deep respect, embodying the sacred essence of their purpose. They reflect the dreams of the hopeful and the cries of the weary, transformed into tangible expressions of devotion that resonate deeply within the walls of the Holy Land.

A Sacred Delivery Process

In a unique tradition, the Israeli postal service has established a dedicated “Letters to God” department. Here, hundreds of letters are carefully sorted and set aside for special delivery. The envelopes were addressed in various ways. “God, Jerusalem, Israel” or “Dearest God, Western Wall,” all share a common destination: the Western Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City.

Every few months, these letters are opened, folded, and carefully placed into the cracks of the Wailing Wall under a senior rabbi’s supervision. This act symbolizes the delivery of prayers to the Lord, a tradition steeped in faith and history.

A Global Outpouring of Faith

The letters originate from all corners of the world and are written in various languages. Many were composed in Russian during the early 20th century, while others come from countries such as Germany, Mexico, France, and Australia. Each letter tells a unique story, with some inspired by pilgrimages to Jerusalem and others shaped by the influence of television preachers or personal religious beliefs.

Inside these envelopes are messages filled with deep emotion, conveying pleas for healing, reconciliation, and peace. Avi Yaniv, who has overseen the Letters to God department since 1997, explains, “They come from depression, or stress, or grief. They ask for healing of a family member, or to make peace between a man and his wife, or between Israel and Arab countries.”

A Sacred Cycle

Regardless of the sender’s faith, every letter is eventually delivered to the Western Wall. Over time, the cracks in the wall are cleared to make space for new messages, and the old ones are respectfully buried in sacred ground. As Yaniv notes, “We believe the Western Wall is the closest place to God in Jerusalem” (www.theguardian.com).

Direct Access to the Father

If you wanted to send a letter to God, where would you send it? Is there access to God anywhere on planet Earth? Would He be receptive?

Writing a letter is a beautiful expression of faith, but in today’s world, it’s a bit outdated. The Father has a much longer and richer tradition of providing access to Him: prayer. Through prayer, children of the King can communicate with the Creator at any time, without the need for intermediaries.

Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Prayer is not bound by location or ritual. It is a divine privilege extended to all who believe.

REFLECT & PRAY

Children of the King have been granted the eternal privilege of direct access to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Ephesians 2:18: “For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.”

Father, thank You for adopting us into Your forever family. Because of Your grace, we have the privilege of direct access to You whenever we need it. What an incredible honor and blessing! You made this possible through the redemptive work of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

INSIGHT

The Privilege of Access to the King of Kings

In most modern societies, gaining access to individuals of high stature or authority is often a daunting, if not impossible, task. Yet, with the Father, the living God. it is entirely the opposite. Through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, every child of the King is granted direct and unrestricted access to the Creator of the universe.

The Meaning of Access

What does it mean to have access to God? Paul explains this profound truth in Romans 5:2: “Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” The Greek word Paul uses for “access” or “introduction” is prosagogo, a term rich with imagery and meaning.

Prosagogo paints two vivid word pictures. First, “it describes the return of a ship to a safe harbor after a long and arduous journey.” Because of Christ’s work, “believers find themselves welcomed into the haven of the Father’s grace. a place of serenity, calm, and refuge.” This access is not earned by human effort but is a gift of God’s grace, freely given to His children. Barclay observes that, “It depends not on what we do for ourselves but on what the Father has done for us.”

Second, prosagogo refers to “being ushered into the presence of royalty.” In this context, Paul conveys the concept that “the Lord Jesus Christ personally introduces believers into the presence of the King of Kings.”

When the door to God’s presence is opened, what awaits is not judgment or condemnation but the sheer, undeserved kindness and grace of God. As Ephesians 2:18 states, “For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.” Similarly, Ephesians 3:12 affirms, “In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.”

A Royal Privilege

This divine access is beautifully illustrated in Mark Twain’s The Prince and the Pauper. In the story, Miles Hendon, a loyal servant, helps restore Prince Edward (later King Edward VI) to his rightful throne. As a reward, the King grants Hendon and his descendants the extraordinary privilege of sitting in the King’s presence, a right denied to others.

In a pivotal scene, Hendon boldly exercises this privilege, causing a stir among the onlookers. “A sudden idea flashed in his eye [Referring to Hendon], and he strode to the wall, gathered up a chair, brought it back, planted it on the floor, and sat down in it!”

A buzz of indignation broke out, a rough hand was laid upon him, and a voice exclaimed, “Up, you mannerless clown! Would you sit in the presence of the King?”

The disturbance attracted his Majesty’s attention, who stretched forth his hand and cried out: “Touch him not; it is his right!”

The crowd fell back, stupefied. The King went on and explained that Hendon’s privilege is a royal grant, bestowed for his faithful service and sacrifice. The King proclaims, “Learn all, ladies, lords, and gentlemen, that this is my trusty and well-beloved servant, Miles Hendon, who interposed his good sword and saved his prince from bodily harm and possible death – and for this, he is a knight, by the King’s voice. . .. More – the privilege which he has just exercised is his by royal grant; for we have ordained that the chiefs of his line shall have and hold the right to sit in the presence of the Majesty of England henceforth, age after age, so long as the crown shall endure. Molest him not” (The Prince and the Pauper, Chapter 33).

This fictional account mirrors a spiritual reality for believers. Each child of the Kinghas been granted the eternal privilege of direct access to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. This access is not based on personal merit but on the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ, who interceded on behalf of humanity.

Boldly Approaching the Throne

The right of access God is rooted in confidence and boldness, not fear or dread. Hebrews 4:16 states, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” This verse highlights the assurance believers have when they come before God’s presence, trusting they will find mercy and grace in times of trouble.

Through Christ, the barriers between humanity and God have been removed. Believers are no longer distant strangers but beloved children, welcomed into the very presence of their Heavenly Father. This access is a precious gift, a testament to God’s incredible love and grace.

The Eternal Privilege

The privilege of having direct access to God is eternal and unchanging. It serves as a reminder of the intimate relationship that believers share with their Creator, a relationship defined by grace, mercy, and love. As children of the King, we are invited to approach His throne with confidence, knowing that we are always welcome in His presence.

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.”

This gracious prerogative is a fundamental element of the Christian faith, providing believers with a sanctuary of peace and a direct link to the King of Kings.

The tradition of sending letters to God reflects humanity’s deep desire to connect with the divine. Yet, through Christ, children of the King are reminded of the unmatched gift of prayer, a direct connection to the Creator, always available everywhere.

Romans 8:15: “The Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’”

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© Dr. H 2025

Prosocial Behavior ∙∙

Prosocial Behavior ∙∙

But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. – Luke 6:35

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 Selflessness of Parrots

In the journal Current Biology on January 20, 2020, Désirée Brucks and Auguste M.P. von Bayern published findings on prosocial behavior in African grey parrots (AGPs). They recorded instances of these parrots performing what seemed to be “selfless” acts of kindness, a behavior once thought to be exclusive to humans and some primates. Brucks, a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, trained several African grey parrots to pass small metal tokens to her in exchange for a walnut treat.

In the experiment, two parrots were placed in adjacent transparent compartments connected by a small opening. Only one compartment featured a front hole that allowed the parrot to extend its head and exchange a token with Brucks for a walnut. The other bird had tokens but lacked access to food. Remarkably, the parrot with access to the tokens willingly shared them with its neighbor through the opening, enabling the latter to exchange them for food. Notably, the first parrot continued to assist its companion without any expectation of reward in return.

Interestingly, this behavior was not universal among birds. When the same experiment was conducted with blue-headed macaws, the results were entirely different. The macaws acted selfishly, keeping the tokens for themselves.

Understanding Prosocial Behavior

Prosocial behavior is a voluntary action or helping behavior intended to benefit others. These actions are motivated by empathy, compassion, and a genuine desire to improve the well-being of individuals, groups, or society. Unlike selfish or transactional behaviors (characterized by a “give-and-take” dynamic), prosocial actions are not driven by external rewards or obligations.

The African grey parrots in Brucks’ study exhibited true prosocial behavior, acting selflessly to help their companions.

Humanity’s Struggle with Selflessness

For fallen humanity, the tendency to prioritize self-interest is deeply ingrained. Because of our fallen nature, we instinctively look out for ourselves first. Being transactional and goal-oriented has become the norm. However, even in our brokenness, we can learn to balance these transactional actions with genuine care and empathy, enabling us to perform acts of generosity and kindness.

Nonetheless, the standard set by the Father for His children is much higher. As children of the King, we are called to reflect our Father’s character. He shows kindness, even to those who are ungrateful, malicious, and wicked.

Luke 6:31-35: “Do to others as you would like them to do to you. ‘If you love only those who love you, why should you get credit for that? Even sinners love those who love them! And if you do good only to those who do good to you, why should you get credit? Even sinners do that much! And if you lend money only to those who can repay you, why should you get credit? Even sinners will lend to other sinners for a full return.”

“‘Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked.’”

The Motivation Behind Kindness

While many of us engage in acts of kindness, it is crucial to reflect on our motivations. Are we being kind to impress others, to boost our self-esteem, or to make amends for past mistakes? True selflessness, as modeled by the Father, demands a higher motivation, one that is based on love and a desire to reflect His character.

REFLECT & PRAY

It is natural to put our own interests first. It is supernatural to put the interests of others first.

Father, what a high and lofty standard You have set. Only through Your supernatural enablement can I even begin to live up to it. Encourage and empower me to adopt an attitude and a way of life that consistently puts others first.

INSIGHT

The Importance of Motivation in Helping Others

Helping others and doing good are undoubtedly admirable actions. However, the motivation behind these actions often matters more than the actions themselves. As children of the King, we are called to reflect the same love and concern that the Father has for us. Our actions should be motivated by a selfless, Christ-like attitude, as commanded in Philippians 2:5: “You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.”

A Call to Humility

True humility is a cornerstone of the Christian life. It requires us to shift our focus away from our own desires and struggles, inviting us instead to invest our hearts and minds in the well-being of others. In this selfless posture, we cultivate deep connections and foster a spirit of compassion, illuminating the path to a life rich in love and service.

As Andrew Murray aptly stated, “The humble person does not think mainly of himself; he simply does not think of himself at all.”

Philippians 2:3-4: “Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.”

Humility involves an honest and balanced understanding of ourselves, recognizing the grace that the Father has given us. It is neither self-deprecation nor self-exaltation but an accurate evaluation of who we are in Christ.

Romans 12:3: “Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.”

As Wiersbe explains, “The truly humble person knows himself and accepts himself (Romans 12:3). He yields himself to Christ to be a servant, to use what he is and has for the glory of God and the good of others.”

Genuine Concern for Others

While it is natural to prioritize our own interests, the Father calls us to a higher standard of genuine concern for others’ well-being. This level of selflessness is both rare and extraordinary, as noted in the ESV Study Bible Notes: “The key is to take that same level of concern and apply it also to the interests of others. Such radical love is rare.”

This standard is rooted in agape love, the pure, selfless love that seeks the good of others without expecting anything in return.

The Nature of Agape Love

Agape love is a divine love that goes beyond human feelings and reactions. It is marked by an unstoppable kindness that remains strong even in the face of hatred or ugliness. As Barclay describes, “Agape love is unconquered goodwill that never knows bitterness and never seeks anything but the good of others. It is not a mere reaction of the heart, as human love is; it is a victory of the will, achieved by the help of Jesus Christ.”

“It does not mean loving only those who love us, or those whom we like, or those who are lovable. It means an unconquerable goodwill even to those who hate us, to those whom we do not like, to those who are unlovely.”

This is the standard of love that the Father has established for the children of the King, a love that reflects His own.

The Generosity of Giving

Beyond the call to selflessness and love, Scripture assures us that generous, unselfish giving results in abundant blessings.

Luke 6:38: “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full, pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”

This principle of giving reflects the Father’s generosity and reminds us that selfless acts of love and kindness not only bless others but also enrich our own lives.

Conclusion

Prosocial behavior reflects the best qualities of human nature, demonstrating our capacity for empathy, generosity, and selflessness. It is a vital component of healthy relationships and thriving societies.

As children of the King, we are called to a life of humility, selflessness, and agape love. Our actions should mirror the love of Christ, driven not by personal gain but by a sincere desire to serve and uplift others. By doing so, we uphold the Father’s high standards and experience the joy and blessings that come from living a life of love and generosity.

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© Dr. H 2025

One Foot in Heaven ∙∙

One Foot in Heaven ∙∙

Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. – Acts 7:55

Acts 6:8-15

 8 Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed amazing miracles and signs among the people.

 10 None of them could stand against the wisdom and the Spirit with which Stephen spoke.

 11 So they persuaded some men to lie about Stephen, saying, “We heard him blaspheme Moses and even God.”

 15 At this point, everyone in the high council stared at Stephen, because his face became as bright as an angel’s.

Acts 7:55-60

 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand.

 56 And he told them, “Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!”

 59 As they stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

 60 He fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” And with that, he died.

The Legacy of John Fletcher

John Fletcher, who was born in Switzerland in 1729, was deeply committed to spreading the gospel. As a Methodist pastor, he devoted his life to preaching and serving others with unwavering dedication. Fletcher’s zeal for sharing the gospel was so great that he would go to great lengths, even pursuing people to talk to them about Christ. Neither severe weather nor physical discomfort could dissuade him from his mission.

Fletcher was always present wherever there was a need. His selfless dedication to helping others came at a significant personal cost, as his tireless efforts ultimately took a toll on his health. Continuous exposure to harsh conditions aggravated his condition, and he became gravely ill. As his death appeared imminent, many people came to see him, to pay their respects.

One visitor, after spending time with Fletcher, remarked, “I went to see a man that had one foot in the grave, but I found a man that had one foot in heaven!”

It is indeed a rare privilege to meet a child of the King who lives with one foot in heaven. Fletcher’s life stands as a powerful example of unwavering faith and devotion to the Lord.

Stephen: A Man Who Faced Heaven

Stephen, an early disciple of Christ, exemplified unwavering faith and dedication. Strengthened by the Holy Spirit and graced with divine power, his life served as a powerful testament to his deep commitment to his beliefs. Acts 6:3, 5, 8, and 15 showcase his spiritual fortitude and the palpable presence of the divine that radiated through him.

The culmination of Stephen’s faith occurred when he received a vision of the Lord Jesus Christ, radiant in His heavenly glory, standing at the right hand of the Father.

Acts 7:56: “Look!” he said. “I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”

For most people, the idea of death brings uncertainty or fear. But for Stephen, death was not something to fear. His focus was not on the end of his earthly life but on the glory of heaven. As we read his story in Acts 6 and 7, it becomes clear that Stephen did not “face death” in the traditional sense. Instead, he “faced heaven,” his eyes fixed on the Lord Jesus Christ.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Lord Jesus Christ is high and lifted up, exalted above all. The Father has given Him the name that is above every name, a name before which every knee will bow and every tongue will confess His lordship (Philippians 2:9-11).

Father, it is a remarkable and awe-inspiring thought that as I move through life toward my appointed expiration date as Your child, I face heaven. May my focus remain on the exalted Christ, who stands in glory at Your right hand.

INSIGHT

The Vision of Stephen: A Glimpse of Heaven

Throughout Scripture, dreams and visions consistently depict the Son of God seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. However, in Stephen’s vision, the Lord Jesus Christ is standing. Why is Jesus standing? Could it be that He rose to greet and welcome Stephen into His presence? This extraordinary moment invites us to reflect on the profound honor and love the Lord bestows on His faithful servants.

Stephen is a significant figure as the first martyr of the New Testament church. Since his death, countless children of the King have followed his example, sacrificing their lives for their faith. The exact number of martyrs is known only to the Father. However, Scripture indicates this is just the beginning. During the great and terrible tribulation, countless millions will be martyred for their steadfast faith in Jesus Christ and their loyalty to the Father.

Revelation 6:9: “When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony.”

Stephen’s Triumph: Facing Heaven, Not Death

The message of Acts 7 is clear: Stephen faced heaven with joy and triumph. For him, death held no power or consequence. His eyes were fixed solely on the Lord Jesus Christ, and his heart was filled with the assurance of eternal life.

When Stephen died, not a single word of what would become the New Testament had been written. John the apostle had not yet received the revelation that would become the final book of the Bible. Yet, Stephen already knew what would later be revealed to John: the ultimate victory of the King and the eternal reign of Christ.

The Promise of Revelation: A New Heaven and Earth

The book of Revelation provides a stunning vision of what Stephen already understood deep in his heart.

Revelation 21:1-6:

“1 I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone.
2 And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
3 I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, ‘Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.

4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.’

5 And the one sitting on the throne said, ‘Look, I am making everything new!’ And then he said to me, ‘Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.’
6 And he also said, ‘It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty, I will give freely from the springs of the water of life.’”

This passage reminds us that the most significant part of heaven is not the streets of gold, the pearly gates, or even joyful reunions with loved ones. As Charles Stanley so beautifully expressed, “The best thing about heaven is the loving presence of God Himself.”

Stephen’s Eternal Reward 

Stephen entered the presence of the Lord nearly 2,000 years ago. He did not “face death” as we often think of it. Instead, he “faced heaven,” his gaze fixed on the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the hope and joy that await all who remain faithful to the King.

Philippians 2:9-11: “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Children of the King are called to face heaven and live with an eternal perspective.

This mindset allows us to confront both the difficulties of life and the reality of death, being assured that our ultimate hope and joy reside in Christ.

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© Dr. H 2025