Craig Cooper

In the world of football, certain athletes earn the title of MVP—Most Valuable Player—because of their remarkable talent and impact on the game. In 2000, Marshall Faulk of the St. Louis Rams earned that honor by rushing for over 1,300 yards, scoring 18 touchdowns, and adding 830 receiving yards. He was called the heart of “The Greatest Show on Turf,” a player who seemed to do it all. As impressive as those stats are, there is an MVP whose greatness eclipses any record on the field. Of course, I am speaking of Jesus Christ. In the game of life, there’s only one true MVP above all, and Colossians 1:15-20 presents Him as the Creator, sustainer, and reconciler of all things.

Paul begins by declaring Jesus as “the image of the invisible God” (v. 15). In the Greco-Roman world, the term used here for “image” meant a perfect representation, like a coin bearing the likeness of a king. However, the term’s fuller meaning implies manifestation. In other words, Jesus doesn’t merely reflect God; He is God in human form. This truth confronted the “Colossian heresy,” a false teaching influenced by Gnosticism that denied the full humanity of Christ because it rejected the idea that the divine could inhabit the material. The same error appears today in the belief that all roads lead to God, diminishing Christ’s unique role. But Paul makes it clear: Jesus is both fully God and fully human. If He were only human, He would be irrelevant to our understanding of God; if only God, He would be disconnected from human experience. You cannot have Christian principles without Christ, and, therefore, the validity of Christian principles depends on Christ and His authority. Think of a quarterback like Tom Brady, whose seven Super Bowl rings make him a legend; even so, his legacy fades with time. Christ’s victory is eternal, unmatched, and untouchable. As A.W. Tozer put it, “In Christ, we see God’s face, not a mirror dimly, but in radiant clarity.”

Paul then describes Christ as the Creator and sustainer of all things (vv. 16-17). Everything in heaven and on earth, whether visible or invisible, from galaxies to governments, was created by Him and for Him. Nothing exists apart from His will, and everything is held together by His power (Hebrews 1:3). Picture a football field where every blade of grass, every goalpost, and every player’s ability comes from one source. That’s Jesus, He designed the game of life and ensures it continues. He’s not simply an MVP on the field; He built the stadium, wrote the rulebook, and keeps the lights on. When we live for Him, we align with the Creator’s original purpose, finding meaning in His design.

Finally, Paul presents Christ as the head of the church and the reconciler of all things (vv. 18-20). The church exists because of Christ, depends on Him continually, and is energized by His life and power. To call Him the “head” means more than just giving Him top rank. It means that every part of the body draws its life and unity from Him. Apart from His life, death, and resurrection, the universe has no meaning. Through His blood, He brings peace between God and humanity, reversing the damage of sin. The greatest comeback in NFL history may be the Minnesota Vikings overcoming a 33-point deficit in 2022, but Christ’s victory over sin and death is infinitely greater. His resurrection launched a new creation, and all who are united to Him share in that life. The cross is the scoreboard of eternity, where Christ’s victory is final and forever.

In Colossians 1:15-20, Paul shows us that Jesus is not just the MVP of our personal lives but the champion of all creation. He is the image of God, the architect and sustainer of the universe, and the One who reconciles all things through His cross. In 2015, Russell Wilson, quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, faced a crushing moment in Super Bowl XLIX. With seconds remaining, his interception at the goal line cost his team the championship. Afterward, Wilson said, “God is good all the time… I’m grateful for the opportunity to play this game.” Even in defeat, Wilson pointed to a greater purpose. That’s what it means to live for the MVP above all—Jesus Christ. We can live with hope and purpose even in defeat because our lives are anchored in His supremacy. Whether we’re winning or losing on life’s field, we can commit to making Him the center of our game plan, living for the One who created us, sustains us, and redeemed us. The ultimate victory is His, and when we follow Him, we share in it forever. Soli Dio Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Picture a football team huddled on the field, the quarterback calling out the play with urgency, rallying the team for the next move. In that moment, strategy is determined, strength is built up, and unity is formed. In Colossians 1:9-14, the Apostle Paul calls the church into a spiritual huddle, praying for wisdom and strength to carry out God’s eternal plan. Just as a team trusts the coach’s strategy, believers are called to trust God’s will, drafted into His kingdom for a purpose far greater than a single game. Paul, even though he didn’t establish the Colossian church, writes with deep love, praying not just for temporary victories but for their endurance in the ultimate contest—life in Christ.

Paul’s prayer in Colossians 1:9 serves as the play call: “And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding.” Like a quarterback reading the defense and adjusting the play, Paul seeks divine wisdom for the Colossians—not worldly knowledge, but spiritual insight from the Holy Spirit. This wisdom equips believers to navigate life’s challenges, enabling them to discern God’s plan for every moment. Without it, we risk fumbling His will; with it, we carry out His purpose with confidence. New Testament scholar Charlie Moule notes that this passage reveals the essence of prayer: seeking discernment of God’s will and the power to carry it out. In prayer, we talk, listen, ponder Scripture, reflect, and wait for God’s response, which comes in His timing, not ours. We must seek this wisdom daily, trusting the Spirit to guide our decisions.

Moving to Colossians 1:10-11, Paul shifts to the power source: “so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy.” This divine strength, not human effort, empowers believers to bear fruit, grow in faith, and endure trials with patience. Picture a running back breaking through a tough defensive line, fueled by rigorous conditioning. God’s power is our conditioning, sustaining us through life’s toughest moments. We lean on His strength, especially in relationships, where patience, resilience, and forgiveness are needed when our kindness runs dry. This strength produces joy—a distinctly Christian trait rooted in God’s grace, not fleeting circumstances. Unlike happiness, joy flows from Christ’s presence within us, even in the midst of suffering.

Finally, Colossians 1:12-14 celebrates our draft into God’s kingdom: “giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” We don’t qualify ourselves; God’s grace alone secures our place. Like a rookie drafted to a championship team, we’re overwhelmed with gratitude for being chosen. Redemption, in the Greek, means ransoming or deliverance, as if emancipated from slavery. In Christ, we move from darkness to light, gaining perception to see truth and direction to know our path. The world, flesh, and evil may tempt us, but they hold no power unless we yield. As residents of God’s kingdom, we say no to darkness and yes to Christ.

In the final moments of a game, with seconds ticking down, a team huddles, confident in their training and playbook. In Christ, we’re in the ultimate huddle, empowered by His wisdom, strengthened by His might, and rejoicing in our place in His kingdom. This week, huddle with God in prayer. Seek His wisdom, draw on His strength, and live with gratitude for your redemption. If you haven’t received Christ, accept Him as Savior. If you have, thank God for filling you with His power, so that your life may reflect the joy of His victorious team. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Yesterday, we launched our series, Touchdown in Christ: A New Game Plan, charging through Colossians to uncover how to live as new creations in Christ. Jesus’ victory over sin and death rewrites our playbook, transforming our hearts with purpose and holy hustle. Over the coming weeks, we’ll unpack Christ’s supremacy, our freedom, and practical strategies to bring His grace into every sphere of life. The gospel doesn’t just change us—it revolutionizes the entire game. We began by exploring Colossians 1:1-8.

Colossians delivers a powerful message for today: the centrality of the all-sufficient Christ. Written by Paul in the early 60s AD, this letter addresses a church in Colossae that was facing deceptive teachings blending Judaism’s strict rules—observing the Sabbath, celebrating specific festivals, and avoiding unclean foods—with pagan practices such as mysterious rites, asceticism, and angel worship. Paul makes it clear: Christianity cannot be part of a mixed religion. Christ must be the focus, the core, the driving force of our lives. The overarching theme of Colossians is unmistakable—Jesus Christ is supreme over everyone and everything.

Paul’s coach-like greeting in Colossians 1:1-2 sets the tone: “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.” Paul introduces himself as an apostle, commissioned by God, and includes Timothy, a brother in ministry. The term “brothers” here isn’t gender-exclusive; it conveys tenderness, warmth, and a deep sense of family, embracing both men and women in Christ’s forever family. As His church, we are called to care for one another, making sacrifices for the welfare of all. Paul also calls the Colossians “saints,” not because of their moral perfection but because they belong to Christ, set apart by His divine calling. This is our identity: we are saints because we belong to Christ. Paul’s greeting of “grace” and “peace” underscores God’s unconditioned goodwill and the state of life enjoyed by those transformed by it. In a world that defines us by performance, God names us by grace, giving us a secure identity to start our spiritual journey with determination.

Paul continues in Colossians 1:3-5, cheering the Colossians’ progress: “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven.” He celebrates their faith in Christ, a belief that defines them as believers. Their love for all saints flows from knowing who they are in Christ, and their hope points to the future fulfillment of salvation when Christ returns. Faith is directed to Christ, love is for His church, and hope is for His coming. This triad of Christian virtues—faith, love, and hope—fuels our journey, not as rewards but as gifts rooted in Christ. Like a coach praising a team’s growth, Paul reminds us to thank God for every step forward.

Finally, in Colossians 1:6-8, Paul urges the Colossians to stay engaged with the gospel’s enduring truth: “The gospel, which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and increasing—as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth, just as you learned it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant.” Epaphras, a missionary, brought the gospel to Colossae, and its power is evident. Though the church was small in the Roman Empire, the gospel was bearing fruit and increasing, like a tree producing fruit and budding for the next season. Today, the gospel has reached every continent, and its proclamation to all people groups is within reach if we, like Epaphras, share it. The gospel builds a worldwide community, and we are part of Christ’s forever family. Its truth empowers us to live with purpose, transforming our homes, workplaces, and communities.

I’ve seen many stand at a crossroads, chasing empty goals until Christ’s grace transformed their playbook. Like the Colossians, they found their true identity as saints, not by their actions but by belonging to Jesus. Paul’s gratitude for their faith, love, and hope reminds us that our identity is rooted in grace, not performance. The gospel’s power sustains us to the finish line. So, where are you with Christ? Have you embraced Him as Lord and Savior? Are you ready to take your next step, whether trusting Him for salvation or growing deeper in faith? Picture yourself on God’s team, cheered by His grace, fueled by faith, love, and hope, and empowered by the gospel’s enduring truth. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

I know we are still in summer. Fall does not start until September 22. However, Crosswinds kicks off its fall season early with an exciting new sermon series, Touchdown in Christ: A New Game Plan. This series moves through the book of Colossians with the energy of a football team storming the field, explaining what it means to live as a new creation in Christ. Over the coming weeks, we’ll examine how Jesus’ decisive victory over sin and death sparks a transformative revolution in our hearts, rewrites our life’s playbook, and changes every aspect of our lives. Leaving behind old habits that hinder our spiritual progress, we’ll step confidently into a life of purpose, faith, and holy hustle, ready to run the plays God has planned for us.

The book of Colossians, written by the Apostle Paul, along with Timothy (Colossians 1:1), was composed around 60-62 AD during Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. Colossae, an ancient city in Phrygia, was located in the Lycus River Valley of present-day Turkey, roughly 120 miles east of Ephesus, near the modern town of Honaz. Once a busy center along a major trade route, known for its distinctive dark red or purple wool (colossinus), Colossae’s importance declined in the 1st century AD due to changing trade routes favoring nearby Laodicea and destructive earthquakes, such as those in 17 AD and around 60 AD. Despite its reduced status, Colossae had a small but lively Christian community, likely gathering in the home of Philemon, a prominent member (Philemon 1:2). Founded by Epaphras, a Colossian disciple of Paul rather than Paul himself (Colossians 2:1), this house church was closely linked to neighboring churches in Laodicea and Hierapolis, forming a regional network of believers in the Lycus Valley.

At the heart of Colossians lies the powerful message of Christ’s supremacy over all things—creation, spiritual powers, and philosophies. The Colossian church faced a dangerous heresy blending early Gnosticism, which minimized Christ’s humanity, with Jewish legalism, emphasizing rituals like circumcision and dietary laws. This false teaching led some believers to incorporate unnecessary elements into their faith, thereby weakening the gospel’s power. Paul, informed by Epaphras, wrote to address these distortions, warning, “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8). He confidently declares Jesus as “the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation” (Colossians 1:15), affirming His divine authority and sufficiency. Paul’s letter guides the Colossians back to the truth that Christ alone is enough—no extra rituals or hidden knowledge are necessary for salvation.

Through Touchdown in Christ, we will explore Colossians to find practical ways to live out this truth daily. Each week, we will build momentum by showing how Christ’s supremacy lifts the burden of past mistakes and empowers us to share His grace in our homes, workplaces, schools, and communities. We will learn how to let go of old habits—those fumbles that hold us back—and embrace a lively, meaningful life as part of God’s team. Whether you’re battling regrets, seeking a new beginning, or eager to see God work powerfully in your daily life, this series will challenge and energize you. The gospel doesn’t just transform us; it changes the entire game, equipping us to run with hope and purpose. Join us at Crosswinds this weekend as we kick off Touchdown in Christ and discover the new game plan God has for your life. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to Christ Alone)!

I must admit that growing up, I didn’t realize or care why we celebrated Labor Day. I appreciated the day off from school. However, once, my football coach still insisted we come in for practice. The good news was that the practice was cut short. That is a story for another day. It suffices to say that many people enjoy the day off but give little thought to its purpose.

Labor Day honors the contributions of workers to the nation’s economy and social fabric. It originated in the late 19th century as a tribute to the labor movement, which fought for better working conditions, fair wages, and reasonable hours. The holiday recognizes the efforts of workers across industries, acknowledging their role in building the country’s prosperity. As a beneficiary of the contributions of past workers and having the opportunity to contribute now, it’s worth a thought and a prayer of appreciation.

The Wesleyan Church, of which Crosswinds is a part, has its roots in movements that played a notable but indirect role in the labor movement of the 19th century, primarily through its broader commitment to social reform and advocacy for marginalized groups. As Wesleyans, we have strongly been influenced by the teachings of John Wesley, who emphasized justice and care for the disadvantaged. Historically, we were staunch abolitionists, opposing slavery and championing the rights of the oppressed. This commitment to justice extended to other social issues, including labor rights. While the church’s primary focus was on abolitionism, its emphasis on fairness and dignity for all people aligned with the labor movement’s push for better working conditions, fair wages, and workers’ rights, particularly in the context of the Industrial Revolution’s harsh labor practices.

Furthermore, the church’s broader reformist zeal, inspired by Wesleyan theology’s call for holiness and social transformation, created a moral framework that resonated with the ideals of the labor movement. By planting anti-slavery churches in the South and supporting initiatives like the Underground Railroad, our Christian lineage fostered a culture of activism that indirectly encouraged labor advocates to challenge exploitative systems, even if the church itself did not formally align with labor unions.

The Wesleyan Church’s history of social reform, including its contributions to movements like abolitionism and indirectly to labor rights, is deeply rooted in biblical principles, such as the biblical call to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God”(Micah 6:8), which inspired their advocacy for the oppressed, including workers and enslaved individuals. Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 25:40, to care for “the least of these,” underpinned our commitment to uplifting the marginalized, aligning with efforts to address labor injustices. The doctrine of holiness, based on scriptures such as 1 Peter 1:15-16, calls for personal and social transformation, encouraging believers to challenge systemic sins, including exploitation. James 2:14-17, emphasizing faith expressed through action, further motivated our engagement in social causes. This biblical foundation fueled the Wesleyan Church’s activism, shaping its legacy of pursuing justice and dignity for all, and is carried on today through our mission efforts, such as anti-human trafficking works. Perhaps, as we enjoy our Labor Day festivities and the extra rest they afford us, we can take a moment to remember why we celebrate, the contributions of those in the past and present, and how we, too, can be used by God to make a difference. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In Revelation 22:12–21, the Bible’s final chapter, Jesus announces His imminent return, offering a transformative promise that inspires hope, purpose, and urgency for believers living in a broken world. Written around AD 95 to seven persecuted churches in Asia Minor, this passage from John’s vision in Revelation encourages unwavering faith through three main themes: the certainty of Christ’s second coming, the call to live prepared, and the urgent command to spread the gospel. Jesus’ statements, “Behold, I am coming soon” and “Surely I am coming soon,” are not mere hopes but divine promises, rooted in His eternal authority as the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last. This promise can be compared to a tired soldier in a distant land, holding onto a crumpled letter from home that assures, “I’m coming to bring you back.” That letter fuels the soldier’s bravery, influences his daily decisions, and keeps his eyes on the horizon. Likewise, Christ’s promise is a letter from heaven, grounding believers’ hope and guiding them through life’s hardships with an eternal outlook.

The passage highlights divine justice and the rewards of faithfulness. In verse 12, Jesus connects His return to recompense, stating He will “repay each one for what he has done,” urging believers to stay faithful. Verse 14 blesses those who “wash their robes” through repentance and faith, granting them access to the tree of life and entry into the holy city. Conversely, verse 15 warns that the unrepentant—described as dogs, sorcerers, the sexually immoral, murderers, idolaters, and those who love falsehood—will be excluded, emphasizing the eternal consequences of rejecting salvation. Still, the universal invitation in verse 17, where the Spirit and the Bride say, “Come,” extends grace freely to all who thirst for the water of life. This open call, along with stern warnings in verses 18–19 against altering God’s Word, underscores the urgency of embracing and defending the gospel message. As 2 Peter 3:9 explains, God’s patience in delaying Christ’s return reflects His desire that none perish, but all reach repentance, offering time for salvation.

Christ’s return requires readiness, urging believers to see with an eternal perspective. In Matthew 24:44, part of the Olivet Discourse, Jesus emphasizes vigilance: “Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” This is compared to a farmer diligently planting seeds, aware the harvest is near, never relaxing despite the wait. Charles Spurgeon described Christ’s return as “the medicine our souls need” during times of worldly chaos—a truth that comforts believers through their trials. Billy Graham’s statement, “We are not just passing through this world; we are preparing for the next,” reinforces that life is about preparing for eternity. Believers are encouraged to evaluate their priorities, ensuring that their lives reflect holiness and service in anticipation of Christ’s return.

The passage also urges believers to share the gospel with urgency. Revelation 22:17’s invitation to “come” is a call to warn others about a Christless eternity, much like alerting someone walking toward a cliff, asking them to consider their steps and choose the right path. Carl F.H. Henry’s words, “The gospel is only good news if it gets there in time,” highlight the importance of sharing Christ’s hope with family, friends, and strangers. Jesus’ promise in John 14:3, spoken before His crucifixion, reassures believers with the personal promise of His return: “I will come again and will take you to myself.” Like a bride preparing for her groom, the church eagerly anticipates Christ’s return, shaping worship, obedience, and witness. The passage ends with a prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus,” and a benediction, embodying hope and anticipation. For those who have not yet accepted Christ, it’s an urgent call to receive Him; for believers, it’s a command to live ready and be bold in sharing the gospel. When Christ returns, the joy of salvation will reflect the believers’ expectant fulfillment, bringing them home forever to eternity. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Life often feels like a turbulent sea, with waves of uncertainty, fear, and hardship crashing around us. At times, it resembles a treacherous climb up a steep mountain where a sudden storm threatens to pull us down. In these moments, we crave something to hold us steady, such as an unbreakable rope anchoring us to solid rock. This is like the unshakable love of God, a bond that never falters, no matter the trial. In Romans 8:38-39, Paul declares with unwavering confidence that nothing—no force, hardship, or power—can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus. This promise is our anchor, offering hope, strength, and rest, inviting us to trust Him fully.

Paul’s words in Romans 8:38-39 serve as a powerful climax to a chapter about the transformative power of living in the Spirit and the certainty of God’s love. He lists every possible force—death, life, angels, rulers, present things, future things, powers, height, depth, and “anything else in all creation”—to emphasize that “nothing” can separate us from God’s love. This love is not dependent on our circumstances, performance, or feelings; it is rooted in Christ’s finished work. Imagine a steel cable anchoring a suspension bridge to its foundation, unbroken by storms or heavy loads. This is God’s love, an all-encompassing, unshakable bond that keeps us secure. As Charles Spurgeon proclaimed, “God’s love is not a shallow stream, but a deep ocean that cannot be exhausted.” Regardless of the trial, God’s love encompasses every aspect of existence, ensuring believers remain secure in His care.

God’s love is eternal and unconditional, sustaining us through both hardships and joys. Paul’s confidence in Romans 8:38-39 stems from this truth, giving us courage to face life’s uncertainties. As David wrote in Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Consider Fanny Crosby, who, despite being blinded at six weeks old in 1820, found unshakable peace in God’s love. Her lifelong challenges never dimmed her faith; instead, she wrote over 8,000 hymns, including “Blessed Assurance,” reflecting her deep trust in God’s unchanging presence. Her life shows that God’s love is not a promise of an easy life but a guarantee of His powerful presence. As C.S. Lewis noted, “The love of God does not protect us from pain, but it protects us in pain.” This assurance empowers us to face every season with hope and strength.

Because nothing can separate us from God’s love, we can rest in it, free from fear of rejection or abandonment. Picture a child resting peacefully in their father’s arms during a raging thunderstorm. Despite the chaos outside, the child feels secure. Similarly, God’s love offers us rest, shifting our perspective so we can live with confidence and purpose. As 1 John 4:16 states, “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” Henry Blackaby expressed this truth: “To be loved by God is the highest relationship, the highest achievement, and the highest position in life.” Resting in God’s love leads to worship, trust, and living boldly for Christ.

Return to the image of the climber, held fast by an unbreakable rope. When life’s storms hit, God’s love is the security that anchors us. Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing—absolutely nothing—can separate us from His love in Christ Jesus. For those who know Christ, let this truth deepen your trust and inspire you to live boldly for Him. For those who have yet to receive Christ, this love is offered to you. Jesus died and rose again to bring you into this unbreakable bond. Will you trust Him today as your Savior and Lord? Wherever you find yourself, take your next step with Christ, responding to God’s unshakable love—believers with renewed faith and those receiving Christ with a renewed life in our Lord. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives the Great Commission, a divine mandate for all believers to make disciples of all nations. This passage, spoken on a Galilean mountain after His resurrection, is the culmination of Matthew’s Gospel, highlighting Jesus’ mission to redeem the world and our role in sharing that good news. His promise, “I am with you always,” is the heartbeat of this mission, empowering us to move forward with courage and confidence, knowing He is ever-present.

Jesus begins in Matthew 28:18, declaring, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This supreme authority forms the foundation of our mission. It assures us that no obstacle, whether fear, doubt, or cultural barrier, is too great because Jesus reigns over all. Picture a young courier tasked with delivering a crucial message across a war-torn land. The journey is perilous, but the courier rides boldly, not due to personal strength, but because the message carries the king’s seal, whose authority none dare challenge. Similarly, when we share the gospel, we move under the absolute dominion of the King of the universe. After all, as missionary Hudson Taylor said, “The Great Commission is not an option to be considered; it is a command to be obeyed.” We can trust Jesus’ authority to embolden us.

In verses 19-20a, Jesus commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This is an active call to engage the world with the gospel through evangelism, baptism, and teaching. The mission’s global scope, “all nations,” means no one is beyond its reach. Imagine a relay race where each runner passes the baton to the next. As disciples, we pass the gospel to others, who carry it forward until every nation hears the good news. Henry Martyn, a missionary to India and Persia, captured this: “The spirit of Christ is the spirit of missions. The nearer we get to Him, the more intensely missionary we become.”

The promise in Matthew 28:20b, “I am with you always, to the end of the age,” empowers us. Jesus’ presence, made real through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8), is constant rather than distant or occasional. Consider Watchman Nee, who was imprisoned in 1952 by the Communist regime for his faith. In a grueling labor camp, while meditating on Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,” Nee felt Jesus’ presence envelop him, granting him strength to endure torture and inspire others. Matthew 28:20 served as his lifeline. Similarly, Jesus’ presence sustains us through any trial, alleviating fear and equipping us to share our faith with others. J. Oswald Sanders reminds us, “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” Jesus is indeed with us.

Imagine a ship caught in a raging storm, secured by a steadfast anchor. Jesus’ presence is our anchor, helping us endure life’s toughest trials. His promise empowers us to stand firm and share His love and message boldly. Like St. Patrick in his “Breastplate” prayer, who calls on Christ as his shield and strength, we are enveloped by Jesus’ presence at every step of our mission. Patrick prayed that Jesus would be his all—before him, behind him, within him. We should do the same. This week, take one step: invite someone to church, share your testimony, or pray for an opportunity to make disciples. Trust in Jesus’ authority, plan, and presence to guide you. His promise empowers us to carry out His mission with unwavering courage. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

For thousands of years, Psalm 30 has served as a beacon of hope, providing comfort to believers through its powerful message of God’s deliverance. Attributed to King David, this psalm is a heartfelt song of gratitude for God’s rescue from personal distress, embodying themes of divine restoration and transformative grace. It invites us to trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness, praising Him for turning our mourning into joy and encouraging us to testify to His mercy. Among its verses, Psalm 30:4-5 stands out as a profound declaration of God’s enduring love: “Sing praises to the Lord, O you His saints, and give thanks to His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, and His favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”

These verses resonate deeply, acting as both a call to worship and a promise of hope. Verse 4 encourages us to join with other believers in communal gratitude, proclaiming God’s goodness through heartfelt praise. Verse 5 reassures us that God’s mercy far outweighs His judgment. His anger is temporary, but His favor lasts a lifetime. The imagery of weeping lingering through the night, only to be replaced by joy in the morning, speaks to the certainty of God’s redemptive power. For those navigating personal struggles, whether it’s loss, anxiety, or setbacks, these words offer a lifeline, reminding us that our trials are temporary and that God’s restorative joy is assured through faith in Christ.

On a personal level, Psalm 30:4-5 invites me to actively engage in worship, even in the midst of life’s challenges. When I face difficulties, these verses anchor my heart, assuring me that God’s favor endures beyond my momentary struggles. The promise that “joy comes with the morning” encourages me to hold fast to hope, trusting that God will bring restoration in His perfect timing. This truth also compels me to share my testimony of God’s deliverance, inspiring others to trust in His transformative grace and find strength in His promises.

To experience the reality of Psalm 30:4-5 in our lives, we must intentionally seek God through practical steps. First, cultivate a daily habit of prayer and worship, expressing gratitude as verse 4 encourages, trusting that praise draws us closer to God’s transformative presence. Second, immerse yourself in Scripture, meditating on passages like Psalm 30 to deepen your trust in God’s promise that trials are fleeting and His favor is eternal. Third, confess and repent of any sin, aligning your heart with God’s will, as His mercy flows to those who sincerely seek Him. Fourth, surround yourself with a community of believers who can engage in worship and provide mutual support, reinforcing your faith that God will turn your weeping into joy. Finally, persist in prayer and patience, trusting in God’s timing to bring the morning of restoration promised in verse 5.

Let us, therefore, dive into daily worship, allowing gratitude to overflow as we trust in God’s faithful love. Commit to studying and applying Scripture, letting the promise of joy after weeping anchor you through life’s storms. Seek God earnestly, repent, and embrace the encouragement of fellow believers. Hold fast to the assurance that God’s mercy will transform your trials into testimonies of His grace. Keep praying, keep trusting, and watch as God brings the joy of the morning into your life, fulfilling His promise in His perfect way. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Sources indicate that approximately 15,000 self-help books are published each year in the United States alone. Some claims suggest that up to 100,000 self-help books are published worldwide annually. Self-help books are popular because they promise personal growth, empowerment, and practical solutions in an accessible and affordable format. They tap into cultural individualism, rising mental health awareness, and the influence of social media. Economic uncertainty and a desire for self-reliance further enhance their appeal, offering hope and actionable steps for navigating life’s challenges.

Don’t get me wrong, I have read my share of self-help books and have even recommended some to others. However, if someone wants to find help, there is no better place to look than the Bible. The Bible offers guidance beyond salvation, which would be enough, as it addresses practical and spiritual topics like love, forgiveness, and compassion, urging readers to treat others with kindness (e.g., the Golden Rule in Matthew 7:12). It provides wisdom on relationships, emphasizing humility and patience (Ephesians 4:2-3), and on ethical living, promoting honesty and justice (Proverbs 11:1). The Bible also tackles resilience, encouraging perseverance through trials (James 1:2-4), and stewardship, advocating responsible management of resources and talents (Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25:14-30). Additionally, it offers insights on gratitude, contentment, and purpose, fostering a life of faith and service (Philippians 4:11-13).

The Bible guides us to holy living. Holy living is a life devoted to glorifying God through obedience to His Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It involves daily surrender to Christ, pursuing righteousness, love, and humility while rejecting sin and worldly temptations (Romans 12:1-2). It is a life that prioritizes personal prayer, studying and applying Scripture, and active participation in a faith community to grow in holiness (Christ-likeness). This lifestyle reflects a transformed heart, one that strives to emulate Jesus’ example in all actions and relationships (1 Peter 1:15-16).

We should desire to live holy lives to glorify God. Yet, there are personal benefits as well. After all, when we glorify God, we are blessed and able to bless others. Living a holy life fosters deeper, more fulfilling relationships, such as in marriage, by cultivating Christ-like qualities like love, patience, and forgiveness (Ephesians 5:25-33). It aligns spouses with God’s design, promoting mutual respect, fidelity, and selflessness, which strengthen trust and unity. Through prayer and obedience to biblical principles, individuals experience personal peace and spiritual growth, enhancing their ability to nurture healthy, lasting relationships. Holiness also invites God’s guidance, providing help to navigate challenges with grace and purpose (Colossians 3:12-14).

I encourage each of us to pursue holy living with passion, as it draws us closer to God’s heart and transforms our lives with purpose and peace (again, 1 Peter 1:15-16). Embrace daily prayer, Scripture, and obedience to Christ, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your choices and relationships. By striving for righteousness, you reflect Jesus’ love, strengthen your faith, and inspire others to seek God’s grace (Matthew 5:16). Trust that a holy life, though challenging, brings eternal joy and deepens your connection to God and those around you. The good news is that we do not face this journey alone. God provides His Spirit as our great helper, and we have one another to support us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!