Craig Cooper

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)!

As we turn to Psalm 121, we discover a timeless Song of Ascent that explores God’s promise as our Keeper, Protector, and Sustainer. Imagine a weary hiker lost in a vast mountain range, surrounded by towering peaks and unpredictable storms. Exhausted, they lift their eyes, searching for rescue. Suddenly, a seasoned guide appears, offering direction and safety. This vivid imagery encapsulates the essence of Psalm 121, sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem and affirming that our help comes from the Lord, our ever-present Keeper.

Psalm 121:1-2 declares, “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” The psalmist, facing the perils of rugged terrain or the lure of false gods worshiped on high places, redirects his gaze to the Creator. As Charles Spurgeon aptly noted, “The Christian’s help is not in the hills, nor in his own strength, but in the Lord who made heaven and earth.” God’s sovereignty as Creator assures us that He is powerful enough to sustain us through life’s uncertainties, be it financial struggles, health crises, or personal doubts. Like a lost child in a crowded marketplace instinctively seeking their parent, we lift our eyes to God, trusting His nearness and omnipotent care.

Verses 3-4 proclaim, “He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” The imagery of a steady foot on treacherous paths speaks to God’s unwavering protection and guidance. He is the tireless watchman atop a city’s ancient wall, ever-awake, ensuring our safety. A.W. Tozer reminds us, “God’s omnipotence and omniscience mean He is always present, always powerful, and always watching over His children.” This prevenient grace assures believers that God’s vigilance never falters, offering stability in our most vulnerable moments, albeit physical, emotional, or spiritual.

Psalm 121:5-6 states, “The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night.” The shade imagery reflects God’s provision against the scorching sun and nighttime dangers, symbolizing protection from physical and mental threats. Picture resting under a shade tree on a sweltering day, refreshed by a cool breeze. God is our refuge, shielding us from stress, grief, or temptation. As D.L. Moody said, “God is not only a deliverer but a sustainer, carrying us through every storm with His mighty hand.” His sanctifying grace sustains us toward holiness (Christ-like living) in every trial.

Finally, verses 7-8 assure us, “The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.” God’s care encompasses every aspect of life, including our decisions, relationships, and future. Like a trailblazer clearing a path through an uncharted forest, God leads us to eternal peace. The missionary Adoniram Judson, who endured imprisonment along with starvation and torture while translating the Bible into Burmese in 19th-century Burma, trusted this promise, persevering to establish a thriving Christian community. His story inspires us to rely on God’s eternal guidance.

Psalm 121 assures us that God is our constant Keeper, providing unwavering protection, sustenance, and eternal care. No matter your circumstance (fear, uncertainty, or joy), lift your eyes to the Lord. If you haven’t trusted Jesus as your Savior, why not today? If you have, commit to seeking His guidance through prayer and sharing His faithfulness. May we grow in our trust in God’s eternal promises, finding hope in His unending care. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

As summer surrounds us with warmth and growth, it’s a reminder of new beginnings. Yet, life often brings storms, moments of uncertainty, fear, or loneliness. In these times, God’s promise shines brightly, “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6, ESV). This assurance, first given to the Israelites, offers us courage to face challenges and embrace God’s purpose for our lives.

Imagine the Israelites standing at the edge of the Promised Land, hearts pounding with excitement and fear. After 40 years of wandering, they faced towering enemies, fortified cities, and the loss of Moses, their leader. The transition to Joshua’s leadership and the daunting task of conquering Canaan loomed large. Yet, God spoke through Moses, “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

The Hebrew words for “strong” and “courageous” reveal that strength and courage flow from trusting God’s presence, not from our own abilities. The Israelites faced real threats, like hostile nations, idol worship, and an uncertain future. God’s promise directly countered their fears, rooted in His covenant faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:9). Similarly, we face fears, such as failure, rejection, or loss, but God’s presence overcomes them. As Isaiah 41:10 declares, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you.”

Like a child afraid of the dark, clinging to a parent’s hand, we find courage not because the darkness disappears but because God walks with us. Charles Spurgeon wisely noted, “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” When we bring our fears to God in prayer, His presence becomes our strength.

God’s promise empowered the Israelites for a monumental task: conquering Canaan. His presence was active, going before them, fighting for them, and remaining with them. This same promise equips us for God’s callings, whether in ministry, relationships, or personal growth. God’s words to Joshua should encourage us, “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

Consider Rosa Parks in 1955, who refused to give up her seat on a bus, sparking the civil rights movement. Her courage stemmed from her faith in God’s presence, trusting He was with her. As the saying goes, “God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called.” Whatever God calls us to, whether it’s a new job, sharing our faith, or forgiving someone, His presence provides the courage to step out in faith.

The promise’s final words, “He will not leave you or forsake you,” are emphatic. The Hebrew verbs for “leave” and “forsake” emphasize God’s unwavering commitment. This promise, rooted in His unchanging character, extends to us today. Jesus echoed it in Matthew 28:20, “I am with you always,” and Hebrews 13:5 reinforces it: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” As Billy Graham said, “God’s presence is not a reward for our faithfulness, but a gift of His grace.”

Desmond Doss, a medic in the Battle of Okinawa, faced danger as a pacifist, unarmed, saving lives under fire. His courage came from praying, “Lord, help me get one more.” Doss would later recount that he did this while trusting in God’s presence. Like a mountain standing firm against storms, God’s presence is our constant, propelling us to move forward with courage.

Like Doss, whose story is in part portrayed in the movie “Hacksaw Ridge,” we can face our battles, knowing God’s promise empowers us to overcome fear and step confidently into His calling. Let’s anchor our hearts in Deuteronomy 31:6. God’s presence gives us the courage to face any challenge and pursue His purpose, assuring us that He will never leave or forsake us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

An area I discussed previously that deserves much more attention is examining faith and fear from a biblical perspective. Both fear and faith shape how we navigate life’s uncertainties; however, they lead to vastly different outcomes. Faith allows us to walk in God’s peace, while fear leads to inner conflict. Both leak out, impacting those around us.

It’s been said that both faith and fear demand that you believe in something you cannot see. We have the responsibility to choose. Interestingly, fear and faith are similar in that they both require belief in the unseen. Fear fixates on potential dangers or negative outcomes, while faith trusts in God’s promises. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen,” implying a deliberate choice to trust God’s character. Similarly, fear involves choosing to dwell on uncertainties, as seen when the Israelites feared entering Canaan, doubting God’s provision despite His past faithfulness (Numbers 13:31-33). Both are acts of the heart, requiring a decision to focus on either God’s sovereignty (supreme authority and power) or life’s threats.

The differences between fear and faith are stark. Fear deals with “what if,” while faith deals with “even if.” Fear and faith have divergent orientations. Fear asks, “What if disaster strikes?” It’s rooted in speculation and distrust, paralyzing us like Peter sinking when he focused on the storm (Matthew 14:30). Faith, however, says, “Even if trials come, God is enough.” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego exemplified this in Daniel 3:17-18, declaring that they would trust Him even if God didn’t deliver them from the furnace. Fear magnifies problems; faith magnifies God’s power, anchoring us in His promises like 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.”

Faith has been described as seeing a future where God is present and working, while fear is seeing a future without God present or working. Fear and faith have contrasting visions. Faith envisions God’s active presence, as Romans 8:28 assures, “All things work together for good for those who love God.” Despite betrayal and imprisonment, Joseph’s trust in God’s plan (Genesis 50:20) reflects this. Fear, conversely, imagines a godless future, blinding us to His providence (God’s active governing and sustaining of the universe, guiding all events, circumstances, and creatures toward His intended purposes). When David faced Goliath, fear gripped Saul’s army, but David’s faith saw God’s victory (1 Samuel 17:45-47). Faith aligns our perspective with God’s eternal purposes, while fear distorts reality and ignores His omnipotence (all-powerful).

Scripture repeatedly calls us to choose faith. Isaiah 41:10 commands, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” This choice isn’t a denial of danger but a resolve to trust God’s presence and promises. The quotes emphasize human agency. We decide whether to let fear’s “what ifs” dominate or to embrace faith’s “even if” confidence. Jesus rebuked fear in His disciples, urging, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mark 4:40). Faith grows through prayer, the study and application of Scripture, and recalling God’s faithfulness (Psalm 77:11-12).

Fear and faith both demand belief in the unseen; however, fear enslaves us to doubt, while faith frees us to trust God’s good plan. When we embrace faith’s “even if” over fear’s “what if,” we envision a future where God is present and working. Scripture equips us to reject fear’s distortions and embrace faith’s assurance, allowing us to rest in God’s unchanging nature. With God’s help, I am continuing to grow into such faith. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

The cell was damp, the air heavy with the chill of a Roman prison, yet Paul’s spirit burned with unshakable resolve. He was in his mid-60s, his body scarred from years of shipwrecks and beatings. Chains bound his wrists, and the shadow of execution loomed. But there was no trace of despair as he scratched out his final words to Timothy, his young protégé. Instead, Paul’s letter radiated the fierce joy of a marathon runner in the final mile, legs trembling but eyes locked on the finish line where a roaring crowd awaited. This was no ordinary race. It was the race of faith, and Paul was determined to finish well.

In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Paul doesn’t just reflect on his life; he issues a challenge to every believer. He speaks of his life as a “drink offering,” poured out completely, like wine spilled in an Old Testament sacrifice, a total act of worship. There’s no holding back, no clinging to comfort or safety. His suffering, his chains, even his impending martyrdom; they’re not losses but a fragrant offering to God. The Greek word for “departure” paints a picture of a ship slipping its moorings or a soldier breaking camp, ready for the next journey. For Paul, death isn’t defeat; it’s a joyful transition to eternity. Like a candle burned to its end, his life has given light to a darkened world, spent, not wasted, for the gospel.

Paul’s words pulse with the grit of a boxer who’s taken countless blows but stands firm, a runner who’s pushed through exhaustion to cross the finish line, a guard who’s protected a priceless treasure against all odds. “I have fought the good fight,” he declares. “I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” These aren’t boasts but testimonies of God’s grace sustaining him through decades of trials, planting churches, preaching Christ, battling false teachings, and mentoring leaders like Timothy. His fight wasn’t against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces, personal sin, and anything threatening the gospel’s truth. He endured, was disciplined, and trusted God step by step to finish well.

And then there’s the prize: the “crown of righteousness.” Not a king’s diadem but a victor’s wreath, like those awarded to ancient athletes. It’s the promise of full communion with God, free from sin’s stain, given by Christ, the righteous Judge. Paul’s eyes are fixed on “that day,” Christ’s return, when rewards will be handed out not just to him but to all who “love his appearing.” This isn’t a passive hope; it’s a fire that fuels faithfulness, urging believers to endure trials and pursue holiness. Like a cyclist grinding through brutal hills, driven by the vision of victory, Paul’s confidence in this reward kept him steady when the road turned rough.

Paul’s life calls us to run our own race with the same tenacity. It’s easy to falter due to fatigue, distractions, and trials that can pull us off course. But God empowers us to live poured out, fight on, and keep running. Think of John Bunyan, locked in Bedford jail for twelve years, refusing to abandon his call to preach. He penned “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” a beacon for millions from that cell. Or consider Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s words, “The life of a Christian is an offering to God, not a possession to cling to.” These men, like Paul, demonstrate that finishing well means holding fast to Christ, regardless of the cost.

So, where are you in your race? Are you surrendered to Christ, leaning on His strength? Picture crossing the finish line, Jesus waiting to place that crown on your head, saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Every step, every act of obedience, every bold leap of faith is worth it. Don’t let the world’s noise or your own doubts derail you. Commit today to, with the Lord’s help, run with endurance and to live generously for Christ. What’s your next step? For some, it’s trusting Him as Savior. For others, it’s taking the next leap He’s calling you to. The finish line is calling. Keep running. Follow Paul’s example and finish well. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!