Craig Cooper

In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul shares a profound experience that has deeply resonated with believers throughout the centuries. He speaks of a “thorn in the flesh,” a persistent struggle that he repeatedly asked the Lord to remove. The exact nature of this thorn remains uncertain—some suggest it could have been psychological struggles, opposition from others, demonic harassment, or, most commonly, a physical affliction. Yet, regardless of what this thorn was, the Lord’s response to Paul stands out: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

This remarkable response from the Lord highlights a critical truth for every believer: God’s grace is always available and more than enough, no matter how challenging our circumstances. Paul’s realization that God’s power is perfected in our weaknesses turns our understanding of suffering on its head. Instead of being a hindrance, our weaknesses become opportunities for God’s power to be displayed through us. This is echoed in Romans 8:31-39, where we are reminded that nothing can separate us from the love of God and that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him.

The power of this truth was brought home to me in a conversation I had with a close friend who has been battling an aggressive form of cancer for the past two years. Despite enduring multiple rounds of chemotherapy and the overwhelming challenges that come with such a diagnosis, he shared something profound with me. He said, and I summarize, “It is God’s grace that I have most cherished during this time.” Rather than merely focusing on the pain or the uncertainty, my friend recounted story after story of how the Lord has used his physical weakness—his cancer—to share the love and message of Christ with others.

As my friend spoke, it was clear that, like Paul, he had come to see his weakness as an avenue for God’s grace to shine through. He told me, “I wouldn’t wish this on myself or anyone else, but I have learned so much about God and myself through this struggle. I’ve been used by Him in ways I never would have been if I weren’t going through this.” His words struck a deep chord, reminding me of the sufficiency of God’s grace in the most trying times.

My friend’s story is a living testimony to the truth that Paul experienced: God’s grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness. While he, his family, and friends continue to pray for his healing, it has been remarkable to witness how God has sustained him physically. Yet, the work God is doing in and through him is so rich and a testimony to God’s abundantly sufficient grace.

Like Paul’s, this testimony serves as a powerful reminder that God’s grace is sufficient for us. In our moments of greatest weakness, His strength is most evident. As we face our own thorns in the flesh—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—may we trust in the sufficiency of God’s ever-available grace. And may we, like Paul and my friend, find that God is more than enough.

The struggles we endure are not for nothing. They serve a greater purpose that we may not fully understand but can trust is for our good, God’s glory, and the benefit of others. Our weaknesses, far from being liabilities, are places where God’s power can be most clearly seen. As we navigate the trials of life, may we be encouraged by the truth that God’s grace is sufficient, that His power is perfected in our weakness, and that through Him, we are more than conquerors. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In the Gospel of Mark, we encounter a profound story of Jesus’ miraculous healing of a paralytic, which not only restores physical health but also reveals His divine authority to forgive sins and restore brokenness. In Mark 2:1-12, we witness Jesus’ deep compassion and power to address both our immediate needs and the more incredible healing of our souls. The scene unfolds as Jesus returns to Capernaum. His reputation for teachings and miracles had spread, drawing a large crowd that filled the house where He was preaching. Amidst the crowd, four men arrive, carrying a paralyzed friend. Unable to reach Jesus through the crowd, they display extraordinary determination by making an opening in the roof and lowering their friend down to Him. This act of faith is reminiscent of a young man named Eric, who, driven by unwavering faith, underwent a complex kidney transplant surgery to save his best friend, Jake, demonstrating the profound impact of faith and perseverance in helping others.

As the paralytic is laid before Him, Jesus responds in a manner that initially seems surprising. Seeing their faith, He says, “Son, your sins are forgiven” (Mark 2:5). This pronouncement of forgiveness is significant, as it addresses the man’s more profound spiritual need. Charles Spurgeon aptly noted, “True faith brings people to Christ, not just for physical healing but for the deeper need of the soul.” This declaration, however, stirs controversy among the scribes present. They question Jesus’ authority, believing only God can forgive sins. Jesus perceives their thoughts and challenges them, asking, “Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk’?” (Mark 2:9). This rhetorical question underscores His divine authority to forgive sins and heal, confounding the scribes and highlighting His unique role as the Son of Man.

Jesus demonstrates His authority and compassion in this moment by commanding the paralytic to rise, take his mat, and go home. The man immediately gets up, and the crowd is left in awe, glorifying God and exclaiming, “We have never seen anything like this!” (Mark 2:12). This miracle not only restores the man’s physical health but also reveals Jesus’ power to heal our deepest wounds.

Consider Sue’s story, who struggled with a chronic illness that led to spiritual despair. After seeking Jesus’ healing, she experienced a remarkable physical and spiritual recovery. Sue’s transformation showcases the profound impact of Christ’s compassionate touch, leading others to consider Him as Savior and Lord. Henry Ward Beecher insightfully stated, “Compassion will cure more sins than condemnation.” Mark’s account makes this clear delineation of Jesus and the scribes.

Jesus’ miracles, as Timothy Keller proclaimed, “are not just displays of power; they are signs of the kingdom, revealing the character of God.” This powerful story challenges us to see beyond our immediate needs and recognize the greater healing Jesus offers—the healing of our souls. As we reflect on this encounter, may we be reminded of Jesus’ immense compassion and unparalleled authority. He not only heals our physical ailments but also addresses the deepest needs of our souls, offering forgiveness, restoration, and wholeness. It’s about recognizing the more significant healing Jesus offers, and the character of God revealed through these miracles.

How can we believers respond? Let us be everyday missionaries, bringing others to Jesus with faith and compassion. May we, like the crowd in Capernaum, be amazed and glorify God, not just for the miracles we see but for the ultimate miracle of a redeemed and restored life. In doing so, we cultivate a sense of awe and wonder at Jesus’ power and compassion, inspiring faith in those around us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

As we delve into Mark 1:16-20, Jesus’ call to follow Him, we will see how Jesus calls His first disciples with a radical invitation that still echoes today. We’ll explore what it means to leave everything, follow Him, and reflect on our response to this life-changing call.

Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost is not a lone endeavor. Yes, He is the only One who can save. However, He needs kingdom workers—His followers—to partner with Him and reach people with His love and message.

Mark begins by sharing the setting of the call: “Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men’” (Mark 1:16-17). The scene is not extraordinary; ordinary fishermen are doing their daily work. What is extraordinary is that Jesus, the Son of God, invites these fishermen to be His disciples. Notice the radical nature of Jesus’ call – “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men.”

“Follow me” is a test of trust. Jesus calls all His followers to trust and actually follow Him. Reflect on your life and identify anything holding you back from fully trusting and following Jesus. It could be a career, relationships, material possessions, or personal ambitions. It might require a change in mindset from what you want for yourself to what Christ wants for you.

Jim Elliot’s powerful proclaimed, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” Jim Elliot was one of five missionaries killed during Operation Auca, an attempt to evangelize an indigenous tribe of Ecuador on January 8, 1956. Many members of the tribe who killed Elliot and his fellow missionaries came to Christ. After the missionaries were killed, Elisabeth Elliot, Jim’s widow, along with Rachel Saint, the sister of another slain missionary, Nate Saint, continued their efforts to reach out to the Huaorani. They eventually moved into the Huaorani village, learning the language and culture. Their persistent and loving witness led to significant decisions for Christ within the tribe. Elliot encourages us to see the eternal value in following Jesus, even if it means giving up temporal comforts and securities. Ask yourself, “Is there something I struggle to trust God with and fully follow Him?”

Mark shares the disciples’ response: “And immediately they left their nets and followed Him. And going on a little farther, He saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed Him” (Mark 1:18-20). Notice that the response to Christ’s call is immediate. These men left their nets, livelihoods, and families to follow Christ. It’s important to remember that Christ does not call us to a one-way commitment. The leader-follower relationship is a covenant. If Jesus can trust us to follow Him, we can trust Him to lead us. He is our Savior and Lord, as well as our model and, through His Spirit, our mentor.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian, pastor, and anti-Nazi dissident, wrote: “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.” Bonhoeffer understood the cost of following Christ and did so wholeheartedly. We probably will never be called to die for Christ, but all believers are called to give their lives. Just as the disciples immediately followed Jesus, we are called to respond to His call without hesitation. Charles Spurgeon insightfully wrote: “Delayed obedience is disobedience.”

Let’s look closer at Christ’s invitation, “Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). Following Jesus is not easy, but it is worth it. Following Jesus may entail leaving behind security, comfort, and familiar surroundings. Jesus’ promise to make them “fishers of people” signifies a new mission and identity. Believers, we need to accept that, as followers of Jesus, we have a new purpose—to be “fishers of people.” This means actively sharing the gospel and living out our faith in a way that draws others to Christ.

David Platt declares: “Radical obedience to Christ is not easy… It’s not comfort, not health, not wealth, and not prosperity in this world. Radical obedience to Christ risks losing all these things. But in the end, such risk finds its reward in Christ. And He is more than enough for us.” Platt speaks to the challenges and rewards of following Jesus with radical obedience. I had a classmate in graduate school from China who understood this well. He looked forward to returning to China to spread the gospel despite the probable persecution awaiting him and his family. His commitment reminds us that Christ’s call is not something we believers have to do but get to do.

Christ calls us to follow Him and, in doing so, share His love and message with others. Ask yourself: How and to whom is God calling me to share the love and message of Christ? Here are some questions for us to consider: Is there something God is calling me to leave behind to follow Him fully? Is there something God is calling me to today that I have been avoiding or putting off? Have I embraced my new identity and mission in Christ as a believer?

Jesus’ call to follow Him is as urgent and radical today as it was by the Sea of Galilee. He invites us to leave behind our old lives and embrace a new identity and mission in Him. As we leave this place today, let’s consider what it means to follow Jesus fully and respond with the same immediacy and dedication as those first disciples. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

We fantastically encounter Christ in the Gospel of Mark. Mark 1:21-28 is a powerful passage that captures the essence of Jesus’ unparalleled authority and the transformative impact of encountering Him. We find Jesus teaching in the synagogue of Capernaum, astonishing those present with His wisdom and authority. Unlike the scribes, His words carried a divine weight, leaving the listeners in awe. But it wasn’t just His teachings that made an impact; His authority over evil spirits also revealed His true nature as the Son of God.

Imagine the scene: a man possessed by an unclean spirit suddenly cries out, disrupting the teaching session. In an instant, Jesus commands the spirit to be silent and leave the man, demonstrating His supreme authority over the spiritual realm. This confrontation was not just a show of power but a clear indication of the kingdom of God breaking into our world. The onlookers were left stunned; this encounter forever changed their understanding of spiritual authority with Jesus.

The profound impact of this moment extends beyond the walls of the synagogue. It speaks to us today, reminding us of Jesus’s power and authority over our lives. As we explore our passage, let us open our hearts to the possibility of encountering Jesus in a fresh and transformative way. His teachings and authority are not trapped in the past but living truths that can reshape our reality.

Mark invites us to spend a day with Jesus. The Apostle Peter was from Capernaum. Jesus, having chosen Capernaum as His home base for the Galilean ministry, immediately went to their synagogue as the logical starting place for His teaching.

We read in Mark 1:21-22 that Jesus taught with His divine authority, not simply repeating the traditions of others. As God, His authority was intrinsic. The primary means by which Jesus made His mission clear was teaching, rather than performing miracles or casting out demons—actions that accompanied His teaching and attested to His divinity and salvific purpose. His teachings challenge us to recognize His unique authority and respond with obedience.

Mark records (Mark 1:23-24) that the synagogue service was suddenly disrupted by a man with an evil spirit who challenged Jesus’ authority by interrupting His teaching. The evil spirit recognizes Jesus’ identity as the Holy One of God, acknowledging His authority. Even the spiritual realm acknowledges Jesus’ authority; how much more should we submit to Him?

The evil spirit’s reaction to Jesus’ authority is telling (Mark 1:25-26). Jesus demonstrates His authority by commanding the evil spirit to leave, and it obeys immediately. This immediate obedience is a testament to the trustworthiness of Jesus’ authority. He has the power to free us from spiritual bondage and oppression. We should trust in His authority and seek His deliverance in our lives.

Finally, Mark records the people’s response (Mark 1:27-28). The authority and power of Jesus left a lasting impression, spreading His fame throughout the region. Encountering Jesus’ power should lead us to share our experiences and spread the good news of His authority, love, and salvation He provides to those who place their faith in Him.

Reflect on how Jesus’ authority and power have impacted your life. Consider how you invite others to experience His transformative power and wisdom. Let’s seek Jesus’ authority over areas of struggle and ask for the courage to share His power and wisdom with others. Let us continue to be amazed by Jesus’ teachings and authority, allowing His power to transform our lives and the lives of those around us. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Embarking on the transformative journey through Mark’s Gospel, it quickly becomes apparent that it offers a profound encounter with Jesus. This journey, with its life-altering nature, is not just informative but deeply inspiring, inviting readers to genuinely meet Jesus Christ in a personal and profound way. Mark unpacks the power and significance of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. Through this exploration, we are invited to deepen our understanding of Jesus’ mission, drawing us into a closer relationship with Him and a deeper commitment to follow Him wholeheartedly.

The term “Gospel” was used in the Roman world as an imperial proclamation of Caesar’s deeds. However, in the New Testament, these books present the good news about “Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). Simply put, the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) present accounts of Jesus’s actions and teachings. Keep in mind what John Stott wisely noted, “The gospel is not a human invention, but the good news of God’s intervention in history through His Son, Jesus Christ.”

The Gospel of Mark, written from a Hellenistic Jewish viewpoint to a Greek-cultured world, presents Jesus as the power of God active in the world. Jesus is portrayed as the Humble Servant. Mark, who authored this Gospel, was John Mark, a friend of the Apostle Paul and cousin to Barnabas (Acts 12:12; Colossians 4:10). Mark accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25). After deserting them in Perga (Acts 13:13), he followed Barnabas to Cyprus. It is believed that Mark wrote his Gospel in the late AD 50s in Rome, primarily for a Roman audience.

Mark’s main interest is to present the good news. The opening of his Gospel announces, “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1). In Mark 1:15, we hear this call: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark presents Jesus as God’s active agent, His power in the world, and His means of defeating sin, death, and the Devil (Mark 1:27-28).

The opening sentence of Mark’s Gospel is concise and profound, setting the stage for what follows. Experts say the first sentence should be 24 words or less and answer key questions like “Who?” “What?” “When?” “Where?” and “How?” In just 12 words, Mark answers all these questions except “Where?” which he addresses later.

Mark begins with “The beginning of the gospel,” indicating a timeline that spans from prophetic times to the unforeseeable future. The word “gospel” answers the “what,” presenting the good news backed by divine truth, a truth that should inspire confidence. The name “Jesus” answers the “who,” emphasizing His humanity and divinity. The term “Christ” answers “how,” signifying Jesus as the Anointed One, the Savior. Declaring Jesus as the Son of God points to His resurrection and ongoing reign.

Mark 1:2-8 introduces John the Baptist, who prepares the way for Jesus. Mark quotes from Malachi and Isaiah, linking John’s role to prophecy. A.W. Tozer had this to say about prophecy, “Prophecy was given not to satisfy human curiosity, but to inspire human confidence.” With his unique lifestyle and powerful message, John the Baptist baptizes many. He directs them to Jesus, emphasizing that Jesus is mightier and that John is unworthy even to untie His shoes.

John contrasts his baptism with Jesus’, noting that while he baptizes with water, Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit (Mark 1:8). This baptism with the Holy Spirit, fulfilled at Pentecost (Acts 2), continues today when individuals receive Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Mark’s Gospel quickly transitions to Jesus’ baptism, where the Spirit descends upon Him. God the Father’s voice confirms Jesus as His beloved Son. This moment commissions Jesus for His unique mission.

Mark’s Gospel, often described as “the action gospel,” introduces us to Jesus, His mission, and the trajectory of His ministry. As we delve into Mark, we are called to prepare our hearts and lives for Jesus and share His message with others. Let us seek God’s help in preparing our hearts and pray for the courage to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In pursuing our dreams and aspirations, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the magnitude of our goals. We often envision the end result—a completed project, a finished product, a significant milestone—and wonder how we’ll ever get there. We believers are not immune to this paralysis by analysis (the enormity of the task). The key to success lies in breaking down these lofty ambitions into manageable steps. By taking bite-sized steps, we can make steady progress without feeling daunted by the enormity of our goals. This method makes our objectives more achievable and allows us to enjoy the journey and learn valuable lessons along the way.

How do you achieve a goal? Start by recognizing that reaching a significant milestone doesn’t happen overnight. Instead of focusing on going from 0 to 100, break your journey into smaller, more attainable segments. Begin by aiming to move from 0 to 10. This first step is crucial, as it sets the foundation for your progress. Once you’ve reached 10, aim for 20 and then 40. Continue this pattern, and soon you’ll find yourself at 100, having achieved your goal one step at a time.

When we look at a step-by-step process, let me encourage you to trust in it. This approach not only reduces stress but also builds confidence. Each small victory fuels your motivation, reminding you that progress is being made. Celebrating these incremental successes helps maintain a positive mindset and keeps you engaged in the process.

Enjoy the process. The journey toward our goals is often just as important as the destination. By focusing on each step, we can savor the experiences, lessons, and growth that come along the way. This approach encourages us to remain present, appreciating the effort and dedication invested in each stage of our journey.

The Bible offers wisdom that aligns perfectly with this step-by-step approach. Proverbs 16:9 states, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. This verse reminds us that while we may have grand plans, it is through the steps we take—often guided and established by the Lord—that we reach our destinations. Trusting in God’s guidance and embracing the journey step by step allows us to fulfill our goals in a way that honors His plan for our lives.

This is one reason I am a fan of the SOAP Bible study Method we promote and utilize here at Crosswinds. Reading Scripture, making observations, discovering an application to your daily living, and praying the Word over your life is a simple yet profound process. It also allows one to scale their study. It can be used for ten minutes in the Bible up to however long. If you are new to studying Scripture, you can start small and scale up to whatever goal you may have. You can invest as little or as much as you desire in the observation step. You can study alone, with another believer, or with a group of believers.

Practically, achieving your goals step by step might involve setting short-term objectives, creating a detailed plan, and regularly reviewing your progress. For example, if your goal is to read a book of the Bible, start by committing to reading a certain number of verses each day (perhaps a chapter). Celebrate each reading you complete and use these milestones to motivate you. Such a plan is not only practical but potentially life-changing.

Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. You will eventually reach your destination by breaking down your goals into manageable steps and trusting in the process. Embrace the journey, learn from each step, and celebrate your progress along the way. Step by step, you will get there. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

When we consider and participate in Labor Day, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the value of work and our calling to serve faithfully in all we do. The Bible offers profound insights into the significance of work, reminding us that our labor is not merely a means to an end but a divine calling that reflects God’s character and purposes.

Colossians 3:23-24 instructs us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” These verses challenge us to approach our work with diligence and excellence, recognizing that our ultimate employer is not our earthly boss but the Lord Himself. When we work with this mindset, every task, no matter how mundane, becomes an act of worship and service to God.

The concept of work being a part of God’s design is evident from the very beginning. In Genesis 2:15, we read, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” Work was established before the fall, highlighting its intrinsic value and purpose in God’s perfect creation. It’s a means to reflect God’s creativity, stewardship, and care for the world.

Labor Day is also a reminder of the importance of rest. In Exodus 20:8-10, God commands, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God.” Rest is not just a break from work; it’s a time to rejuvenate, reflect, and realign ourselves with God’s purposes. It’s essential for maintaining a balanced life, preventing burnout, and ensuring that our work remains a joy rather than a burden.

Further, Labor Day can inspire us to consider how we use our skills and professions to serve others and advance God’s kingdom. Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Our vocations allow us to express our faith, share God’s love, and positively impact our communities.

As believers, we are also called to advocate for justice and fairness in the workplace. James 5:4 warns, “Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.” We must ensure that our work environments are just, treating all workers with dignity and respect.

This Labor Day, let’s challenge ourselves to view our work through the lens of Scripture, seeing it as a vital part of our Christian witness. Let’s commit to working with integrity, excellence, and a heart of service, knowing that we serve the Lord in all we do. As we rest and recharge, let us also seek ways to use our gifts and talents to bless others and further God’s kingdom. I pray that our labor will witness to others God’s grace and be a beacon of His love in the world. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

“A picture speaks a thousand words,” as the saying goes, and I believe this is profoundly true. I have always had an affinity for pictures, collecting countless images on my phone—family, friends, and, notably, my favorite depictions of Jesus Christ. These images, captured by various artists, beautifully illustrate the heart and life of our Savior. They reveal the essence of Jesus in unique and powerful ways, weaving together threads of love, compassion, strength, and sacrifice. Reflecting on these pictures allows us to delve deeper into Jesus’s heart—His profound compassion, unwavering commitment, and boundless love that led Him to sacrifice His life for us. Furthermore, His life of humility, service, and sacrifice sets the ultimate example for us to follow.

Join me on this visual journey, albeit through writing and a spiritual journey, as we open our hearts to the transformative power of Jesus’ love. Let these images draw us closer to Him, inspiring us with hope and a renewed sense of purpose. I will do my best to connect the pictures’ impact with the written word.

The first painting, “Jesus Loved the Little Children,” (by an unknown painter) captures Jesus enjoying himself among a happy group of kids. The Gospels vividly depict Jesus’ love and value for children. In Matthew 19:14, Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” This verse underscores His welcoming and inclusive nature, emphasizing that children hold a special place in God’s kingdom. Similarly, Mark 10:16 records, “Jesus took them (children) in his arms and blessed them, laying his hands on them.” This tender act illustrates His compassion and care for the youngest members of society. Jesus also uses children to teach profound spiritual truths. In Matthew 18:3, He says, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Here, Jesus highlights the qualities of humility, dependence, and trust that children naturally possess, urging His followers to adopt these traits in their relationship with God.

The second painting, “Good Shepherd” by Alfred Usher Soord, depicts a shepherd hanging perilously over the edge of a cliff to save a stranded sheep. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, profoundly illustrates His care and guidance for His followers. In John 10:11, Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This statement highlights Jesus’ sacrificial love and willingness to give His life to protect and save His flock. In John 10:14-15, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” These verses emphasize the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers, reflecting His deep knowledge of and care for each individual.

Another favorite painting is “The Hand of God” by Yongsung Kim. This image, inspired by the story of Jesus saving Peter from drowning in Matthew 14:28-31, offers hope and encouragement. When Peter doubted while walking on water, Jesus reached out to save him. This painting reminds us of Jesus’ presence amid life’s storms and His readiness to rescue us when we call out to Him.

The fourth painting, “Go to Emmaus” by Robert Zund, depicts Jesus’ profound encounter with His disciples on the road to Emmaus. In Luke 24:13-35, Jesus joins two disciples walking to Emmaus, explaining the Scriptures and revealing Himself to them. This encounter highlights Jesus’ commitment to guiding and enlightening His followers.

Lastly, Salvador Dali’s “Christ St. John of the Cross” portrays Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross, the ultimate act of love and redemption. John 3:16 concisely describes this sacrificial love: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Reflecting on these images of Jesus—His compassion with children, His sacrifice as the Good Shepherd, His rescue in times of doubt, His guidance on the road to Emmaus, and His ultimate act of love on the cross—helps us understand His heart and inspires us to live with compassion, faith, and unwavering dedication. Embrace these depictions and let them deepen your walk with Him. Jesus loves you and desires for you to know Him and make Him known. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Some people believe that if God loves us, we won’t face difficulties or hardships. Is this true? We all have experienced situations where, through no fault of our own, we find ourselves in rough circumstances or even enduring a challenging season of life. None of us are strangers to such events. It seems unfair, and often, these situations can start to plant seeds of doubt in our minds, potentially weakening our faith.

However, I believe that the key to not only surviving but thriving through difficult situations is to focus on God rather than our circumstances. One of the hardest lessons to learn is to not gauge life through the situations we find ourselves in but by the One who is Lord over every situation. We need to remember that this world is not our home. Life sometimes does not make sense, but God has a plan.

Consider Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” This verse is often quoted for encouragement, but it’s important to understand it in context. Jeremiah wrote these words to the Israelites in exile, telling them their exile would last several decades. Despite the seemingly bad news, they were not to give up hope. God’s thinking and plans are vastly different from ours.

What may seem to us like the end of hope is actually an opportunity for God to demonstrate His plan for a real future. We must believe God has a plan for our lives to find hope even in apparently hopeless situations. Vision is the ability to see God’s power, presence, and plan despite the obstacles. God’s Word has much to say about living a life focused on Him rather than our circumstances.

Consider the story of Joseph in Genesis 37-50. Joseph’s life was full of unexpected turns and hardships, yet God was with him through it all. Joseph’s brothers hated him, sold him into slavery, and he was later falsely accused and imprisoned. Despite these severe trials, Joseph maintained his faith and integrity. Genesis 39:2 tells us, “The Lord was with Joseph.” This assurance of God’s presence enabled Joseph to trust God’s plan even when he couldn’t see it.

No matter what circumstances we face, God is with us. Jesus promises, “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20b). We must trust that God is at work even in the darkest times. Romans 8:38-39 reassures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. God’s ultimate will for our lives is to mold us into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. We must trust He knows what He is doing, even when life’s path seems unclear.

God is at work, even in the darkness. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Psalm 121:4-5 assures us that God neither slumbers nor sleeps; He is always our keeper. Like Joseph, knowing that God is with us gives us the confidence to trust God is at work, even when we cannot see it. Joseph later told his brothers, “What you meant for evil, God intended for good.” The roller coaster that was Joseph’s life eventually led him to the highest position in Egypt, under the pharaoh, and saved countless lives. We, like Joseph, can stay the course of faith when we, like him, focus on God, remembering His promises, for our Lord is good, and we have a future hope. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

How often have we heard the hopeful declaration, “Someday, I will do something great for God!” Or the prophetic observation, “That person is going to really be used by God when they are older.” It seems we often place an age or time limit on being used by God. But what is that limit? It’s always just a little older or a little further away than we currently are.

Do I have news for you? Let’s look at a Hebrew boy named Josiah who, at age 8, was thrust into the leadership of Judah. His father, Amon, was killed at age 8, and Josiah was called upon to be King of Judah.

Before we go any further, I need to provide some context. The nation of Israel (God’s chosen people) was united only under three Kings: Saul, David, and Solomon. After Solomon, the nation split into Israel, the Northern Kingdom, and Judah, the Southern Kingdom. Israel had 19 Kings but was captured by the Assyrians in 722 BC. Judah had 13 kings and 1 queen before Josiah, who became the 14th king at age 8.

We read about Josiah in 2 Chronicles 34: “Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty-one years in Jerusalem. And he did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and walked in the ways of David his father; and he did not turn aside to the right hand or to the left” (2 Chronicles 34:1-2, ESV). This is an amazing statement, considering that most of Judah’s rulers were evil men. Josiah’s pedigree includes Manasseh, his grandfather, who was an evil ruler. Manasseh worshiped false gods, led Judah away from the Lord, and even practiced child sacrifice. However, Manasseh repented and turned to God when taken captive to Babylon. Despite this, the nation of Judah remained far from the Lord.

When Manasseh died, his son Amon (Josiah’s father) became King. Amon was so evil that his servants killed him, and Josiah, at age 8, became King of Judah. We already know Josiah walked with God at age 8. Scripture tells us something interesting happened when he was 16 and 20: “In the eighth year of his reign, while he was yet a boy, he began to seek the God of David his father, and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem of the high places, the Asherim, and the carved and the metal images” (2 Chronicles 34:3, ESV).

At age 16, Josiah made a deeper commitment to God. By age 20, he began purging the land of idolatry. The discovery of God’s Word further catalyzed Josiah’s reform. While cleaning the Temple, the Book of the Law was found, and Josiah’s reaction was profound. He tore his clothes and wept, realizing how far Judah had strayed from God. Josiah read the Word of God to the people, leading a national covenant to follow the Lord.

Josiah continued his reform: “Then the king sent and gathered together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. And the king went up to the house of the Lord, with all the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem and the priests and the Levites, all the people both great and small. And he read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant that had been found in the house of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 34:29-30, ESV). At age 26, Josiah led a national revival by reinstating the Passover: “Josiah kept a Passover to the Lord in Jerusalem. And they slaughtered the Passover lamb on the fourteenth day of the first month” (2 Chronicles 35:1, ESV).

Reflecting on my own life, I accepted Christ as Lord and Savior when I was 5. My parents came to the Lord when I was 15. At age 14, I committed to going deeper with God. At age 16, I went public with my faith through baptism. Then, at age 18, I began pastoral work and training others.

Just like Josiah, God does amazing work in and through the life of someone who surrenders to Him. Josiah’s numbers were 8, 16, 20, and 26. My numbers were 5, 14, 16, and 18. What are your numbers?

Remember, being used by God is not a matter of age or experience, but of surrender and obedience. Just as God’s work in Josiah’s life brought about a national revival, His work in my life changed the direction of my family. What does God want to do in and through you? I challenge you to let Him lay out numbers in your life; times of influence, change, and reform. Perhaps there is a number God wants to lay out in your life right now. This should empower you, knowing that you have the ability to surrender and obey, and in doing so, be used by God in a powerful way. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!