Love

Limitless Strength

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John 15:5

There is a song called “Surface Pressure” from the movie Encanto. In the scene where the song is introduced, Luisa, the middle sister who is gifted with incredible strength, reveals just how much pressure she feels as a part of, not just the family, but the community as well. So many people rely on her and she carries a lot, both physically and, come to find out, emotionally. I think many of us can find ourselves in a similar situation, minus the carrying of extremely heavy loads like this fictional character does. But we, and I speak about myself in this, try to carry so much when a lot of it, we thrust upon ourselves.

I’ll be honest, there isn’t one area of my life where I can’t easily feel bogged down and drained from constant demands and expectations. Whether at home, teaching, running a business, trying make ends meet, don’t get me wrong, I am a very blessed man with a lot of blessings in my life, especially my wife and kids. Bur it all can get very heavy very quickly. Because of this, it is imperative that I know that I don’t have to carry this alone. I would be crushed, like so many are, if I tried to do all of this alone.

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.”‬‬

Psalm‬ ‭55‬:‭22‬ ‭ESV

We live in a world that constantly reminds us of our limits. Limited time. Limited energy. Limited patience. Limited strength. Some days we feel capable and confident; other days we feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unsure how to take the next step.

Yet Scripture points us to a different source of strength—one that does not run dry. True strength is not found in self-reliance or sheer determination. It flows from a living relationship with Jesus Christ. When we walk closely with Him, we discover that our strength is no longer dependent on circumstances or personal ability, but on His unchanging power.

Jesus invites us into a relationship, not a formula. He says:

Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.”

John 15:4

When we remain in Him, His life flows through us. Our weakness becomes the place where His strength is revealed.

The apostle Paul understood this paradox well. After pleading with God to remove a persistent hardship, he heard the Lord respond:

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

2 Corinthians 12:9

God does not wait for us to be strong before He works. He meets us in our weakness. When we acknowledge our need for Him, we make room for His power to move in ways we could never achieve on our own.

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

1 Peter‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Limitless strength through Jesus does not mean a life free from struggle. It means we are never alone in the struggle. His strength sustains us in parenting, ministry, work, relationships, and seasons of loss or uncertainty.

“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”

Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭ESV‬‬

A relationship with Jesus is nurtured through daily connection—prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience. As we spend time with Him, our perspective shifts. Fear gives way to faith. Anxiety gives way to peace. Weariness gives way to endurance.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13

This is not a promise of unlimited success, but of unlimited strength to face whatever comes with Christ at the center.

When we stop striving to manufacture our own strength and instead lean into our relationship with Jesus, we discover a freedom that transforms how we live. His strength is steady. His grace is sufficient. His presence is constant.

No matter how depleted you feel today, the invitation remains open: come to Jesus, and let His strength become yours.

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28

In Him, our strength is never truly limited—because it comes from an infinite and limitless source.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.

Zeal

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Zeal is defined as a great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective. Zeal for God is more than religious enthusiasm—it is a deep, burning devotion that shapes how we think, live, and love. Throughout Scripture, zeal is pictured as a holy fire, one that fuels obedience, worship, and courage even when circumstances are difficult.

The psalmist declares, “Zeal for your house consumes me” (Psalm 69:9). This is not a casual affection for God, but an all-consuming passion. True zeal flows from a heart that knows who God is and cannot remain indifferent.

Biblical zeal is not loud showmanship or self-righteous intensity. Paul warns that it’s possible to have “zeal for God, but not according to knowledge” (Romans 10:2). Zeal without truth can drift into pride, legalism, or harm. But zeal grounded in the truth of God’s Word leads to humility, repentance, and love.

Jesus Himself modeled perfect zeal. When He cleansed the temple, His actions were driven by reverence for God’s holiness and compassion for people being misled (John 2:13–17). His zeal was never about drawing attention to Himself, but about honoring the Father.

Zeal is not something we manufacture through sheer effort. It is born from intimacy with God. As we spend time in His presence—through prayer, Scripture, and worship—our hearts are stirred. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we begin to say, “Did not our hearts burn within us…?” (Luke 24:32).

The Holy Spirit ignites and sustains this passion. When we remember the mercy we have received and the grace that has saved us, gratitude fuels devotion.

Zeal for God shows up in everyday faithfulness. It looks like choosing obedience when it’s costly, loving others when it’s inconvenient, and standing for truth with gentleness and grace. Paul exhorts believers, “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11).

This kind of zeal is steady, not seasonal. It endures through dry seasons and grows deeper through trials.

If your zeal feels dim, take heart. God delights in rekindling hearts that turn toward Him. Pray with the psalmist: “Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psalm 51:12). Ask the Lord to renew your passion—not for activity alone, but for Him.

May our lives echo the words of Jesus: “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me” (John 4:34). When God becomes our greatest delight, zeal will naturally follow.

Peace and a new zeal in Christ brothers and sisters!

Awaken the Dawn

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With a heavy heart, I opened my Bible. I began in Psalm 108 and went no further. This Psalm is a beautiful declaration of faith, joy, and confidence in God. Exactly where I knew my heart should be. David did not write a half-hearted song; it’s worship that springs from deep trust. Even before his circumstances change, David chooses to lift his eyes and his voice to God.

“My heart is steadfast, O God! I will sing and make melody with all my being! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn! I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great above the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!”‬‬

Psalm‬ ‭108‬:‭1‬-‭5‬ ‭ESV

A Heart Set Firm on God

A steadfast heart doesn’t waver with emotion or circumstance. It’s anchored in who God is. David’s focus isn’t on his enemies or his problems, but on God’s unchanging love and faithfulness. When we choose praise before victory, we declare our faith that God is already at work.

Awakening the Dawn

David says, “I will awaken the dawn.” I love this! What a picture of active worship! Instead of waiting for joy to come, David brings it by starting his day with praise. His music becomes a sunrise of faith. We, too, can awaken the dawn in our own lives by starting each morning with gratitude, worship, and the Word of God.

Praise That Reaches the Nations

David’s praise is not private—it’s global: “I will praise you, Lord, among the nations.” True worship spills over. When we proclaim God’s goodness, others see His glory. Our steadfast faith becomes a testimony that shines far beyond our own circle. The world is changed when God’s people praise Him, especially in their times of difficulty.

Love Higher Than the Heavens

This section of the psalm ends with awe. God’s love is immeasurable—“higher than the heavens”—and His faithfulness stretches “to the skies.” When we look up, we’re reminded that His promises are vast, enduring, and beyond comprehension.

What does it mean for your heart to be “steadfast” today? How can you “awaken the dawn” through worship and gratitude? In what ways can your praise reflect God’s glory to others?

Lord, make our hearts steadfast in You. When we feel weary or uncertain, remind us that Your love never fails. Let our praise rise like the dawn and fill the world with the sound of Your glory. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens—let Your glory shine over all the earth.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.

This is the Way part six

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This is the sixth post in a series where we are looking at the gospel way. What it means to follow Jesus. Today’s may be the most challenging yet. It confronts every single one of us. We have all faced unkind and even hateful people. So did Jesus. And He calls us fi respond just like He did.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.

Romans 12:14 (NIV)

This verse doesn’t come naturally. In fact, it might be one of the hardest commands in Scripture. Our instincts cry out for justice—or at the very least, distance—when we are wronged. But Paul, inspired by the Spirit, challenges us to respond in a radically different way: with blessing.

A Countercultural Command

In a world that praises revenge, canceling, and self-protection, blessing our enemies seems foolish. Yet Paul’s instruction echoes the very words of Jesus:

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)

The way of Christ isn’t about repaying hurt with more hurt. It’s about overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:21). When we bless someone who has wounded us, we are not approving their actions—we are rising above them. We are choosing mercy over bitterness, grace over retaliation.

What Does “Bless” Really Mean?

To bless someone in this context means to:

Speak well of them. To wish them good and not harm. Pray for their repentance, healing, or restoration. Refuse to return insult for insult.

This is an act of spiritual maturity and surrender. It means trusting God to be the righteous judge while we walk in the love and humility He has shown us.

Why Should We Bless?

Because God blessed us when we didn’t deserve it. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” We were enemies of God, yet He chose to bless us with grace. Because it frees us. Bitterness is a prison. Forgiveness and blessing set us free. They release us from being defined by someone else’s actions and allow us to walk in peace. Because it reflects Jesus. When Jesus hung on the cross, mocked and beaten, He prayed, “Father, forgive them.” If we belong to Him, we are called to mirror that kind of love—even when it’s costly.

How Do We Live This Out?

Start with prayer. You may not feel like blessing those who hurt you—but bring that honestly to God. Ask Him to soften your heart. Guard your words. Refuse to gossip or curse the one who wronged you. Instead, speak truth with grace. Seek peace, if possible. You may not be able to restore the relationship, but you can refuse to fuel hostility.

Romans 12:14 is a call to higher ground. It’s a reminder that we are citizens of a different kingdom—one marked by love, not vengeance. This kind of living doesn’t come from our own strength; it flows from a heart surrendered to Christ.

Let’s be people who bless when it’s hardest. Because in doing so, we show the world a glimpse of the Savior who blessed us first.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.

This is the Way part five

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It’s been a few weeks since we looked at the Way of Christ as described in Romans 12. Today’s topic is one that I have been honored to experience with many believers in the last 16 years. It was a major attraction into the fold of Christ. When believers give of their time and resources to genuinely seek to meet the needs of others, and open their hearts, homes, and lives to hurting or lost people, the family of Christ grows and people’s lives are changed.

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Romans 12:13 (NIV)

In just a few short words, Romans 12:13 captures the heart of Christian community: generosity and hospitality. These aren’t just nice suggestions—they’re tangible expressions of the love that Christ calls us to show.

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need

The early church was known for its radical generosity. In Acts 2 and 4, believers shared everything they had so that “there were no needy persons among them.” This wasn’t socialism—it was sacrificial love. When someone in the family of faith lacked food, shelter, or support, the others stepped in. We are called to do the same. It might look like: Giving to a single mom who’s struggling to pay bills. Donating food or clothes to a local ministry. Covering a medical expense, school need, or gas money for a friend in the church. It could be sponsorship of children in developing countries who lack basic needs. Because the church is more than those in our building. It includes every believer around the globe.

Sharing isn’t always financial, either. Sometimes what people need most is time, presence, or a listening ear. The heart behind it is this: What I have is not mine to hoard—it’s God’s to share.

Practice hospitality

Hospitality means welcoming others into your space, your life, and your heart. In the original Greek, this phrase means “pursue the love of strangers.” It goes beyond entertaining—it’s about making others feel seen, safe, and cared for.

Hospitality might mean: Inviting a new family from church over for dinner. Opening your home for Bible study or prayer. Welcoming someone who feels out of place and helping them find belonging.

Hospitality doesn’t require a Pinterest-worthy house or gourmet food. It just requires a heart that says, “You’re welcome here.” And the “here” is wherever you are. Hospitality goes beyond the four walls of our homes and church.

Why This Matters

These two simple actions—sharing and showing hospitality—are powerful witnesses to the world. In an age marked by individualism and isolation, generosity and hospitality stand out as bright lights. They show that the body of Christ is a family. That we serve a God who welcomes and provides. That our faith is more than words—it’s lived out in love.

Lord, help us to live with open hands and an open heart. Teach us to notice the needs of others and respond with joy. Let our homes and our lives reflect Your generous, welcoming love.

When we live out Romans 12:13, we bring the warmth of God’s love to life in the everyday moments. May we be known as people who give freely and welcome fully—for in doing so, we reflect the very heart of Christ.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.

This is the Way part three

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Welcome to the third post about this wonderful journey of following Jesus and the path we devote ourselves to walking. The topic for today will hopefully convict those of us who have found complacency a companion and encourage those trailblazers to keep up the good work.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

Romans 12:11

This verse is a powerful call to action. In a world that often drains our energy and dulls our passion, Paul reminds us to keep our hearts burning with spiritual fire as we serve the Lord. Let’s take a closer look at what that means—and how we can live it out.

Never Be Lacking in Zeal

Zeal means energy, eagerness, and enthusiasm. It’s that excited drive that pushes us to do something with all our heart. Paul isn’t saying we’ll always feel energetic or joyful—he’s saying don’t let your fire die out.

Life has a way of wearing us down: routines get boring, challenges come, and our love for God and people can grow cold if we’re not careful. Paul’s challenge is to guard that spark, to stay spiritually awake and alert.

Ask yourself: Am I coasting through my faith, or am I still excited to grow, love, and serve?

Keep Your Spiritual Fervor

The word fervor comes from a Greek word that literally means “to boil.” Paul wants us to keep our spiritual lives hot—not lukewarm. This doesn’t mean fake emotional hype. It means staying alive in our relationship with God—regularly praying, reading the Word, worshiping, and staying connected to the Holy Spirit.

Spiritual fervor is not something we generate on our own. It’s the result of staying close to Jesus.

Serving the Lord

The purpose of all this energy and passion? To serve. Zeal and fervor aren’t just for our benefit—they’re meant to overflow into action. Serving God means loving others, using our gifts, showing up when needed, and living with purpose.

Passion that doesn’t serve becomes self-focused. But when we direct it toward God and people, we reflect Jesus—who lived with fire and poured out His life for others.

How to Stay Spiritually Ignited

Spend time in prayer and the Bible even when you don’t feel like it. Surround yourself with passionate believers who inspire you. Worship regularly—in private and with others. Use your gifts in your church or community. Remember your “why”—you’re serving the Lord, not people’s approval.

Romans 12:11 is a gentle yet urgent reminder: don’t let your faith go cold. Keep your spiritual fire alive. Stay passionate. Serve with joy. Because when we serve the Lord with zeal, we reflect His love and light in a weary world.

Peace, fire, and a passion for godliness, brothers and sisters.

Equipped

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I don’t know about you all but I feel like I am always in preparation mode. As a parent, spouse, teacher, business owner, you name it, I am preparing and planning. Preparing to start the day, throughout the day, and in ending the day. It is an integral part of every single day of my life.

When I was an athlete, I had to train. Conditioning, technique, and strength training were all essential. My diet had to be fine tuned, I watched tape to see what I could fix, and would go to camps and tournaments out of season so I could be successful. As a teacher, I have to prepare lessons, gather materials, assess learning, reflect on student performance, plan and replan to make sure the students receive a quality education. But there is another role, the most essential role of my life, that I need to prepare for even more.

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 2:10

Teaching and sports are great things, but they aren’t THE thing. We are God’s workmanship, His children, His image-bearers. Just as we prepare for tasks in our daily lives, God calls us to be ready for every good work He sets before us..that He’s already prepared for us.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.”

1 Corinthians‬ ‭9‬:‭24‬-‭27‬ ‭ESV‬‬

We keep our eyes on the prize (knowing Jesus and making Him known) and we don’t go about it aimlessly. Our spiritual life should reflect the intentionality and dedication that athletes at the highest level would dedicate to their trade. Let’s take a look at the training regiment.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

1. The Source of Our Equipping: God’s Word

“All Scripture is breathed out by God”

Scripture is inspired by God, making it divine in origin and purpose. It is trustworthy, authoritative, and sufficient for our spiritual growth. The Bible is the most factually based book in world history. No other book in history claiming to be God’s word even comes close to matching these facts.

1. Written by 40 men over a period of 1500 years and ALL subjects, prophecies, and evidence agrees.

2. It was written in three very different languages by people who lived on three different continents.

3. The authors of the Bible lived in very different time periods, very different places, and had different occupations but ALL focused on God’s redemption of mankind.

4. Over 300 prophecies were about Jesus, made hundreds of years before he was born, and He fulfilled ALL of them exactly how they said it would happen. The odds of a single person fulfilling just eight messianic prophecies are estimated to be one in 100 quadrillion.

5. Hundreds of other non-messianic prophecies have been made and fulfilled just as the bible said. They were fulfilled exactly to the day and exactly how they were predicted and they occurred sometimes hundreds of years after they were made.

Just as a carpenter relies on tools for precision, we rely on God’s Word to shape our worldview, guide us in decision making, and know how to be in relationship with God and others. Spend time in the Word daily—it’s not optional but essential for being equipped. We should be meditating on it, memorizing it, praying through it, and speaking.

2. The Purpose of God’s Word: To Shape Us

“Profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness”

Teaching: Helps us understand who God is, who we are, and His will for us.

Reproof and Correction: Reproof means to convicts us of sin and then provides the correction that redirects us to the right path. It is a mirror into the soul. Like Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Training in Righteousness: Helps us grow in godly character and holiness. So much of the world gets their ideas of righteousness, or right living, from the culture or their own emotions. Even a lot of believers who interpret God’s will through their own emotions. That’s a pitfall from a lack of wisdom that can only come through knowing God’s word.

A sculptor chisels away excess stone to reveal a masterpiece. In the same way, God’s Word refines us. The more we know God’s word the more we should be changed by it. Let the Word challenge and transform you. Like Jesus said, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” Don’t just read it—let it read you.

3. The Result of Being Shaped by God’s Word: Readiness for Good Works

“That the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (the greek word is anthropos which means human or person of God, not man specifically)

God doesn’t just call us to good works; He equips us for them through His Word. The good works we are called to include acts of service, evangelism, generosity, and godly living. The Bible doesn’t just tell us to talk about God but do so boldly, not just to love but to love sacrificially, not just to give but to give generously and without asking for anything in return, not just to serve but to do so selflessly never drawing attention to yourself. It helps us endure hardships, be patient in trying times, hopeful in our outlook, and joyful in our spirit. To be a light, a city set on a hill.

Look for opportunities in your daily life to do good. Be ready when God opens a door. Better yet, look for the open doors, seek out the opportunities, don’t just wait for a clear “sign”. Training narrows our focus. It removes distractions that can derail us from achieving our goal. That’s exactly how we need to approach the mission God has for all of our lives. We clutter our vision (and we do so willingly if we’re honest). Remember Ephesians 2:10, God has already prepared our good works. You ever wonder how many we miss?

4. The Call to Action: Commit to Being Equipped

So where does this leave us? Just like with sports, careers, parenting, or anything else that requires training and preparation, we are all at different stages in our faith journey. But we can, and should, evaluate our time and how it’s spent. To what extent are we being intentional in applying God’s Word to situations in life? Do we pray for readiness and sensitivity to God’s leading. Do we actively look for ways to love, serve, give, and share the gospel every day. Wherever you are in your faith journey, I invite you to train harder. We can all pray more, serve more, love more, give more, empathize more, share the gospel more, meditate on God’s word more, worship more. Not to earn anything, that price has already been paid, but to better live out what you were designed and created to be…an image-bearer. The light that shines from us will only be as bright as the light we allow in us. You were made for a purpose and God has an abundant life planned for you. We just have to choose it.

Peace in Christ brothers and sisters.

This is the Way part two

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This is the second iteration in the series on living out our faith as a believer in Jesus, who is the Way. If you missed the first one be sure to check it out from last week. Let’s see where the Way takes us today.

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

Romans 12:10

In a world that often pushes us to put ourselves first, Romans 12:10 invites us into a radically different way of living—one marked by devotion and honor. It’s not just about being nice. It’s about building relationships rooted in genuine care and selfless respect.

Be Devoted to One Another in Love

The word devoted carries the idea of family-level commitment. It’s not surface-level kindness—it’s deep, consistent, and loyal. Paul is telling the church that our love for each other should look like the kind of love we see in strong, healthy families: the kind that sticks through hard times, forgives quickly, and serves without keeping score.

This type of devotion reflects God’s love for us. It’s not based on feelings, convenience, or getting something in return. It’s an active choice to love others—especially those in the body of Christ—with compassion and dedication.

Honor One Another Above Yourselves

To honor someone means to value them, to treat them as important. And Paul goes a step further: we’re to put others above ourselves. This doesn’t mean we think less of ourselves—it means we lift others up.

Imagine what would happen if every relationship was built on honoring the other person first—marriages, friendships, churches, teams. There would be less fighting, less pride, more listening, and more joy.

Paul is calling believers to a culture of humility. In a me-first world, he challenges us to be you-first people.

Living It Out

Here are a few ways to live Romans 12:10 in your daily life:

Encourage someone who may feel overlooked. Celebrate others’ wins instead of feeling jealous. Offer your time or help, even when it’s inconvenient. Speak kindly and respectfully, especially when you disagree. Pray for someone you struggle to love well.

Romans 12:10 is a simple verse with powerful truth. It reminds us that love is not just a feeling—it’s a choice to be committed to others and to honor them above ourselves. When we live this way, we reflect the heart of Jesus, who loved us completely and humbly served others.

Peace, and the deep love of Christ be with you.

This is the Way part one

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This is part one in a series about living put the “way.” Early Christians were consistently referred to as followers of the Way. This refers directly to Jesus, the Christ, and the manor of life that He both demonstrated through His life and directs to this day.

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

Romans 12:9

In just a few words, Romans 12:9 delivers a powerful challenge: love with sincerity, reject evil, and hold tightly to the good. It’s simple, yet deeply transformative if we truly live it out.

What Does It Mean to Love Sincerely?

To love sincerely means to care for others without pretending. It’s not about fake smiles or saying the right things while harboring resentment. Paul is calling us to a love that comes from the heart—a love that mirrors Christ’s own. It’s a love that shows up in kindness, honesty, forgiveness, and action.

Sincere love doesn’t pick favorites. It’s not based on what we can get from others. It’s a choice to value people because they are made in God’s image.

Hate What Is Evil

Love and goodness go hand-in-hand. That’s why Paul also says to hate what is evil. We’re not called to hate people, but we should hate the things that harm others—like injustice, lies, cruelty, and selfishness. Sincere love isn’t passive. It stands up for what’s right, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Cling to What Is Good

The word “cling” in Greek means to stick like glue. When the world feels messy or confusing, Paul urges us to hold fast to what is good—truth, mercy, patience, and grace. These are not just nice ideas; they are powerful tools in loving others the way Jesus loves us.

Think about your relationships—family, coworkers, church, neighbors. Are you loving sincerely, or just going through the motions? Do you speak truth in love, or avoid hard conversations to keep the peace? Are you clinging to good, even when it’s hard?

This verse calls us back to the heart of the Christian life: genuine love. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

Peace, purity, and sincerity in Christ brothers and sisters.

Learning From Unsung Heroes

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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

Our faith should create in us a courage, a strength that is unwavering in the face of so many of life’s trials. As C.S. Lewis once said, “Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point.” I would like to look at three stories from the Bible that exemplify a courageous faith.

#1 Jehoiada (ye ho yaw da) and Jehosheba (ye ho shaw ba)- the princess and the priest who saved a king (2 Kings 11:4-17) (also 2 Chron 22-24)

Jehosheba as a member of the royal family, saw the evil plot unfolding and acted to save Joash (yo rash). Jehoiada was a high priest during that dark time in Judah’s history, when Queen Athaliah, obviously an ruthless woman from the line of Ahab, had seized the throne and murdered the royal family to secure her power.

Both Jehoiada and Jehosheba, acting with bold faith and wisdom, hid Joash, the rightful heir to the throne, in the temple for six years, protecting him from Athaliah’s murderous purge.

In the seventh year, Jehoiada revealed Joash to the captains of the guard and hatched a strategic coup. He divided up the divisions and combined both group going iff duty for the sabbath and the group coming on duty for the sabbath to guard the future king and surround the house of the Lord. And things couldn’t have worked out better. The queen tried to stop the anointing from happening but it eventually costs her life.

The plan played out beautifully. But going to the captains of the guard could have gone very differently. This plan could have backfired at the cost of everyone’s lives who were involved in the plot. But God honored the faith and courage of Jehosheba and Jehoiada.

Joash did what was right in the eyes of the Lord all the days of Jehoiada…

2 Chronicles 24:2

Corrie ten Boom is quoted as saying, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Jehosheba’s and Jehoiada’s courage was not loud or flashy, it was steadfast, wise, and grounded in God’s promises. They show us what it’s like to trust God especially when everything looks dim and uncertain. Their lives remind us that spiritual courage often means standing firm when no one else will, protecting the vulnerable, and restoring truth in times of darkness.

#2 Shiprah (shi frah) and Puah – midwives who defied the Pharaoh (Exodus 1:15-21)

They defied the Most Powerful Man on Earth. Pharaoh’s command was clear, but Shiphrah and Puah feared God more than Pharaoh. They refused to murder the Hebrew boys, risking their lives.

In addition to that, they stood up without weapons or position. These were ordinary women with no political power or military force. Their only strength was moral conviction and reverence for God. 

Charles Spurgeon said, “The Christian should be bold as a lion. That confidence is born not of self, but of God.” These women had confidence, not in who they were but in who God is. That can empower the lowliest of people and that is what the power of Christ is meant to do in each of our lives.

Because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own.

Exodus 1:21

Their reverence and courage were noticed and honored by God, who blessed them personally and used their defiance to help preserve Israel’s future leading to the birth of Moses, their deliverer.

#3 Baruch – the man who gave us Jeremiah (Jeremiah 36:4-32)

He Wrote God’s Words at Great Risk. In Jeremiah 36, Baruch wrote down the prophetic warnings from Jeremiah messages of judgment against Judah and read them publicly at the temple, knowing it could cost him his freedom or life.

Baruch goes on to reads the scroll in the presence of large crowds. One of the officials hears it and goes to tell the others. This group of officials invite Baruch to read it to them. Upon hearing the word, the officials tell Baruch and Jeremiah to hide while they take the words to the king. As the king hears the scroll he cuts pieces off and throws them into the fire. Then the king sought the two of them but God hid them.

Then Jeremiah took another scroll and gave it to Baruch the scribe, the son of Neriah, who wrote on it at the dictation of Jeremiah all the words of the scroll that Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned in the fire. And many similar words were added to them.

Jeremiah 36:32

He Did Not Abandon God’s Message, Even When the King Burned It. When King Jehoiakim burned the scroll in fury, God told Jeremiah to write it again. And Baruch did it all over again faithfully and without hesitation.

He Faced Threats and Personal Disillusionment. In Jeremiah 45, Baruch is distressed, saying, “Woe to me! The Lord has added sorrow to my pain.” He was discouraged, fearful, and overwhelmed. But God didn’t rebuke him harshly. Instead, God promised to preserve his life and reminded him not to seek great things for himself, but to stay faithful in the midst of judgment.

Do not seek great things for yourself. Seek them not. For I will bring disaster… but wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.

Jeremiah 45:5

Three things that we can all learn from these individuals are

1- Courage can look like quiet obedience.

2- God honors those who stand firm even when hope seems lost.

3- Faithfulness is more valuable than recognition.

Mary Slesser, a missionary in Africa, faced intense opposition when she tried to protect vulnerable women and children from harmful cultural practices. Mary Slessor (1848-1915) was a Scottish missionary known for her fearless work in Calabar (modern-day Nigeria). Slessor ventured deep into areas considered too dangerous for Europeans. She lived among tribes, endured diseases like malaria, and often intervened in tribal disputes, saving lives. Her faith compelled her to rescue and adopt abandoned twins, raise dozens of orphans, and advocate for the rights of women and children. She often put her own life at risk to protect them. One evening, she heard the screams of a woman tied to stakes, about to be scalded with boiling oil for feeding a starving slave. Without hesitation, Mary ran to the scene and placed herself between the woman and her attacker. Her courage saved the woman’s life and led to lasting change in the community. Her impact continues today in Nigeria, where she’s remembered as a heroine. Schools, hospitals, and churches bear her name. Today, Nigeria is a predominantly Christian nation with over 100 million Christians.

“I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel, so that it has become known throughout the whole imperial guard and to all the rest that my imprisonment is for Christ. And most of the brothers, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment. What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,”

Philippians‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬-‭18‬ ‭ESV

Peace and courage in Christ brothers and sisters.