by Jamie Pantastico | Apr 17, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.”
Philippians 2:3 (NKJV)
In a world that glorifies self-promotion, personal gain, and the pursuit of success at all costs, Philippians 2:3 stands as a powerful reminder of the Christian’s call to live counter-culturally. This verse is in stark opposition to the prevailing mindset of our society, where ambition and self-promotion are celebrated virtues.
Even the best of what the world offers, at its core, is driven by covetousness—a desire to have more, to be more, to outdo others. This pursuit inevitably leads to selfishness and self-gratification, leaving individuals empty and unfulfilled.
Yet, as believers, we are called to a different standard. We are not of this world; we are in Christ (John 17:14-16). Our motivation should not be driven by selfish ambition or conceit but by love and humility, reflecting the character of our Savior.
The essence of Philippians 2:3 is humility—esteeming others better than ourselves. It’s about putting others’ needs and interests ahead of our own, demonstrating a selfless love that mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ and the finished work of the cross.
Today and everyday, let us embrace the words of Philippians 2:3, choosing to live in a way that is radically different from the world around us. As we live with a spirit of humility and selflessness, may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others closer to Christ.
Bible Reading:
‘I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. ‘
John 17:14-16
‘And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.’
Romans 12:2
by Jamie Pantastico | Apr 16, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
Having a bad day, a bad week, month, or bad year? Feeling unsure, losing hope, with not much looking better in the future? Get into the transformative and encouraging words of Romans 8.
Romans 8 stands as an awe-inspiring testament to the boundless love and unshakable assurance we have in Christ. It declares with resounding clarity that nothing—no force, no power, not even death—can separate us from His love. It’s a chapter of triumph, a proclamation of victory over every trial and tribulation. So, I implore you, take out your Bible and read Romans 8. Not just once, but several times. Let its words of hope and assurance sink deep into your soul. In this chapter, we’re reminded of the indomitable victory we have in Christ, the unyielding assurance that we are eternally secure in His love and care right now, and forever. It’s an all-powerful testament to the unwavering faithfulness of our God and the depth of His unending love for us.
So, grab your Bible, turn to Romans 8, and let these powerful words wash over you, and encourage you, reminding you of the unbreakable bond we have with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”
Here’s a list of five free Bible websites:
- Bible Gateway
- Website: www.biblegateway.com
- Features: Offers over 200 versions of the Bible in multiple languages. It also provides reading plans, devotionals, and study tools.
- YouVersion (The Bible App)
- Website: www.bible.com
- Features: A popular app available on various platforms that provides hundreds of Bible versions in over a thousand languages. It offers reading plans, devotionals, and audio versions.
- Blue Letter Bible
- Website: www.blueletterbible.org
- Features: Offers various translations and versions of the Bible, along with study tools, commentaries, and original language resources.
- Bible.is
- Website: www.bible.is
- Features: Provides audio Bibles in over 1,300 languages. It also offers text versions of the Bible, and the app allows users to listen to Scripture while reading along.
- Bible Hub
- Website: www.biblehub.com
- Features: Offers parallel Bible versions, commentaries, lexicons, and other study tools. It provides a comprehensive resource for in-depth Bible study.
These websites offer a range of features and resources to help individuals engage with the Bible in various ways, from reading to studying and even listening.
More Reading:
Believers are More than Conquerors Romans 8:37
by Jamie Pantastico | Apr 16, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
In 1 Timothy 4:13, Paul offers Timothy a timeless imperative that resonates with us today: “Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.” This simple instruction is packed with wisdom for every believer.
Reading: The Scriptures aren’t just words on a page; they’re living and active, breathing life into our souls and guiding our steps in this dark and wicked world. By immersing ourselves in God’s Word daily, we strengthen our faith, fill our heart and soul with joy no matter the circumstances.
Exhortation: This refers to encouragement or uplifting others. As we grow in our understanding of God’s Word, we’re equipped to encourage fellow believers in their faith, offering hope and strength through the promises of Scripture.
Doctrine: Sound doctrine is foundational for our faith. It shapes our beliefs, guides our decisions, and protects us from deception. As we study and embrace the doctrines of grace, we build a strong and unwavering faith.
Paul’s words remind us of the transformative power of God’s Word. We must commit ourselves to studying, exhorting, and embracing sound doctrine, allowing the Scriptures to enrich our lives and in turn enriching the lives of fellow believers.
What doctrine?
What Doctrine? The Doctrine Revealed to Paul
by Jamie Pantastico | Apr 15, 2024 | Daily Devotional |
In this chaotic world we are living in, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, uncertainty sets in and then comes anxiety. But let the word of God remind us that: Jesus Christ is in control. He holds all power and authority in heaven and on earth (Matthew 28:18). From the beginning of creation, all things were made by Him and for Him, and He sustains everything by His mighty word (Colossians 1:16-17).
In Ephesians 1:22-23, we are reminded that Jesus, God the Son, has been exalted above all things, and everything has been placed under His feet. He is the head of the Church, and we, as believers, are part of His body. This means that we are complete in Him, lacking nothing, for He is the source of all power and authority (Colossians 2:9-10).
No matter what challenges we face, we can take comfort in the fact that Jesus Christ is Lord of all (Acts 10:36). He is not only the creator of the universe but also the sustainer of all life. In Him, we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). There is nothing outside of His control, and He works all things according to the counsel of His will (Ephesians 1:11).
As believers, we have been given the assurance (by the word) that Jesus is in control of our lives. We are His, and He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6). We can trust in His sovereignty and rest in His unfailing love.
Please don’t be anxious or worry, let us take heart and find strength in the fact the our Lord and Savior is not only the Creator and sustainer of all things. He is also the One who died for us, to pay the price for are sins, was buried and rose again three days later on our behalf. Victorious over sin, the law, Satan and even death itself, so we to are victorious with Him, and will be the Lord forever. The world is not falling apart around us, but instead, it is falling into place for His glorious return. He is working everything together for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28). Let us hold fast to our faith and live in full assurance of His control not only of the universe but in our every day life.
May this truth fill you with hope and peace today, knowing that the God of the universe is watching over you and guiding your steps. Cast your burdens unto Him, trust in His timing, and rejoice in His perfect plan.
Today’s Bible Reading
Matthew 28:18
Colossians 1:16-17
Ephesians 1:22-23
Colossians 2:9-10
Acts 10:36
Acts 17:28
Ephesians 1:11
Hebrews 13:5
Romans 8:28
by Jamie Pantastico | Apr 13, 2024 | Daily Devotional |
Introduction
In 2 Corinthians 10, the apostle Paul addresses the congregation at Corinth, defending his ministry and authority against accusations of walking in the flesh. Despite being a mere mortal, Paul’s power and authority were derived directly from the risen Lord Jesus. However, Paul did not rely on human strength or the ridiculousness of worldly wisdom in his mission to win souls. He understood that the flesh and the wisdom of men held no power in the spiritual realm, where the battle for souls raged.
The apostle Paul recognized the formidable stronghold of demonic power, which sought to ensnare humanity. Yet, he knew that this spiritual stronghold could be overcome only by the power of the gospel (Romans 1:16) and the truth of God’s Word (Hebrews 4:12). This power is available to all believers, but it requires diligent study of the Scriptures so that we can identify falsehoods, false teaching and the tsunami of deception all around us.
As believers immerse themselves in the Word of God through daily study, prayer, and fellowship with other believers, we become increasingly disobedient to the ways of the world. This disobedience to worldly influences is a testament to our growing obedience to Christ and our commitment to live according to His will. However, it also invites opposition and persecution from those who adhere to the world’s standards.
In the midst of spiritual warfare, believers must remain steadfast in their faith, armed with divine weapons and fortified by the truth of God’s Word. As we engage in this battle, we can be confident that the power of the gospel will prevail, breaking the chains of bondage and setting captives free (1 Corinthians 15:55-58). Beloved the bottom line is we must study the Bible, we must be in the Bible everyday because Satan and his demons never rest. The battle is 24/7.
We are in a Spiritual War
II Corinthians 10:3 – “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh.”
In 2 Corinthians 10:3, the apostle Paul reminds us that our battles as believers are not merely physical but spiritual. Despite living in the physical world, our warfare is waged in the realm of the unseen. In an age marked by rampant deception, Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians and to us today is clear: seek truth in the Word of God.
II Corinthians 10:4 – “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”
Verse 4 underscores the nature of our weaponry in this spiritual battle. Our weapons are not of the flesh but are divinely empowered to demolish strongholds. Paul himself exemplified this as he confronted the idolatry and pagan worship of cities like Ephesus, where his proclamation of the gospel caused upheaval among idolaters and stirred opposition from those who profited from the worship of false gods.
II Corinthians 10:5 – ‘casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,’
Furthermore, in verse 5, Paul urges believers to cast down every lofty idea that opposes the knowledge of God. In a world inundated with competing ideologies and philosophies, we are called to evaluate all things against the truth revealed in Scripture. Our thoughts, too, must be brought into submission to the obedience of Christ (How? By reading His Word, and Who is the Word, Christ Jesus), recognizing that our battles are often waged within the confines of our own minds.
II Corinthians 10:6 – “And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.”
Finally, verse 6 highlights the correlation between obedience to God’s Word and resistance to worldly disobedience. As we grow in obedience to Christ, we naturally become more resistant to the temptations and pressures of the world around us. Our readiness to avenge disobedience stems from our commitment to live in accordance with God’s will, even when it runs counter to the prevailing culture.
In conclusion, let us embrace our identity as soldiers (2 Timothy 2:3) in the spiritual battle, armed with divine weapons and fortified by the truth of God’s Word. As we engage in this warfare, may we remain steadfast in our obedience to Christ, knowing that in Him, we have the victory.
Takeaway
“Beloved, let this truth sink deep into your soul: the Bible isn’t just a book—it’s the ultimate weapon in the universe. In these challenging times, we must be rooted in the Word daily. While the world seems to be crumbling apart; covered with deception, confusion, and uncertainty, God has equipped believers with this unparalleled weapon. Those who wield (study) it understand that the world isn’t falling apart; it’s aligning perfectly for the glorious return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Praise God! Let’s dive into the Scriptures daily, for within its pages lies the power to overcome worldly strongholds, the wisdom to discern, and the hope to endure.”
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