by Jamie Pantastico | May 16, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Here are three of many verses in the Bible that admonish believers to be thankful for everything in and all situations.
Ultimately, our heart of gratitude and thankfulness comes from the fact that God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ to die on our behalf.
‘knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.’
Galatians 2:16
- Colossians 3:15 “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:18 “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
- Ephesians 5:20 “Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
These verses from the apostle Paul remind believers of the importance of maintaining a heart of gratitude. They encourage us to hold to an attitude of thanksgiving in all circumstances, recognizing that thankfulness is God’s will for us. By allowing the peace of God to rule in our hearts and offering continuous thanks to Him, we display a heart filled with gratitude, acknowledging His goodness and provision in our lives.
by Jamie Pantastico | May 16, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
In the progression of God’s plan of salvation, we find the essence of God’s amazing grace — that we are saved not by our own works but by placing our faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. Our salvation rests on the truth of the gospel found in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, that Christ died (shed His blood) for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day.
“Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.”
Galatians 2:16
“But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.”
Romans 4:5
Grace Beyond Works
No amount of good deeds or adherence to the law can earn us salvation. It is by faith in Jesus Christ and the finished work of the cross alone that we are justified before God. Our faith, a gift from God, secures our righteousness and reconciliation with Him (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Trusting the Finished Work
When we recognize our own sinfulness and acknowledge our inability to save ourselves, we humbly place our trust in Jesus. His sacrifice on the cross, His shed blood paid the price for our sins, and through faith alone (in the gospel), we receive the gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).
A Free Gift of Grace
Salvation is not a result of our own efforts but a free gift of God’s grace (Romans 5:15; Romans 3:24). It is freely offered to all who believe (not work), regardless of their past or present circumstances. God justifies the ungodly (Romans 5:8), declaring them righteous through faith.
Walking in Freedom
By knowing the truth that we are saved by faith and not by works, we are set free from the burden of striving to earn our salvation. We can confidently trust in God’s grace, knowing that His love and mercy are more than sufficient to cover our sins past, present, and future.
‘Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. ‘
Galatians 5:1
Living in Gratitude
Our response to this incredible gift of salvation is one of deep gratitude. We strive to live lives that honor God, not out of obligation or to earn His favor, but out of love and gratitude for what He has done for us (Ephesians 2:10).
‘that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; ‘
Colossians 1:10
by Jamie Pantastico | May 15, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Revelation 20:1-10
View Timeline #24
‘Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while. And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years.’
Revelation 20:1-6
The Millennial Kingdom is a 1000-year period in which Jesus will reign on earth as King of kings from Jerusalem on David’s throne. Israel will be the top nation among all nations. Fulfilling the Abrahamic covenant, Jesus made Himself with Abraham in Genesis 12. During the thousand-year reign of Christ, Satan will be bound and unable to deceive the nations. But at the end of the 1000 years, Satan will be set free and will lead one last rebellion against God. This rebellion will end in the Battle of Armageddon, where the Lord Jesus, the King of kings, will destroy and crush Satan’s armies. Satan will be tossed into the lake of fire where the antichrist and the false prophet have been for 1000 years.
The One Thousand Year Reign of Jesus Christ Mentioned in the Old and New Testament
The prophet Isaiah provides us some insight into this period in Isaiah 65:20-25. Here, he mentions that during God’s reign, human lifespans will be notably lengthened, reminiscent of the ages before the Great Flood. It’s a time when people will bear children, construct houses, and cultivate crops. Interestingly, physical death will still be present, suggesting that this kingdom endures a considerable period in human terms. However, the Old Testament doesn’t specify its exact duration.
The book of Revelation 20:2-7 sheds light on this mystery, revealing that this kingdom will prevail for a thousand years. To emphasize the thousand-year reign of Christ, the book of Revelation mentions one thousand years six times. Following this epoch, the existing heaven and earth will face destruction, the last judgments will transpire, and a new heaven and earth will be created.
Amillennialists, those who believe the millennium is a symbolic period, often cite 2 Peter 3:10 to argue that the earth will be annihilated immediately after the rapture within a single day. The verse reads, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” However, this interpretation seems to overlook the context of the passage.
Just two verses earlier, Peter clarifies: “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day” (2 Peter 3:8). This statement suggests that what we perceive as a ‘day’ could actually signify a thousand years. Therefore, Peter’s writing doesn’t contradict the depictions of the millennial kingdom in Revelation or the prophecies in Isaiah.
by Jamie Pantastico | May 14, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
Proverbs 31:28 “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we honor the invaluable role of mothers and the love they selflessly pour into their children. A mother’s love reflects the tender care and nurturing nature of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In Proverbs 31, we find a beautiful tribute to a virtuous woman, highlighting her wisdom, strength, and compassion.
Reflecting God’s Love
Mothers have the incredible ability to shape lives, imparting not only knowledge and guidance but also love and support. Mothers of faith open their mouths with wisdom, teach kindness, and offer comfort, just as our Heavenly Father does for us (Proverbs 31:26; Isaiah 66:13). A mother’s words and actions leave a lasting impact, fostering a foundation of faith and character in her children.
‘As one whom his mother comforts, So I will comfort you; And you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”’
Isaiah 66:13
Blessed and Praised
A mother’s sacrificial love is treasured and appreciated. As children, we rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also recognizes her worth and praises her. This acknowledgment brings joy and affirmation, reminding mothers of the profound influence they have in their families (Proverbs 31:28).
A Life of Good Works
Motherhood is a calling filled with various responsibilities. A godly mother exhibits good works, showing hospitality, caring for the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work (1 Timothy 5:10). Through her love and selflessness, she sets an example for her children to follow.
Celebrating Mothers
On this special day, let us celebrate and honor mothers for their unwavering love, dedication, and nurturing spirit. May we express our gratitude for their guidance, sacrifice, and the countless prayers offered on our behalf.
Remember, mothers, you are fearfully and wonderfully made. Your role in shaping lives and pointing your children to God is immeasurable. Your love reflects the heart of our Heavenly Father. May you be encouraged and blessed today and always.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of mothers. We honor and appreciate their love, sacrifices, and guidance. Bless them abundantly and strengthen them in their important role. May they find joy, fulfillment, and wisdom as they reflect your love in their families. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Happy Mother’s Day!
by Jamie Pantastico | May 11, 2023 | Daily Encouragement |
In the midst of chaos, unprecedented rejection of Jesus Christ (Truth), the rise of the apostate church, and a world in turmoil, it’s essential to turn to the Word of God for truth and guidance. Today’s world, plagued by war, lawlessness, and gross immorality, mirrors the days of Noah and Lot described in the Bible.
Ezekiel 16:49 highlights the sins of Sodom—pride, abundance, and neglect of the poor and needy. Similarly, Matthew 24:37-39 and Luke 17:26-28 recount the conditions before the Flood and in Sodom, emphasizing that people carried on with their lives, oblivious to the coming judgment.
Just as in those times, today’s society is engulfed in selfishness and sin, echoing the prophecy in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 about the end times. As believers, we must be vigilant, aware of the signs, and seek refuge in the Lord, who remains our hope and salvation.
As the world spirals into chaos, let us hold fast to our faith in Jesus Christ, preparing ourselves for His return (by studying His Word) and sharing the Gospel with others. May we be ready when He comes for His church, and may our lives reflect His love and righteousness amidst the darkness.
Bible Reading
‘But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, ‘
II Timothy 3:1-4
‘Look, this was the iniquity of your sister Sodom: She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty and committed abomination before Me; therefore I took them away as I saw fit.’
Ezekiel 16:49-50
‘But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.’
Matthew 24:37-39