by Jamie Pantastico | Jul 6, 2024 | Daily Devotional, Daily Encouragement |
As believers, it is vital to remember and reflect on the sovereignty of God. This understanding not only uplifts our spirits but also strengthens our faith, knowing that the God we worship is supreme over all things. The Bible clearly declares God’s sovereignty, revealing His omnipotent control over the universe. Let’s explore some powerful verses that affirm His absolute authority and provide us much need encouragement in a world filled with uncertainty and chaos.
God’s Sovereignty in the Old Testament
- Psalm 103:19: “The Lord has established His throne in heaven, And His kingdom rules over all.”
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- This verse beautifully depicts the magnitude of God’s reign. His throne is set in the heavens, symbolizing His supreme authority and dominion over all creation. When we acknowledge this, we find comfort in knowing that everything is under His control.
- Daniel 4:35: “All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven And among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand Or say to Him, ‘What have You done?'”
- This passage from Daniel underscores God’s unstoppable will. No force in heaven or on earth can hinder His plans. Understanding this, we can trust that our lives are part of His divine purpose, and His plans for us are always for good.
- Isaiah 46:10: “Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things that are not yet done, Saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure.’”
- God’s omniscience and eternal nature are highlighted here. He declares the end from the beginning, ensuring us that His counsel will prevail. Our futures are secure in His hands, filled with His divine promises and purpose.
God’s Sovereignty in the New Testament
- Ephesians 1:11: “In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.”
- Our inheritance in Christ is secured by God’s sovereign will. He orchestrates everything according to His perfect plan. This verse reassures us that our destinies are predestined by a loving and omnipotent God.
- Romans 11:36: “For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.”
- All things exist by His power, through His will, and for His glory. This verse encapsulates the essence of God’s sovereignty, reminding us that our lives are meant to glorify Him.
- Colossians 1:16-17: “For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.”
- These verses in Colossians affirm that Christ is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. His sovereignty is evident in the creation and maintenance of the universe, emphasizing His ultimate authority over everything.
Conclusion: Our Response to God’s Sovereignty
Reflecting on these powerful scriptures, we see the undeniable sovereignty of God. This is the God who sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to die, shed His blood, be buried, and rise again on the third day to save us from our sins. The sovereign God we serve is the One who holds the universe in His hands and orchestrates all events for His glory and our good.
‘And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. ‘
Romans 8:28
For believers, this truth is immensely encouraging. It reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, our God is in control. He is the ultimate authority, and His plans are perfect. For unbelievers, these verses serve as a powerful invitation to recognize the one true living God, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Our God is mighty and Sovereign over all things in the heavens and on earth. This is our mighty God, and we praise Your Holy name because You are worthy.
May these words encourage and strengthen your faith, knowing that our sovereign God reigns supreme over all. Let us worship and praise Him for His infinite power, love, and grace. Amen.
by Jamie Pantastico | Jul 5, 2024 | Daily Devotional, Daily Encouragement |
Key Verses:
Romans 7:15: “For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.”
Galatians 5:17: “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against (battles) the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”
The instant we believe the gospel by faith alone, God saves us. We are immediately delivered from the kingdom of darkness and placed into the kingdom of His Son (Colossians 1:13). We are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13) and baptized into the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:13). Our sin nature dies, nailed to His cross, and we receive a new nature (2 Corinthians 5:21). We become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17) and will be with Jesus for eternity, unchangeable by any power (Colossians 3:3; John 10:27-29). However, in our daily lives, we still have our mortal, corruptible bodies and minds influenced by a corrupt world ruled by Satan (2 Corinthians 4:4; 1 John 5:19). Peter describes the devil as a roaring lion seeking to devour believers (1 Peter 5:8-9). Scripture makes it clear that, as believers, we face a continuous battle between our new and old natures. Though the war is won through Christ’s finished work on the cross, the nature that wins the daily battle is the one we feed the most.
The Illustration
The following is an illustration first given by Billy Graham in a book he wrote in 1978.
An Eskimo fisherman came to town every Saturday afternoon. He always brought his two dogs with him. One was white and the other was black. He had taught them to fight on command. Every Saturday afternoon in the town square, the people would gather, and these two dogs would fight, and the fisherman would take bets. On one Saturday, the black dog would win; another Saturday, the white dog would win, but the fisherman always won! His friend began to ask him how he did it. He said, “I starve one and feed the other. The one I feed always wins because he is stronger.” This story about the two dogs tells us something about the inner warfare that comes into the life of a person who is born again. We have two natures within us, both struggling for mastery. Which one will dominate us? It depends on which one we feed.” (Billy Graham, The Holy Spirit, Dallas: Word Publishing, 1988, pp. 92-93).
The Ongoing Battle
As believers, we are in a constant battle between these two natures. Romans 7:15 vividly captures this struggle: we often find ourselves doing what we hate and failing to do what we desire in the Spirit. This conflict is described further in Galatians 5:17, highlighting the opposition between the flesh and the Spirit: “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against (battles) the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.”
This battle will continue until we pass from this life or are caught up with the Lord in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18) when we will be transformed in the twinkling of an eye into our new and glorious bodies (1 Corinthians 15:52). Until that time, the one who wins this daily battle is the one we feed the most. We can choose to study our Bible, fellowship with other believers, and pray, or we can choose to conform our minds and bodies to this evil world. For instance, we can choose to participate in Bible study and fellowship with other believers on a Friday night or go to an ungodly nightclub or bar. God gives us the freedom to choose how we will live for Him.
Feeding the Spirit
Feeding the white dog (our new nature) involves immersing ourselves in God’s Word (study), prayer, and fellowship with other believers. It’s about allowing the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us. When we feed our Spirit, we align ourselves with God’s will and grow in the knowledge of Christ.
The War is Won
While the daily battle is ongoing, the ultimate war is already won. The finished work of the cross has secured our victory. In experience, however, we must continuously fight against our flesh, the world, and spiritual forces of evil. But take heart, because Christ has overcome the world (John 16:33). God is faithful even when it seems like He’s just forgotten about you and left you alone to fight a losing battle. NEVER! The Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3).
Conclusion
Remember, the power of the gospel—the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus—has broken the power of sin and death. Though we may struggle daily, we are not alone. Feed the white dog, nurture your Spirit, and walk in the victory Christ has already secured.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for the victory we have in Jesus. Help us to feed our Spirit daily with Your word and rely on Your strength in our battles. Guide us by Your Holy Spirit to walk in the newness of life. Amen.
Daily Power-Up:
Take a few minutes to meditate on these verses and believe in God’s promises. Rest in what He is saying.
Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
John 16:33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Reading and meditating on God’s Word daily will give you the power you need to stand firm in the faith and walk in His truth in this dark world.
by Jamie Pantastico | Jul 4, 2024 | Daily Devotional, Daily Encouragement |
Key Verse: Lamentations 3:22-23 “Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
Thank God for His incredible love for us!
As you read this, you might be facing the most unbearable and painful time in your life. You probably think, “How does this help me? I’m suffering right now. How can any verse make me feel better?” Beloved, I’ve been there, and I’m there now, every day. What it comes down to is faith. We have to take God at His word that He will do what He says… and God will comfort us and give us peace, no matter how whatever it is we are going through turns out. Philippians 4:6-7 is key here:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
So when we take what God says by faith, He will give us peace! It’s about our faith in His word above all else. Read Philippians 4:6-7, slowly and carefully We may lose it all, our spouse may not make it, we may have a child that is going in the wrong direction in every way, we may be facing an insurmountable financial situation with no hope of getting out, or we may be going through a breakup or divorce that has caused unbearable pain. Or, He will give us all; our spouse will make it, our troubled child will change for the better, God will provide what we need to pay our bills, God will mend our relationship. The bottom line is that no matter what happens, God will answer and will give us peace that surpasses ALL understanding (because we can’t), will guard (comfort) your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Amazing!
God’s mercies are new every morning, and His faithfulness is great. This truth is a source of comfort and encouragement, especially when we face challenges and struggles. The power of the gospel assures us that we are not consumed by our past failures or present difficulties. Each day is an opportunity to experience God’s new mercies and to move forward in His strength. His love and faithfulness sustains us and empowers us to live victoriously. Let’s start each day with the assurance of God’s new mercies and faithfulness.
‘But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ‘
Ephesians 2:4-5
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your new mercies every morning. Help me to live in the assurance of Your faithfulness and compassion. Empower me to share Your hope and renewal with others. Amen.
Daily Power-up: Take a few minutes to meditate on these verses and believe what God is says. Have faith. Rest in His promises.
- Old Testament: Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
- Gospels: John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
- Paul’s Letters: Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
by Jamie Pantastico | Jun 13, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
Are you fully convinced?
Romans 4:18-25 teaches us that we are saved by faith alone, apart from doing anything. Abraham, despite his old age and Sarah’s barrenness, believed God’s promise that he would be the father of many nations. Fully convinced that God would do what He promised, Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness. This happened before circumcision was required and well before the Mosaic law. Paul uses Abraham as an example to show us that salvation is no different for us today (and this is our connection to Abraham as Gentile believers under grace). We, like Abraham, are to be fully convinced that God will save us by simply believing in the finished work of the cross, apart from the law, rituals, or any type of work. Otherwise, we nullify what Christ did on our behalf. For centuries, mankind has added to what was done once for all; the perfect, flawless, finished work of the cross (1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Hebrews 1:1-4).
Faith alone in Christ’s finished work is the only requirement for salvation. Trusting in God’s promise, just as Abraham did, makes us heirs to the promise of eternal life. This message emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice and our need to rest in His completed work.
Addendum: Being Fully Convinced
The phrase “being fully convinced” in Romans 4:21 is translated from the Greek word πληροφορηθεὶς (plērophoretheis, Strong’s G4135). This term carries a strong sense of complete certainty and absolute assurance. It signifies a state of being fully persuaded and unwavering in belief. This Greek word highlights the depth of Abraham’s faith; he was not merely hopeful but had an unshakeable confidence in God’s promise. This same level of certainty is what we are called to have in the gospel—the finished work of Christ on the cross.
By being fully convinced, we rest in the assurance that our faith in Christ alone is sufficient for our salvation, freeing us from trying to keep the law, add works or rituals to what He has already accomplished.
‘Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb: he staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; but for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.’
Romans 4:18-25
Daily Power-up
Take a few minutes to read and meditate on these powerful verses:
- Old Testament: Genesis 15:6 – “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
- Gospels: John 6:29 – “Jesus answered, ‘The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.'”
- Paul’s Letters: Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Reflect on these scriptures and rest in the truth that your salvation is secured by faith alone in Christ’s finished work.
by Jamie Pantastico | Jun 11, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
Replacement theology, or supersessionism, posits that the Church has replaced Israel in God’s plan, inheriting the promises made to Israel. However, this perspective is fundamentally unbiblical for several reasons:
PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU CONTINUE READING.
Here is a simple definition of “Replacement Theology”.
Replacement Theology, also known as supersessionism or fulfillment theology, teaches that the Church has taken Israel’s place in God’s plan. According to this view, the Jews are no longer considered God’s chosen people, and God has no specific future plans for the nation of Israel. Different perspectives on the Church-Israel relationship include:
- The Church has replaced Israel (Replacement Theology).
- The Church is an expansion of Israel (Covenant Theology).
- The Church and Israel are entirely distinct entities (Dispensationalism/Premillennialism).
1. Biblical Covenants are Irrevocable
God’s covenants with Israel, such as the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants, are described as everlasting (Genesis 17:7; 2 Samuel 7:16). These covenants underscore God’s unwavering commitment to Israel, contradicting the idea of replacement.
2. Distinction Between Israel and the Church
The New Testament maintains a clear distinction between Israel and the Church. Paul explicitly states that Israel’s promises, covenants, and law belong to the Jews (Romans 9:4). The Church, composed of both Jews and Gentiles, is a separate entity (Ephesians 2:14-16).
3. New Covenant Specific to Israel
Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ezekiel 36:24-28 promise a New Covenant to Israel, highlighting national restoration and spiritual renewal. The Church benefits from the spiritual blessings of this covenant, but it doesn’t replace Israel (Hebrews 8:8-10).
4. Future Restoration of Israel
Prophecies in both the Old and New Testaments anticipate a future restoration of Israel (Romans 11:25-27; Zechariah 14:4). These prophecies and many more affirm Israel’s central role in God’s plan of redemption.
5. Paul’s Theology
Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, taught the inclusion of Gentiles into the blessings through Christ, not their replacement of Israel. He emphasized that God’s gifts and call to Israel are irrevocable (Romans 11:29).
Conclusion
Replacement theology undermines the integrity of God’s promises and distorts biblical eschatology. A proper understanding recognizes the distinct and ongoing roles of Israel and the Church in God’s redemptive plan, affirming that the Church benefits from Israel’s covenants without replacing Israel. This view is supported by consistent biblical evidence, confirming the enduring nature of God’s promises to Israel.
by Jamie Pantastico | May 20, 2024 | Daily Encouragement |
In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus provides a powerful message about the importance of trusting God and not worrying about our daily needs. He says:
“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
Jesus reassures us that God is fully aware of our needs and will provide for us. Just as He cares for the birds and the flowers, He will certainly care for us, His beloved children. The key is to trust (have faith) Him and seek His kingdom and righteousness above all else.
The instruction is simple: “Do not worry.” Worrying cannot add a single hour to our lives or solve any of our problems. Instead, it only distracts us from living in faith and experiencing God’s peace. Jesus encourages us to focus on today, trusting that God will take care of our needs each day as it comes.
When we put our faith in God and seek His kingdom first, we can rest assured that He will provide for us. This doesn’t mean we should be careless or lazy, but it means living with the confidence that God is our provider and sustainer.
Remember, Jesus said it – so take Him at His word and have faith. Let go of worry and embrace the peace that comes from trusting in God’s provision.